Logging in the Central Sierra

Images of America: Logging in the Central Sierra by Carolyn Fregulia

"The logging industry in the Central Sierra was essential to the expanding economies of both California and Nevada for well over 150 years. During the Gold Rush, harvested timber in the foothill region of the Sierra wasused for mining activities, in the construction of early day communities, and as fuel. Extensive logging of forestland in the higher elevations came with the advent of hard-rock mining, which required incredible quantities of timber. During the 1860s, the Comstock Lode of Nevada put a tremendous demandfor lumber on the east slope of the Sierra. By the time the Comstock had concluded, much of the eastern face was denuded, with over one quarter of the prehistoric forest gone. Advances in technology further fueled the logging industry during the first half of 20th century. The Sierra's logging days are waning now, but as this volume shows, it once played a vital role in the mountains' economy, lifestyle, and identity. 

Historian Carolyn Fregulia, author of Arcadia's Italians of the Gold Country, comes from a multigenerational Sierra family. Using over 200 vintage images from various local history centers, such as the Alpine County Museum in Markleeville, the Amador County Archives in Jackson, the Douglas County Museum in Minden, Nevada, the Berry family collection, and photographs from other local families and individuals, she illustrates in vintage imagery this important California industry in its prime. 

The Images of America series celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns, and cities across the country. Using archival photographs, each title presents the distinctive stories from the past that shape the character of the community today. Arcadia is proud to play a part in the preservation of local heritage, making history available to all."

Dimensions: 6.5 x 0.31 x 9.25

Format: Paperback

Page Count: 127