New Hampshire, Cannon Mountain—On August 23, Sidney Crouch (21) and Alfred Whipple, Jr. (20) started to climb the cliffs on Cannon Mountain to the left (south) of the Old Man. They apparently climbed undetected for several hours. Early in the afternoon they were spotted from the road about 500 feet up the cliff. A couple of hours later, it was noted that they seemed to be signalling for aid. Various groups were notified and an extensive but unsuccessful rescue operation was initiated. Rescuers reached the boys on Monday afternoon (August 24) just as they succumbed. Death apparently resulted from the combination of inadequate clothing, lack of food, high winds, relatively low temperatures (40° F) and much rain (1.11 inches at the summit of Cannon Mountain) .

Source: Appalachia: 32, 441-461, 1959; Newspaper accounts; George Hamilton and W. L. Putnam.

Analysis: This was obviously the result of inexperienced persons attempting to climb a mountain beyond their capability; and their equipment was inadequate. Their deaths demonstrate the potential danger of wet cold conditions (about 35°-45° F) for persons with inadequate food, shelter, and clothing.