Written by: Grace Lee

Douglas Tompkins: The Conservationist Who Revolutionized the Outdoors

Douglas Tompkins, a renowned American businessman, conservationist, and outdoorsman, is best known for founding The North Face Inc. and co-founding Esprit, two iconic outdoor apparel companies that have shaped the industry. Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Tompkins dedicated his life to environmental conservation, preserving over 2 million acres of wilderness in Chile, making him one of the largest private landowners in the world.

Early Life and Entrepreneurial Ventures

Tompkins was born on March 20, 1943, in Conneaut, Ohio, to an antiques dealer and decorator. He spent his early years in New York City before moving to Millbrook, New York, and later attended Indian Mountain School in Lakeville, Connecticut. Although expelled from Pomfret School in Connecticut, Tompkins' passion for the outdoors led him to become a skilled ski racer and rock climber, competing in Colorado, Europe, and South America.

Conservation Efforts and Philanthropy

In the 1990s, Tompkins, along with his second wife, Kris McDivitt Tompkins, began acquiring and conserving large tracts of land in Chile, focusing on park creation, wildlife recovery, ecological agriculture, and activism. Their efforts aimed to preserve biodiversity and protect the environment. The couple's philanthropic work led to the creation of several national parks in Chile, including Pumalín Park, Patagonia Park, and Corcovado National Park.

Awards and Honors

Tompkins received numerous awards for his conservation efforts, including the 2007 Goldman Environmental Prize, the 2008 Conservacion y Desarrollo Award, and the 2015 honorary doctorate from the Universidad de Magallanes in Chile. In 2016, he was posthumously naturalized as a Chilean citizen in recognition of his outstanding contributions to conservation and environmental protection.

Personal Life and Milestones

Tompkins married Susie Tompkins Buell in 1964, with whom he co-founded The North Face Inc. and Esprit. After their divorce in 1989, Tompkins became involved in environmental causes, eventually meeting his second wife, Kris McDivitt Tompkins, in 1993. The couple had two children, Summer and Will, and spent their lives devoted to conservation and philanthropy.

Legacy and Impact on Modern Society

Douglas Tompkins' remarkable life has had a profound impact on modern society. His conservation efforts have inspired a new generation of environmentalists, and his philanthropic work has set a precedent for private landowners to prioritize environmental protection. As a pioneer in the outdoor industry, Tompkins' legacy continues to shape the way we approach outdoor recreation, land conservation, and sustainable living.

Inspirational Quotes

"The most important thing in life is to stop saying 'I wish' and start saying 'I will.'" - Douglas Tompkins

"When you're connected to nature, you're connected to yourself."

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Douglas Tompkins was an avid skier and rock climber, having scaled Mount Everest in 1992.
• He was a filmmaker, producing several documentaries on environmental issues and conservation.
• Tompkins was a strong advocate for alternative energy sources and sustainable agriculture.

Timeline of Major Milestones

• 1943: Born in Conneaut, Ohio
• 1960-1962: Ski racing and rock climbing in Colorado, Europe, and South America
• 1963: Founded California Mountaineering Guide Service
• 1964: Married Susie Tompkins Buell and co-founded The North Face Inc. and Esprit
• 1989: Divorced Susie Tompkins Buell and departed from the business world
• 1990s: Began acquiring and conserving land in Chile with Kris McDivitt Tompkins
• 2015: Passed away on December 8, at the age of 72
• 2016: Posthumously naturalized as a Chilean citizen