Welcome to the Stevens-Van Trump Historical Monument, a site that commemorates an important milestone in the history of mountaineering and exploration in the United States. This monument marks the site of the first documented successful ascent of Mount Rainier, achieved by Philemon Beecher Van Trump and General Hazard Stevens on August 17, 1870. Their daring expedition was guided by a native guide named Sluiskin, who led them to their base camp near what is now known as Paradise.
Mount Rainier, a majestic and challenging peak, had captured the imagination of many, but it was Van Trump and Stevens who first stood upon its summit, overcoming numerous obstacles and harsh conditions. This ascent was not just a personal triumph but a symbolic achievement that opened the door to future explorations and the eventual establishment of Mount Rainier National Park.
The monument itself, a rock bench along the Skyline Trail, was erected in 1924 by the Mountaineers and the Mazamas, two prominent mountaineering clubs. It serves as a reminder of the spirit of adventure and the determination of those early climbers. The stones are inscribed with the words: “Site of the camp from which General Hazard Stevens and PB Van Trump made the ascent of this mountain 17 August 1870.”
Philemon Beecher Van Trump, born in Ohio in 1838, was a pioneering mountaineer and later became a key advocate for the protection and appreciation of the natural beauty of the region. After his wife’s passing, Van Trump spent his summers greeting tourists at a tent camp on Mount Rainier, sharing stories of his adventures and the mountain’s splendor.
Today, the Stevens-Van Trump Historical Monument stands as a testament to human perseverance and the allure of Mount Rainier, a beacon for climbers and nature enthusiasts alike. As you sit on the bench and gaze at the breathtaking views, imagine the journey those early explorers undertook and the legacy they left behind.
