Presentation Topics by Misko Available For Your Group

        Here are some available presentation topics:

Prices vary depending on location and group.

contact at    climbapeak@gmail.com

The Tanning Industry in the Catskills

"An Environmental Disaster with a Happy Ending"

By the Mid 1800's, there were many tanneries established in the

Catskills. Hemlock bark was the main ingredient used in tanning 

hides into leather. Fortunes were made and lost. Many mountains were 

mostly clearcut. Was this a bad thing in the long run? Or good?

John Burroughs First Ascent of Slide Mt.

In 1884 John Burroughs attempted to climb the Catskills 

tallest peak; Slide Mountain. He failed. In 1885 he made 

another attempt. Did he succeed? 

Hiking Then and Now:

Mountain climbing for fun really became popular in the 1800's.

Learn about the early hikers and their gear, and how technology

has advanced through time.

Life of the Revolutionary War Soldier:

The soldier's life during the Revolutionary War in America

was dangerous, difficult, and confusing, but also had times 

of levity. Hear about the life of the soldier, including their equipment 

and weapons. 

Maitland Bleecker: Helicopter Pioneer:

Maitland Bleecker, descendant of the Manhattan Bleeckers, was born 

in Maplewood, New Jersey. He soon fell in love with the early airplanes

and at age 16, in 1919, began to fly. After many experiences with 

flight, he hatched an idea for a helicopter, and soon built the 

Curtis-Bleecker Helicopter. The first true helicopter? Perhaps.

 

History of Lighting:  

One of early man's struggles was how to light up the darkness.

This presentation covers much of the lighting history in America as 

                    examples of lamps are shown, and some will be lit up.                                                              

Outdoor Skills Hike:

Join in on an outdoor skills hike. Topics include: What to pack, how to find 

water, how to build a fire, and what to do if lost. 

Catskill Trivia Quiz:

   Teams test their knowledge of obscure and funny 

  Catskill history and nature.

Teams compete against each other for prizes of questionable value.

Questions with multiple choice answers will determine the knowledge

of the brave contestants. Lots of fun for all.