James Chenowith Lamon (pronounced “lemon”) , a native of Virginia, came to California during the Gold Rush in 1851. Lured by stories of a great valley he was one of the first few hundred tourists to visit Yosemite in the late 1850s.
When did people first come to Yosemite?
The date of our discovery into the Yosemite was about the 21st of March, 1851 . We were afterward assured by Ten-ie-ya and others of his band, that this was the first visit ever made to this valley by white men.
Who were the first people in Yosemite?
The Ahwahnechee are a Native American people who traditionally lived in the Yosemite Valley. They are Miwok or Mono Lake people. The Ahwahnechee people's heritage can be found all over Yosemite National Park.
Who lived in Yosemite Valley?
Historical Overview. Indian people have lived in Yosemite for nearly 4,000 years. Miwok legends tell of the creation of people here, and of events that took place long before the coming of non-Indians.
Did Native Americans live in Yosemite National Park?
Native Americans living in Yosemite Valley for 5,500 years , sustained by the natural resources provided by this unique environment. This secluded land also served as sanctuary, long protecting Native Americans from the advances of Spanish, Mexican, and American colonists. The California Gold Rush changed that forever.
Why is it called Yosemite?
The name Yosemite itself is from the Indian word “uzumate,” which meant grizzly bear . The Indian tribe that lived in the Valley were called Yosemites by Caucasians and by other Indian tribes because they lived in a place where grizzly bears were common and they were reportedly skilled at killing the bears.
Who found Yosemite?
John Muir , in his beloved Sierra Nevada, sparks dialogue leading to the creation of Yosemite National Park in 1890. John Muir has inspired Yosemite's travelers to see under the surface through his poetic imagery: “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
What makes Yosemite so special?
Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, towering granite monoliths, deep valleys and ancient giant sequoias . On October 1, 1890, Yosemite became a national park, and more than 125 years later, it's still wowing visitors.
How is Yosemite being protected?
When traveling on park roads you can protect yourself, other visitors, and park wildlife by observing the following simple rules: Yosemite's roads are used by both visitors and park wildlife. Please obey posted speed limits . Speeding kills bears other wildlife!
Do elk live in Yosemite?
Animal Life in the Yosemite (Mammals) The history of the Dwarf or Tule Elk, the largest hoofed game animal known to have occurred in the Yosemite section, is a closed chapter. Once abundant on the plains of the San Joaquin Valley along the Tuolumne and Merced rivers, it is now entirely extinct there .
What native people lived in Yosemite?
The Ahwahnechee are a Native American people who traditionally lived in the Yosemite Valley. They are Miwok or Mono Lake people. The Ahwahnechee people's heritage can be found all over Yosemite National Park.
When were Native Americans removed from Yosemite?
But as the majority of Native residents stopped working for the park or its concessionaires, Yosemite staff decided to raze the village in 1969 , forcing people out of their ancestral homes. “During that time, we had no voice.
Is Mariposa Grove inside Yosemite?
Located in the southern portion of Yosemite , the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. ... Later added to Yosemite National Park in 1906, the Mariposa Grove is a popular destination within the park.
What does Yosemite mean in Miwok?
Yosemite means literally “ those who kill” (Yos, “to kill,” the modifier e, “one who,” and the plural suffix -meti). It was used by the surrounding Miwok tribes. The Yosemite people were referred to as killers by these surrounding tribes, who feared them.
Is Yosemite indigenous land?
Yosemite National Park is Ahwahneechee Land — Indigenous Geotags.
What is the Miwok tribe known for?
The Miwok Tribe
They lived in north-central California, from the Pacific coast to the west slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The Miwok tribe are highly distinctive due to the tattoos and paint they used to adorn their bodies .
