Appalachian Mountain Club. Growth in almost all phases of A.M.C. activity dominated its 88th year: membership showed the greatest gain in history with a net increase of 627 for a total of 8,858 members at year end; so many persons showed up for the beginners’ rock climbing sessions in the spring that the fall and winter programs had to be changed in mid-season to permit intermediates and seconds an opportunity to perfect their techniques; for the first time in its five-year existence the summer workshop for hiking leaders was oversubscribed; sales of the 1963 White Mountain Guide that appeared in June were double those of the previous (1960) edition; and the Club’s hut system, which celebrated in September the 75th year of its oldest unit at Madison Springs, was again busier than ever.

Positive progress in revamping these unique mountain huts was made during the year. A complete renovation, including three new structures, has been completed at Carter Notch at the eastern end. At the other end of the system the State of New Hampshire has built an entirely new hut on Lonesome Lake to replace the ancient log cabins the Club has operated on their behalf since 1929 on the opposite shore. Sub-surface improvements which have been completed at our year-round Pinkham Notch Camp are the first step in the ultimate renovation to the Club’s White Mountain headquarters. Site selection has been approved and architect’s plans are being perfected for the construction of an entirely new hut on Mount Clinton on the southern end of the Presidential Range in 1964. Two fine issues of our semi-annual journal Appalachia, recorded the widespread activities of Club members and other climbers during a busy 1963.

C. F. Belcher, Executive Director