The nearest thing to a lecture ever given in Lassen Park was rendered to, or rather at, some fifty people gathered at the summit of Lassen Peak one day during 1926. It was requested on the spot, was entirely extemporaneous, was based principally on ignorance, and went practically unnoticed. It might stand out prominently in the annals of lecturing, if given a chance, as the most complete failure ever made. Yet it proved one thing – namely, that I had possibilities as a lecturer that might sometime be developed.
Criticism of Present Lectures in Glacier National Park — By Geo. C. Ruhle:
Advantages:
1. There are few forms of entertainment for park visitors during evening hours.
2. The possibilities for entertainment are increased by the giving of lectures.
3. The lectures help the visitor interpret and enjoy the natural features.
4. They serve to inform the people what is to be observed and enjoyed, what can be done.
5. They are a vehicle for transmitting the National Park message.
Disadvantages:
1. In some centers, like Going-to-the-Sun, the lecture is inflicted on the audience.
2 If given under adverse conditions, the lecturer cannot give a full measure to his subject.
3. Because of shortage of naturalists, certain classes of tourists, especially the automobile tourist, is slighted.
Changes Suggested:
1. Increased personnel with extension of lectures to include auto camps.
Criticism of present Park Lectures in Sequoia Park – By Frank Been:
Advantages:
1. Large group of receptive people.
2. Evening around camp fire prevents detraction of audience.
3. Inspires interest of people to park.
4. Reaches people not touched by ether means
5. Places Park Service in eyes and attention of visitor.
Disadvantages:
1. No illustrative material
2. Lectures limited mostly to one man.
3. Under park operator’s program.
Changes suggested:
1. Start programs under direct charge of ranger
2. Use slides to illustrate
3. Make available outsiders who have subjects pertinent to the park.
