Many on this board are familiar with the Ebersbacher Ledges, especially those who’ve done the Mountaineer’s Route or climbed the East Face of Mount Whitney. Most here, however, do not know the history of the Ebersbacher Ledges. Back in 1953, 59 years ago, a young married couple, Dale and Frances Ebersbacher, set out to climb the East Face. As they made their way up the North Fork, the two of them discovered the ledge route. Since they were the first to climb the ledges, the ledges were named after them.
That young married couple continued their marriage for 65 years, until this past Sunday, May 27, when Frances Ebersbacher passed away at the age of 85.
Her daughter, Diana, sent me an obituary saying: “Fran was an accomplished mountaineer, having made first ascents in the Yukon and Canadian Rockies. As far as is known, she was the third woman to climb the east face of Mt. Whitney. She and Dale discovered the route into the east face of Mt. Whitney, which is well-known in climbing circles as the Ebersbacher Ledges.”
The obit further states: “A memorial will be held at Hope Hospice in Cape Coral on June 7th at 2:00 in the afternoon. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations could be made in her name to the Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Par Circle, Fort Myers, Florida 33908.” Just so you know, Diana Ebersbacher may read this board and will keep her father apprised of your condolences.
Five years ago I had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with Dale and Frances, and listening to them relate their lifetime climbing experiences on Mount Whitney and their pioneering of the ledges that, unbeknownst to them, would be named after them. Frances will be sorely missed by all those dear to her and Dale. Their love for one another and the majestic mountains they experienced was remarkable.
