On September 23rd 2007, a wonderful event took place at Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. Thanks to the heroic efforts of Karin Prichard and others of the 2007 TML crew a celebration was held for Martha Miller. There were many reasons for the celebration, Martha’s many years of being manager of Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, Martha’s retirement from being the day to day summer manager of Tuolumne and others. But the most important reason was to give Martha’s many the chance to honor her for being our friend and mentor.
Nearly 100 people filled the dining tent for a fantastic dinner and the opportunity to get together with old friends from the many summers of working at Tuolumne. The people who were there represented just the tip of the iceburg of the hundreds of people that have worked for Martha over the years.
Mary Lou Giller had the distinction of being the person who went the furthest back in time working with Martha. There were people representing all of the various "eras" of from the 1950's to the 2000's.
There were letters form people who were unable to attend and an album of photos spanning many years. There was a guest book and a photograph for Martha’s many to sign. A large contingent of Martha's family attended as well.
At the end of the dinner Martha gave a heartfelt speech acknowledging everyone that attended, called, her or sent best wishes. This was preceded by a speech by Gene Field reminding everyone why we were there. Martha set the tone for Tuolumne Meadows Lodge for the many years she was the manager. It was a place where people could come and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of mountains, rivers and trees away from the hectic life of the world in which htey live. Martha’s goal was to make Tuolumne Meadows Lodge a friendly warm place where everyone felt welcome and at peace. This atmosphere prevailed for both guests and employees. Gene emphasized the fact that many of the employees and guests returned for many years to be refreshed by the warm and friendly surroundings created by nature and hospitality nurtured by Martha.
In reading the comments written in the guest book it becomes obvious that everyone that Martha came in contact with admired her for her many skills as a manager, as a mentor and as a friend.
Martha’s plan is to still have an advisory position with regard to Tuolumne Lodge and continue her work at the Ahwahnee. She will also continue her interest in horses and most of all be the focal point for all of Martha’s many...
