Southern Appalachian Digital Collections

Western Carolina University (20) View all

Appalachian Trail clearing

  • wcu_great_smoky_mtns-6187.jpg
  • This photograph, taken "after the trail clearers had done their work,” is included in the records of the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club. The picture was taken by Guy E. Frizzell, a member of the hiking club. The back of the picture is stamped “Jim Thompson Co.,” indicating it was probably printed by hiking club member James E. (Jim) Thompson (1880-1976), a professional photographer who played a major role in promoting a national park in the Southern Appalachians. The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club was formed after a group of outdoor enthusiasts hiked up to Mount LeConte in October 1924.