Legacy
Nearly every climb or exploratory survey that Conrad Kain guided or accompanied was significant enough to be described in alpine and geographical journals. These articles were written by participant climbers or expedition leaders soon after the event, so they serve as a detailed record of these historical adventures. Articles on the first ascents of Mounts Whitehorn and Robson were authored by Kain himself, as were “Reminiscences” of his early days in Canada, published in 1932.
Following his death, Conrad’s friend and climbing companion J. Monroe Thorington wrote an appreciation that provided a concise but exceptional overview of his life and contributions as a mountaineer and guide. Later, the poet Earle Birney provided his own unique recognition.
A selection of this material can be read below. If you know of any new photos or previously unpublished text, unearthed from an archive or private collection, we would love to get permission to include it here.
- “First Ascent of Mt. Whitehorn (1911)” by Conrad Kain
- “The First Ascent of Mt. Robson, the Highest Peak of the Rockies (1913)” by Conrad Kain
- “Mount Robson (1913)” by W.W. Foster
- “A Traverse of Mount Cook (1916)” by Mrs. J. Thomson
- “The Howser and Bugaboo Spires, Purcell Range (1916)” by A.H. MacCarthy
- “The First Ascent of Mount Louis (1916)” by A.H. MacCarthy
- “First Ascent of Mt. Robson by Lady Members (1924)” by Phyllis Munday
- “Reminiscences of Seven Summers in Canada” by Conrad Kain
- “In Memorium: Conrad Kain 1883-1934.” by J. Monroe Thorington
- “Conrad Kain” poem by Earle Birney
- "Earl Birney" review of Birney's poem by Ron Dart (see attachment below)
- “Memories of Conrad Kain, 2009 by Shelagh Dehart