– Press release
Bluegrass music, free food and cake, a “Pack With Legs” fun walk, vintage climbing exhibits, and guest speakers will all be part of the second annual Norman Clyde Birthday Bash, scheduled for Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to whenever the band stops playing, at the Eastern California Museum in Independence.
The event honors pioneering mountaineer Norman Clyde, who recorded 100 first ascents in the Sierra in the 1920s and 1930s, and was a fixture in the Sierra Club’s High Trips, which introduced hundreds of people to the High Sierra. Clyde lived in Independence and Big Pine when he was not roaming the Sierra for weeks at a time, carrying his legendary 80-pound pack. Clyde would have been 130 years old this year.
The day will start at 11 a.m. with an informal Pack With Legs fun walk, open to everyone. Participants are encouraged to carry a pack for the moderate walk along Independence Creek and through town. Those carrying the heaviest packs will be rewarded with a prize, and everyone will get a replica “Norma Clyde Campaign Hat.”
Local bluegrass band Idle Hands will start entertaining around noon, and free hot dogs and beans will be available, with birthday cake for dessert. Beverages, beer and wine will also be provided. Donations will be appreciated.
Starting at 2 p.m. several speakers will recall The Life of Clyde. Giving brief talks will be Andy Selters, Phil Pister and Wynne Benti.
There will be displays of vintage climbing gear by SP Parker, Howie Schwartz and Neil Satterfield, in addition to the Museum’s Permanent Exhibit featuring Clyde and his exploits.
Memorial Norman Clyde t-shirts will be on sale.
The Eastern California Museum is located at 151 N. Grant St. in Independence. For more information, call 760-878-0258, or check the Museum’s Facebook page or www.inyocounty.us/ecmuseum.
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I got to meet him when I was in kindergarten!! Big Pine 1966.
True pioneer.
We sure do got it easy these days.