Archaeologist Dr. John Parker gives a presentation on the Indian history of Lake County at the Lake County Historical Society's meeting on Sunday, October 4, 2009. Photo courtesy of the Lake County Historical Society.

The Lake County Historical Society would like to thank its members and guests who participated in our many events this fall.

On Sept. 19 at the annual Lake County Wine Alliance auction, more than $4,500 was donated towards the completion of the Ely Stage Stop and Museum. Pretty good for one night! We sincerely thank the generous attendees of the event for their donations. It was a marvelous display of support for local history and the community.

Our members beat the heat to decorate the Pear Pavilion at the Kelseyville Pear Festival. The centerpiece of the event was loaded with relics of pear farming in the good old days. Just about everyone who attended the event took a pit stop under the shade of the tent. The folks finding refuge from the sun were treated to displays by Greg Dills, Don McCloud and Rudy Glebe. Much thanks to them and to all who stopped by to have a look.

Thanks also to our volunteers Mike Anderson, Floraine Chalk, Joe and Pat George, KC Patrick, Florence Peck, and Bonnie and Shelly Skee. They all defied nature by exposing themselves to the heat in our booth. Maybe next year we’ll find some more room in the Pear Pavilion …

The same day as the Pear Festival, ECV Chapter Yerba Buena 1 dedicated a plaque at the historic house on the Brassfield Winery and Estate. The ceremony was part of their annual doins and was attended by one of our bravest members, Janeane Bogner.

On Oct. 4 at the general meeting society members and the public were treated to an enlightening presentation on “Indian History of Lake County” by archaeologist Dr. John Parker. Dr. Parker packed the house and we thank him for providing a fascinating presentation. Volunteers were many, and special thanks for their efforts in bringing this terrific event together. Thank you to the many who attended as well.

Also at the meeting, Eileen Rasmussen of Lake County Hospice donated two 1800s-era handmade quilts to the Historical Society. These quilts are made from flour-sacks; in the 1800s flour-sacks were also made into pantaloons, women’s blouses and men’s shirts. The magnificent donation will eventually be displayed at the Ely Stage Stop and Country Museum.

On Oct. 16 and 17, our neighbors to the west in Mendocino County hosted an outstanding occasion. Attending members were immersed in the history of the region during this two-day tour. Food, fun and fascinating history were all part of this wonderfully arranged event, whose highlights included the Grace Hudson Museum, a talk on “Civil War in California” led by Phil Smoley, a tribute at Seabiscuit’s grave and a train ride at the Roots of Motive Power in Willits.

Thanks to Jean Beeson, Bonnie Skee and Florence Peck for their contribution to this event, and a special thanks to Mildred Pickersgill for being a bridge for our historical societies.

The Lake County Historical Society has had a busy fall so far, and the best is yet to come. Members, don’t forget our annual Thanksgiving dinner party! More information to follow.

Jaclyn Ley is publicity director for the Lake County Historical Society.