The Middle of January Hodgepodge

 

1.  It's been said January is 'the month of opportunity, inspiration, and change." Which of the three do you need want most right now? Elaborate. 

Opportunity

I'm simply biding my time, patiently anticipating the right opportunity to present itself.

2. Do you consider opportunity as something that comes to you or something you create for yourself? 

It is both. 

In the Christian life, it’s vital to recognize God’s active presence in our journey, orchestrating circumstances and opening doors. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." This highlights that while we make plans, it is God who ultimately guides our paths and presents us with incredible opportunities.

Ultimately, it's about embracing God's leading and taking bold initiative in our lives. By trusting in His guidance and remaining open to the opportunities He presents, we can truly live out our faith and fulfill the remarkable purposes He has in store for us.

3. The British Museum opened on this date (January 15th) back in 1759. 

Do you like visiting museums? 

I have always enjoyed museums. Growing up in San Francisco, I was fortunate to have access to excellent museums from a young age. My parents would take us to visit on weekends, and we would have picnics on the grounds.

Do you have a favorite? 

The Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds

Joss House Museum

The temple is the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California. 

This Taoist Temple of Worship is now a California State Park 

Art objects, pictures, mining tools, and weapons used in the 1854 Tong War are on display. This Taoist temple is still a place of worship and a fascinating look into the role played by Chinese immigrants in early California history. 

I live in rural Far-Northern California and have come to appreciate the small museums that tell the stories of the local history. Museums dedicated to gold mining, logging, veterans, and railroads offer insights that are just as valuable as those found in larger institutions. While it's difficult to choose just one favorite in my area,  I particularly enjoy the Joss House Museum in Weaverville, located in the Trinity Alps. This museum showcases the 1874 Taoist Temple and features various Chinese artifacts. We try to go every Chinese New Year (which is coming up Jan. 29) 

4. It's National Oatmeal Month (yes, apparently it gets a whole month as opposed to a single day). 

Do you like oatmeal? Yes

How often do you eat a bowl of oatmeal? 

Not often enough - maybe once a month

How do you like yours? 

Hot and creamy - is there any other way? 

What about an oatmeal cookie? 

With walnuts and chocolate chips, please. 

Is that a sweet treat you enjoy? 

Sure

5. What's something useful you learned in high school? 

I’m almost 71, and honestly, I’m so done with high school. I don’t want to think about it anymore. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

The first daffodils are starting to bloom.

Sometimes, it feels like winter isn't long enough. Today we hit 70 degrees. When it’s not raining, Winter can be nice. 

These Iris's were at the Shasta Dam's Visitor Center 

Soon ours will start blooming in the yard...

That's it for this Hodgepodge, until next time

Debby

The Story of the Pioneer Baby's Grave

During the Gold Rush era on December 14, 1864, baby Charles peacefully passed away in the loving embrace of his mother, Helena, and his father, George.

His parents came from Prussia and embarked on a journey to America, ultimately arriving in New York City. Driven by the allure of prosperity, they joined the throngs of fortune seekers making their way to California during the gold rush. After striking gold, they put down roots in Red Bluff, California, where George established and managed a general store. Tragically, the loss of their infant prompted the family to seek a resting place in a Jewish cemetery, which at that time was located 30 miles north in Shasta. The arduous full-day journey to lay their baby to rest reflected the ruggedness of the era.

The other siblings were left in the dark about the location of their baby brother's grave, either because their parents never disclosed it to them or because they were too young to remember. Following their parents' passing, the siblings developed a strong sense of curiosity and embarked on an extensive yet unsuccessful quest to locate their brother's final resting place. Eventually, they came to the realization that the grave was likely situated in a secluded, unmarked area, making it virtually impossible to locate. As a result, they reluctantly abandoned their search.

In 1923, surveyors working on a new state highway route from Redding to Weaverville stumbled upon the lone grave of an old Jewish cemetery. This solitary grave stood directly in the path of the proposed new highway, presenting a unique challenge for the highway construction project. Instead of covering the grave with pavement, they split the highway in that location. For a decade, the Pioneer Baby's grave remained in the middle of Highway 299 West.

Over time, the roads needed to be expanded. By then, the landmark had already gained widespread recognition in the area. The Shasta County Historical Society officially recognized it as a Pioneer monument. The headstone underwent cleaning, and the Hebrew and English inscriptions were clearly defined. Additionally, the iron fence was repainted, and a sturdy cement base was laid.

The rededication ceremony took place on May 28, 1933. The three siblings, who lived in San Francisco, learned about the event through notices and made the journey to Shasta to attend the memorial services and rededication.

Four years later, the Hebrew text was finally translated.

In 1947, further modifications were made to the highway, including widening and the removal of a curve next to the monument. Today, the pioneer baby's grave rests 100 feet from the side of the highway on a gentle slope along a dusty strip of the old road.

The area used to be filled with an abundance of green trees before the devastating Carr fire of 2018.

As you can see, the tranquil area was adorned with tall trees in the background, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

On the top left, you'll notice the remnants of the old road winding its way through the landscape, a testament to this place's history.

