History Jackson Hole acquires trove of early Petzoldt photos
via Jackson Hole News & Guide
History Jackson Hole now owns a collection of old photographs documenting the life of mountaineer Paul Petzoldt. The images show the NOLS founder during his early years in the valley.
History Jackson Hole recently acquired nearly 200 rare photos and negatives of mountaineering pioneer Paul Petzoldt, dating from 1924 to 1927. The collection was discovered by a collector at an Idaho estate sale and captures Petzoldt’s formative years, including his famous first ascent of the Grand Teton at age 16. These images provide new clarity on early climbing routes and historic accidents in the Tetons that had previously been relegated to local lore. The museum plans to host a public exhibition of the trove in Jackson around 2027 or 2028.