March-April 2026

 

Administrator’s Notes

by Bryanna Ryan, Museums Administrator

With spring on the horizon, we are approaching a monumental milestone for Placer County. This year marks the 175th anniversary from the date Placer County was established on April 25, 1851, and carved out of portions of Sutter and Yuba Counties. Auburn, already an important site for local politics, became the seat of Placer County and the growing nexus for law and public service for the region. In celebration of this important anniversary, here is the earliest known illustration of Auburn from 1851. In the foreground, the canvas tent operated as the courthouse until it was replaced with a more permanent structure on top of the hill overlooking Auburn in 1853. The log jail beside the canvas courthouse burned, along with most of Auburn, in 1855 and was rebuilt beside the new courthouse.

In other Museums news, Living History has begun, and we expect almost 3,000 3rd-graders to visit in the coming months. We are accepting applications for the Supervising Curator position, beginning plans for this year’s Heritage Trail and Cemetery Tour events, and looking forward to a busy year ahead!

 

New Donation Highlight

By Kasia Woroniecka , Curator of Collections

This silver napkin ring with a classical medallion of a warrior’s head belonged to Henry Andrew Frost. Born on May 15, 1830, in Massachusetts, Frost later made his way to California, settling in Dutch Flat in Placer County. He worked as a miner during the Gold Rush before eventually turning to farming, where he specialized in cultivating fruit orchards. He remained in Dutch Flat until his death on October 26, 1912.

Napkin rings first appeared in France around 1800 designed to identify and hold individual cloth napkins between weekly washings. Early examples were made from silver, wood, or bone and were often engraved with initials for personalization. Over the course of the 19th century they became popular gifts for christenings, weddings, and as keepsakes or souvenirs.

  

From Whitmarsh to Strobridge - An Auburn Family History

Chuck Spinks, Placer-Sierra Railroad Heritage Society President

Samuel H. Whitmarsh was born in Northampton, Massachusetts, in 1820. Like many New Englanders drawn west by opportunity, he traveled to California with his brother Thomas during the early years of the Gold Rush. By 1855, Whitmarsh had settled in Auburn, where he became the agent for the California Stage Company. In May 1857, Whitmarsh expanded his business interests by opening the Pioneer Livery Stable in Auburn while continuing his work for the Stage Company. That same year, on December 1, he married Susan J. Wolley. With financial stability and growing local prominence, Whitmarsh entered public service and, in 1858, he was elected a Placer County Supervisor representing Auburn.

                            Strobridge family at home in Haywards (now Hayward, CA)

 Samuel and Susan Whitmarsh had a daughter, Julia Conner Whitmarsh, born on March 7, 1861. Two weeks later, on March 21 of that year, Susan Whitmarsh died. Although the cause of death was not recorded, its proximity to Julia’s birth suggests possible complications related to childbirth. On May 10, 1862, Whitmarsh remarried, taking Hannah Conover as his wife. Their son, Samuel Hooker Whitmarsh, was born on June 9, 1863. Whitmarsh’s livery business was failing, and in June 1863 he was sued by creditors. Personal loss followed financial hardship when Hannah Whitmarsh died on January 11, 1865. 

When the Central Pacific Railroad reached Auburn on May 13, 1865, the California Stage Company closed its Auburn office and Samuel became unemployed. On June 7, 1865, overwhelmed by repeated bereavement and financial distress, Samuel H. Whitmarsh died by suicide. His death left Julia, age four, and Samuel, age two, without parents.

The fate of the Whitmarsh children became linked to one of Auburn’s most prominent visitors, James Harvey Strobridge, construction superintendent for the Central Pacific Railroad. From 1859 to the summer of 1863, Strobridge was in Dutch Flat managing the construction of the Placer County Canal. On December 6, 1860, Strobridge took a break from his work on the canal to marry Maria McGowan Keating in Auburn. Strobridge was hired by Charles Crocker to lead the railroad construction crews in the winter of 1864. During the construction of the Central Pacific through the Sierra foothills in 1865, Strobridge established his headquarters in Auburn where he was joined by his wife, Maria. The couple had no biological children. Sometime after Samuel Whitmarsh’s death, James and Maria Strobridge adopted Julia and Samuel Whitmarsh, the first of five adopted children they would raise. The new Strobridge family accompanied James through most of the construction of the railroad and are in photographs taken on May 10, 1869 at the Gold Spike ceremony at Promontory, Utah.

 

Volunteer Spotlight 

By Katy Bartosh, Curator of Education

While organizing files this weekend I came across this photo of one of our docents, Richard Jones. I couldn’t help but write a bit about the work he has done in the Archives for Placer County Museums. For over 25 years, Richard has been a dedicated volunteer in Foresthill and our Archives and Collections Facility. He’s given over 4,500 hours of service and made an extraordinary impact behind the scenes. Richard volunteers multiple times a week and has inventoried more than 25,000 records. In addition to updating records, Richard has also donated objects and photographs to our collection.

While all our docents do incredible things, some of our volunteer spots are more visible than others. But the work that happens behind the scenes is just as essential to fulfilling our mission. Richard reminds us that preserving our County’s rich history will allow future generations to learn about the past. Thank you Richard!

 

Rocklin Historical Society

By Gloria Beverage, Rocklin Historical Society President

The Rocklin Historical Society will host an event on Saturday, May 2, showcasing the diverse history and cultures of the region.  The Heritage Street Faire will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Rocklin’s historic Front Street.

