GEM OF THE SIERRA: Schemes and Splendor in Nineteenth-Century Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe in the 19th century was marked by insult and mistreatment of the Indigenous population; commercial exploitation of the lake's timber, water, and fisheries; environment calamities; and political backbiting. Advocates viewed the magnificent alpine lake as a symbol of American ideals, a land exemplifying the promise and preeminence of an exceptional social experiment. 32 pages of photos.