By 1927 Jim White had begun to see his fondest dreams materialize—those
dreams about showing to the world what was to become Carlsbad Caverns
National Park. People from literally all over the world were hearing of
it, and were arriving in crowds.
Early that summer the Government appointed a resident custodian to
administer the Monument. During the next two years tourist facilities,
equipment and improvements moved so fast it was hard for Jim to keep up
with the progress. Approximately three miles of trails were completed in
compliance with modern engineering standards. Diesel engines and huge
generators were installed, and the soft glow from hundreds of electric
lights replaced Jim White’s crude, home-made kerosene torches. A lunch
room was equipped in the depths of the cave—not far from the spot where
the Kid set Jim afire one day long ago.
[Illustration: _Elevator Building Which Houses Two of the World’s
Longest Express Elevators_]
The United States Government charges a guide fee but have appropriated
large sums for developing the caverns along progressive lines.
Jim White said it this way: “It’s like a pleasant end to a long dream. I
like the modernizing, even letting the world see the cavern with all the
conveniences and comforts you might find in a city hotel—electric
lights—trails smooth as floors—food and steaming coffee when you’re
hungry—running water and telephones clear back to the end—even modern
elevators to carry you up if you get tired walking.
“In the spring of 1929 I could see that the job of Chief Ranger was
getting too complicated for me, with my limited education; so I resigned
my position.
“Even a cave millions of years old can go too modern, too efficient ...
and out-grow a common old cowboy”.
[Illustration: _Jim White, the Cowboy_]
[Illustration: Jim White]
“_... and He hath shewed His people the power of His works._”
_Psalm 111_
[Illustration: _U. S. Highway 62 near Carlsbad Passes Close to El
Capitan, the Point of the Rugged Guadalupe Mountains_]
[Illustration: A GENERALIZED MAP OF CARLSBAD CAVERNS
High-resolution Map]
[Illustration: This drawing represents a trip through Carlsbad
Caverns, rather than an accurate map. It is impossible to draw an
accurate cross-section of the caverns since some of the rooms are
behind others. The sketch represents approximately seven miles of
well-lighted trails through the caverns. Many additional miles have
been explored, but are not open to the public. Temperature in the
caverns remains at a constant 56 degrees throughout the year.]
[Illustration: Hi-resolution diagram (left)]
[Illustration: Hi-resolution diagram (center)]
[Illustration: Hi-resolution diagram (right)]
[Illustration: Back cover]