The C&O Canal Companion

Book Description

A comprehensive guide to one of America's unique national parks, The C& O Canal Companion takes readers on a mile-by-mile tour of the 184-mile Potomac River waterway and towpath that stretches from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland, and the Allegheny Mountains. Making extensive use of records at the National Archives and the Park headquarters, the author demonstrates how events and places along the canal relate to the history of the nation, from Civil War battles and river crossings to the frontier forts guarding the route to the West. With photographs and drawings, he introduces park visitors to the hidden history along the canal and provides practical advice on cycling, paddling and hiking--all the information needed to enjoy fully the park's varied delights. The new edition of this popular book features updated maps and the latest information on lodgings and other facilities for hikers, bikers, and campers. For a weekend excursion or an extended outdoor vacation, this guide remains indispensable for visitors to the C& O Canal park.

Praise for The C& O Canal Companion:

"An informative and affectionate guide to the canal written by C& O devotee Mike High... And yes, it'll fit comfortably in your backpack."--Mid-Atlantic Country

"High gives practical information about exploring the canal and provides extensive historical background... Provides many opportunities for using the canal as a means of exploring this region's history."--Historic Traveler

"There are other guides to the canal, but High's is the latest and may be the best. It's a mile-by-mile guide, well-illustrated, full of history and surrounding cultural notes. The more one learns about the canal, the more intriguing it is."--Fredricksburg Free Lance-Star

"A contender for the hearts and minds of canal buffs. It shows the results of serious historical research, particularly about the Civil War, and is well-written and organized."--Washington Times

Customer Reviews:

Excellent guide.......2006-06-28

I organized and led our high school youth group (23 people) for a week long ride on the trail. This book was invaluable in pulling it off. It has all the info for logistical planning, as well as providing excellent historical context (which the high schoolers loved.)

While we were on the trail, I was tracking our progress via the book at every water stop. Even if you have minimal map reading skills, the maps in the book will allow you to determine your location with great accuracy (again, which the high schoolers loved.)

Finally, the book is organized wonderfully and is an easy and interesting read. It combines information with background and context.

In sum, if you are going to ride the C&O Canal trail, don't leave home without this book in your possession. It is as important as water and a first aid kit.

C&O Canal Companion.......2005-08-28

I purchased this book to help prepare for a trip my brother and I plan to take next summer. I have only scanned it, but it looks like it will have all the information we need to make our preparations easier and our ride more enjoyable.
It looks like a very thorough description of the trail, the sights to see along the way, and the amenities available on the trip.

Excellent Companion.......2004-09-22

This summer, I started biking the C&O Trail starting at Cumberland. I wanted a book that would tell some of the history of the trail as well as providing good landmarks for Civil War crossings, etc... This book fit the bill. I looked for several books on Amazon, and I'm happy that I choose this one.

The book is seperated into two parts, a general overview and history, and then a mile-by-mile breakdown of what to expect on the trail. I first read the history section and every night now before I head on the trail, I pull out the book and see what area I will cover the next day. The book has been great for planning with parking spots, etc...

One suggestion that I can think of is to offer a book that starts in Cumberland instead of Georgetown because reading the book backwards is somewhat awkward (I realize that most people start from the Georgetown end, though). Additionally, it would be great to have GPS coordinates posted of the landmarks in addition to the mileage marker. I would love to be able to load the coordinates in my GPS so I know exactly where these landmarks are while biking.

Fascinating Study of the Canal.......2001-05-18

I was thrilled to find and read this book, the most complete one about the Canal I've found. As a frequent runner on and veteran of several cycling trips along the entire length of the Canal--as well as a resident of Georgetown--I have long had an interest in and love for the Canal.

The author, Mike High, uses many interesting and entertaining vignettes to tell the story of the Canal. He divides the book into four parts: "Historical Sketch", "Structures along the Canal", "Visiting the Canal", and "Canal Guide".

The first two sections put the Canal into a fascinating historical and engineering context, including George Washington's role in the development of the Canal, and the Canal's involvement in the Civil War. The last section is a concise, mile-by-mile guidebook.

