George Anderson Eye Bolt

Object/Artifact

-

Yosemite Climbing Museum

Name/Title

George Anderson Eye Bolt

Entry/Object ID

2025.2.8

Description

An eye bolt forged by George Anderson for the First Ascent of Half Dome on October 12, 1875.

Use

Has a distinct eye which was key to its use in securing the rope or baling rope cable

Context

George Anderson drilled holes then pounded these spikes into the holes creating anchor points for a rope to the summit of Half Dome. He tied hemp ropes for safe descent. It is speculated the he shimmed the holes with local cedar.

Collection

Yosemite Climbing Museum Permanent Collection

Category

Bolts/Hangers
Climbing Hardware

Acquisition

Accession

2025.2

Notes

Child found at base of South Face of Half Dome cable trash pile. Acquired before 2010

Made/Created

Date made

1875

Time Period

19th Century

Dimensions

Dimension Description

Entire Spike

Height

2-1/4 in

Length

6-1/2 in

Diameter

5/8 in

Material

carbon steel

Location

Location

Display Case

Exhibit Case 01

Date

December 25, 2025

Web Links and URLs

The George AndersonSpike

Provenance

Provenance Detail

Anonymous

Owner/Agent

Anonymous

Role

Finder

Place

* Untyped Place

Yosemite

Notes

Acquired pre 2010

Create Date

December 16, 2025

Update Date

December 31, 2025