Volunteers are planning a free, family-friendly event that will feature performances by a variety of ethnic music and dance groups, including Hawaiian and Irish dancers, an African dance troupe, Aztec and Native American performers as well as the popular Chinese lion dancers.

Centered around Rocklin’s history of “Rocks, Rails and Ranches, booths set up along the street will present stories of its early residents: Native Americans, Finnish, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese. In tribute to Rocklin’s once-thriving granite industry, a granite splitting demonstration is planned.

Also being invited to participate are the Tuskegee Airmen and representatives of other cultures, including the Pakistani community. The City of Rocklin’s Fire and Police Departments’ historic vehicles will be on display.

 

Maidu Museum and Historic Site

By Alizabeth Stevans, Interpretive Services Program Leader

Maidu Museum & Historic Site is thrilled to announce the return of Yoomén: A Celebration of Spring event, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This FREE family-friendly event serves as an opportunity for Indigenous communities to gather, celebrate and share deep history and traditions with all in attendance.  From Raymond LeBeau’s ( Pit River, Lakota, and Cahuilla) debut art exhibition to hands-on activity stations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy at Yoomén. Visitors can enjoy lunch with a view of the Historic Site, while indulging in the food available for purchase. Throughout the day, take a guided tour of the Historic Site and enjoy demonstrations of culturally significant skills, stories, and performances by Indigenous musicians and dancers. Support Native artists directly by shopping the Yoomén market featuring beautiful art, jewelry, and more!

 Raymond LeBeau: Field(s) of View is a solo exhibition by local Pit River, Lakota, and Cahuilla artist, Raymond LeBeau. reflects his perspective as a Native Pit River artist shaped by his northeastern California homelands and coastal environments. Through paintings, drawings, maps, and found-object assemblages, he explores history, lived experiences, and the cultural influences that shape his world. Together, these works form a layered landscape of memory, place, and an ongoing story. The exhibition will be on view from March 7 – July 26, 2026. Join us for the FREE opening reception on March 7, 5:00-7:00pm.

  

Placer County Historical Society

                                      

Step back in time and see history in action! Our dedicated volunteer  Gus Thompson is helping bring the past to life at the  Auburn Old Town Post Office History and Welcome Center.

Stop in on Saturday or Sunday between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to explore, learn, and experience a glimpse of days gone by.

 

                                 Auburn post office interior c. 1900. PCM Collection.

 

Placer County Historical Society Dinner Meeting

 

 When:                Thursday,  April  2

                          Meeting at 6:00, Dinner at 6:15, Speaker at 6:45

  Alfred Corral, local historian, will be presenting a panel of speakers on the Japanese   Experience in Placer County

Location: Veterans Memorial Hall Dinner cost: $30.00.

100 East Street, Auburn, CA Speaker presentation: Free

Please RSVP to rsvp.pchs@gmail.com

Please go to www.placercountyhistoricalsociety.org for more information

 

 Placer County Historical Organizations

Colfax Area Historical Society 

Jay McIntyre, President, (530) 346-8599

colfaxhistory.org 

Donner Summit Historical Society

Bill Oudegeest, (209) 606-6859

donnersummithistoricalsociety.org

Foresthill Divide Historical Society

Annie DeMaria-Norris (916) 206-4479 foresthillhistory.org

Fruitvale School Hall 

Community Association 

Mark Fowler

Golden Drift Historical Society

Sarah Fugate, (530) 389-2121

Historical Advisory Board

Glenn Vineyard, (916) 747-1961

Joss House Museum and 

Chinese History Center

Larry Finney, (530) 305-9380

Lincoln Area Archives Museum

Elizabeth Jansen, (916) 645-3800

laamca.org

Lincoln Highway Association 

Trey Pitsenberger

vice.president@lincolnhighwayassoc.org

Loomis Basin Historical Society

Karen Clifford, (916) 663-3871

www.loomisbasinhistory.org

Maidu Museum & Historic Site

(916) 774-5934

roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum 

The Museum of Sierra Ski History and 1960 Winter Olympics 

David C. Antonucci, (775) 722-3502 

tahoemuseum.org

Native Sons of the Golden West 

Parlor #59

Dave Allen, (530) 878-2878 dsallen59@sbcglobal.net

Newcastle Portuguese Hall 

Association

Mario Farinha, (530) 269-2412 

North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Phil Sexton, (530) 583-1762

northtahoemuseums.org

Placer County Genealogical Society 

Diane Fishburn

http://www.placergenealogy.org  

Placer County Historical Society

April McDonald-Loomis

(530) 823-2128

placercountyhistoricalsociety.org

Placer County Museums Docent Guild

Craig Norris

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society  

Chuck Spinks

Psrhs.org

Rocklin Historical Society

Gloria Beverage (916) 624-3464

rocklinhistorical@gmail.com

Roseville Historical Society

Denise Fiddyment, (916) 773-3003

rosevillehistorical.org

Calendar: 

Please confirm all meeting times and locations with each organization

Foresthill Divide Historical Society Meeting:                        Monday, March 16th at 6:00 p.m.

Golden Drift Historical Society Meeting:                      Monday, April 6th at 7:00 p.m.

Historical Advisory Board Meeting:                                   Wednesday, April 15th at 5:30 p.m.          

Loomis Basin Historical Society Meeting:                   Wednesday, March 18th at 6:00 p.m.