In addition to history, High also presents useful information, including accommodations located nearby the Canal and suggested activities on/near the Canal.

For $... a "best buy".

Great History, Great Guide.......2000-04-21

My family lived in Washington for ten years. We often hiked on the C & O Canal. I studied for a masters in American history while we were there. The C & O Canal Companion would have added enormously to all of those experiences.

Reading this book's vignettes provides intimate connections to our nation's past. For example, The Companion reports that after the Revolutionary War, George Washington founded the Patowmack Company, an early attempt at making the Potomac River navigable because of his interest in his "western properties" across the Appalachian mountains. This guide gives a glimpse of the first President that we do not always see while pointing out visible remnants of those efforts.

In a notation about Chain Bridge, a beloved route to many of today's Washington suburbs, the guide shows the Civil War up close and personal. A Confederate sentinel was posted on the south side of the bridge, a Union soldier, mere yards away, on the north side. Furthermore, that same entry gives a brief sketch of Private William Scott who fell asleep there on his post. Court-marshaled by McClellan, pardoned by President Lincoln, William Scott went on to fight and die in battle for the Union cause. The Companion furnishes helpful information about parking, hiking, bed and board opportunities which are difficult to find elsewhere. It gives addresses and telephone numbers for reservations or further information.

Book Description

National Geographic Guide to America's Outdoors
Middle Atlantic
Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey

In this practical, informative, richly illustrated guide, National Geographic takes you to the best nature sites in the Middle Atlantic and tells you what you need to know -- about the landscape, plants, animals, activities, and recreation -- to experience them fully.

Over 65 major sites, plus numerous smaller ones, grouped by bioregion, including national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges; state parks; conservation areas and preserves; and wild and scenic rivers.
Guided hikes and drives.
Suggestions of where to hike, bike, camp, kayak, fish, see wildlife, and more.
Extensive resource listing.
150 vived, color photos and 20 detailed, full-color maps.

Hiking, Cycling, and Canoeing in Maryland: A Family Guide

Average customer rating:

My copy is wearing thin
Cycling in Baltimore: A Family Guide
At last!

Hiking, Cycling, and Canoeing in Maryland: A Family Guide
Bryan MacKay
Manufacturer: The Johns Hopkins University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Nature & Ecology | Science | Subjects | Books

Instructional | Hiking & Camping | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books

Guidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books

Travel with Pets | Specialty Travel | Travel | Subjects | Books

North America | Travel | Subjects | Books

General | Travel | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0801850339

Customer Reviews:

My copy is wearing thin.......2004-06-17

I first purchased this book a few years ago and have used it so often that I may have to invest in a new copy. As a lifelong outdoor enthusiast and Marylander, I was surprised at how many little known gems Mr. MacKay packed into this one book. The trip descriptions are accurate and complete; directions are easy to understand; and the natural history info is authoritative, sharply observed, and truly fascinating. It's the best Maryland guidebook of its kind. Thank you Mr. MacKay. I've recommended it to so many new paddlers, cyclists, hikers, and out-of-towners that I should probably get a commission...

Cycling in Baltimore: A Family Guide.......2002-07-14

From the standpoint of a cyclist who doesn't live near Baltimore, this book is no help at all. It offers a description of 16 bike rides, most of them near Baltimore or Anne Arundel county, and a few rides in Pennsylvania and Virginia. This may be helpful for anyone near the city, but I feel calling it a guide for Maryland is misleading.....However, their descriptions do go into great detail about directions, what kind of traffic you can expect, and the wildlife you may encounter. There are about 10 pages for each trail described.

If you're looking for good biking near the city then I highly recommend this book.....

At last!.......2001-08-28

At last a perfect guide for hiking and biking in Maryland! I don't have children but found this book to be a great resource for the short hikes and bike trips I enjoy with my husband. We went to the Cranesville swamp and had a difficult time finding information. This guide had the trails, directions, and plenty of interesting info on the natural history and ecology of the sites. I have used it for two of the other sites and have dogged-eared several more. I find it to be the perfect companion.

Adventure Guide to the Catskills & Adirondacks (Adventure Guide Series)

Average customer rating:

Remarkable book!

