Reader Contributions

To make the Firefall project complete, I am encouraging readers of this history to submit their own remembrances, contributions, and suggestions. I'd like to make the history a thorough one, and it certainly could not be complete without the contributions of those who have witnessed the Firefall firsthand, or of those who have followed its story and have interesting additions they'd like to share. I hope you enjoy these contributions as much as I have.

Click here if you wish to contribute to the Yosemite Firefall project.

HELLO I JUST RECEIVED THIS SITE FROM A GIRL FRIEND OF MINE AFTER MY MOTHER HAS RECENTLY PASSED... YES I DO REMEMBER "THE GREAT STORIES" THAT WERE TOLD TO ME FROM MY MOTHER...WHO WAS ONE OF THE BEAUTIFUL YOUNG LADIES AT THE TIME WHO SANG "THE INDIAN LOVE CALL" FOR THE FIRE FALLS....WHAT STORIES SHE COULD TELL US ALL ABOUT THE MOUNTAINS, AND GROWING UP WITH THE AMERICAN INDIANS, AND WORKING WITH ANSEL ADAMS, AND GROWING UP IN A FAMILY OF 12 (10 CHILDREN) AND MOMMA AND HER DADDY IN A HOME MY GRAND FATHER "DOC" PHILLIPS BUILT FOR THEIR FAMILY.... I WOULD LOVE FOR ALL OF THE STORIES TO CONTINUE THEY ARE WELL WORTH HEARING....THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR SITE WITH US. RHONDA GREGORY. (DOTTIE PHILLIPS)("YARBROUGH"~GREGORY'S DAUGHTER)

Rhonda Gregory
Martinez, California
June 1, 2007

It was just on a very minor cerebral ectopic blip that I decided to websearch the firefall. My father was just a guy that came around a few times a year. He really wasn't interested in me or my next oldest brother, but with my oldest brother and sister. I believe that we would have been left at home with my alcoholic mother and uncle who were doing, albeit drunken and overly dramatic, the best that they could to provide for us.

My father would come to visit us in his very old VW bug. When I bought a Karmann Ghia in that early 80's, that VW interior smell sent me back to that time. I learned later that my father would give us Valium so that we would sleep on the long drive up to Yosemite from Southern California. My oldest brother was the only one who was left to stay awake to enjoy the bond that they, and only they shared.

I remembered Yosemite as a fun place to play and swim. As to the subject at hand, I was just taken aback at this website and remember distinctly the holler "let the firefall!!!" I remembered it with the resiliance of a 5 year old in a bad situation who is lucky enough to have a momentary respite in something as simple as the firefall.

Thank you so much. I haven't thought of this in decades.

Thomas Gittelson
San Diego, California
May 29, 2007

In 1947, when I was four years old, our family took a trip to Yosemite. Being the youngest, it was my first trip there. In his diary, my father wrote of my introduction to the firefall, as we watched from Stoneman Meadow. "Her face upturned in the moonlight was a study of astonished rapture and incredulity", he wrote. "She turned to me and said, 'It looks just like blood.'"

The memory came back to me vividly as I read this. My father captured my emotions perfectly. I was astonished and enraptured by the beauty, However, I had no reference point for it except it seemed to me to look like blood flowing freely from a wound--something I was indeed familiar with, as I scraped my knees a lot when I was four.

A few nights later we drove to Glacier Point and saw the firefall at its origin. All I remember is seeing a mass of swirling hot flames and hearing the call "All Right" loud beside us. Then the fire was pushed over the cliff to fall below.

We returned to Yosemite many times, and although I got over seeing the firefall as flowing blood, and indeed forgot I ever did until I read my father's account of it, I always loved the firefall's awesome glowing beauty, and the whole ritual of hearing the calls go back and forth faintly as the men prepared to push the bonfire over the cliff at Glacier Point.

Robit Utter
Ashland, Oregon
May 25, 2007

I just had the great honor of taking my family to Yosemite for the first time. My husband and three children; 6, 9, and 13 years old. I was pretty calm until we hit "The Tunnel" and I became that little girl from long ago. I had already prepped my family about my own family tradition of rolling down the windows and blaring the horn as we screamed "Elmer" going through the tunnel. When we came through the other side and saw that spectacular view I was in tears. Tears of such great joy as I hadn't been to Yosemite in 10 years. I was so happy to share it with my family. The memories of "Elmer; Jumping off of Stoneman Bridge; Swinging off of a tree into Mirror Lake; Spending an entire day with the Indian Women in the village making acorn meal, acorn tortillas, and crushing manzanita berries; The Big Square Dance in the Village; and of course...The Infamous Fire Falls. I am 43 and I recall the beautiful falls that we all anxiously awaited each night. Oh they were so beautiful! I am very grateful to the photo posted here so that I could show it to my children. Ah, if only it could live on!!!

Denise
Fountain Valley, California
May 21, 2007

My father worked in Yosemite so we spent every summer living in the Park. The Firefalls were our "family outing". Sitting on the car and waiting for the flames to cascade down. It was our own fireworks show. I remember the day J.F. Kennedy came to the Park and the Valley was crowded with people waiting to see the Falls and the President. To me, the Falls were the bigger attraction. When the Falls were discontinued it was like a member of the family was gone.

Jolene Gordo
Sacramento, California
May 21, 2007

I saw the Fire fall when I was very young. I am 48 now. I don't remember the year or even how old I was. I do remember standing amidst a group of people and my father lifting me onto his shoulders so I could see. It was awesome. I also remember walking back to our campsite and finding it flooded by the river and people scrambling to dig dikes around their tents. I was high and dry on my father's shoulders and had a dry bed in our camper but my 2 brothers, who were looking forward to sleeping under the stars, were not happy. They forgave the river the next day though when we hiked to one of the falls. Yosemite is a magical place.

Lora Cook
Colorado Springs, Colorado
May 14, 2007

Although it will be 45 years this July, I remember very well seeing the Yosemite Fire Fall in July of 1962, when my family was on a cross-country trip from Connecticut to California and back. I was nine years old at the time. We were visiting an aunt and uncle in Buena Park, a suburb of Los Angeles and we drove up to Yosemite in a 3-car caravan to camp out in the park. I was in awe of the beauty of the park, and thought that it was even better than Disneyland, which I had visited a few days before the trip to Yosemite. My aunt and uncle had been frequent visitors to Yosemite, so they told the story of the "fire fall" and my brothers and I were very excited to see this natural phenomenon. I particularlly remember my aunt telling about the man who shouts "Let the fire fall!" to get things started. Dusk came and we gathered with other campers to watch, and sure enough, after "let the fire fall" rang out in the piney valley, we saw the glowing red and orange cascade of embers falling from the top of the cliff to the bottom. It was over rather quickly, but it left an endelible image in my mind for my whole life. The other thing I remember is that it got so COLD that night sleeping in a tent, and it was the middle of July!!

Jonathan
Charlottesville, VA
May 14, 2007

Watching the fire fall at Yosemite was one of the highlights of the summer when I was a kid in the early 60's. We often camped at Yosemite in tent-like structures that are no longer in existence. At dusk we would assemble in the meadow and watch the deer eat until it was dark. Then the fire fall would begin. It was always exciting anticipating the moment it would begin. The sight of the fire fall was beyond words in its beauty. It was a sad day when I heard the fire fall had been discontinued. I believe it was a sight that all generations should have a chance to experience. It was totally awesome. A wonderful memory.

Samantha
Clovis, California
May 11, 2007

Grandma loves to tell the story of the fire fall. She spent her summers roaming the Yosemite Valley. She was kind enough to take the time to write about the fun she had during her childhood.

Annette M. Hall
Twain Harte, California
May 4, 2007
http://reliableanswers.com/seasonal/fond_memories_of_yosemite.asp

This is a wonderful website that stimulates many memories that touch me as deeply as others. One of mine is that during my first firefall as a child, I recall standing alone near a tree just as the firefall began and there was a young girl my age standing alone at a nearby tree. Somehow we were drawn together, embraced, and shared a kiss (my first) just as the fire was at its most intense. When it was over, we huged, walked away, and I never saw her again. I'm guessing it was in the 1950s.

Stephen Bruno
Monterey, California
Apr 23, 2007

I first saw the fire fall in 1945. I was 7 years old. I saw it several more times in the next 3 years and always from Camp Curry. I recall that someone always sang the Indian Love Song just before the call "Let the fire fall". The spectacle lasted around 20-30 seconds as I recall. Never long enough for a young child like me.

Gary Hathaway
Sierra Madre, California
Apr 19, 2007

Thank you for creating this site. It is wonderful. My father introduced us to Yosemite in the late 50's. I have since become amazed that most people that visit the park never get up to Glacier Point. We went to the park several times over the next decade but never viewed the firefall. I heard about it, read about it, and when I finally decided that I was going to take the initiative to see the firefall on my own (when I was old enough to drive) they had been discontinued. Those of you that have seen the firefall are lucky, indeed! I have had a lifelong love affair with Yosemite National Park. I have stayed at almost every base camp, hiked on over a hundred miles of trail, and probably seen just about every square mile from some vantage point. To this day I still miss seeing this one event.

