Donn Fendler’s Journey: An Inspiring Story of Survival

In 1939, a 12-year-old boy survived nine days in the Maine wilderness—Donn Fendler’s experience changed his life and inspired thousands.
Donn Fendler’s Journey: An Inspiring Story of Survival
"Mount Katahdin From Millinocket Camp," 1895, by Frederic Edwin Church. Oil on canvas; 26 1/2 inches by 42 1/5 inches. Portland Museum of Art, Maine. Public Domain
Trevor Phipps
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Donn Fendler became famous across the United States after surviving a terrifying nine days lost in the wilderness with no supplies when he was only 12 years old. Years later, Fendler co-authored the book “Lost on a Mountain in Maine,” which was required read for Maine schoolchildren for decades.

Until his death in 2016, Fendler spoke to crowds of kids, inspiring generations with his story of survival.

Trevor Phipps
Trevor Phipps
Author
For about 20 years, Trevor Phipps worked in the restaurant industry as a chef, bartender, and manager until he decided to make a career change. For the last several years, he has been a freelance journalist specializing in crime, sports, and history.