Jessie Benton Fremont, the wife of explorer John C. Fremont fell in love with Yosemite the very first time she saw it, in the late 1850's, even then, she became most concerned with what was starting to happen. Settlers homesteading, great Sequoias being logged, ochards being planted, cattle and sheep over population, and wildlife being killed for fun.
Jesse began to gather people of influence to her cause, to designate Yosemite for protection and public use for all future generations to enjoy. Jesse did this by hosting dinners, and Teas, and bringing in the famous photographer Carleton Watkins, and great lanscape Architect who designed New Yorks Central Park who called Yosemite "the greatesst glory of Nature". Jessie met with President Lincoln on many occaisons, being the daughter of a Senator. Through Jesse's tireless efforts President Lincoln signed the Yosemite Land Grant , this was the first time land was set aside and preserved for public use by a national government. This was the birth of environmentalism.
It's important to remember this was before women even had a voice, or were allowed to vote, this historical event set precedent for all national, and state parks that have been preserved since and future designated natural lands for preservation. Jesse Benton Freemont is truly a national hero and treasure and deserves recognition for her courageous and selfless actions.
On March 14th, 2013, Congressman Tom McClintock intorduced a Bill (H.R. 1192) in the house of Representatives "To redesignante Mammoth Peak in Yosemite National Park as "Mount Jessie Benton Freemont" to be informally known as "Mt. Jessie" to recognize Jessie's tireless efforts to preserve Yosemite for future generations through the Yosemite Grant Signed by President Lincoln June 30th, 1864. Please join us and help us get Jessie the recognition she so greatly deserves, for all future generations to understand the roots of our first Environmentalist, and Activist, how important it is to care for our precious natural undeveloped lands... and by her efforts have greatly impacted future generation from then, and further into the future.
Thank you
Siri Dyal