Placer County Historical Society Meeting:                    Thursday, March 5th at 2:00 p.m.

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society:                      Tuesday, March 24th at 7:00 p.m.

Rocklin Historical Society Meeting:                              Tuesday, March 10th at  6:30 p.m.

Roseville Historical Society Meeting:                             Tuesday, March 10th at 4:00 p.m.

 

January-February 2026

 

Administrator’s Notes

by Bryanna Ryan, Museums Administrator

The year 2025 ended with three successful events for Placer County Museums. S’mores & Stories at the Bernhard Museum broke a new record for visitors with 406 showing up for a festive and fun evening by the campfire.  Old Town Country Christmas topped out at  661 over two Saturday celebrations at the Placer County Museum.  This brings our visitor count for the year to a grand total of almost 100,000 people who came to learn a little about our human journey, through the lens of local history.

This endeavor is only possible because of the tremendous generosity of volunteers.  They are kind and friendly storytellers; they are dedicated to preservation; and they are a part of our family.  When the final tallies roll in, in 2025, we estimate our volunteers will have given over 11,000 hours of their time to help keep history alive and inspire reflection within our museum spaces. This sentiment of gratitude for museum and archives volunteers extends to all our fellow heritage organizations throughout the region as well.

Looking back over the last couple of months, we are also happy to announce two new staff members on our team. Kaitlin Kincade has joined as a Curator of Education, to assist in the ever-growing demand for tours, events, and student programs.  Kaitlin has a wealth of knowledge to share and gave a very illuminating presentation on local Indigenous history at the Docent Guild’s “Love to Learn” on November 17.  If you are not a member of the Guild, consider joining and you will receive invitations to these presentations. It is $10 a year and applications are available in our front office.

Don Ivey has also joined as our new Curator of Archives. We are fortunate to have the expertise which he gained over several decades in archives and records management. Don is already helping to improve and streamline the archival program and is a quick study on matters of local history.

I am also humbled and honored to have been selected as your new permanent Museums Administrator.  I am learning a lot and looking forward to the journey ahead.  Any plans for filling the Supervising Curator position will be decided in the new year. In the meantime, keep your eyes open for Ralph while he spends some of his retirement visiting our museums.

As we charge full speed into a new year, I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2026!

 

New Donation Highlight

By Kasia Woroniecka , Curator of Collections

This silver cup trophy was awarded to Auburn Grammar School, which won the grand prize in the grammar school category for the most artistic and original display at the Placer County Flower Festival in April 1931. The event marked the seventh annual festival and was held in Auburn under the sponsorship of the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion.  The top prize went to the Gold Hill Farm Bureau Center for the best general Farm Bureau exhibit. According to festival rules, the exhibition was open to all flowers and plants grown within Placer County.

The Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion, officially known as the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), was founded in 1919 and is the world’s largest patriotic women’s service organization. It supports veterans, military families, and communities through volunteer service, advocacy for veterans’ benefits, and youth programs. 

The trophy is currently on display in the “Honoring Teachers of Years Ago” exhibit at the Benton Welty School Room Museum in Auburn City Hall. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

 

You are invited!

From Schoolhouse to City Hall: 110th Celebration

January 10, 2026 1PM to 4 PM

at historic Auburn City Hall  * 1225 Lincoln Way, Auburn

Celebration marks the historic day that the Auburn Union School District transitioned into the modern era.

A special reenactment program at 1:30PM honoring the school’s original opening day.

 

Volunteer Christmas Luncheon

Thank you to all who joined us for the annual Volunteer Christmas Luncheon. This year we celebrated at the Foresthill Veterans Memorial Hall. With a wonderful turnout, a beautiful setting, and delicious food we couldn’t have imagined a more perfect way to celebrate. 

    Marae Lengtat and Rebecca McHugh received Docent Training Certificates.

                                              Celebrating in festive style.

                                                               Let’s eat!

Winter Celebrations & Gold Rush Program 

By Katy Bartosh, Curator of Education

This December, the Placer County Museums were filled with holiday spirit as families gathered for two fun annual events. On Friday, December 12, more than 400 visitors joined us at the Bernhard Museum for S’mores and Stories, where the historic farmhouse was dressed for a Victorian Christmas. Guests roasted s’mores, sipped hot chocolate, enjoyed live music, and soaked in the magic of the season. The holiday fun continued with Classic Christmas at the Courthouse, part of Old Auburn’s Country Christmas festivities. Between December 12th and December 20th, over 600 visitors stepped inside Auburn’s Historic Courthouse to meet Mrs. Claus (all the way from the North Pole!), listen to stories, enjoy warm apple cider and cookies, create ornaments, and listen to live music. We are grateful to celebrate the season with our community and can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year!

Kaitlin Kincade, Donna Martinez, Bill Gray, Jim Vessely, Rebecca Hemphill , Brad Weisberg

Crafts

                                                                    Mrs. Claus

Our popular Gold Rush Program returns this January and February, welcoming nearly 300 fourth-grade students to the Gold Rush Museum. During this immersive 2.5-hour field trip, students rotate through four hands-on, docent-led stations that explore how people came to California, the geology of the region, the tools of the trade, and the individuals who shaped this area forever.

Designed to align with classroom curriculum, the program gives students a strong foundation for understanding the California Gold Rush, or enhances lessons already underway at school. Interested in learning more? Please contact the Curator of Education for details.

