{"value"=>"<p>In 1889, Robert Underwood Johnson took a pack trip through the Yosemite country in California with John Muir. He was so impressed with the devastation being wrought by thousands of grazing sheep that he outlined two <span class=\"title\">Century</span> articles for Muir, enlisted Gilder's support, and in the next year was largely instrumental in persuading congress to create Yosemite National Park. Thereafter, Johnson and the <span class=\"title\">Century</span> continued to work for the cause of forest conservation.</p> <p>The letters in Series VI document the efforts of Johnson and supporters to protect Yosemite and the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoia trees, and to bring them under federal rather than state management. They are mostly addressed to Robert Underwood Johnson personally. Correspondence includes copies of and commentary on letters, editorials, and articles published in leading papers of the day. The letters of George D. Mackenzie and C. D. Robinson, in particular, demonstrate the strength of emotion felt towards the issue and are highly critical of leading figures in the South Pacific Rail Road and state government of California. The telegram informing Johnson that the Yosemite bill was passed is included. Notable names include Frederic Law Olmsted and John P. Irish.</p>"}