Georgia Wilderness Society
Visiting with Gene Espy
September 29, 2023
On Sept 29, 2023, Margaret, Bonnie and Shirley rode up to Alpharetta to visit Gene Espy. It just so happened to be one day shy of the 72nd anniversary of completing his thru hike of the AT from Ga to Maine in 1951. He is considered the second person to have done this after the AT was established. We were there for about a two-hour visit. It was a privilege that I will always cherish since the Trail is one of my special places. Thanks again, Margaret, for arranging this. Also, his wife Eugenia, his daughter, Jane, her husband, Jim, and their dog, Lucky. -- Shirley
It was a privilege to be in the presence of such an accomplished man! Not only because of his great feat of hiking and completing the AT in its infancy, but because of his never-ending thirst for adventure. -- Bonnie
I've always enjoyed my visits with the Espys. Gene, his wife and daughter are always eager to talk about Gene's thru hike and his involvement with the Trail clubs and other hikers over the years. His family is so very supportive. Always an inspiration and a pleasure! -- Margaret
My dad was thrilled to have fellow hikers in his presence! Attached is a photo of the nice, framed award from GWS. We proudly display it as it is so meaningful. -- Jane