Don Swegles
Frisco, Texas
Apr 19, 2007

The memories live on! I just spent this past week camping in Upper Pines and the calls still go out each night at 9 pm. "Elmer! Let the fire fall!" It is a chorus that echos and spreads throughout the campground. Although I am too young to have witnessed the fire falls I have vivid memories of yelling the call each night as my parents shared their memories of the fire falls.

Melissa Hamilton
La Mirada, California
Apr 15, 2007

I was in fourth grade in the mid sixties and camped often at Yosemite with my Dad, sister and a brother who was slowly going blind. I vividly remember camping on the valley floor and looking up at night to see the falling firefall. It was spectacular! I hope my brother remembers these sights as he is now long since been blind. My husband, I and our adult children are going to Yosemite this summer and I will always remember the firefall.

Sheila Skaggs
Fairplay, Colorado
Apr 14, 2007

I started in Chaco Canyon in 1957. Then I was in Yosemite. I was in the family truckster -- I'm pretty sure it was '67 -- when we pulled off to the side or the road to see the last fire fall. Warnock. Valley Chief District Ranger. My dad.

Another thing. My grandfather helped build Ahwahnee Hotel. He was on their hockey team - Warnock - there is a photo in the archives. By the way three of my siblings were born in the valley hospital.

David Warnock
Apr 14, 2007

As an employee of Yosemite Park and Curry Company in 62-63 I witnessed the fire fall often. My younger brother Gerald called the fire fall every night for several summers. He was a bellman there while I was a houseman. We earned a $1.05 an hour.

We both miss the fire fall to this day.

Apr 1, 2007

My stepfather, Chet Hubbard, was the last to call the Firefall in 1968. I have a photo, similar to the one on this site, of a gentleman pushing the cinders over from Glacier Point. If anyone is interested in a copy, let me know. Please put "Firefall" in the subject. Happy memories! (threejsmama@hotmail.com)

Dana Suggs
Mariposa, California
Mar 23, 2007

In the early sixties I was co-ordinator of ski events at Badger Pass setting and running standard races and also teaching skiing. In summer I worked at Wawona hotel and saw the firefall while in the valley. While waiting for the snow to come one fall I hiked the short trail from the valley to glacier point with a day pack and mocassin foot gear. Climbing boots and equipment was at home in Alberta Canada.

All went well until I came to a frozen creek which had to be crossed to reach good rock. After considering the danger of a slip I crossed by allowing the heat of my foot to thaw and freeze the poor footwear to the ice in a dozen steps to safety. More guts then brains!

After hiking over to Sentinel dome I looked for the long trail down but could not find it as darkness was approaching and ended up walking out (with sore feet) to Badger Pass under a full moon and a symphony from the coyotes. Thinking about the firefall kept me warm. It was beautiful!

p.s. Say hi to Nick F. for me - He always called me sonny!

Les Mills
Paoli, Pennsylvania
Mar 20, 2007

Thank you for this site. I had just recently revisited Yosemite with my husband who had never been there. I told him of my memories of the firefall. Wanted to do some more research to be sure I remembered it correctly; it was some 55 years ago. Yosemite is such a special place, and going in the winter is really the best time to avoid the crowds.

Irene
Washington
Mar 15, 2007

In 1950, my mother drove me to Yosemite to celebrate my tenth birthday and introduce me to this extraordinary national park. To say that it left a lasting memory is obvious, for I would not be writing these words if this were not so. As for the Firefall, I am very glad that I captured this weekly occurence on 16mm color film to enjoy seeing. It is a shame that it cannot be viewed by others anymore except on film, for it was thrilling to be outdoors in this beautiful setting--especially at that age--full of excitement and glee in anticipation of this spectacle.

John Wm. Schiffeler
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Mar 7, 2007

I remember as a child in the mid to late 60's visiting Yosemite with my parents and brother. I remember the hot days of the end of summer and the cold nights. I remember sitting in the outdoor stage area to watch the fire fall. What an amazing sight to see. I remember going back about 8 years ago with my small children, sitting in an outdoor stage area only to experience "I've been here before". A very strange feeling. In talking with the ranger who gave a wonderful bat presentation, I realized that I had been there before and that is where I sat with my family to watch the fire fall many years before. I explained in great delight and animation to my children what a wonderful spectacle it was, hopefully they appreciated it although a description can not do justice to such a wonderful part of history.

Linda
Covina, California
Feb 18, 2007

Camping in Yosemite! Growing up in Palo Alto, our parents took us to Yosemite often in the late fifties, the sixties, and seventies. This website brings back so many memories...in fact the earliest memory I have as a child was crawling around under the topographic relief model of Yosemite in the visitor's center while the ranger talked to a group of people standing around it, and seeing all those legs from under the table, I realized that I belonged to the pair of legs in the grey pants, my father.

And I remember the cafeteria at Yosemite Lodge well too, where I first saw Jello in cubes, and I remember when the campgrounds were numbered, not named. I also remember the long drive out to Tenaya Lake for our traditional picnic with chicken from Degnan's deli in the village. And being taught by my cousin David how to climb that big rock along the road to Happy Isles - David showed me where the "handy dandy handhold" was that gave enough grip to get to the top. Years later, I taught my 13 year old daughter how to use the handhold, and she struggled up to the top - so my father bought her a "Go climb a rock" t-shirt that she proudly wore. And smelling the cracks in the bark of the Jeffrey pines - they might smell like butterscotch, they might smell fruity. And my cousin Roger teaching me how to play the card game hearts in the parking lot at Happy Isles (before the bus era). And in my teen years, jumping off the stone bridge into the river with my girlfriend, and that day she lost the sweater that I thought made her look like a turtle. She missed the sweater, I didn't.

When I went away to college the dorm I lived in was Tenaya Hall, at UC San Diego. Even though it was a freshly built concrete fortress, the name (and the name of the neighboring hall, Tioga) was enough to make me daydream about visiting Yosemite again.

I remember seeing the firefall, from both Glacier Point and the valley. I only saw it once from Camp Curry, and I thought the person singing the "Indian Love Call" was silly. Of course, I was at the age where I thought anything to do with love was silly. My parents never really liked the trappings of Camp Curry much, so we usually watched the firefall from someplace else in the valley.

Although it was a beautiful sight, I agree with the Park Service decision to end the firefall. But I really remember it well. Thanks for the website, thanks for the memories.

Steve Herr
Wisconsin
Feb 24, 2007

I was 10 years old (in the 50's) and living in San Jose when our ladylady and her daughter took me to Yosemite camping. It is one of the most wonderful memories that I have including the "Fire Fall" which to the 10 year old me was magical. I can remember a distant voice that almost echoed in the dark saying "Fire Fall...." and the spectacular sight of the red and yellow trail made by the fire as it traveled downward. Such a wonderful experience! The whole experience of camping in Yosemite made me a life long nature lover.

Karen Smith
Greensboro, NC
Feb 18, 2007

I'm so happy that so many other people remember vividly the firefalls the way I do. I just thought about them today for some reason and started looking around on the web for info, possibly a photo. There were many other photos through sites on google, but most were from a helicopter's view. There were several others as well, all bringing back those wonderful childhood memories.

Days in the camp were spent hiking and exploring, smelling the sweet bark of the sugar pine with my nose pressed to the tree. Tiptoeing to the restroom at night so as not to be heard by the bears, listening to the crackle of the fire as we sat together and told stories. Marshmallows were, of course, roasted nightly. Then off to sleep in a tent, not bothered at all by sleeping on the ground in a sleeping bag. Can't do that anymore!

Fondly I remember watching the firefalls while sitting safe in the lap of daddy, my brothers oohing and ahhing with mom at the spectacular event. The feel of sun-toasted skin and the warmth and aroma of the night air is still fresh in my mind. Those were the days. Mmmmmm

Anonymous
Feb 11, 2007

I too spent nearly every summer in Yosemite valley in the 1950's. My memory of the fire fall was always having a big time opera singer or other famous person come in to sing the "Indian Love Call" during the show. What a great sight and sound to remember!

Shav La Vigne
San Jose, California
Jan 16, 2007

I can't imagine this info is not already in your posession.

One other quite outstanding feature of the Firefall event was that of a soloist, or a duet who would sing The Indian Love Song as the fall progressed over the cllff. It is a memory few people today have witnessed.

The Firefall would be pushed over the cliff to land on a lower ledge and which kept the fire relatively contained and from reaching the valley floor. Maybe a 500 ft. fall?

Richard Youngman
Martinez, California
Jan 11, 2007

I found this Web site quite by accident while doing some personal writing about why I moved back to California.

I only had a few days when I returned for my 45th high school reunion. I landed in Fresno, picked up my rental car, spent my first night in Oakhurst, then headed straight up Hwy. 41 to my favorite place in the world, purchased my lifetime pass (one benefit of becoming a "senior" citizen), and drove to Glacier Point. I had forgotten how unique and uniquely aromatic that drive is, as is the drive to the valley and that first view after the tunnel. Like all the tourists seeing it for the first time, I have never driven past there without stopping!

I was fortunate in many ways: long before I came along, my family fell in love with Yosemite and visited often, whether they were living in L.A. or in Fresno, so I was introduced to it early. My father swore, my mother told me, that when he died, he intended to spend the rest of eternity perched on top of Half Dome. He died when I was only a year old, so I never had an opportunity to enjoy this spectacular place with him, but I still never fail to wave at Half Dome and greet dad when I visit the park.

