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Burton Holmes: The Pioneer of Travelogues

During the Belle Époque, before air travel or radio, Burton Holmes (1870–1958) revolutionized how people experienced the world. A born adventurer, Holmes brought the beauty and wonder of distant lands to audiences across America, coining the term travelogue in 1904 to describe his immersive storytelling performances.

A Glimpse Into a Bygone Era

Holmes documented the grandeur of Paris, the Great Wall of China, the construction of the Panama Canal, and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 1906. His travelogues were a rich blend of colorful, hand-painted glass-lantern slides, some of the earliest moving pictures, and vivid, two-hour storytelling sessions that captivated audiences.

A Lifetime of Global Exploration

With over 30,000 photographs and 500,000 feet of film, Holmes visited every continent and nearly every country on Earth. His work showcases iconic cities like Paris, Beijing, and Moscow, as well as lesser-known corners of the world, from Manila to Dubrovnik. Each image offers a rare glimpse into life as it was 100 years ago, preserved in stunning color and detail.

A Treasure Trove of Inspiration

This collection, drawn from Holmes’ vast archive, celebrates his legacy as a pioneer of modern travel media. Filled with brilliant color photographs, it is both a window into a world long past and an invitation to embark on your own journey of discovery.

Reasons to Read This Book «Burton Holmes. Travelogues. The Greatest Traveler of His Time 1892-1952»

•     Historical Travelogues: Experience the early 20th century through Holmes’ groundbreaking stories and visuals.
•     Rare Photography: Discover vivid, hand-painted photographs capturing iconic landmarks and cultural moments.
•     Pioneering Media: Explore the origins of travel documentaries and moving pictures.
•     Global Adventures: Journey to Paris, Beijing, Jerusalem, and beyond through Holmes’ lens.
•     Timeless Inspiration: Find motivation for your own travels in this stunning visual archive.

Step into the past and experience the world as Burton Holmes saw it—a vibrant, ever-changing tapestry waiting to be explored. A must-have for lovers of history, photography, and adventure!