This is the area just two weeks ago. 

The area shows signs of improvement—although slow. It will be many years before  its once tranquil and picturesque charm is fully restored.

Baby Charles's grave still stands - 

Grave as it stood, two weeks ago

Unkempt, but that will soon change...

Stay tuned to Part Two!

My Friday "Forgots"

Just a few things I forgot to post this week. 

My son sent me this photo via text that he found on social media. It was taken on either the 12th or the 13th when the Northern Lights made a rare appearance in Shasta County. The stunning photo captures the Northern Lights and the Shasta Dam.

When I originally uploaded the old houses, I left out some...

This is adorable. 

Sorry, but I get the first dibs on this one! 

I am still determining what happened to these houses. They didn't have porches! They were cute, but they went right up to the sidewalk. 

I'd need a buffer—they had big side yards. 

The front needs some TLC.

This house went back far- so it was actually bigger than it looks and it had a nice side yard. Both houses need some curb appeal. 

So, how would you add some curb appeal? 

Another shot of that big house for sale. 

The charming side front porch features what appears to be a porch swing, adding to its inviting allure.

The location captured in the image is the breezeway of the Trinity Hotel in Weaverville. I just liked it. 

Cameron Building Site

In 1852 the Cameron Bros. built a 2 story building. Madam La Batcheler purchased it in 1853 and operated the Golden Gate Saloon. Later known as the Polka Saloon, by 1855, the town lodges of ECV, Masons and Son of Temperance met in the upper story hall. The site was burned clean in late 1855, 1859 and 1863.

Can you read it?

When driving, will you stop if you see historical markers?

I enjoy them because when I come home, I like to do more research on them. 

Mountain Charlie is a legend in Northern California. 

He was truly a character in Weaverville and beyond. I first learned of the "Mountain Charlie," story in the Santa Cruz Mountains and when my boys went to camp. There are many markers around about him. 

CHARLES HENRY McKiernan 

"MOUNTAIN CHARLIE" 1825 - JANUARY 16, 1892 

MOST COLORFUL OF ALL CHARAC- TERS IN SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS. THE FIRST WHITE SETTLER IN SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN SECTION. A PIONEER HUNTER, RANCHER, TEAMSTER, AND ROAD BUILDER. HIS MOTTO WAS "RIGHT WRONGS NOBODY" 

DEDICATED JULY 20, 1974 MOUNTAIN CHARLIE CHAPTER NO.1850 E CLAMPUS VITUS

These markers were on the Courthouse:

Henry Hocker built the courthouse in 1857 as a hotel, store, and saloon and later purchased it by the Board of Supervisors in 1865. 

In Memory of William C. “Bill” Jackson Deputy Sherriff of Trinity County Killed in the Performance of His Duty April 27, 1971 Erected by Trinity County Employees Association 

________________________________

In Memory of 

E. Jose – 

D. Haskell 

B. - Montgomery 

Express Messengers Killed on Duty Placed by N.S.G.W. and N.D.G.W.

My inquiring mind looked it up on Find a Grave. I was unable to find the other two. 

________________________________

 On June 10, 1894, at 9:30 P.M., Edward William José was mortally wounded by his new freight driver, who had robbed the freight wagon the day before. José left a wife, Mollie Dockery, and five children.

________________________________

Hopefully, I haven't forgotten anything else I wanted to post. As I get older and more forgetful, there might be a few of these "Friday Forgots" in my future. 

I hope you all have an awesome evening and a wonderful weekend doing what you want. If what you want is nothing, then GREAT!

Debby

Open House

Yesterday, we explored downtown Weaverville. 

I always find myself wondering what it would be like to live in these quaint small towns. I decided to take a stroll through the older neighborhoods in the area. Weaverville, with its population of 3,667, strikes a perfect balance as a charming mountain town. What truly sets it apart and has preserved its historical charm is the steadfastness of its residents, The town has managed to resist the temptations of the exploitative tourist industry, unlike many other California towns that have succumbed to its influence. Then you get hoards of tourists, and traffic! 

It's evident that real, genuine lives are lived here, with families spanning multiple generations residing in this town or nearby. I parked right in front of a captivating Victorian home on Main Street, adding to the town's picturesque appeal.

I love this front door. The Victorian paint job on the door reminds me of my Dad…

RABBIT TRAIL ALERT! 

🐇🐇

As a child, I have fond memories of my dad, who worked as a commercial painting contractor in San Francisco. I recall how he had the opportunity to paint the exteriors of some of the city's most beautiful Victorian homes - which brings me to this memory: 

When a movie was made in San Francisco he would get a kick out of eagerly watching for his work in the background of car chase scenes. There was even a time when he and his crew ended up as extras in a Dirty Harry movie because they were already working on a large building with scaffolding, and the production company was wanting the equipment gone - There was a standoff - The work continued and there they were, in the background of a movie! 

Anyway, back on track...

The thought of sitting outside on this beautiful porch and just watching people pass by sounds so "Mayberry". 

The cozy smaller houses were equally charming and more suited to my preference. Their roofs were made of corrugated metal, ideal for withstanding the snowy winters in the area.

