Walking the Walk And Talking About the Walk

Silas Chamberlin with his book.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Schuylkill River Heritage Area.

Hiking has a rich history in America that dates back to mid-nineteenth century walking clubs.

How those clubs formed, built trails and advocated for environmental protection is the subject of a new book “On the Trail: A History of American Hiking,” by Silas Chamberlin. 

On Wed., Nov. 3 the Schuylkill River Heritage Area will host an open house, lecture and book signing from 6-8 p.m. The lecture begins at 7 p.m. 

The event will be held at the Schuylkill River Heritage Area offices, located at 140 College Dr., Pottstown.

Chamberlin, the former Executive Director of the Schuylkill River Heritage Area, has written widely on trail policy and led a number of trail development initiatives, including his work on the Schuylkill River Trail. 

The book, released in October by Yale University Press, explores the origins of nature walking in America, the rise of hiking culture and the role hiking clubs played in building trails.

“On the Trail,” was described as “A highly detailed and engaging look at the foundational role hiking clubs have played in both trail building and the conservation movement,” by John Judge, President and CEO of the Appalachian Mountain Club.

The book sells for $30, and copies will be available for sale during the book signing. 

The event will also serve as an open house to bid farewell to Chamberlin, who recently left the Heritage Area to take another position. 

There is no cost to attend, but space is limited so please indicar you are coming by registering at https://srhabook_signing.eventbrite.com or by emailing ckott@schuylkillriver.org. 

Please indicate if you would like to preorder a book.