Peterson's Field Guide to the Birds (1934 First Edition) - Owned by Indiana Conservation Pioneer Howard Michaud

This early printing of Roger Tory Peterson's A Field Guide to the Birds (first published in 1934) represents the book that transformed birdwatching in America.

While this is a 1934 copy, what makes this copy exceptional is its provenance.

This book was owned by Howard Henry Michaud (1902-1998), a foundational figure in Indiana's conservation history. Michaud served as the first Chief Interpreter for Indiana State Parks in the 1930s, helping define how generations of visitors would experience and understand the natural world. He later became a professor of conservation at Purdue University (1945-1971), where he trained countless educators and conservation professionals across the state.

Michaud was also deeply connected to Indiana's birding community, serving as a leader within the Indiana Audubon and organizing early Christmas Bird Counts.

This copy is inscribed:
"Howard Michaud, October 12, 1938, from Ruth"

The book shows expected wear consistent with field use, a fitting reflection of its role as a working guide during a formative time in American birding. The book shows characteristics of the second printing in 1934, after, "Bob-pumper" was corrected in the index.