Old Town Lewiston

As a child, I spent my summers camping by the banks of Trinity Lake near the dam that you might be able to see in the far distance of this image.  It was there that I learned how to water ski and experienced my first case of heat exhaustion when I was just eight years old.

Here’s the first part of the day if you missed it. ⬇️

https://myshastahome.blogspot.com/2025/07/a-peaceful-haven.html

Before heading home, I wanted to revisit the small mining town of Lewiston, California. It's been a few years since I last drove through. 

Lewiston has a long history, dating back to 1851, when it was first established as a town. The post office opened in 1853, marking its official establishment. Once a bustling center for gold mining during the Gold Rush, Lewiston was built along the original trail connecting Shasta and Weaverville.

Source: Western Mining History

Bridge over the Trinity River at Lewiston, California, 1910

Look at the bridge now. 

Perched atop the bridge, the Christmas Star shines brightly, drawing in visitors from all around the area during the holiday season. It's a local attraction that I've yet to experience! Somehow, life always seems to throw other plans our way, but this year, I told my husband: 

"We’re going to see it this year!"

Source: KRCR

The celebration comes alive with fireworks lighting up the winter sky and a parade brimming with lights. It looks like an experience that truly captures the festive spirit!

The chill in the air up in those mountains is invigorating - it's the kind of cold that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, making it feel just like Christmas!

As we approached the bridge, it was a charming one-vehicle bridge that seemed to whisper stories of the past. We paused so I could snap a photo. Sure, it creaks and groans beneath the weight, but that's part of the fun. I'm confident it's still standing strong after all these years.

My mother battled Gephyrophobia, a fear of bridges, and it was heartbreaking to watch her struggle with it as I grew up.  Her anxiety reached a point where she no longer visited us (and her grandsons), unable to face the daunting task of crossing the San Francisco Bay with its bridges. Growing up, witnessing her fear taught me a powerful lesson: I refuse to let those same fears (or any irrational fear)  take hold of my life. 

As we drove onto the bridge, I couldn’t help but pause to soak it all in. No pun intended. 😁

As we spun the car around to return to the bridge, my eyes were drawn to a stunning church nestled among the mountains, its architecture harmonizing perfectly with the landscape.

But first, we have to drive through town. 

A mercantile shop and a gift shop are there, and that's it. Where is everyone? It is a Saturday - It says they're open. Too hot to leave the dog in the car. Fortunately for us, we live close enough so we can come back when it's not so hot and Laydee can stay home. Most of these places don't have AC. 

This sign truly captured my heart! I want one in my yard! 

Gee, what would mine say? 

Sundial Bridge

Shasta Dam

San Francisco

Castle Crags

Mt Shasta

The picnic table called to me, nestled beneath the shade of the trees. It stood alone in the tranquil silence. But looks are deceiving - it was 108 degrees. 

Here's the delightful old Congregational church, built in 1896, that still stands next to a cemetery that whispers the tales of those who once roamed these grounds. Yet, it’s clear that both the church and the cemetery could use a little love and attention. It’s a pity our state hasn’t embraced the opportunity to preserve these cherished landmarks as part of the State Park System, much like they did with the historic town of Shasta.

The once quaint old school house has transformed into a quaint public library, a change that feels perfectly suited to its new purpose.

The last time I visited, it was a museum of their gold mining history, and the town. 

Do you have a library book that needs to be returned?

Built in 1862 

The charming one-room schoolhouse carries a remarkable legacy, having opened its doors during the presidency of Abraham Lincoln and its journey continued through the decades, finally closing in 1961 during the John F. Kennedy administration.

On Saturday, I was determined to get out of the house and beat the sweltering heat, especially with temperatures reaching a blistering 111 degrees at our place! 

We were all, Laydee included, beat by the time we came home.  Thank you for joining me on my little day adventures. I'll post an update on what we did on Sunday eventually. 

Take Care and God Bless. 

Debby

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