Like so many words and/or phrases evolve over the years, and one such one is mentor. Many educational institutions are of the belief that a mentor is of a person that is experienced and a trusted advisor.  I think that is bunk and misleading.

Personally, in my historical research I never had a living mentor. On the other hand I was very fortunate to have a very supportive network of people who nurtured in my endeavors.

In certain ways, Asa M. Fairfield (1854-1926) I considered a mentor. He is best known as the author Fairfield’s Pioneer History of Lassen County.  He was also a highly respected grade school teacher. I, too, was teacher and briefly taught at Lassen College. My students were engaged and classes in many instances extended to well past 11 p.m.–thanks in part of my oldest student Phil Hall.

Anyhow, I am impressed with Fairfield’s  impeccable research of more than a century ago.  Since so many pioneers of the area had moved from the area, Fairfield did track them down, and had a vigorous letter campaign.  I, too, followed that route,  corresponded with numerous second generation pioneers. During that era, I amassed volumes of handwritten correspondence with many who were born in the 1880s and 1890s. Priceless. It should be noted that my first 25 years of research was a done pre-internet. While the internet is a handy tool, I still rely upon primary source documents.

Fairfield and I are also share a a common bond, we were both  disappointed  with our book sales!

Tim