The Hidden Northwest

by Robert Cantwell

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0397008716
• ISBN13: 9780397008711
• Release Date: January 1972
• Publisher: Lippincott Raven
• Length: 335 Pages
• Weight: 1.45 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Good historical essay. Easy reading yet informative, factual

Pretty good book. Unlike many historical essays, its easy reading, not boring to casual reader, keeps moving, doesnt get bogged down in uninteresting details. On the other hand, it doesnt gloss over events nor retell ad nauseum same stories one can find anywhere. Thus, a good mix - enjoyable reading, yet substantial. Cantwell describes many of those that formed and identified the character and sense of the PNW. The invaluable geographer David Thompson, Father of Oregon Hudson Bay's John McLoughlin, free spirited Theodore Winthrop (serious Wanderlust!), Seattle pioneer David Maynard, timber baron George Weyerhaeuser. Cantwell describes their lives and experiences and relates them to the NW character of today. It makes a good interwoven story. References to Thompson & Winthrop continue throughout the book illustrating the continuity of people, places, and history. "Hidden Northwest" covers a lot of material but does justice to each to wet one's interest sufficient to head directly for the journals of Thompson, Winthrop, etc. Cantwell interjects his personal perspective, observations, and experiences in a complementary and nonobtrusive way. Stealing from the book flap - "Hidden NW incorporates all the elements which distinquish routine narrative from vital history - true life adventure, insights into the personal lives of extraordinary people, and revelation of little known facts." Cantwell finds the NW "still a place of vast promise" and "naturalists paradise" seen by Thompson and Winthrop "despite the encroachment of modern life." "Hidden Northwest" is well documented with 45 pages of notes, references, an extensive bibliography, and a detailed index.