Today marks the fourteenth anniversary of the passing of the famed jazz musician Dave Brubeck. One of his most notable pieces was Take Five.
Many people may not be aware that Dave’s family played an integral role in the region’s history. His grandfather, Lewis Warren Brubeck, settled on the east side of Honey Lake at a place known then as Lower Hot Springs in 1881. To build his home and outbuildings he rafted the lumber across Honey Lake from Milford. Dave’s father, Peter Howard was born there. In 1890, the NCO Railroad arrived at Brubeck’s Ranch and it was transformed into the bustling community of Amedee. Lewis was married to Louisa Grass. That family had deep ties in the region’s history. Seasons residents might not beware the late Beth Doyle and Erma Haley, were both Grass descendants.
Dave’s aunt, Mabel Brubeck was the first person buried in the Amedee Cemetery. After the family sold their holdings and moved to Concord, one member would return, William. Will Brubeck had a small homestead across the highway from the wild horse corrals. Of course he had numerous cousins in the region. After all, Litchfield was named for his aunt and uncle (Mary Grass and Andrew Litch). One of the more interesting cousins, who happen to marry in the George Wingfield family was the intrepid explorer, Leonard Clark.
Greatly appreciate your insightful perspective.