|
|
I grew up in Groveton New Hampshire. As a child it was always a joy to see the mystical face. I would see the face every Tuesday in February as I traveled on a school bus for the ski program at Cannon Mountain. When I moved to New York, it was always fun to describe the Man to outsiders. In 2000, my husband and [I] vacationed in New Hampshire. I was excited to show him my state and the man that watched over it.
As I picked up my NY paper May 3rd, I almost cried. I am glad my husband was able to see such a remarkable natural wonder. May New Hampshire honor the Old Man of the Mountain...
With Regret,
Beverly L. Mack, Farmington NY
|
It is with deep regrets that we, the Baron family, also mourn the loss of the Old Man of the Mountain and pass our sympathies to the residents of Franconia Notch and of New Hampshire. Since first honeymooning in the White Mountains 27 years ago we have returned 6 times since. While others from our area (SW. Pa.) go south or east to the ocean we have always longed for the beauty of Northern New Hampshire. Our children now grown, even anxious to return each time.
Fortunately for us we had just visited the Old Man this past September, bringing along my cousin and his wife for their first inspiring view of the Old Man. So we were able to see him for the last time fairly recently. We will continue to return to the White Mountains, for the beauty and solitude of the area will continue to live on, even beyond its most famous inhabitant's absence.
God Bless, Live Free or Die.
Andy, Justina, Gabe, Geoff & Gina Baron, Belle Vernon, PA
|
Photo submitted by Ed Robbins,
taken in September, 2000 from Profile Lake |
I have been a lifelong resident of New England, and now hold "dual citizenship" - having homes in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
The passing of the "Old Man" was like the passing of a beloved family member. He has watched over us for generations and now he is gone. I will always remember his profile guarding my way home from many a day spent in the mountains.
He will be sorely missed.
Ed Robbins, East Somerville, MA |
I heard about his collapse while I was out of state. I felt as though I had lost a friend. I know that there are probably many who would say that I'm crazy, but I also know that there are those of us who knew him very well, and are in a state of shock and disbelief.
Not everyone realizes that he was climbed often. One of New Hampshire's classic rock climbs, Lake View, went right up his face. I have climbed him many times in my climbing career, and I hope that I never forget some of the beautiful scenes that could only be taken in from his majestic face. I shared many good times on his face with many good friends and family members.
I am not too embarrassed to admit now that I think he had life in him. I know it sounds absurd, but when I was in the notch I felt as though he could see me. I felt watched. There was a certain degree of comfort in knowing that he was up there. I hope that there were others that felt it too.
My kids will never be able to climb him now. My boys are 9 and 7 years old, and they would have been able to climb him in about 4 or 5 years. I feel very sad that they never even got a chance to see him.
I don't think we should put rocks up there and piece them together in some macabre imitation of him. Only God could make him. I will miss my friend in the mountains.
Peter N. Vatistas
|
|
