A week ago, [September 18, 2023], I wrote about how this lookout came to be. In a follow up Eric Ewing of the California Department of Forestry sent me some additional photographs. Two had to deal with a memorial plaque for Richard K. Smith, as can be seen in the above the photograph, the monument is located at the base of the stairs of the lookout.

So as a public service I did some research on Mr. Smith, so those who visit the  site might learn more. Richard Smith was born in Brawley, California in1921. In 1948, he went to work for the California Division for Forestry until his death in 1973. Unfortunately, his obituary in the Lassen Advocate provided meager information about his life, but that was typical of obituaries in that era. Smith was buried in the Veteran’s Section at Diamond Crest Cemetery.

In June 1974, a dedication ceremony was held for the new lookout at Fredonyer. It was named in honor of Richard K. Smith who oversaw the operations at Fedonyer for many years. When more information surfaces, this post will be updated to include such material.

Tim