William Mathews (mountaineer)

William Mathews was a British mountaineer, known primarily for his pioneering ascents in the Alps during the mid-19th century, a period often referred to as the Golden Age of Alpinism. He was a member of the Alpine Club, founded in 1857, and actively participated in its early activities, contributing to the exploration and mapping of various alpine regions.

Mathews is particularly remembered for his successful ascent of the Grande Casse, the highest peak in the Vanoise massif, in 1860. This ascent, achieved with Michel Croz, a renowned mountain guide, is considered a significant achievement in the history of alpinism and helped to popularize the Vanoise region as a climbing destination. Beyond the Grande Casse, Mathews participated in numerous other expeditions and explorations throughout the Alps, contributing significantly to the expanding knowledge of these mountain ranges. He also contributed to the development of mountaineering techniques and ethics during this formative period. While his climbs may not be as widely celebrated as some others from the Golden Age, his contributions were vital to the development of the sport.