Darwin Lambert
Darwin Lambert (1916–2007) was a trailblazing conservationist and author who coined "earthmanship" to advocate for harmonious living with nature. As Shenandoah National Park's first employee, he organized the Shenandoah Nature Society and authored its first guidebook. Lambert's efforts were pivotal in establishing Great Basin National Park, and his numerous publications continue to inspire environmental stewardship.
About Darwin
Darwin Lambert (1916–2007) was a pioneering conservationist, prolific author, and lifelong advocate for America's national parks. Born in Kamas, Utah, on January 28, 1916, Lambert grew up in a family of nine children in the Great Basin region, where he developed a deep and abiding respect for the natural world. This respect formed the foundation of his life’s work and inspired his concept of "earthmanship," which urged humanity to live in harmony with the Earth.
At the age of 20, Lambert moved to Virginia, where he became the first employee of the newly established Shenandoah National Park. His early contributions included organizing the Shenandoah Nature Society, writing the park’s first guidebook, and publishing a regional magazine focused on the natural and cultural history of the area. He also authored Beautiful Shenandoah in 1937 and additional park guidebooks in 1947 and 1954, which became vital resources for visitors.
At the age of 20, Lambert moved to Virginia, where he became the first employee of the newly established Shenandoah National Park. His early contributions included organizing the Shenandoah Nature Society, writing the park’s first guidebook, and publishing a regional magazine focused on the natural and cultural history of the area. He also authored Beautiful Shenandoah in 1937 and additional park guidebooks in 1947 and 1954, which became vital resources for visitors.
Lambert’s passion for conservation extended to his service on the governing board of the National Parks Conservation Association from 1958 to 1983. He was a staunch advocate for preserving natural landscapes and fostering public appreciation for national parks. In 1956, Lambert became the editor of The Ely Daily Times in Nevada. There, he took up the cause of establishing Great Basin National Park, tirelessly advocating for the preservation of this unique landscape. His efforts bore fruit in 1986 when Congress officially designated the Great Basin National Park. Lambert later served as president of the Great Basin National Park Association, further solidifying his commitment to this cause.
In addition to his conservation work, Lambert was an accomplished author whose writings explored themes of nature, history, and the human connection to the Earth. His books include The Undying Past of Shenandoah National Park, Great Basin Drama: The Story of a National Park, Earth Sweet Earth: My Life Inside Nature, and Herbert Hoover’s Hideaway. His writing combined meticulous research and an impassioned voice, inspiring generations to appreciate and protect natural spaces. Lambert also published articles in national scientific and conservation magazines, as well as Reader’s Digest.
Later in life, Lambert moved back to a log house near Shenandoah National Park, where he continued his work as a conservationist and author. Diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 75, Lambert managed to remain active and productive for 16 more years, using this time to further his advocacy and literary pursuits.
Lambert’s legacy continues to inspire through the Nevada Great Basin National Park Artist-in-Residence Program, which celebrates his contributions to conservation and creativity. His research and writings are preserved in the Shenandoah National Park Museum Collection, ensuring that his insights and dedication to nature will endure for generations to come.
Darwin Lambert’s life was a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in creating lasting change. His work helped shape the conservation movement in America, and his writings continue to inspire the stewardship of our natural world.
In addition to his conservation work, Lambert was an accomplished author whose writings explored themes of nature, history, and the human connection to the Earth. His books include The Undying Past of Shenandoah National Park, Great Basin Drama: The Story of a National Park, Earth Sweet Earth: My Life Inside Nature, and Herbert Hoover’s Hideaway. His writing combined meticulous research and an impassioned voice, inspiring generations to appreciate and protect natural spaces. Lambert also published articles in national scientific and conservation magazines, as well as Reader’s Digest.
Later in life, Lambert moved back to a log house near Shenandoah National Park, where he continued his work as a conservationist and author. Diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 75, Lambert managed to remain active and productive for 16 more years, using this time to further his advocacy and literary pursuits.
Lambert’s legacy continues to inspire through the Nevada Great Basin National Park Artist-in-Residence Program, which celebrates his contributions to conservation and creativity. His research and writings are preserved in the Shenandoah National Park Museum Collection, ensuring that his insights and dedication to nature will endure for generations to come.
Darwin Lambert’s life was a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in creating lasting change. His work helped shape the conservation movement in America, and his writings continue to inspire the stewardship of our natural world.
A deep commitment
to environmental stewardship & his
belief in the interconnectedness
of all life.
to environmental stewardship & his
belief in the interconnectedness
of all life.
Darwin was a trailblazing conservationist, National Park advocate, and prolific author. Known for coining "earthmanship," he championed harmony with nature through his writings and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on Shenandoah and Great Basin National Parks.
Explore Darwin Lambert’s legacy through his books.
Bring home a piece of history and gain valuable insights from Darwin’s influential work.
Also by Darwin Lambert
The lambert family Cabin
Stay in the cabin
Rent the former home of the Lambert family through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC)
Located near Luray, VA, on the western side of Shenandoah National Park, this pre-Civil War cabin offers a rustic retreat. Book your stay today and experience the park’s rich history and natural beauty.
Located near Luray, VA, on the western side of Shenandoah National Park, this pre-Civil War cabin offers a rustic retreat. Book your stay today and experience the park’s rich history and natural beauty.
Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence (AIR)
Great Basin National Park, Baker NV
The Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program at Great Basin National Park honors the legacy of conservationist and author Darwin Lambert. This program invites artists across various mediums to immerse themselves in the park's diverse landscapes—from the heights of Wheeler Peak to the depths of Lehman Caves.
Residencies are typically 2 to 3 weeks long and are offered during winter, summer, and fall seasons. Artists are provided with accommodations, which vary by season, including camping options in the summer and park housing in the fall and winter.
Mailing Address:
100 Great Basin National Park
Baker, NV 89311
Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence Program →
Residencies are typically 2 to 3 weeks long and are offered during winter, summer, and fall seasons. Artists are provided with accommodations, which vary by season, including camping options in the summer and park housing in the fall and winter.
Mailing Address:
100 Great Basin National Park
Baker, NV 89311
Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence Program →
Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence (AIR)
Great Basin National Park, Baker NV
The Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program at Great Basin National Park honors the legacy of conservationist and author Darwin Lambert. This program invites artists across various mediums to immerse themselves in the park's diverse landscapes—from the heights of Wheeler Peak to the depths of Lehman Caves.
Residencies are typically 2 to 3 weeks long and are offered during winter, summer, and fall seasons. Artists are provided with accommodations, which vary by season, including camping options in the summer and park housing in the fall and winter.
Mailing Address:
100 Great Basin National Park
Baker, NV 89311
Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence Program →
Residencies are typically 2 to 3 weeks long and are offered during winter, summer, and fall seasons. Artists are provided with accommodations, which vary by season, including camping options in the summer and park housing in the fall and winter.
Mailing Address:
100 Great Basin National Park
Baker, NV 89311
Darwin Lambert Artist-in-Residence Program →