The Bears on Hemlock Mountain

Alice Dalgleish’s book The Bears on Hemlock Mountain was first published in 1952; however, the story of Jonathan’s adventure on the mountain has a much longer history. According to her description at the beginning of the book, Dalgleish first heard a version of this story from the state archivist of Pennsylvania, Colonel Henry Shoemaker. As the state’s archivist, it was Shoemaker’s job to recognize local folktales as an important part of Pennsylvania’s cultural history and record them for future generations. After Shoemaker left his position as state archivist, he became Pennsylvania’s first state folklorist from 1948-1956, a now common position across many states (“Henry W. Shoemaker.” PA Conservation Heritage).

Like many traditional tall tales, The Bears on Hemlock Mountain is intended to both entertain and educate young children. Historically, those growing up in the Pennsylvanian countryside may have related to Jonathan’s life on his family farm and his growing responsibilities as an eight-year-old boy. The hilly Pennsylvanian landscape is a central feature in the story, as the forested hill called “Hemlock Mountain” is a daunting place for Jonathan. Jonathan’s journey up and down the mountain utilizes playful repetition and growing suspense around Jonathan’s bear encounter.