Walkin' Jim Stoltz Papers, 1970-2012

This series contains notebooks that Jim Stoltz carried with him throughout his travels, primarily on backcountry treks throughout North America. Most of the notebooks contain entries detailing the particulars of any given day and various topics of reflection. In addition, several notebooks contain poems and song lyrics, which were presumably developed over the course of Stoltz’s travels. Finally, scattered throughout are travel logistics, notes on expenditures, and personal addresses.

This series contains material written by Jim Stoltz, who published under the name “Walkin’ Jim Stoltz.” Published materials include the volume Walking with the Wild Wind, which details hiking ventures in Montana, and The Whisper Behind the Wind, a collection of poems. In addition to these works, there are several unpublished manuscripts.

This series contains correspondence between Jim Stoltz and his friends and family. The primary recipients of these letters are Jim’s parents, Wilbur and Audra Stoltz; his friend Tom Kwiatkowski; and his wife, Leslie Stoltz (formerly Heeks). Many of these letters were written while Stoltz was traveling throughout the country or spending time out on the trail.

This series contains scrapbooks detailing the travels and major life events associated with Jim Stoltz. Within each scrapbook, there are photographs, drawings, and newspaper clippings.

This series contains photographs of Jim Stoltz, as well as of his family and friends.

This series contains various certificates, works of art, logistical notes, and personal effects belonging to Jim Stoltz.

This series contains cassettes, VHS tapes, CDs, and DVDs associated with the life and work of Jim Stoltz. Jim’s published albums make up the bulk of the series, but there are also radio interviews, slideshows, and remembrances.