When I was in high school in Fresno, I was lucky enough to work many weekends in the valley. I'd sneak in before the gates opened on Saturday mornings, then sneak out after they closed on Sunday night. Half way through the summer after I graduated, I was sent as a replacement to work at Glen Aulen Camp in the High Country. What a summer! That was before the road from the valley was paved all the way to the Meadows. Talk about an adventure!! But what bliss, coming around a curve in the road and seeing Tenaya Lake for the first time. On the much safer, but considerably less exciting paved highway, it really isn't quite the same experience now, though it is undisputably safer.

I saw the fire fall many times. It was... what can I say... spendiferous! Magic! Impossibly beautiful. Talk about getting teary-eyed! I feel so privileged to have experienced that, and the valley before one-way roads and traffic jams and gazillions of tourists...

Back in those days, you could still visit Happy Isles without benefit of a formal tour under the guidance of a Park Ranger. As a matter of fact, you could go almost anywhere you wanted to. But at the end of the day, we always ended up at Camp Curry, enjoying the show and waiting with huge anticipation for the climax of the evening... and still awe-struck and never quite ready to leave when it was over.

Regardless of traffic controls, laudable conservation efforts, and the end of sparkling jewels floating from Glacier Point, everything that was ever special and awe-inspiring about Yosemite, still is as magnificent as ever and, now that I've moved back to Fresno, I feel so fortunate to have it all only a short drive from home.

Thank you for this site, and the opportunity to contribute. I searched for information to make sure that I was remembering my 'fire fall' experiences correctly and got much more. By the way, I seem to remember (evidently mistakenly) Glacier calling down: "Curry, are you ready?," answered by "Let the fire fall" from Camp Curry. Seems like I got it backward, but no matter... it was never the words that made it so special. And I'm glad for the instant replays that are always available in my mind's eye.

Sunny Carney
Fresno, California
Dec 31, 2006

Hi all! Though I was not even born yet the year the last Fire Fall was held, I have heard many a story about the nightly event. My Grandfather and Grandmother lived in the valley during the 50's as employees and my Grandfather eventually played music during the nightly Fire Falls. Though I have nothing to add as far as memories, I would like to see if anyone might be able to help me. I am trying to put together a heart felt gift for my Grandfather, William (Bill) Warren, Grandmother's name is Helen Warren. If anyone remembers him and would like to email me a memory or knows of great pictures or anything really I would really appreciate it. My email is brina_harwood@hotmail.com.

It sounds like a great time in American history and wish I could have been there. Thanks!

Brina Harwood
Fresno, California
Nov 30, 2006

Thank you for your work on this site. I recently visited the Gene Autrey Museum with my boyfriend and together we browsed the current Yosemite Exhibit. We didn't have a lot of time so maybe I missed some things but I didn't see anything about the Firefall and was dismayed at that. I have fond such wonderful recollections of it and the Yosemite Valley I enjoyed as a young girl nearly every year. For most all of the 60's you could find my family there every September. I have hiked all of the falls before many of the railings and restrictions were put in place. I must return. It's been years. My father refused to go back once the cars were limited and all of the "political correctness" seemed to take over. While much of it makes sense, there is no substitute for yester-year and the wonderful memories. Thank you again. I loved Yosemite, and the Firefall, and the Ranger talks at the amphitheater, and swimming in icy water (where I nearly drowned once being carried away by swift moving currents) and the hikes where we met some wonderful people on the way up and down and where I left my favorite sweater in the WC at the top of Yosemite Falls and cried when my Dad wouldn't hike half way back up with me to go retrieve it.

Debra Lockett
Burbank, California
Nov 20, 2006

I have very fond memories of Yosemite as a child we went there many times. I remember camping, mom and dad sleeping in the back of the 63 Chevy Nova Wagon and my brother and I in the tent with the flaps that attached to the wagon. I remember dad waking us up to get into the car with them because he heard a bear outside. I remember the next morning seeing the damage done by the bear. I remember the meadows and falls and all the glorious sights but the one thing that will forever be etched in my memory is that night at Camp Curry and the amazing spectacle that was the Fire Fall. Thank you for the website it has been a wonderful journey.

Gary Crow
Lake Elsinore, California
Nov 10, 2006

As a 46 year old whos father passed away very early in my life, I have a very fond remembrance of the yosemite firefalls. I remember standing in awe as I would watch the fire pour over the edge. I was truely upset when the park discontinued this event. If anyone knows of any videos of this event please let me know through Email at rharringtonjr@comcast.net.

Richard H
Stockton, California
Nov 8, 2006

I visited Yosemite when I was a kid in the 1950s and one of my outstanding memories, in addition to meeting a grizzly bear on a trail, was the firefall. The valley was wonderful during those years, and we stayed in one of the old tents at Camp Curry. The night of the firefall we sat with a hundred or so people and listened to a woman sing the Indian Love Call. Shortly after the Rangers started calling back and forth until we heard the magic sound of "Let the fiiiirreee faaaaalllll!!" The sight was spectacular and I have an indelible picture of it in my mind.

Peppa Jaa.
San Francisco, California
Oct 3, 2006

I was born and raised in Santa Rosa Ca, along with my two sisters Jane Anne and Sheri Sue. As kids in the 1950's mom and dad took us camping almost every year and Yosemite was an outdoor school for us all. We always would swim in the river until we were purple.

At age seven I learned what an intersection was at Yosemite. Sister sheri droped her purse walking across the swinging bridge one day and so I thought I would ride my bike back to camp to get dad, however when I got lost on the way back I stopped to asked a ranger for directions. I was seven years old at the time. Ranger Rick injected the word intersection in his directions to me. Four hours later I found that intersection close by our campsite. I was very dispointed however when I got there. No one was there to greet me. Instead the whole family was in a panic and were out with all the rangers trying to track me down.

One summer we took Uncle Arts tear drop trailer, you know the one? you need a shoe horn to get in and out of it. So Dad and Mom slept in the 56' station wagon and the three kids in the trailer. So Dad puts one of the fishing poles on top of the trailer for sister jane to reach through the 12"x12" roof air vent to tap on top of the wagon during the night to awake Mom and dad if she had to go pottie. Dad always did this because of the Bears. Well pottie time came and went and so did sister. I can still hear sister beating on top of the car. Dad always said to his dying day he thought it was a Bear outside.

As kids we couldn't get enough of the firefall and one year went to the top of Glacier to view it. This was a disapointment. The best view was always from the valley floor. I can still picture Dad and me floating down the river on an air mattress and him saying we better get out and me saying no, just a little longer Dad. He had to rent a bike to get us back to camp on that trip.

In the summer of 1968 I was fresh out of West More high school and on a coast to coast ride on motorcycles with friends. We were in Yosemite that summer for the last firefall 38 years ago. One of the things I learned that summer was nothing is forever. Thank you for this web site and giving me the chance to go back to my childhood days. And those were the days my friends. Good night Elmer whereever you are. Roy

Roy A Hedlund Jr.
Manchaca, Texas
Sep 28, 2006

I am the grandson of David and Jenny Curry and the son of Foster Curry. I worked in Yosemite summers from 1946 to 1950 and full time from 1951 through 1966. I called the firefall as a bellman and subsiquently as a manager before moving over to the Lodge and then managing The Ahwahnee. The firefall was a wonderful and unique event. It did cause huge traffic jams but I wish the Park Service could find some way to modify the experience rather than giving it up completely.

Let me tell a fun story about a trick Nic Fiore and I would occasionally pull when we would both be at May Lake High Sierra Camp in the mid-fifties. There is a point not far from May Lake where you could see the firefall miles away across several mountain ranges. It was just a speck but Nic would tell those staying at the camp that, because of the thin air at that altitude, voices carried for miles and miles. Shortly before 9:00 I would hike down the trail a ways and Nic would take the group to the vantage point. Just before 9:00 he would call "Hello Glacier" and from down the trail I would softly reply "Hello May Lake" then Nic would call "let the fire fall" and the flaming spec would appear. You can imagine the talk around the campfire afterward.

John Foster Curry
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Sep 20, 2006

Came to this website on a whim.....I had downloaded a wallpaper photo of half-dome, and began wondering if anyone else out there remembered the spectacular, wondrous falls of fire from Glacier Point. As a youngster, I remember making several trips to the valley with my parents and grandparents. Memories of that incomparable redwood smell of the valley on cool, crisp nights and the shared spectacle of the Firefall are thoughts I treasure. Its a warming feeling to know there are others who cherish those long-ago moments of wonder. Sincerely, Grant, Tulsa

Grant "Skip" Cole
Tulsa, OK
Aug 31, 2006

I remember that we would go to Camp Curry during the 1960's, to the little stage area, and watch the evening show. Mom and Dad would sit on the log benches, and we would usually sit just in front of the stage, on the dirt, with all the other kids. Dad would buy us an ice cream cone (mostly to keep us quiet).

The show would start around twilight. There were many singers, mostly, singing humorous folk and camp songs, but a few dancers as well, playing guitars, harmonicas, even violins. They encouraged the audience to sing along. And there was always a dramatic storyteller who would tell the story of Yosemite, climaxing with the firefall tradition. Sometimes you could even smell the smoke from the bonfire on Glacier Point.

