Edward Henry Harriman

Edward H. Harriman was a railroad magnate and wealthy financier. While it seemed unlikely that he and conservationist John Muir would meet, the two become close friends for most of their lives. The two met when Harriman was ordered by his doctor to take a vacation. Harriman organized the "Harriman Expedition" to Alaska in 1899, to be accompanied by many prominent scientists and writers of the time. Muir was invited to attend the expedition aboard the George W. Elder. Later, the two would have lengthy conversations about their travels. Harriman was said to have hired a secretary to write down everything Muir said, to encourage his friend's writing career. Harriman also helped fund Muir's world travels by giving him free passage on his steamship lines. This 1912 volume is a lengthy eulogy written by Muir to celebrate his late friend.