Volunteer Spotlight

By Katy Bartosh, Curator of Education

Placer County Museums can offer successful winter programs and student field trips thanks to the dedication of our incredible volunteers. This month, we’re excited to highlight Melissa Fiore.

Melissa moved to Placer County in 2019 from Tennessee, where she worked as an appellate attorney. Today, visitors may recognize her friendly face at the Placer County Museum or the Griffith Quarry Museum where her engaging personality makes history come alive. When asked why she volunteers, Melissa shared that she began as a way to learn local history and stayed because she loves meeting and connecting with the people who visit our museums. Thank you, Melissa, for all that you do!

Rocklin Historical Society

Doug Osella didn’t envision a field of dreams. His vision was a simple one – the creation of a small public garden to honor his aunt and uncle, Jennie and Arvo Minkkinen, longtime Rocklin residents and civic leaders.

Placer County’s first librarian in Rocklin, Jennie Wickman Minkkinen opened the doors of the branch library in 1943. Located in former granite city hall building on Rocklin Road, there were only 38 books in the collection when the library opened. By the end of the first year, the shelves held 774 books.

In 1965, Jennie oversaw the library’s move to the former home of the Finnish Lutheran Church across the street. As the city’s librarian for 49 years, she served generations of readers – from kids to parents to grandparents. Her husband, Arvo, was a member of the Rocklin City Council for 24 years, including eight years as mayor.

“The idea of a rose garden came from Arvo Minkkinen’s love of gardening,” Osella said. “He had a large rose garden on their property.” In late 2024, the Rocklin Historical Society joined Osella in planning how to turn a scrappy piece of land behind the Rocklin Library building into a tranquil garden.  Work on the revitalized area, dubbed The Secret Garden, was finally completed in November.

In addition to paying tribute to the legacy of Rocklin’s first librarian, it also honors Rocklin’s historic ties to the quarry industry. The unique handmade granite curbing that borders the garden pathway came from the home of Jennie’s father, quarry worker Victor Wickman.

Rocklin Elementary School third graders agreed to donate the proceeds from their annual coin drive to purchase a granite bench. Rocklin Historical Society received support for the project from the City of Rocklin and the Placer County Library administration. Financial support was provided by Placer County Friends of the Library the Wickman family, Sally Huseby and the South Placer Rotary Club as well as donations from the community.

 

Placer County Historical Society

                                        Joanie Maxwell and Rebecca McGuire

 Joanie and Rebecca helped us celebrate the formal opening of the Auburn Old Town Post Office History and Welcome Center on Dec. 5th.

We had a great turnout for the Open House.
Stop in on Saturday or Sunday between the hours of 10:00 and 4:00 to take a step back in time. 

Placer County Historical Society Dinner Meeting

 

Dinner Meeting

When:  Thursday, February 5, 2026

Meeting at 6:00, Dinner at 6:15, Speaker at 6:45

History Expeditions Team, a group of endurance athletes bringing history to life through                        expeditions that  combine historical research and adventure.

  Location: Veterans Memorial Hall Dinner cost: $30.00.

100 East Street, Auburn, CA Speaker presentation: Free

Please RSVP to rsvp.pchs@gmail.com 

Please go to www.placercountyhistoricalsociety.org for more information

 Placer County Historical Organizations

Colfax Area Historical Society 

Jay McIntyre, President, (530) 346-8599

colfaxhistory.org 

Donner Summit Historical Society

Bill Oudegeest, (209) 606-6859

donnersummithistoricalsociety.org

Foresthill Divide Historical Society

Annie DeMaria-Norris (916) 206-4479 foresthillhistory.org

Fruitvale School Hall 

Community Association 

Mark Fowler

Golden Drift Historical Society

Sarah Fugate, (530) 389-2121

Historical Advisory Board

Glenn Vineyard, (916) 747-1961

Joss House Museum and 

Chinese History Center

Larry Finney, (530) 305-9380

Lincoln Area Archives Museum

Elizabeth Jansen, (916) 645-3800

laamca.org

Lincoln Highway Association 

Trey Pitsenberger

vice.president@lincolnhighwayassoc.org

Loomis Basin Historical Society

Karen Clifford, (916) 663-3871

www.loomisbasinhistory.org

Maidu Museum & Historic Site

(916) 774-5934

roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum 

The Museum of Sierra Ski History and 1960 Winter Olympics 

David C. Antonucci, (775) 722-3502 

tahoemuseum.org

Native Sons of the Golden West 

Parlor #59

Dave Allen, (530) 878-2878 dsallen59@sbcglobal.net

Newcastle Portuguese Hall 

Association

Mario Farinha, (530) 269-2412 

North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Phil Sexton, (530) 583-1762

northtahoemuseums.org

Placer County Genealogical Society 

Diane Fishburn

http://www.placergenealogy.org  

Placer County Historical Society

April McDonald-Loomis

(530) 823-2128

placercountyhistoricalsociety.org

Placer County Museums Docent Guild

Craig Norris

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society  

Chuck Spinks

Psrhs.org

Rocklin Historical Society

Gloria Beverage (916) 624-3464

rocklinhistorical@gmail.com

Roseville Historical Society

Denise Fiddyment, (916) 773-3003

rosevillehistorical.org

Calendar: 

Please confirm all meeting times and locations with each organization

Please confirm all meeting times and locations with each organization

Foresthill Divide Historical Society Meeting: Monday, January 19th at 6:00 p.m.