Just before the firefall, they would turn out all the lights in Camp Curry, and everyone would "ahh", excited with anticipation. They would flash lights to each other, and then they would do the calling up and down to Glacier Point. "Hello Camp Curry!" The voice seemed so very far away, and you couldn't really tell where it was coming from, because it would travel quite a bit in the Valley, and because everyone was quiet. When the firefall would start, another "ahh" came from the crowd. It would take a long time (about 15 seconds) for the fire to hit the bottom. (I always wondered where all those ashes landed. And remember they did this for 88 years ... that must have been quite a pile!).

The firefall glowed a beautiful red and orange, like a sunset. We saw it, not only from Camp Curry, but sometimes further away from our campsite in the Valley. You could tell that they tried to keep the stream flowing evenly, but sometimes there was bright spot, and sometimes even a small break in the firefall. Some pieces would fall faster than others too. I always thought that they must use a tremendous amount of wood to span the 3,000 foot drop.

What I especially remember was that there would always be some embers that would float way away from the rock face. Some would even land in the meadow. Some would disappear towards Happy Isles. I always wondered how they could let that happen in a forest full of trees. It was amazing that they never started a fire.

At the end, the firefall would become a trickle, and again I would watch how long the final embers took to hit the bottom. In less than two minutes, it was all over. Then the lights would come back on in Camp Curry, and everyone would applaud, some final good nights to the crowd, and everyone would return to their campsites or cabins for the night.

My family saw firefalls over a dozen times, sometimes on consecutive nights, and each time it was different. Sometimes it was very bright, but finished in barely 30 seconds. Other times it was steadier, not quite as intense in color, but lasted longer. It was obvious to me that the rate at which they pushed the embers over the cliff determined the look of the firefall for that night.

While we were there, the weather was always perfect for the firefall, maybe only needing a light jacket. The Camp Curry staff and the campers were so friendly to each other back then; definitely a different time.

I was disappointed when the firefall ended. I had wanted to show my wife and friends what I had experienced as a boy, but I understand why it was discontinued.

Even so, I thank my parents for giving me the fond memories of Yosemite, Camp Curry, and the Firefall.

Ruben Martinez
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Aug 30, 2006

Thank you so much for this site. Yosemite is such a special place for me and my husband. We had both grown up going camping in Yosemite all of our life, so when we married, Yosemite was the natural choice as part of our honeymoon. I remember we had a special dinner at the Ahwahnee Hotel. When it came time for the firefall, our meals were covered and taken to warmers and we were led to the terrace to watch the firefall. It was so beautiful and sadly the last time we ever saw it.

On August 10, 2006 we slipped away for a few days and stayed in a tent cabin in Curry. We had heard that the park was so crowded and that you couldn't drive around anymore. We were pleasantly surprised to find the park very much the same and not crowded...even in August! The buses are great, convenient and comfortable. We parked our car and rode the bus all over the park. We still felt the feeling of friendship and awe among the other visitors.

We both looked up at Glacier and fondly remembered the special magic of the firefall.....it lives on in our hearts.

This weekend, we are sending our daughter and our 4 grandchildren to Yosemite to experience the wonder that we have come to know so intimately...I hope they feel the same as we do.

You can see the hand of God at work in Yosemite....for my husband, Ken, and I it is a religious experience....we feel closer to God there than anywhere on earth.

Thank all of you for sharing the magic.

Linda Simmons Griffin
Fremont, CA
Aug 25, 2006

What a great site, and brings so many memories the far reaches of my mind. I was born in Yosemite in 1946, at Lewis Memorial Hospital, delivered by the famous Dr. Avery Sturm. Except for a few months at different times I was raised in El Portal. I rented bicycles at Curry and various other places like the Lodge and Dave Downing was my boss.

When I turned 18 I was a Lineman's helper for the Park Service and lived in 'Boys Town', Fire Fall every night, it was great. Of course before that we would spend many evenings at the Curry dance and of course the 'Program', and through all the noise and bustling it was always amazing to hear the sudden HUSH as the Fire Fall approached, thousands of people all going into silence and mummers, until the oohs and ahhs as the fire came over the edge.

I can remember driving up from El Portal and smelling the campfire smoke headed for Stoneman Bridge or the roads along the meadows to watch the magnificent spectacle. A special thrill was to watch the fire being pushed over from the top. And as a Line Mans helper I used to walk down the Glacier Point trail to work on the power lines, and remember a friend and I took some young ladies to see the fire being pushed over from that angle, a beautiful sight.

While stationed at Treasure Island in the Navy for School in 1966, I brought many young shipmates to 'The Park'. Some who had never heard of Yosemite, let alone a Fire fall, they always left with a beautiful memory, I'm sure many have it as a beautiful lasting experience.

I was overseas when they ended the beautiful spectacle, and I always felt 'jilted' that I hadn't known it was coming. I remember the problems that led up to the end, some of the visitors were getting a little rowdy, and of course the Park Service reacted strongly, but probably not wisely, although having been there I don't know what the right action would have been. I suppose it's like so many things today too many people, lack of respect and so many other things that have happened to so many beautiful places. Times do change, and not all changes are truly welcome.

I recognize so many names of people who have written in about the Fire Falls, it was like stepping back in time. Things like Badger football, Ice Skating at Curry, learning to Ski under the direction of Dottie Powers, walking on the ice at Mirror Lake, the Summer dances at Curry, Half Dome at it's various phases, so many memories.

A little over a year ago my wife and I relocated to Aberdeen Washington, it's the only place that reminds me of the beautiful Yosemite that a person can spend their retirement in, but it's no replacement for Yosemite National Park, just a friendly nudge of that wonderful place I spent the beginning of my life in.

In closing I wonder if the Henry Berry was the Henny Berry, brother of Tim? Also I wonder what ever happened to Maynard Moe and so many that I knew as a youngster?

Well my old mind is taking me way past the Fire Fall, so I'll close and thank the people responsible for putting this site out to the world.

Bob Babcock, Jr.
Aberdeen, WA
Aug 8, 2006

My sister is here visiting from Tullhoma, TN and she introduced me to this wonderful web site! For many memorable years my family consisting of parents, sister, grandmother, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends would make our annual trek to Yosemite. We stayed in the tent cabins near the Stoneman Bridge at Camp Curry. These were the summers of the 50's and 60's. The highlight of these trips was the anticipation of the Firefalls. After dinner in which the whole 'clan' would eat together, we would claim our spot in the parking lot and turn our gaze skyward toward Glacier Point. After what seemed and eternity to a young child the fire began falling. Memories recall a simpilier time and a desire to stand one more time with my family, many of whom are gone now and breath in once more the magic of that one solitary moment.

Louise (Gardner) Ower
Cerritos, California
Aug 6, 2006

In 1962 I was 9 and my brother was 7 when we spent part of a summer trip at Yosemite with our parents. A couple of days ago we were talking about that trip while on vacation with our other siblings and all the cousins (15 of us now). I remembered all the talk about the Firefall and what was going to happen and when, but sad to say I can't actually remember the event itself. We were staying in a cabin and I remember lots of bears around so maybe I got distracted. In any event, my brother remembers the Firefall vividly. Then my sister (who was not on the trip in 1962) piped up and said "by the way, I saw the Firefall in a movie the other day". Get this, The Caine Mutiny has a scene part way through where an officer takes his girl to Yosemite to see the Firefall. I haven't checked her story out yet, but I will soon. Thought you might want to know about it. If it's on film that would be quite something!!! By the way, LOVE the site. Thanks

[Yes, it's true. There is a scene of the Firefall in Caine Mutiny. I tried, unsuccessfully to grab a copy of the scene off my DVD of the movie (which I bought for that reason). If I can get a copy of the clip at some point I'll post it on the site. -- Enjay Sea]

Chick Candler
Georgia
July 28, 2006

Fire Falls!

Since my first memory of our family trips to Yosemite in the mid-1950s, Firefall is one of the most enduring.

Coming across this great website immediately brought to mind the thrill of a six year old boy gazing straight up into the star filled night and being captured by the crimson & gold glow tumbling down like snow falling.

Looking back, I was lucky to experience Firefall many times.

I will be in Yosemite again next week to celebrate 50 years of enjoying this most wonderful place & looking up towards Glacier Point, on a star filled night, & remembering Firefall!

Richard Jewett
Woodland Hills, California
July 21, 2006

I too went camping in Yosemite from the time I was 5 all the way till 17 yrs old. I remember all going down to Camp Curry to watch the firefalls at 9pm . They would have the indian lady sing the Indian love call and then push the embers off Glacier Point. What a spectacular view to see. I have been trying to go through our photos of the firefalls. I have so many fond memories of yosemite All the hikes and exploring,the fish hatchery,the indian domains and the many dances at Camp curry..ha. I have been telling my grandchildren about our experiences and the wonderful beauty of Yosemite. So sad they will not get to see it the way we did.I too have been trying to find a great shot, told my sister to go through photos and send me some of my mom and dads photos, will forward them to you if I can. Glad i found this website it brings many memories.

