April 21 2017 marks John Muir's 179th birthday.
John Muir was an explorer, mountaineer, conservationist, botanist, amateur geologist and writer of distinction. He developed a passion for wild places growing up in the coastal town of Dunbar, east of Edinburgh. At age 10, he emigrated to the United States with his family.
Muir embraced all nature from mosquitoes to mountain ranges, recognising that everything is connected. His passion for wild places led to a life-long quest to protect them. Muir’s writings helped people understand the importance of wildness. His activism saved Yosemite Valley in California and helped create the world’s first national park system.
Various events are being held in the Dunbar area to celebrate the anniversary. More information about these events, and about John Muir's life and achievements, can be found on the Discover John Muir website.