Golden Drift Historical Society Meeting:       Monday, February 2nd at 7:00 p.m.

Historical Advisory Board Meeting:            Wednesday, February 18th at 5:30 p.m.

Loomis Basin Historical Society Meeting:  Wednesday, January 21st at 6:00 p.m. 

Placer County Historical Society Meeting: Thursday, January 8th at 2:00 p.m.

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society: Tuesday, January  27th at 7:00 p.m.

Rocklin Historical Society Meeting:      Tuesday, January 13th at  6:30 p.m.

Roseville Historical Society Meeting: Tuesday, January 13th at 4:00 p.m. 

November-December 2025

 

Administrator’s Notes

by Ralph Gibson, Museums Administrator

The leaves are already beginning to turn as trees embrace the fall season. Halloween is around the corner, and so, too, is my last day as Museums Administrator. Twenty-one years ago, I was introduced in this very issue of The Placer in 2004. In that same issue, Jerry Rouillard, the Museum’s Director, wrote his final article as he was retiring that November. In that issue, they did not reflect on successful fall programs or look forward to holiday events. 

Fall and Winter were quiet times for us back then. Not so today!  Yes, we had a terrific turnout at the Old Auburn Cemetery Tour and a big thank you goes out to Carol Cramer for her organization and enthusiasm for this event! Also, a big thank you to all the re-enactors and ghost hosts as well as our museum staff!

While my role transitions from Museums Administrator to patron on Halloween, I encourage all of you to visit the museums during the holiday season – especially the Bernhard Museum for S’mores & Stories on December 12th (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm) and the Historic Courthouse for Country Christmas on December 13th and 20th (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm).

In the Placer article noted above, this was how I was introduced:

We are pleased to introduce Ralph Gibson, our newly hired Education Curator, who began work on October 16th.  Ralph has a Master’s degree in Anthropology/Archaeology and has held a variety of museum positions, most recently as curator of a Victorian house museum in Wichita Falls, Texas.

As I leave, I know there have been a lot of questions about my replacement. Bryanna Ryan will take over the leadership of the Museums Division as the Acting Museums Administrator beginning November 1^st. She possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience, and she will move our division forward into a bright future.

 With that, I’ll simply say goodbye. It has been the honor and privilege of my life to be the Museums Administrator for the Placer County Museums.  

Ralph Gibson getting into the Halloween spirit with pumpkins, ghosts, and one of his favorite objects in our collection: a  sinister –looking clown figurine.

New Donation Highlight

By Kasia Woroniecka , Curator of Collections

The "Quiz Kids" board game was inspired by the popular 1940s radio and TV show originally launched as a summer radio program,. The  show featured a panel of children aged 5 to 15, who answered difficult questions submitted by listeners. Its success led to a long run on radio and later a transition to television.

This trivia-based board game was made by Whitman Publishing Company, a popular children’s book publisher.  It capitalized on the show’s popularity by creating a game that reflected its original format, using question cards to test players’ general knowledge. 

Old Auburn Cemetery Tour

Thank you to everyone who joined us for  the annual Old Auburn Cemetery Tour on October 5th. With perfect fall weather and an amazing turnout, it was a day to remember. Your enthusiasm and support help keep this event alive, and we look forward to seeing you again next year!

Volunteer Appreciation Movie Event

Many thanks to all our incredible museum volunteers who joined us for the Volunteer Appreciation Movie Event on October 20th! We were thrilled to host this special gathering as a small token of our appreciation for your time, energy, and dedication. We hope you enjoyed “Abbot and Costello Meet Frankenstein” and the chance to unwind with fellow volunteers.

  

Volunteer Spotlight

By Katy Bartosh, Curator of Education

Heather Watkins-Koolhof and Gary Koolhof are one of our husband and wife, dynamic duo teams! I have been lucky to work with them in our education programs, both at the Gold Rush with our 4th graders and at the Bernhard Museum in Living History. When Heather was a 3rd grade teacher at Skyridge she brought her students to Living History, and the experience left her wanting to volunteer when she retired. It wasn’t until the pandemic that she signed up. She started at the Placer County Museums early on in our re-openings. She began sharing what she learned  from Kasia’s artifact highlights with Gary, who got so interested he signed up to volunteer too. Both docents bring amazing energy, skill set, and humor to the Museums. Gary’s background in finance has been a valuable addition to the Docent Guild and other local organizations. Heather has helped translate many of our educational resources for Spanish speaking participants. I’m grateful to have both volunteering with us. 

Thank you for volunteering, Heather and Gary! 

Rocklin Historical Society

It's football season, and what better time to celebrate the Magical 17 – those unforgettable summers the San Francisco 49ers trained at Sierra College? Our exhibit, Rocklin at Play, Sports and Recreation Through the Years includes a look at the 49ers during their time here and our local linebacker Dan Bunz’s crucial role in the team's victory in Super Bowl XVI, where he made a famous goal-line tackle known as "The Stop" against the Cincinnati Bengals.

From 1981 to 1997, Rocklin served as the team’s seasonal home base—a period that coincided with the 49ers’ golden era, during which they clinched all four of their Super Bowl victories (XVI, XIX, XXIII, and XXIV). Locals recall glimpses of legends like Joe Montana and Jerry Rice honing their skills on Rocklin turf, while the community rallied around the excitement of championship-caliber football in its own backyard. This exhibit honors not only the 49ers’ historic run but also Rocklin’s enduring spirit of recreation, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the years.