Dorothy Roberts
Woodstock, Georgia
July 23, 2006

This is really a great site & surely brings back a wonderful nostalgia. I worked in the park in 1954 & 1955 starting when I was 18 years old. Having seen the firefall many times I can testify to its leaving a lasting memory. I worked at the Village Store in the produce dept. What great years those were. From the back dock of the store you only had to look up and Yosemite Fall was there in full view. A little bit down from the store was the old swinging bridge, it's been replaced by something more substantial. Used to go to Curry most nights & hang out by the writing room trying to meet some honeys. (usually failed miserably) Does anyone remember the dances held at Curry? I can't recall if they were nightly or once a week during the summer. They held them right in back of the writing room. Great times & great memories. I'm riding my Harley there this weekend with 3 other friends. Everytime I return I'm returning to a very special place and I wish I could return it to 1954 again.

Jerry Davis
Newbury Park, California
July 21, 2006

Does anyone know how I may purchase this beautiful firefall image shown? I would love to have one framed for my home. Thanks

[David -- The web image version of the Richard Marklin photo is actually the only version out there. It was created from a small scan of a set of stereo slides, and there is no larger version. So really only a small print could be made from it, by just copying the photo from the site itself (right-click, Save Image... etc).

I recently tried to contact the photographer for a larger copy that someone wanted to use in a symphony, but unfortunately Mr. Marklin has passed away.

Sorry I couldn't be of more help. -- Enjay]

David Hoffman
Fremont, California
July 17, 2006

Hello, I remember vividly being told that when I look at the "Fire Fall," to realize it is a symbol of the radiance of gold underneath and the Purification by fire. Blessings! M. This is further expounded in a book called "Beloved Saint Germain's Talks," Vol. 13 published by Saint Germain Press.

M.
Corona Del Mar, California
June 27, 2006

I was raised in San Jose, having graduated from Campbell high school and San Jose State. During the late 40s we always went to Yosemite to camp in the summer. The firefalls is one of those events that can't be forgotten. I remember sitting in the valley below Glacier Point after sunset and the rangers would call out from the top and another at the bottom would answer. There's a great cover on a LIFE magazine that features the firefalls in beautiful color. I've got it stashed away and don't remember the date.

Orvil R. Kirby
Gering, Nebraska
June 27, 2006

My family camped in Yosemite every year from 1964 on...something I am trying to continue to do with my children now. I still have vague memories of the firefall from sometime in late 1967 when I was 3 years old. We were camping in Upper Pines and were hanging around the campfire when my Dad said "It's time". I remember being very excited as my Dad had told me all about what was going to happen. We found our vantage point and my father hoisted me up on his shoulders. After what seemed like forever, I finally saw one of the most incredible images to become permanently lodged in my brain. The firefall was a spectacular site! I was fascinated and didn't want it to end. When we returned the next year, I was crushed to hear that I would not see it again. That moment on my father's shoulders is, to this day, one of my favorite memories with him.

I also remember him telling me the story of Elmer and shouting that deep into the night (or at least as late as I was allowed to stay up!)

Rick Lawrence
Oregon City
June 28, 2006

I recently visited Yosemite and enjoyed it very much.

I also was atracted to the Firefall History after watchinag a Huell Howser Show on TV. After reading your story and enjoying it very much I would like to point out that where you are describing how a wheel barrow was used for hauling the logs, is indeed spelt (Wheel Barrow)

[Ed. Thanks for pointing out the typo. I'll fix that -- Enjay]

Anni
Seal Beach, California
June 26, 2006

I was speaking to an aquaintance this morning wihile getting my morning coffee and somehow the subject of the firefall came up. I haven't thought about it in years. As I explained what it was, the memories came flooding back of the times I was there between '59 and '64.

I was 8 years old when we first went to Yosemite. My Mother was a singer and was recruited to entertain for two weeks (sometimes three) every summer for a 5 year period. She would sing at the "Lodge" and at Camp Curry. We stayed at Camp Curry in tent cabins. Besides the firefall, the things I remember most are the squirrels and chipmunks running all over the place; waiting in line for a shower and being careful not to surprise a bear in between structures because they might "kill you" if you did; avoiding the bear that wandered into our tent area while we were having lunch one day (that was crazy); the CAFETERIA (your choice of new york steak or porterhouse every single day, WOW!); playing golf sith my dad at Wowona (a real golf course) and, get this, the Awahnee Hotel! (I can't imagine it is still there but there was a 6 or 9 hole course with 30/40/50 yard holes at the grounds right close by the hotel that wound around through the WOODS! It was the most amazing thing. I would give alot to be able to see it again. I will also never forget having eggs benedict for the first time in my life in that amazing hotel; and the RIVER! I spent just about every waking moment at Stoneman's Bridge. I watched the older kids jump off of that bridge all day long and then found the courage to do it myself. What a rush. I remember it to be 18' off the water with about 6' of depth. There were plenty of stories of people hitting rocks, etc. to put fear into a young mind. How exciting it was!

At the end of our days we would eat one of those great meals and then hang around Curry or go to the bridge in anticipation of the firefall. There are really no words that I have to describe what an incredible event that was every single night. I loved hearing the callers call to each other in their clear voices so perfectly and loud and slow and then my mother, Peggy Overshiner, in her incredibly beautiful voice would sing the "Indian Love Song" while they would push the embers over the cliff, slowly, so red and hot. You couldn't take your eyes off of it.....

Chris Overshiner
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
June 24, 2006

After reading the memories area I now see Elmer was a bear!

Suzanne

June 24, 2006

I'm so happy I found this website! Family vacations were made so special by this event, and tears flow as I think back now on times so long gone. Upon reading about the different things yelled from Camp Curry to Glacier Point, maybe explains, why as a kid, we heard at dusk, people yelling ELMER! This was in the 60's and of course my best friend and I would chime in, yelling ELMER a few times as a nightly routine. Was ELMER ever found, we don't know! I am now 49, and in thinking back through my life, vacations to Yosemite, are the best memories I have to cherish.

Suzanne St Pierre
Chandler, Arizona
June, 24, 2006

As a youth our family of 11 vacationed annually in Yosemite for a month. Spectacular and fond memories are often shared among us as we meet for reunions from all around the US. The nightly firefall was always to the Indian Love Call by an entertainer from the program. Sometimes it was instrumental, sometimes vocal, always beautiful. Our annual vacations were in the fifties. There was a nightly dance after the program and wonderful Yosemite memories outlast other memories from throughout my life. In 2005 five of the 9 of us youngsters stood on a fallen log at Mirror Lake and reinacted a family photo from our childhood. We turned the photo sideways and saw the "Totem Pole" of the 50s.

D. A. Sullivan McGilvary
Fairbanks (formerly Santa Monica), Alaska (formerly California)
June 20, 2006

My grandparents, Bea and David Downing, lived in the park for about 50 years and i was told my grandfather was involved in the firefalls. if anyone has any memories of either of them, firefall or not, i would really love to receive them. they have both passed away but i remember the subject of the firefall coming up on a regular basis. the word brings images of them to mind. thank you all for your memories.

Amanda Downing
Clovis, California
June 19, 2006

My family visited Yosemite several times each summer from about 1957-1964, while my dad hand-built our summer cabin in Foresta. My brother and I were 5 and 7 years old when we saw our first Fire Fall.

Every afternoon, when my dad was hot and tired from hammering or well-digging, my parents took us kids down to the Valley floor to swim in the icy Merced. After dinner at the Lodge cafeteria (you could pick out your own food, as much as you wanted!) and a trip to the gift shop (pine scented incense? a beaded belt? a miniature totem pole?), we took off for the parking lot near the Ahwahnee, across the Valley from Glacier Point. My brother and I always hoped to see bears there, rummaging in the garbage cans. We usually got lucky.

It was hard to wait endlessly until the sky faded and the campfire smoke from Camp Curry disappeared in the dusk, leaving only its spicy odor. We squinted upwards, searching for the flashes of light from the Point which would signal the beginning of the Fall. The air became very soft and quiet, as the crowd near their parked cars or in the meadow strained to hear the ritual call begin.

Suddenly, there it was! A flash (two or three flashes?) of light from above. The ghostly "Are you ready, Camp Curry?" echoing from the heights. The answering call from below: "LET THE FIRE FALL!" A growing red ball of light, which became a liquid stream, tumbling over the lip of rock, growing a tail of sparks as the embers hit the slope far below.

A hush, then excited murmurs. Then, kids being packed into cars, to be driven back to camps and hotel rooms for the night.

A magical experience I will never forget.

Susan Miller
San Pablo, California
June 13, 2006

I was probably 3 or 4 years old and I remember the fire falls. It was so spectacular. Just the trail of fire coming down the mountain. I remember going back to Yosemite after they stopped it and asking my Dad, why?

Daniel Rodrigues
Kihei, Hawaii
June 7, 2006

I worked on the desk at the Awanhee in the summer of 1964. One of my jobs was to signal the firefall. This was accomplished by flashing a light, set off by a switch behind the desk. Of course we always preceeded it by positioning ourselves on the terrace and calling "Let the fire fall" in a loud voice.

James Morgan
Oxford, Connecticut
June 3, 2006

I visited Yosemite many times as i was raised in Modesto. I always enjoyed the firefall and would stand for a great length of time for that to happen and watched others with the same anticipation. I was sorry when it was no longer part of the visit there.

