by Larry E. Matthews » Aug 21, 2012 10:36 am
Larry E. Matthews and Bob Biddix have just finished a new book on Snail Shell Cave in Tennessee. It is on it's way to the printers and should be available from the NSS Bookstore in 4 weeks, or so.
The book is 246 pages long and contains numerous maps, black-and-white photos, and even some color photos. Of special interest are five (5) topographic maps, in color, with overlays of mapped cave passages and dye trace paths.
The Snail Shell Cave System drains approximately 130 square miles, or one-fourth of Rutherford County, Tennessee, where it is located. Exploration began in the 1950s by Tom Barr and other Middle Tennessee cavers, continued through the 60s, 70s, and 80s, when detailed mapped was done, and then the Department of Energy wanted to place the Superconducting Super Collider there, ensuing a battle between cavers and Big Government. Since 2000, the focus of exploration has been sump diving and mapping of totally water-filled passages.
This book is the complete story of the cave's exploration, since Tom Barr's first visit up to Jason Richard's last dive two weeks ago. It don't get much more up-to-date than that !!! There are lots and lots of great photos by Bob Biddix and others.
We hope you will enjoy it. It will be available in both Softbound and Hardbound. The NSS Bookstore should annouce the price soon.
Larry E. Matthews
NSS #6792-F