But here they typify the innocence of the sport, where the pioneers and legends remain accessible to even the meekest among the their brethren. Towards dusk, the climbers begin filtering into the parking area across the street from Harper's General Store. One climber wearing brightly colored clothing and a rebellious haircut, stands talking animatedly. His arms gesticulate wildly for he remains full of adrenalin from the day's climb. Another sits in a chair tipped back against the wall, hands folded across his chest, eyeing with apparent amusement the actions of the rest of the group.
None are permanent residents of the area.
Most are from towns and cities all over the eastern United States, and several have travelled from the west and maybe other countries as well. They are drawn here by the nearby climbing and the opportunity to renew old friendships and establish new ones. As the night turns to early morning, the group reluctantly disbands, returning to their tents to pass the rest of the night in relative quiet. Previous generations each laid claim to a unique edifice to serve as a focal point for their social interaction. During the 1940's the General Store in most communities served this purpose.