Gene Fisher
Pilot Point, Texas
June 3, 2006

Hi Peggy, Actually no, the only copy of the photo is the small web-sized version that you see here (which if printed would probably not make a large enough print to hang on the wall). I received the scan of Richard Marklin's slides from him directly, and unfortunately he has since passed away. Enjay

Enjay Sea (Site Webmaster)
San Jose, CA
May 16, 2006

I remember going to Yosemite in the early 60's when I was a young girl and just loved the Firefalls. We have been looking for a photo to put in our mountain condo. We love Richard Marklin photo taken May 18, 1963, is this photo available to buy?

Peggy Topp
Long Beach, CA
May 16, 2006

The firefall--at once a man made tradition, yet so powerful as to become a much a part of the Yosemite experience as Yosemite Falls. The Camp Curry Shows, culminating with "Indian Love Call" as the climax to the evening's activities was reached with the fading yell: "Let the Fire Fall"! I remember hiking up and down the four mile trail at night just to see this event "from the top"! Foolhardy? Perhaps. But the memories are emblazoned in my mind forever. I miss the comaradarie of those that beheld this awesome sight, and can only ponder which thing causes more congestion in the part--a larger, ever larger concession franchise, or the peaceful majestic flow of the firefall as it cascades down the canyon wall. What a memory!!!

James Wiebe
San Jose, CA
May 8, 2006

I saw the Firefall once, probably in 1966 or 1967. I would have been four or five years old at the time. I don't know about you, but there aren't a lot of memories that stick in the mind of a five year old and endure. But this one is as vivid as any. It's funny how many simliar comments I've read over and over on this site...that so many people witnessed the Firefall as a child yet remember it as if it were just yesterday. The balmy evening turning to dusk, the men yelling from valley to Glacier point, sitting in my dad's lap, my sister sitting in my mom's, then watching this amazing spectacle in absolute silence. Then applause... Incredible.

Jim Dryden
Oak Park, CA
May 2, 2006

I first saw the Firefall when I was three. It made a lifelong impression on me as did Yosemite itself. During the early 1960s I worked summers at various Standard Stations in the park and so I had the opportunity to see the Firefall most nights. During the summer of 1962 I carefully held my old 35 mm camera against the roof of my 1950 Ford coupe and photographed the Firefall. The image is posted on the web here:

Cliff Stone
Apr 30, 2006
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cliff_stone/

Enjoyed reading about the firefall. This prompted me to tell my experience of working at YNP when I was 16 years old. (I am 84 now.)I was in the CCC's (Civilian Conservation Corp). At that time the fire fall was made with burning pine cones. We would load a dump truck with cones, picking them up by hand and tossing them into the truck bed. The loaded truck would back up to the fire pit and dump it. When the signal came to let the fire fall it was pushed over the edge. We had to be back in our CCC camp by 4pm. We watched the fire fall from there.

Edward Kramer
Brawley, CA
Mar 29, 2006

Just this last weekend, March 24, 2006, my brother Dave and I were doing 'pet therapy' with my sheltie in a nursing home and we met up with an old guy in his 90's who said he used to be a part of the old Yosemite Firefall. His name is Archie Buckley and he must've recognized a couple of California baby-boomers who might have seen the Firefall. I was born in 1952 and my brother in 1958 and we remember, oh how we remember. It was something you could never forget. I also remember that I was so scared it would start a forest fire and kill us all that I'd hide in the car, peeking out the window at the last minute, but it never did, start a forest fire that is. Of course my brother thought it was pretty 'neat' to be able to start a fire and throw it down a mountainside and get away with it.

Carolyn Barnett
San Jose, CA
Mar 28, 2006

I was born in 1980, and growing up starting from only being a few months old my family started a tradition. We went to Yosemite every summer. And every night my grandpa (papa as I call him) would reflect on how it used to be (in Yosemite). He would start by describing the "dump" where you would go see bears...and end with the magnificient firefall. He would then go into the Rv and pull out photos of the firefall, It was wonderful. I especially loved the deep purple colors that streamed down the cliff. Until recently I had always thought they sent a burning ball of something down one of the falls...the way my papa described it so clearly I really thought it was part of the waterfall!

Trish
Norwalk, CA
Mar 20, 2006

At the age of four (1948) I went with my family to see Yosemite. My father took wonderful color photos of that trip. We witnessed the firefall, but my dad did not get a picture of it. The firefall was an awesome (semi-natural) spectacle that I remember to this day. My memory is based on seeing it, not on a photograph. My grandparents and my parents were on that trip. They are gone now. I'm getting up in age and, of course, my children and grandchildren have never seen the event. I have only been back to Yosemite a few times since then, but then Yosemite doesn't lack visitors these days. The last time I was there I learned that the mules and horses would be gone forever due to flies, etc., not appreciated by the urban guests. The loss of the firefall and the loss of the horse/mule concession were both sad to me. The world is not short of lichen and the view of any part of the world is enhanced when seen from the back of a horse or mule. I took quite a few pictures of the mules and horses in the park, knowing that we would probably never see them there again. I can't help thinking that these two decisions were made using urban perspective and polarized environmental thinking. Thank you for providing a venue where I could vent my opinion.

Gerald Matkin
Deming, NM
Mar 3, 2006

When I was a child my Dad would say 'Where do you want to go for the summer?' We wanted to go to Disneyland... We always spent the summers in Yosemite where my family would ride Smiley the mule, hike by day and every night we would hike out to the meadow where my sisters and I would sing the Beatles songs and wait for the Firefall. These were always the highlight of our trips. Now as an adult these memories are even more special.

Kathy Hardisty
Jamestown, CA
Feb 28, 2006

I had forgotten of the falls when I saw Californias Gold this evening and there they were described...a thing of spectacular beauty to see. My family and I vacationed in Yosemite in the late 50's and early 60's, and I can remember now the excitement that built in a young mans mind as the 9PM start time neared each night. My Mom and Dad loved Yosemite as do I, it's sad yet understandable why they were ceased. Im just lucky enough to have witnessed them. Thanks for the Website...way Cool!

Riley P. Monahan
Sacramento, CA
Feb 26, 2006

During the 50's and 60's my family (which included grandmother, parents, sister, aunts, uncles and cousins) would caravan from our homes in the Los Angeles area at dawn on a Saturday morning and travel, what seemed like an eternity, to that wonderfully long tunnel that opened up onto paradise.

I remember the fire falls and all its glory. Standing in the parking lot at Camp Curry, with bats flying over head, as the much anticipated calls came signaling the beginning of a memory.

I may have camped with a few of you and shared the time a few of us bravely set out to the base of Glacier Point and stood on the smokey ash stained rocks that pinpointed the exact spot where the Fire Falls landed. What a beautiful night light it was. What a blessing it was to have shared it with you.

Janet Fillman
Tullahoma, TN
Feb 26, 2006

I am eighty years old and have made very detailed scrapbooks of the time that I lived in Merced, California, Gateway to Yosemite. I graduated from the high school there in 1944, and then became a U.S.O. Hostess. We occasionally went to visit the wounded service boys that were then staying at the Awanee Hotel which had been turned into a Naval hospital. But I don't believe they had the falls during that time, so I had never been there during the Firefall. I had always wanted to see it, but somehow never did. I have a post card of the firefall, but would love to have a really nice colored picture if anyone knows how I can purchase one.

PATRICIA CALVERT COLLINS
Sisters, OR
Feb 24, 2006

I had never heard about this until today. I was visiting a friend's house and he told me his Father was in the Forest Service. One of his jobs was to push the burning bark over the side of Glacier Point with a rake. So I was able to log on and find a few pictures. What a great life it must have been back then.

Mark Rankin
Hemet, CA
Feb 20, 2006

I remember the firefall as one of the highlights of our family vacation year after year in the 60's. We would stay in Camp Curry and at night go to the bridge and watch the firefall. Man it was an awesome sight to see. I have seen Huell Howser's video of the firefall history, and enjoyed it, but it didn't show a single movie clip of the firefall from the valley floor. Does ANYONE have copies of the firefall in action from the valley? I would love to get a hold of this to show my family, as they still don't believe it was real!! Please let me know if you know where to find such movie clips!

Ron Dowse
Knoxville, TN
Feb 10, 2006

To Cindy from NC - I wonder how many summers we were camped next to you! I could have written your memories myself. You did leave out the dances in Stoneman House, the campfire programs, rafting on the river, Kiddie Camp, the swinging bridge, the hotel at Glacier point and the Junior Ranger Programs. In spite of all of the changes, it's still my "heaven."

As for the Fire Falls, if we were not in Camp Curry, we were out in the meadow - my mother staked out, with her 35mm camera - tripod and all, set in the perfect spot to "catch" the perfect exposure of the Fire Fall. Unfortunately, summer after summer, year after year, exposure after exposure, the pictures were all the same - a perfectly black background with a streak of orange shooting across the picture. Ansel Adams she was NOT!

Two of the saddest days of my life were the days when the Fire Fall ended and when they tore down Playland at the Beach in San Francisco.