A number of these small residences were constructed in the 1860s, each with its own unique history and charm.

This charming property, which was built in 1856, is currently available for purchase at the incredibly low price of $249,000. 

⭐️Don't miss out on this amazing deal!

This particular house looks similar to the home my grandparents lived in when they moved from Tennessee to Indiana, to live closer to my aunts. This one feels more familiar and comfortable to me. Interestingly, this house has since been transformed into the town's art gallery.

I really enjoyed this quaint little house/Art Gallery, with its charming white picket fence and peaceful side yard. It was such a lovely and serene setting.

 

This one is for sale as well. 

Still a reasonable price at $589,000.

4 bedrooms/3 bathrooms 

2864 sq. ft. 

Built-in 1897

The exterior of the house is absolutely stunning, with beautiful grounds surrounding it. However, the interior is in need of some updating. It appears to still have the old electrical plugs, and the bathrooms and kitchen have a distinct 1970s style that is outdated. Additionally, there is gaudy 1960s wallpaper on the ceilings with unmatched wallpaper on the walls. Renovations would need to be carefully planned in order to modernize the interior without compromising the original charm and integrity of the home.

Back Patio 

That back porch is so beautiful that I wouldn't mind living there while the renovations were going on. 

That's more grass than our little electric lawn mower could handle. 

The entire yard is absolutely enchanting. 

The charming allure of these houses may be captivating, but I find greater satisfaction in my own little home. I appreciate the simplicity of smaller living as they require less maintenance and cleaning, allowing for a more manageable lifestyle and that means contentment for me. 

Lord when we feel lost, help us to trust you to lead us on the path toward home. 

No hodgepodge today because I couldn't relate to the questions this week. 

Main Street

 

Source: Western Mining History

Weaverville, 1852

Weaverville, nestled in the Trinity Alps region of Northern California, was a pivotal settlement during the 1850s gold rush. Alongside Shasta and Yreka, it emerged as one of the major towns for fortune-seekers looking for gold. The rugged and remote terrain in the area had deterred sustained mining efforts, but the massive influx of miners into California prompted the first endeavors to settle and extract gold from the Trinity region.

I have always been fascinated by old western towns, particularly those that were once bustling mining communities during the gold rush.

Source: internet 

Has it changed much? 

Isn't there just something charming about a small town's Main Street? It has a special allure when you consider the rich local history it holds.

 Last week or so,  I had mentioned we drove "over the hill" to Weaverville, a favorite gold mining town nearby. 

https://myshastahome.blogspot.com/2024/09/oh-deer.html

I always make it a point to visit Olson Stoneware whenever I'm looking for unique gifts.

This old building was built in 1854. 

Notice the old, rusted, corrugated metal roof...

The buildings in Weaverville were constructed to be fire-resistant using dirt as a fireproofing material and heavy iron shutters on all windows. They have endured numerous fires and are considered one of the most remarkable assemblies of 1850s era buildings in the Western region.

In 1853, a fire caused extensive destruction. Additional fires in 1863, 1873, 1897, and 1905 also damaged the town. However, sturdy brick buildings constructed after the initial fire demonstrated the community's resilience.

An aged, weathered saloon with creaky wooden floors and swinging doors nestled beside a quaint Cafe next to the Olson Stoneware.

Diggins Saloon and the New Yorker are the only two saloons in town that have been serving patrons since the Gold Rush era and are still in business today.

If those walls could talk! 

It seems like there is a lot of energy and activity happening in there at 10 in the morning!

The historic Trinity Theater is a beautiful old building. Judging by its architecture, it was likely constructed in the 1930s, but I couldn't find the exact date.

The intricate iron spiral staircases in Weaverville are absolutely mesmerizing. On one hand, they exude a sense of cool, industrial charm, while on the other hand, they have grown a bit rickety over the years.  They were crafted to cater to the requirements of smaller people in weight and height and definitely not for the size of today’s modern person. 

There are many of these historical plagues around town. 

Pioneer Blacksmith and Tin Shop on Main St - 

close to the museum. 

The Museum.

Small town museums reveal so much history of the town and county. 

The street serves as the main thoroughfare connecting Redding and Eureka. From this vantage point, you can see the distinctive facades of the Saloon, the Cafe, and Olson Stoneware from a different angle. 

Just outside the Gold Rush Jewelers

While we were there, my husband and the owner really hit it off. They both served in the military and spent a lot of time reminiscing about their experiences. 

 

A sweet little stone bridge that has been restored...no water in that creek!

Once our winter rains begin, this little creek will be overflowing by spring. 

Finally, the Joss House -

 a Chinese temple that we enjoy visiting now and then when they have events. 

The Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds is the oldest Chinese Temple in California. 

The Chinese Miners came here during the Gold Rush. At one time there were over 2000 Chinese miners. Chinatown burned down in 1911. By then most of the Chinese moved on. There are a few descendents from the original coal miners that live in the area. 

Back to the 21st century...

I hope you enjoyed a piece of California's gold rush history. 

Debby