The remarkable photographs of the Yosemite Valley taken by Carleton Watkins were the most powerful influence behind that region’s establishment in 1864 as an important predecessor of America’s national parks. To ensure the proper reception and management of the federal grant, California state geologist Josiah Whitney produced the 1868 Yosemite Book, illustrated with original albumen prints by Watkins as well as maps of the valley and the surrounding region. Watkins’ superlative images captured the majestic beauty of the Yosemite Valley, becoming the inspiration for generations of environmental photographers.