Kathy
San Bruno, CA
Jan 23, 2006

I loved the firefall for many years. Miss it so I could also show my wife whom never saw it. The stories in these comments are so correct and bring back so many wonderful memories. "W"

Howard (Woody) Koehler
San Jose, CA
Jan 18, 2006

HELLO! I was unfortunately born too late to experience a Firefall firsthand, but I am in the process of purchasing ANY memorabilia concerning the Firefall, including personal photographs. Please contact me if you are interested in giving your Firefall stuff a happy new home, and making some money from it.

afrelin@hotmail.com Adam Frelin

Adam Frelin
Provincetown, MA
Jan 14, 2006

I understand, on a logical level, the reasons for the elimination of the firefall. But this set of rememberances makes me feel like I do at a good friend's funeral. It's sad.

George Kilian
Modesto, CA
Jan 3, 2006

I have strong recollections of staying at Camp Curry, and then, after supper, slipping into the Ahwanee Hotel back veranda (where the affluent folks were!) and watching the Firefall. Some elderly cheerleader would commence a sing-song that went to the effect "Isn't the wea-ther aw-ful" and the octogenerian would reply, in the same sing-song "Yes, the wea-ther is aw-ful". I would date this from 1947 thru 1955 or so, when I got too sophisticated to continue to participate. America was simplier then. gjg

G J Chris Graves
Newcastle, CA
Dec 27, 2005

I lived with my parents and brother in Yosemite Valley between December 1956 and September 1963. The Firefall was a nightly summer event in those days. However, I was surprised to read a journal of my great-grandfather who made a trip from Paso Robles to the Valley by covered wagon with his family for a vacation when my grandmother was still a girl. And my recollection is that he wrote that he and another guy hiked to Glacier Point, and that they started the Firefall tradition!

Sharon Whitney
Cookeville, TN
Dec 27, 2005
www.sharonwhitney.com

LET THE FIRE FALL!
The anticipation of waiting to see it be pushed over the edge.
Sitting in the meadow by Camp 14 with folding chairs and the deer - watching the
Fire Falls in amazement - EVERY NIGHT! - or -
Camp Curry on the log benches.
Indian Love Call song being sung.
Camp 14 with the campfire going and hotdogs roasting and mashmallows burning.
Bicycles everywhere - especially tandums.
The anticipation of the Fire Falls.
The silence and awe.
The sadness when it was over so quickly.
The freedom to drive around the valley.
Ellllllmmmmmmeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Happy Isles and the ice cream there and the fisheries.
Hiking up The Mist Trail to Vernal Falls.
Hanging blankets on clothes lines attached with clothes pins to privatize your
campsite.
STARS in the sky - millions of them!
Air matresses going flat during the night.
Mirror Lake
Indian Caves
No fear of violence
Bears coming into the campgrounds and rummaging thru the garbage cans.
The Dump and with the bears.
Ellllmmmmmmeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrrr!
The LONG tunnel into the park.
Sadness at leaving but looking forward to next summer and the Fire Falls, deer,
bear, getting wet on the Mist Trail.
It'll never be the same again!

Cindy
Nashville, TN
Dec 19, 2005

I remember the Firefall from the times we would visit Yosemite every year, from when I was a little kid in the early Fifties, until it ended when I was a teen in the late Sixties. It was the highlight of our trip. I was sad that it had to end, but understood the reasoning, the crowds were becoming too large. Still it was a beautiful thing to see, I just wish my kids could have seen it, and that I could again.

Gregory Andrew
La Mirada, CA
Dec 3, 2005

I have been searching for a poster to frame of the Firefall to hang in my hall. Is the Marklin photo in poster form, by any chance? Please let me know where I can buy a fire fall poster. Many thanks.

David Hoffman
Fremont, CA
Oct 19, 2005

I spent many vacations in Yosemite as a child in the 60's. I grew up in Los Angeles and it was a great place to escape the city smog and mayhem. Those of us lucky enough to have witnessed the Firefall see it now as almost a spiritual event! I got goosebumps when they would call down from Glacier Point "Let the Fire fall!" I have them now as I remember this! Preceding that the sky was black, except for the embers from the top and some moonlight, and extremely quiet, as everyone waited in great anticipation for the signal from the top. This was high drama at it's best! Then as soon as the embers flowed down the mountain, the Indian Love Call was sung. A beautiful tribute to the magnificent fire streaming down the granite mountain.

Diane Brodersen
Colorado Springs, CO
Oct 18, 2005

The Firefall

The Firefall changed my life, I'd say. My first trip to Yosemite was in 1964, with my parents, when I was 19. I saw the Firefall then, from the valley, and was as awed as others have described. The life-changing Firefall moment, however, occurred the following June, when I returned to Yosemite to work at the Glacier Point Hotel as a busboy. I rode the bus from the valley and was startled at the 40-foot-high walls of snow along the road, near Badger Pass. The winter of '64-'65 was a record year of snowfall. There was still a lot of it around Glacier Point.

When I entered the grand lobby of the old chalet-styled hotel I was awed again. It was the perfect mountain lodge. Oddly (and quite out of character, as I later learned), a female employee of my age, a maid, was sitting there on one of the sofas, with the guests. She was the first person I met and it was love at first sight. Only I was too naive to realize it at the time. Melanie and I certainly felt some electric connection.

She showed me to my quarters in the employees' rooms. These were in what had been the dining room and kitchen when the hotel was in its heyday. The female employees lived on the basement floor below, that opened to the woods behind the hotel. The guest rooms in use in 1965 were just a few on the main floor and the entire second floor. The upper floors were closed off, considered unsafe (no fire sprinklers in the hotel). The kitchen and dining rooms, such as they were at that time, were in the main floor of the Mountain House. There were still primitive guest rooms on the second floor of that building and late in the fall Melanie and I had to move there as the main hotel was completely closed.

That evening, most of the young summer employees walked together to the point, to watch the Firefall, normally the work of the bellman. Although it was arguably less spectacular from above, it certainly had its magic, including giving me the (seemingly unbelievable) courage to put my arm around Melanie. We eventually married (in Eureka, CA, while attending college) and more than 40 years later still together, living in Redwood Valley, CA.

Oh, what a wonderful place to kindle a romance! We later heard that four other couples from that summer season at Glacier Point eventually married, including an old couple. We took many walks and hikes together and got into fantastic condition. When I got the opportunity to drive cars down to the valley, for a few dollars (for those who drove up and wanted to hike down the Four-Mile Trail), I'd race down in about 35-40 minutes and then race back up the Ledge Trail in much less time.

The Ledge Trail, as others have mentioned, was "closed" by then but employees and a few other hardy souls still took it. It started above a talus slope behind the Camp Curry employees' tents. At the top of the talus slope, a very narrow ledge angled steeply upward across the face of the cliff until it reached the gorge of Staircase Creek. That reminds me: One writer mentioned seeing a waterfall during the day where he thought he'd seen the Firefall at night. That must have been Staircase Falls, which is nearby.

Melanie and I would sit outside at night, looking at the stars and the various wonderful views and get to know each other. During summer thunderstorms, we'd sit out near the point, sometimes under that little stone shelter, sometimes out on a bare rock, watching the storm over Half Dome and the Valley. Very exciting!

Both of us decided not to attend college in the fall term and stayed working at Glacier Point until the road was closed by the first heavy snows of the season. In the fall, there were few employees and everyone did almost everything. Now I did houseman, maid, server, and bellman duties, including taking the garbage to the dump (and feeding the bears there) and building and pushing the Firefall. I had occasionally helped push the Firefall during the summer but now it was my job almost all the time. It was a fun job.

As reported by others, we'd lay the fire in the afternoon and light it later, near dusk. In the summer, the stock of red fir bark was stashed past the far end of the hotel, out of sight of the tourists. Each day, I'd load up a 3/4-ton flatbed truck with the bark and drive up to the point. I'd open the gates and back the truck to the fire pit. Id take some good, big pieces of the bark and build a wall around the pit, stuffing twisted rolls of newspaper between the bark blocks, as wicks, then dump smaller pieces in the center, mounding it up. Then I'd dowse it all with a bit of furnace oil. That would soak in for a while so that, when I returned later to light it, it would always start easily.

Once, I was standing in the back of the truck, shoveling bark out, when the truck started to roll back toward the edge of the cliff! I had to make a very quick decision then! Do I jump and run for it, letting the truck roll over the cliff, lose my job, and enter forever into infamy in YNP history? Or shall I try to get into the cab and stop the truck from rolling? I decided the latter, scrambled over the stake side, jumped down onto the running board, opened the cab door, and stomped on the brake. No one who knows me would credit me as a fast mover but--by God--that time I surely was! I think the truck only rolled a foot or so before I'd stopped it. I don't believe I ever forgot again to set the hand brake!

Another fond memory of the Firefall: Melanie and I and a few other employees, in the fall of 65, after the evening campfire programs were no longer being held regularly, decided we'd do our own program. We fashioned megaphones of card stock. A couple of us went to Camp Curry, the others stayed at Glacier Point to push the fire. We made the calls that were normally done by rangers but didn't sing Indian Love Call! I dare say we got in a spot of trouble over that little episode. By the way, my recollection is that the calls during our time had been shortened to "Hello Curry", "Hello Glacier", "Let the Fire Fall", and "The Fire Falls". But others recall things I'd forgotten so I probably have that wrong.