Adventure Guide to the Catskills & Adirondacks (Adventure Guide Series)
Wilbur H. Morrison
Manufacturer: Hunter Publishing (NJ)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Guidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books

Adventure Guides | Guidebook Series | Travel | Subjects | Books

North America | Travel | Subjects | Books

General | Travel | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1556506813

Customer Reviews:

Remarkable book!.......2001-04-20

Less than a day's drive from New York, Boston or Philadelphia, here are magical wilderness preserves, teeming with wildlife. Over 5,000 square miles of forests, lakes and mountains, the Adirondacks are among the most beautiful preserves in the world. The Catskills have deep gorges, great waterfalls, forested mountains, and some of the best fishing streams in the state.

Book Description

Fifteenth edition of the official guidebook and maps to the Appalachian Trail in New York and New Jersey (173 miles)--the first complete revision and new design in two decades. Unidirectional format for trail descriptions, significant increases in natural and cultural history information; locator maps and small elevation profiles for each section; new Q&A on the Appalachian Trail as a whole.

Customer Reviews:

The "Bible" used by the serious thru-hikers of the A.T........2003-04-22

If the reader is really serious about hiking the A.T., specifically the N.Y. /N.J. section, this book, along with the 6 very detailed maps that come with it, will be a tremendous help, with all the relevant information all packed into a (large)pocket-sized paperback.
In addition to very interesting facts behind the history and the beginnings of the AT, the information found in this book will guide you, almost hold your hand along the trail and, it will then be up to you to listen to the wisdom, advice and warnings found here or, ignore them and find out -the hard way- why only 10% of the people who attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail will finish it in a year.
Where can you find water?; where are you not allowed to camp?; is it safe to hike alone?;can you take your dog with you? (NO!). Statistically speaking, did you know that you will be safer hiking the entire A.T., than walking the streets of most large american cities?
These and many other topics, too numerous to mention here, are dealt with in this volume.
Having all of that information ahead of time will make it (just a little) easier to put on your backpack, lug your 3 liters of water needed daily, consume the 4000 calories of food needed every day and.....in about 6 months time you will have arrived at your destination, very tired, much thinner and, much wiser.

Average customer rating:

Simply wonderful

Travel & Leisure : New York
Julie L. Belcove
Manufacturer: Macmillan General Reference
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Guidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books

North America | Travel | Subjects | Books

General | Travel | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0028606914

Customer Reviews:

Simply wonderful.......2002-07-31

A must for the discriminating traveler. Belcove's insights and suggestions are witty, thoughful and demonstrate an unerring eye for the very best of Gotham. Chock full of the types detail that only come from years of experience, this book deserves a place among the best travel books every written about this great American city.

Book Description

For Charlie, the cold, dark basement is home. Father has kept him locked in there as punishment. Charlie doesn't intend to leave, but when he is accidentally thrust outside, he awakens to the alien surroundings of a world to which he's never before been exposed. Though haunted by hallucinations, fear of the basement, and his father's rage, Charlie must find a way to survive in his new world. He has escaped his past, but his journey has just begun.

Customer Reviews:

The Boy From the Basement.......2007-06-05

Ever wonder how a young child could escape out of child abuse? Charlie (main character) knows exactly what it takes. His story takes you through the brutality, hard-ship, and recovery of child abuse. Recently I read The Boy from the Basement, by Susan Shaw for my freshman English class.
The main character in the book is a young boy named Charlie, who has been locked away and kept prisoner in the basement, by his easily angered father, as a "punishment". He has never been to school, heard of holidays or even used a phone. He believes he deserves this because he has been bad. Sadly, this is all Charlie has ever known. But when Charlie gets accidentally locked outside one night, he sees a world he had never seen before. When he gets picked up by police officers he is sent away to a foster family, where he is haunted by hallucinations and his father's anger.
I think that there were some very good parts in this book. One being was when Charlie was playing outside at his foster home and his father shows up. This was a big deal because his father was not supposed to even see Charlie because he had abused him. He also never let him outside before or he would make Charlie stay in the basement for even longer.
The reason why I'm recommending this book to you is that I think that it had a message I think that people should understand. The main idea was about a boy's escape and recovery from extreme child abuse and finding a new home. In my opinion this is a big problem still today. I also think that the author did a good job explaining the journey and how the main character got through it. On the other hand one thing I probably would have changed was about the mother in the story and that she really didn't have anything to do with the story line. I think it would have been better if they would have included her in it.

Struggling Readers Love To Read This.......2007-05-14

I teach Reading to struggling readers in high school. My goal is to get them engaged, because, if they're engaged, they read. This book hasn't been on the shelf more than 5 minutes since it was received in the mail. I haven't read it yet, but intend to over the summer. The teacher who recommended it was 100% correct.

I love this story..wish it was a memoir.......2007-05-04

I love this story, I wish it was a memoir, but that would mean it would have to be true. and there is enough going on in the world today , we don't need this story to be one that is seenon the news. However, it IS a very good read. I suggest that organizations that deal with children who were abused and neglected need to read this book, it relates to the childrne. It makes the reader keep reading to find out what happens to the little boy. I am older than a teen, but study things for children. I think this is a good teen or adolescent read for children who have been through this situation.
Has a great ending, you will love it

Great Book!.......2006-04-06

I think this book deserves this award. It is a great book but not the best I have ever read. I think this book was a little depressing but at the same time joyful. This book is suspenseful. If you like suspense you'll love this book. I would recommend this book to ages 11 and up and anyone who loves dramatic endings.

The Boy from the Basement.......2005-05-11

This is a good book it really grabs you total and full atention. Once you grab it and start reading it you can't put it down because it leaves you hanging and you just want to know what happenes next. I recomend this book to anyone who likes good dramatic stories.

Game Boys: Professional Videogaming's Rise from the Basement to the Big Time

Average customer rating:

Game Boys: Professional Videogaming's Rise from the Basement to the Big Time
Michael Kane
Manufacturer: Viking Adult
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: 0670018961
Release Date: 2008-07-17

Filene's Basement joins Galleria as retail mall girds for competition. (Filene's Basement Corp.'s lease of space at The Galleria shopping mall): An article from: Westchester County Business Journal

Average customer rating:

Filene's Basement joins Galleria as retail mall girds for competition. (Filene's Basement Corp.'s lease of space at The Galleria shopping mall): An article from: Westchester County Business Journal
Caryn A. McBride
Manufacturer: Westfair Communications, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Book Description

This digital document is an article from Westchester County Business Journal, published by Westfair Communications, Inc. on September 7, 1992. The length of the article is 856 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Filene's Basement joins Galleria as retail mall girds for competition. (Filene's Basement Corp.'s lease of space at The Galleria shopping mall)
Author: Caryn A. McBride
Publication: Westchester County Business Journal (Magazine/Journal)
Date: September 7, 1992
Publisher: Westfair Communications, Inc.
Volume: v31 Issue: n37 Page: p6(2)

Distributed by Thomson Gale

Natty clothier's basement shop attracts following; former leisure suit maker offers clients high-class suits at cut-rate prices. (Ron Ford - Ron Stuart ... An article from: San Diego Business Journal

Average customer rating:

Natty clothier's basement shop attracts following; former leisure suit maker offers clients high-class suits at cut-rate prices. (Ron Ford - Ron Stuart ... An article from: San Diego Business Journal
Susan C. Schena
Manufacturer: CBJ, L.P.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Management | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Book Description

This digital document is an article from San Diego Business Journal, published by CBJ, L.P. on January 29, 1990. The length of the article is 2059 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Natty clothier's basement shop attracts following; former leisure suit maker offers clients high-class suits at cut-rate prices. (Ron Ford - Ron Stuart Men's Clothing) (Profile) (company profile)
Author: Susan C. Schena
Publication: San Diego Business Journal (Magazine/Journal)
Date: January 29, 1990
Publisher: CBJ, L.P.
Volume: v11 Issue: n5 Page: p10(2)

Article Type: company profile

Distributed by Thomson Gale

Average customer rating:

Boy From the Basement
Susan Shaw
Manufacturer: Puffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OJ8Q2Q

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books