To Walk Upon High Places

About the Book

This novel focuses on the contributions that were made in the first half of the nineteenth century by topographers and mapmakers in delineating the terrain of the West when little or nothing was known about the wilderness beyond the Mississippi River. Although a work of fiction, reference is often made to historical fact.

The story of Erick Wollenhaupt's desire to discover and map unknown regions is told in several diaries and narrative format recording his travels, observations and action filled experiences. Continuity between his several diaries is accomplished through a third person narrative.

Dejected when his love for Michelle is thwarted by the betrayal of someone he trusted, Erick heads into western territory. His adventures include joining the Army of the West in action during the Mexican War. On a special mission, he is captured by Indians, but later escapes. On another occasion Erick barely misses being a member of the ill-fated Gunnison expedition in Utah territory.

To Walk Upon High Places documents Erick's compelling quest and leads to an unexpected conclusion.

About the Author

Dan Irwin is a retired professor of Geography, with a specialization in cartography. His research into early American mapping and terrain representation formed the basis for this novel. He and his wife Janet reside in Sebring, Florida, where he divides his time playing tennis, boating and painting in watercolor. They summer in Nova Scotia.