Melanie worked at Camp Curry the following summer but I spent it restoring an old cabin in Humboldt County. I visited Melanie for a few days at Curry and that was the last time I saw the Firefall. Our next visit to Yosemite was in summer of 1973, when our daughter was 2 1/2 years old. We returned to Glacier Point to see the site bare of the wonderful old hotel and cried! We were sad, too, to walk up to the point and see that NPS had done its famous work of obliterating evidence that the Firefall had ever taken place. The dished out fire pit didn't seem to exist and the guardrail went right across, with no step-back or gate. History erased by the Ministry of Truth! Years later, when I bought the wonderful coffee-table book Great Lodges and was sad to see that the Glacier Point Hotel was not featured because it no longer existed. I'm certain, had it still existed, it would have had a place of honor in that wonderful book. We've always wondered if Curry Co. burned it on purpose...

Regarding the history of the Firefall: As the ranger naturalists told it when we were there, at least one plausible story was that McCauley started it by burning the garbage from the Mountain House and pushing it over.

A further bit of history as it was told in the days when we were there was that the Mountain House was the oldest building in the park and the oldest continuously operating hotel in the U.S. (supposedly since 1872, as I recall). Odd, then, to read in the article or one of the other postings that the Mountain House was boarded up at some time. I think a lot of the history told then was quite iffy. At our time, the Mountain House was kept open during the winter, for those hardy enough to ski or snowshoe there. An old, reclusive couple stayed there every winter (I've forgotten their names). She passed some of the time by painting scenes of the views and they were hanging all around the dining rooms.

Granville Pool
Redwood Valley, CA
Sep 15, 2005

I was born in 1958 and each year my father would take me camping in Yosemite and together we would watch the Firefall. It was magical. We would wait on the summer evening and then see the fire slowly cascade down the shear face of the cliff. Once we watched from Glacier Point, I'll always remember the flames shooting high up into the night sky as they were pushed over the edge, the heat on my face and the smokey smell of burning embers. It was like no other experience.

When I was nine Dad told me that the Firefall was finished. He told me it was gone forever. I didn't believe him. Dad wasn't a liar or anything like that but you see the Firefall was the Firefall. It had been around since the horse an buggy days. It had a life all its own and it couldn't just be stopped any more than Christmas could be stopped. But Dad was right.

Dad passed away in 1994. He had been a good man and you could even go so far as to say that he was an American hero. As a gunner and radio operator on a B-24 bomber during WW2 he survived 51 combat missions including the raid on the oil refineries at Ploesti, Rumania. But Dad was frequently unhappy. As a result of aircraft noise, and the sound from the guns, he had suffered a hearing loss that made even simple conversation a struggle.

He loved classical music and tried very hard to play it well but his poor hearing stood in the way. The war in Vietnam, political assassinations, race riots and Watergate all took their toll on Dad and he became an incurable pessimist. I was an optimist and so in the end the two of us didn't have anything to talk about. Our outlooks were just too different. But whenever I remember the Firefall I always smile because those are the memories that I have of my father being happy, really happy.

Gordon Reade
Palo Alto, CA
Aug 29, 2005

I am so happy to see this site. There is no way for those who never got the chance to see the Firefall to understand how amazing it was. My family went to Yosemite each year and the Firefall was a part of our tradition.

Michelle
Bay Area, CA
Aug 21, 2005

I saw the Firefall in the winter months of 1962. I was 16 years old and we lived in Los Banos, CA. My parents and I went up to Yosemite to meet a friend of theirs from the war years. She was an older lady and was staying with her brother and his wife at the Ahwahnee Hotel and we were to meet them there for dinner. I don't remember the date but the afternoon we drove up to Yosemite, there was some snow and sleet falling and as we entered the Valley, the car in front of us spun completely around on the slick road.

We stayed at Camp Curry and because of the time of year and the weather, it was very chilly that night. We drove over to the Ahwahnee and met my parents' friend and had a nice dinner in the wonderful dining room of the Ahwahnee. After dinner, we went into the lounge at the Ahwahnee and they spoke of old times. My parents and their friend had been prisoners of war and were interned at the same camp in the Philippines during WWII.

Shortly before 9:00pm someone came around announcing that the Firefall would occur in 5 minutes or so. We all went out onto the veranda of the Ahwahnee and looked up to Glacier Point, which could just barely be seen in the dark. And there it went exactly at 9:00, with a small crowd watching. It was a lovely experience.

John Renning
Auburn, CA
Aug 7, 2005

This is a wonderful site and I am enjoying the memories. My father worked for Yosemite Park and Curry Company as an electrician in the early 50s. Since we lived year-round in the park, we saw the Firefall as often as we could every year.

We would get to the meadow early where we could hear the park ranger tell the story of the forbidden love between the Indian Warrior and the Indian Maiden. When she killed herself because she could never be with her love, the gods were saddened. When the Indian Warrior chose to jump to his death from Glacier Point to join his love, the Gods took pity and turned him into flaming embers so that his spirit would be free. Each night these embers were the spirit of this Indian Warrior.

The park ranger always had his speech perfectly timed to finish as the recording of Nelson Eddy and Jeannette McDonald singing The Indian Love Song began. Then we would hear "Let the fire fall!" and the magic would begin.

Cathy Daly
Rocklin, California
Aug 2, 2005

My Grandmother's maiden name was Mary Curry. She was related to David and Jennie Curry. My Grandmother and Grandfather, William Danley, moved to Mariposa in 1955. As a young boy I spent many summers at the park. Viewing this site made me feel teary eyed, as it brought back so much fun, playing in the park, and seeing the Firefall at night. That time in life was simple. I will always have memories.

My father's name was Jack Danley. He was a carpenter and helped to rebuild Curry Village in the late fifties or early sixties. I think I was about 10 or 11 years old. He would take me to work with him. Me and the other boys would always play games with the bears. My dad would tell me that a bear would eat me someday. I think we had no fear of the park bears or the park deer. Now that I am over fifty, it was not too smart, always giving those bears a bad time.

Through the years I have been back a few times. I think it is time again. We will have to go back in 2006. Thank you for letting me tell my story.

Larry Danley
Redding, California
July 30, 2005

On two occasions, in '59 and '60, our family rented a cottage in Wawona for a weekend stay. Naturally we visited Glacier Point, the tunnel tree and the Firefall at Camp Curry. I was so deeply impressed by the natural beauty of the area that I continued to visit the park over the years. Four years ago I left Southern California and now live in Tuolumne County. What a privilege it is to have Yosemite in my own backyard! I will always remember the drama of the Firefall.

Mark Chapman
Tuolumne, CA
July 30, 2005

I was born and grew up in San Francisco. I and my good friend, Janie Murray, had been out of high school for a year when we went to Camp Curry for a two week vacation in 1959. We took a train into Stockton, and then a bus....it was an all day event. I had never before seen the beautiful Yosemite Valley. We stayed in a cabin (on the American plan) at Camp Curry.

I will never forget that time. The moon's reflection on half dome was incredible !! The Firefall, every evening, was such a special event. Everyone and everything stood still. The "Indiian Love Call" was sung....and then "LET THE FIRE FALL"!! I will never ever forget that time. After travelling all over the world, nothing can compare to Yosemite at night.

Vivienne (Shanahan) Frost
Carlsbad, California
July 24, 2005

My parents took my sister and I to Yosemite several times in the 60s. I loved everything about the park and still do! The views from trails around the valley will take anyones breath away! My most colorful memory of Yosemite is, and will continue to be, of the nightly Firefall. I've been back to the valley many times with my family and each night around 9:00 I look up toward Glacier Point and thank God I was able to be there and see the Firefall so many years ago. It was really something to see! I very much enjoyed reading all the comments. Thanks for the website.

Wayne Long
Bolivar, Missouri
July 10, 2005

I have an article that I obtained many years ago from a newspaper in Oakhurst I think. I found most entertaining and have kept . . . true or not.

I understand that Jim McCauley was responsible for the construction of the Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point; and he created the firefall quite accidentally. He prepared a great celebration at Glacier Point when the trail was finally completed and advertised it accordingly. The concessionaires were in the park were very competitive during those days, and warned their guests against using the "DANGEROUS" trail.

When no one showed up at the barbeque, Jim McCauley got angry and tossed the picnic tables over the edge at Glacier Point. The noise of the crashing debris got the attention of the people below; concessionaires and their guests. They looked up just as Jim pushed the embers from this barbeque pit over the edge.

There's a lot more to the story if you'd like it in it's entirety. Please feel free to contact me. I can eMail it to you.

Jeri
Fremont, CA
June 28, 2005

remember... ELMER!!!!

David Nahm
Brentwood, CA
June 20, 2005

I saw many Firefalls. The last I saw was in 68' and it was sad as it was the last one. In 69' I was there in July at the Visitor Area hanging out with friends and I looked up at Glacier Point and saw a glow. I asked the Ranger who was standing next to me if the decided to start Firefall's again. He said no, why did I ask.. I pointed up at Glacier Point and said it looked like they were getting ready as it was about 8:30 p.m. He said "oh my God!' and ran to report it. Sure enough, it was the Glacier Point Hotel that was on fire and burned down that night.

Just the previous year, I had lunch there with my friend on the rear veranda. I am very grateful for that lunch. Never again will anyone have such a fine meal with such a view. It is a shame that some fine and wonderful traditions that lasted almost a 100 years should just fade away because of money or because of difficulties. I think that memories, especially great one's are priceless.

David Nahm
Brentwood