The Rocklin History Museum, located at 3895 Rocklin Road,  is open weekends from 1-4pm. Admission is free. 

Coach Bill Walsh takes a congratulatory call from President Ronald Reagan while Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Dan Bunz admire the newly-won Vince Lombardy trophy.  

Ralph Gibson's Retirement Party

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate the retirement of Ralph Gibson, Placer County Museums Administrator.  We were delighted to have museum volunteers, Placer County employees, and guests come together to recognize Ralph’s 21 years of dedicated leadership and service. 

Placer County Historical Society

On October 1st, the Society signed a contract to rent the Old Town Post Office building!

We will be opening this historically significant building very soon. We will be using it, keeping the interior intact, for a welcome /history center. Lots of plans being made. 

We are going to need help to keep the doors open. Please consider volunteering for a 4- hour shift once a month. Contact me at April.pchs@gmail.com if you can volunteer just a small amount of your time.

Ralph Gibson, the Museum Director, received the annual History Award at the PCHS dinner on October 2nd. The Award is given by the Society and the Placer County Historical Foundation.

The Award recognizes all the different ways that Ralph has supported and fostered the history of Placer County.

                            Old Town Auburn post office c. 1910. PCM. PCHS Collection

Placer County Historical Society Dinner Meeting

 

Dinner Meeting

When:  Thursday, December 4, 2025

Meeting at 6:00, Dinner at 6:15, Speaker at 6:45

The History Expedition team will be presenting a program about some of their adventures. 

Location: Veterans Memorial Hall Dinner cost: $30.00.

100 East Street, Auburn, CA Speaker presentation: Free

Please RSVP to rsvp.pchs@gmail.com 

Please go to www.placercountyhistoricalsociety.org for more information

 Placer County Historical Organizations

Colfax Area Historical Society 

Jay McIntyre, President, (530) 346-8599

colfaxhistory.org 

Donner Summit Historical Society

Bill Oudegeest, (209) 606-6859

donnersummithistoricalsociety.org

Foresthill Divide Historical Society

Annie DeMaria-Norris (916) 206-4479 foresthillhistory.org

Fruitvale School Hall 

Community Association 

Mark Fowler

Golden Drift Historical Society

Sarah Fugate, (530) 389-2121

Historical Advisory Board

Glenn Vineyard, (916) 747-1961

Joss House Museum and 

Chinese History Center

Larry Finney, (530) 305-9380

Lincoln Area Archives Museum

Elizabeth Jansen, (916) 645-3800

laamca.org

Lincoln Highway Association 

Trey Pitsenberger

vice.president@lincolnhighwayassoc.org

Loomis Basin Historical Society

Karen Clifford, (916) 663-3871

www.loomisbasinhistory.org

Maidu Museum & Historic Site

Kaitlin Kincade, (916) 774-5934

roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum 

The Museum of Sierra Ski History and 1960 Winter Olympics 

David C. Antonucci, (775) 722-3502 

tahoemuseum.org

Native Sons of the Golden West 

Parlor #59

Dave Allen, (530) 878-2878 dsallen59@sbcglobal.net

Newcastle Portuguese Hall 

Association

Mario Farinha, (530) 269-2412 

North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Phil Sexton, (530) 583-1762

northtahoemuseums.org

Placer County Genealogical Society 

Diane Fishburn

http://www.placergenealogy.org  

Placer County Historical Society

April McDonald-Loomis

(530) 823-2128

placercountyhistoricalsociety.org

Placer County Museums Docent Guild

Craig Norris

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society  

Chuck Spinks

Psrhs.org

Rocklin Historical Society

Gloria Beverage (916) 624-3464

rocklinhistorical@gmail.com

Roseville Historical Society

Denise Fiddyment, (916) 773-3003

rosevillehistorical.org

Calendar: 

Please confirm all meeting times and locations with each organization

Please confirm all meeting times and locations with each organization

Foresthill Divide Historical Society Meeting: Monday, November 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Golden Drift Historical Society Meeting:     Monday, December 1st at 7:00 p.m.

Historical Advisory Board Meeting:         Wednesday, December 17th at 5:30 p.m.

Loomis Basin Historical Society Meeting:  Wednesday, November 19th at 6:00 p.m. 

Placer County Historical Society Meeting: Thursday, November 6th at 2:00 p.m.

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society: Tuesday, November  25th at 7:00 p.m.

Rocklin Historical Society Meeting:        Tuesday, November  12th at  6:30 p.m.

Roseville Historical Society Meeting: Tuesday, November 12th at 4:00 p.m. 

September-October 2025

 

Administrator’s Notes

by Ralph Gibson, Museums Administrator

Collection of prosthetic eyes c. 1885-1930, part of A Grave Affair exhibit at the Placer County Museum.

It’s been an unusually mild summer and a few leaves in some trees have already begun to give us a sneak peek at the upcoming fall fashion. I love autumn and Halloween is my favorite holiday, so I have been ready for this since June. There are already Halloween lights flashing on my desk.

It’s a busy time for us because we have a lot of seasonal events. The first will be the re-installation of our exhibit, A Grave Affair, in the Treasury of the historic Courthouse. This exhibit interprets the death and mourning rituals of the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries. The exhibit will open September 12^th and run through Halloween. Next up is the Old Auburn Cemetery Tour on Sunday, October 5^th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. You don’t need reservations, just show up and be prepared to meet some interesting characters from our past.

