PRESS RELEASE:

Preservationist, naturalist, author, explorer, activist, scientist, farmer, John Muir (1838 - 1914) was all these things and more. Nearly a century after his death, the Scottish American is remembered and revered as the father of the environmental movement and the founder of the Sierra Club. In commemoration of Earth Day, American Masters presents "John Muir in the New World," airing Monday April, 18 at 9 p.m. on KUED Channel 7.

The documentary delves into Muir's life and influences with reenactments filmed in high definition throughout the majestic landscapes he visited: Wisconsin, Yosemite, the Sierra Nevada, Alhambra Valley, and Alaska. Placing our nation's most important natural assets in a cultural and social context, "John Muir in the New World" is a timely reminder of America's unique and, ultimately, threatened eco-systems.

"John Muir in the New World" explores the influence of his Calvinist father, Daniel; the writings of Alexander von Humboldt and Ralph Waldo Emerson; his friend and mentor Jeanne Carr; his marriage to Louie Strentzel; and his friendship and work for Robert Underwood Johnson. All illistrate how Muir developed his ideas about nature and became a respected scientist, writer and "publicist for nature" during a critical period in U.S. history.

A lover and champion of the American wilderness, Muir believed that it was the responsibility of citizens to protect our natural surroundings. Through his advocacy and his writings, Muir helped preserve the Yosemite Valley, led the fight against the Hetch Hetchy dam, the first nationwide battle of the environmental movement, and was the force behind the creation of the National Park Service.

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