Description
1960 edition. Hardcover has some minor wear along the sides, scuffs and marks. No dust jacket. Spine has some wear on the top and bottom. Pages are clean and the binding is secure.
This well-preserved copy of “Mushrooms of the Great Smokies” by L.R. Hesler offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Published in 1960, this field guide represents one of the earliest comprehensive studies of the region’s fungi, capturing a pivotal moment in the park’s ecological history. Hesler, a renowned mycologist and professor at the University of Tennessee, dedicated years to meticulously documenting and illustrating the park’s mushroom species, many of which were previously undescribed.
Beyond its scientific value, this book holds cultural significance as a testament to the enduring allure of the Smoky Mountains. The region’s rugged beauty and abundant natural wonders have long captivated explorers, naturalists, and artists alike, inspiring a rich tradition of nature writing and illustration. Collectors will appreciate the book’s historical context, as well as its potential to shed light on the park’s evolving fungal diversity in the face of environmental changes over the past six decades. With its informative text and Hesler’s meticulous illustrations, this guide remains a valuable resource for mushroom enthusiasts, naturalists, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Great Smokies’ remarkable biodiversity.