As noted in a prior issue, I am retiring this year, and my last day will be Halloween. I’ve been looking back through our files and found this nugget from the minutes of our staff meeting on September 11, 2008: “Ralph reported that he has been working with Bev Lewis from the Placer County Film office on a new exhibit in the History on the Go space in the gallery.  It will be on movies that were filmed in Placer County.  The four movies will be: Gold Rush (Truckee), Greed (Iowa Hill), Godfather II (Lake Tahoe), and Phenomenon (Auburn).  The exhibit will be on display for approximately a year and a half.”

If I recall, that exhibit was on display for about two and a half years before being replaced with one of many subsequent exhibits on local cemeteries. Speaking of cemeteries, I hope to see you all at the Old Auburn Cemetery Tour on October 5^th!

 

New Donation Highlight

By Kasia Woroniecka , Curator of Collections

This Chinese sewing basket, dating to around 1900, features a lid adorned with decorative tassels. Popular from the 1880s through the 1930s, these baskets were commonly used to store sewing supplies. They also served as traditional wedding gifts, often filled with food and other offerings. Typically crafted from bamboo, cane, grasses, or willow, these baskets reflect the growing Western fascination with Asian design and culture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The basket belonged to Effa Elvira Lardner Gordon, who was the youngest daughter of  W. B. Lardner and Jennie Mitchell Lardner.  W.B. Lardner was a prominent attorney, State Senator, Placer County District Attorney, and Auburn's City Attorney. 

Greetings from a Haunted Past: Highlights from a Halloween Postcard Collection

By Kasia Woroniecka, Curator of Collections

The tradition of Halloween greeting cards began in the United States in the 1890s, with postcards becoming especially popular between 1900 and 1920, a period often considered the “golden age” of Halloween postcards. Much like Christmas and birthday cards, Halloween cards grew into a cherished custom in the early 20th century, featuring colorful illustrations and familiar holiday motifs.

Early Halloween postcards commonly depicted classic imagery such as witches, black cats, and jack-o’-lanterns, with the jack-o’-lantern emerging as an especially prominent symbol. As the holiday grew in popularity, so did the demand for themed cards. By the mid-20th century, companies like Hallmark helped commercialize Halloween greetings through mass production and national marketing campaigns.

We recently accepted a large collection of postcard albums, including a few fascinating examples of early Halloween postcards that highlight this unique and whimsical aspect of American holiday history. Here are a few examples:

Halloween postcard. "What the boys did to the cow." 1910

PCM Collection

Halloween postcard. "Wishing you a Lucky Halloween.” 1910.

PCM Collection

Halloween postcard. “To Wish You the Best of Luck at Halloween” 1924.

PCM Collection

Halloween postcard. “A Joyful Halloween.” 1912. 

PCM Collection

Halloween postcard. “The Joys of Halloween be Yours.” 1910.

PCM Collection

New Exhibit Lights Up the Placer County Museum

By Jason Adair, Exhibit Technician

Anyone who knows me probably knows my feelings about stained glass. Simply put, I’m not a fan. But dang it if I don’t love the new exhibit we put in the Courthouse that features a mammoth stained-glass lampshade made in memory of Drucilla Barner, the first woman to win the Tevis Cup. I’m sure many people have looked at it in the back of Collections on their way to the high-density shelving, but no one has actually seen it. We hadn’t really seen it until we wired it up and put a bulb in it, at which point we were all taken aback and knew we had to get it on display. What’s more, once we decided on it, Someone had to make it more difficult by saying, “It would be better if it spun around in the case so you could see the whole thing.” Dustin said he could sort that part out so there was no going back. As it turned out, it’s one of those exhibits that people who work in the courts stop me in the hall to say how much they like it. If that’s not enough of a reason to come to the courthouse and look around at what we have going on, we also tuned up the gold display. The fabric in it had faded over time and the gold just didn’t pop as much as it used to, but not anymore. Come check them both out and if you’re not completely satisfied, you can have some candy corn that is already on Ralph’s desk. Just in time for…Labor Day?   

Volunteer Spotlight

By Katy Bartosh, Curator of Education

This issue’s docent spotlight is Ron Grove. Ron was a high school history teacher, but when he retired, he was looking for something history-related to do. “I heard great things about how the volunteers for the museums were treated so well and went to the training in 2018 with Beth and the rest is history.” I asked him what his favorite object was at the museums: “Probably the soda machine in the Courthouse. It’s so cool and attracts a lot of attention with visitors. It’s such a great story too.” If any of you have met Ron, you might have noticed he has an endless supply of “Dad jokes” on tap. “I knew I had to do something to get students interested in history, so my "hook" was what came to be called Grove jokes. One stand by, when teaching the Constitution I mentioned that the Bill of Rights was going to be called the William of Rights, but that was too formal. Some kids rolled their eyes (ok they all did) but they did listen and learned history isn't so bad.” 

Thank you for volunteering, Ron! 

