On June 5^th, Betty and I celebrated National Trails Day—and our 38^th anniversary—with a trip to Pine Grove Furnace State Park for the opening of the Appalachian Trail Museum. The exhibits celebrate the pioneers of the AT—Benton MacKaye and Myron Avery, and the first thru-hikers: Earl Shaffer, Gene Espy, Ed Garvey, and Emma “Grandma” Gatewood.

A Personal Highlight

A highlight for me was meeting Lucy Seeds, daughter of Grandma Gatewood, to chat and explore any possible relationship. We’re both from small towns In southern Ohio, but that’s about as close as I could come.

Hike to History

We took part in a “Hike to History,” a six-mile hike through the surrounding Michaux State Forest, ending at the stone grist mill that houses the museum. Pine Grove Furnace is the northern end of PATC’s domain and the approximate mid-point of the AT.

Betty and I look forward to returning to section-hike this lovely area as we make our way—slowly—north. You can read all about the museum at atmuseum.org. It’s a worthy project, being pursued with typical PATC volunteer vigor. I commend it to your attention.

Mark & Betty Gatewood
Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapter