This site was launched on February 5, 2015. Two interesting events back in February 2015. One was the demolition of the Roosevelt Swimming Pool in Susanville. Then, on February 5 there was wild wind storm that in my opinion was very memorable. I never seen so many trees blown down by the wind.
Of course, the web hosting service wants renumeration, and with a very substantial fee increase to boot. Ouch! The bottom line, I renewed for another three years.
Tim
In the Ask Tim segment earlier this month, this question was posed:
“My question to you would be what is the most interesting thing you have discovered in all your years of historical research and/or being a lifelong resident of the area.”
Before I elaborate any further, let me state one item. While we live dramatically different from our ancestors of 150 years ago, human behavior has not changed.
At this time I will focus on physical historical sites. That alone is a challenge. So here are some runner ups. The remnants of Skedaddle Dam is a sight to behold. It is impressive, considering the dam washed away in 1892. Buffalo Salt Works in the Smoke Creek Desert, that dates back to 1864, is unique. What give its special appeal is how the salt over the years transformed the foundation of the wooden vats into somewhat mystical gnarly forms. Very special.
Then, of course, is the sunrise chamber on the summer solstice at Belfast.
The site I have in mind, is of course exceptional and had no idea what to expect, until I saw it. It is a combination prehistoric/historic site, with a unique water feature that is so obscure that it does not appear on USGS maps. I have never photographed it, so a spring expedition is in the works before the reveal, but not its location.
Tim
On a quarterly basis, I ask you the reader, if there is something you would like to learn more about or maybe its something you heard, but question its validity. So here is an opportunity to participate. I will do my best to answer any questions. It should be noted, it may take awhile for the answer to appear as a post. The primary reason, many of the daily posts are done nearly a month in advance. So by the time you read this I am already working on posts for the middle of February, or at least I should be. Whatever the case may be, I look forward to hearing from you. Of course, it should be noted that paid subscribers requests receive priority. In addition, you can always send a request at any time.
Tim
During the winter months, I spend some time cataloging documents and photographs. A tedious chore, but one that has to be done. With that in mind, I came across two 1947 photographs of the aftermath of the fire that destroyed Susanville’s Hotel Mt. Lassen. Since the cement walls were structurally sound, the hotel was rebuilt.
The Hotel Mt. Lassen has now been closed for well over a decade. The current realtor has a firm asking price of $1.7 million. Last summer, I happen to had a discussion with a building contractor who inspected the hotel on the urging of the realtor. It was the contractor’s opinion that it would cost at least $3 million to put in back into operation. With inflation since then, the cost is probably higher. It appears the hotel will sit vacant for a long, long time.
Tim
Every year has its high and lows. Personally, the beginning of the year was off to a rocky start. There was, of course, the never ending winter weather that did not cease until early May, that did not help matters. In March, came the computer malfunctions and I appreciated those readers who provided me with assistance. But to make up for the computer issues, that month I received C.H. Bennett’s photograph albums when he was the Company Clerk at the Secret Valley CCC in the mid 1930s.
In June I was able to experience some wonderful outings including the Smoke Creek Desert. This particular trip was significant to visit Edward Laird’s grave. The outing was exceptional with not only cool weather, but at the end ofJune that country’s vegetation was still very green.
The last half of the year, was hardly smooth sailing. November was a sad moment when the community and my personal close friend Noreen Frieling passed away. I, determined with Nor’s spirit, needed an attitude adjustment in December. It was the perfect dose of medicine.
I am ready for 2024 to spread good cheer to all throughout the year. Shucks, believe it or not I already have about half of the 2025 calendar done. Happy New Year to all.
Tim
Sifting through old scans, I came across the above holiday greeting postcard of the Lassen County. While this photograph was scanned and uploaded to the website back in October 2015, for reasons unknown I never bothered to publish the same, until now.
How much longer when the old jail remains standing is anyone’s guess. After all the the roof has collapsed on the back half of the building.
Tim
Just a friendly reminder to buy your calendar, as inventory is low at this point. Margie’s Book Nook has ten, and I only have one available. This particular calendar features one of the most unique selection of historic photographs I have put together. As one person noted, “You really picked a nice variety of unknowns for us Lassen County amateur historians.”
Tim
Profiles: The Men and Women Who Have Made History in the Land of Lakes is the latest annual publication of the Shaw Library. If you are not familiar with these publications they are quality books in both content and production.
I have not had an opportunity to read my copy yet. There is a biography on Isaac Roop, as well as Sarah Winnemucca, Reub Long and a host of others. These are great books, and I highly recommend them.
Copies of “Profiles” can be purchased in Susanville at Margie’s Book Nook or by contacting the Shaw Historical Library by email at shawlib@oit.edu or by calling 541-885-1686.
Tim
Some people might find this of interest. Chico State has transferred its interest in the Eagle Lake Biological Field Station on the east shore of the lake to the Susanville Indian Rancheria. Not sure what the Rancheria’s intent is. In the past, according to Bureau of Land Management policy it must be used for educational purposes, whether this applies to the Rancheria, I do not know.. When I was on the Lassen College board, I had brought up that the college should look into it, but that went nowhere.
Tim