Annual History Award

This year’s History Award is a very special one for the  Placer County Docent Museum Docents and all those folks who love our county museums. Ralph Gibson is leaving his post at the leader of the museum program after years of expanding, improving and guiding the museums. All those who have worked with him appreciate his work ethic, (he attends every meeting and every event), his kind manner, his wise counsel and even his shirt choice!
Ralph will be missed by all of us. Please join us at the October 2, 2025 Placer County Historical Society general dinner meeting to honor Ralph.
Non-members are welcome to join us to honor Ralph. Dinner is $30.00 per person and reservations must be made before September 28th. Please RSVP to rsvp.pchs@gmail.com
We can accommodate vegetarian or gluten free requests only. You must indicate that special request when you rsvp.
In that reply, please let us know if you will be paying at the door or via Venmo at placer-historical-society.
The meeting starts at 6:00 pm. Please join us to honor Ralph! 

Rocklin Historical Society Cemetery Tour

The Rocklin Historical Society will be hosting tours of the Rocklin Cemetery on Day of the Dead (Saturday, Nov. 1). We will be offering two tours of the gravesites of notable residents in the cemetery – one from 10 a.m. to noon and the second from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Each tour will be limited to 20 people (age 16 and older). 

Volunteers depicting the notable residents will be stationed at select gravesites to offer a brief history of the resident as well as his/her impact on our community.   

Tickets, at $20 per person (or $15 for Rocklin Historical Society members), can be purchased on Evite starting in mid-October. Watch Facebook and our website (rocklinhistorical.org) for more details.

Proceeds from this event will benefit our Secret Garden, which is being developed behind the Rocklin Library in memory of Rocklin’s first county librarian, Jennie Minkkinen.  

For more information, send an email to rocklinhistorical@gmail.com.

Chinese Cemetery Memorial Plaque Unveiling

The Golden Drift Historical Society is hosting a Memorial Plaque Unveiling on Saturday, September 13, 2025. The ceremony will commence at 11 am with a Taoist Blessing Ceremony, followed by the unveiling of the Memorial Plaque honoring Dutch Flat’s Chinese Pioneers and an Incense Offering.

Dutch Flat’s Chinese Cemetery Restoration Project is a joint effort of the Golden Drift Historical Society and the Chinatown History and Culture Association, with support from the CCBA, and many other organizations and individuals. 

Dutch Flat Chinese Cemetery

Cemetery Road

Dutch Flat, CA 95714

www.goldendrift.org

Placer County Historical Society 

 

Dinner Meeting

When: Thursday, October 2, 2025

Meeting at 6:00, Dinner at 6:15, Speaker at 6:45

Roger Staab on “How the Southern Pacific and Lake Tahoe Railway Saved Lake Tahoe." 

Location: Veterans Memorial Hall Dinner cost: $30.00.

100 East Street, Auburn, CA Speaker presentation: Free

Please RSVP to rsvp.pchs@gmail.com 

Please go to www.placercountyhistoricalsociety.org for more information

 Placer County Historical Organizations

Colfax Area Historical Society 

Jay McIntyre, President, (530) 346-8599

colfaxhistory.org 

Donner Summit Historical Society

Bill Oudegeest, (209) 606-6859

donnersummithistoricalsociety.org

Foresthill Divide Historical Society

Annie DeMaria-Norris (916) 206-4479 foresthillhistory.org

Fruitvale School Hall 

Community Association 

Mark Fowler

Golden Drift Historical Society

Sarah Fugate, (530) 389-2121

Historical Advisory Board

Glenn Vineyard, (916) 747-1961

Joss House Museum and 

Chinese History Center

Larry Finney, (530) 305-9380

Lincoln Area Archives Museum

Elizabeth Jansen, (916) 645-3800

laamca.org

Lincoln Highway Association 

Trey Pitsenberger

vice.president@lincolnhighwayassoc.org

Loomis Basin Historical Society

Karen Clifford, (916) 663-3871

www.loomisbasinhistory.org

Maidu Museum & Historic Site

Kaitlin Kincade, (916) 774-5934

roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum 

The Museum of Sierra Ski History and 1960 Winter Olympics 

David C. Antonucci, (775) 722-3502 

tahoemuseum.org

Native Sons of the Golden West 

Parlor #59

Dave Allen, (530) 878-2878 dsallen59@sbcglobal.net

Newcastle Portuguese Hall 

Association

Mario Farinha, (530) 269-2412 

North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Phil Sexton, (530) 583-1762

northtahoemuseums.org

Placer County Genealogical Society 

Diane Fishburn

http://www.placergenealogy.org  

Placer County Historical Society

April McDonald-Loomis

(530) 823-2128

placercountyhistoricalsociety.org

Placer County Museums Docent Guild

Craig Norris

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society  

Chuck Spinks

Psrhs.org

Rocklin Historical Society

Gloria Beverage (916) 624-3464

rocklinhistorical@gmail.com

Roseville Historical Society

Denise Fiddyment, (916) 773-3003

rosevillehistorical.org

Calendar: 

Please confirm all meeting times and locations with each organization

Foresthill Divide Historical Society Meeting: Monday, September 15th at 6:00 p.m.

Golden Drift Historical Society Meeting: Monday, October 6th at 7:00 p.m.

Historical Advisory Board Meeting:         Wednesday, October 15th at 5:30 p.m.

Loomis Basin Historical Society Meeting: Wednesday, September 17th at 6:00 p.m. 

Placer County Historical Society Meeting: Thursday, September 4th at 2:00 p.m.

Placer Sierra Railroad Heritage Society: Tuesday, September 23rd at 7:00 p.m.

Rocklin Historical Society Meeting:          Tuesday, September 9th at  6:30 p.m.

Roseville Historical Society Meeting: Tuesday, September 9th at 4:00 p.m.