Showing results by author "Joseph Smeaton Chase" in All Categories

"I fell an easy prey to the beckonings of the other principal feature of California's topography, the dreamy, dreary desert. Long ago, on short expeditions into and across it at various points, I had fallen under its inexplicable charm; now I determined to know it more closely, by daily and nightly intercourse through months of travel in its sun-blasted solitudes: gaining the experience I desired at the price, certainly, of some discomfort, and, possibly, of a trifling degree of danger — merely enough for spice. This volume, then, is the fruit of over two years continuous camping and ...

I found myself irresistibly drawn to the alluring yet haunting beauty of Californias desert landscapes. After several brief excursions into its vastness and witnessing its enigmatic charm, I resolved to explore it more intimately. This journey would involve months of camping and travel through its sun-scorched expanses—an adventure that promised to be both uncomfortable and mildly perilous, adding just the right amount of intrigue. This volume is the culmination of over two years spent immersed in the deserts solitude. (From the Preface) - Summary by Steven Seitel

In 1911, decades before California's coast Highway 1 was built, an Englishman rode 2000 miles on horseback the length of California, from Mexico to Oregon. On the way he is courteously received at isolated ranches, has many quiet adventures, and is generally amazed by the beauty of our coast. A classic early California travelog. Chase was born in Islington (London) and but lived most of this life in the California desert.Here are Chase's major landmarks, first going south and then turning north:Chap. 1 El Monte to Laguna Beach. Chap. 2 Aliso Canyon to San Juan Capistrano. Chap. 3 San Juan hot ...

Journey back to 1911 with the adventurous Englishman, J. Smeaton Chase, as he travels the length of California on horseback, years before the creation of the iconic Highway 1. This enthralling podcast brings to life his 2000-mile trek from Mexico to Oregon, filled with quiet adventures, encounters at secluded ranches, and awe-inspiring coastal views. Originally from Islington, London, Chase spent most of his life in the Californian desert, capturing the spirit of early California in his travelog. Join us as we traverse through major landmarks, from El Monte to Laguna Beach, San Diego to San ...