Sheep, spinning, bird houses, a grinding rock and more were all part of the Sierra Valley History Days in early May, report organizers. Fifty-four elementary school students attended the event, including fourth graders from C. Roy Carmichael Elementary School in Portola and 10 elementary school students from Downieville.
Students rotated through stations that included demonstrations on how to identify various trees, determine their age and recognize the best uses for the wood from each tree. Another demonstration showed how wood is milled.
Students learned about the process for preparing sheep wool to be used for spinning. Three local spinners — Christine Lindberg, Sienna Larrucea and Gisela Martinetti — were present to show how the prepared wool is spun.
Another station was available for students to build bird houses. Finally, students were treated to a wagon ride to see a grinding rock used by Native American tribes to prepare food. The day was topped off by a barbecue lunch.
The venue for the event was the Harvey Ranch, in Sierra Valley. The McPherrin/Harvey families have been bringing sheep to the property for summer grazing since 1916. In 1987, Anna Harvey and her husband, Don, moved to the property to start a logging/firewood business. At the time, the only thing on the property was a natural spring. Since then, along with raising sheep, the family constructed a family home, a barn and several outbuildings. The family business, Harvey Farms, sells fresh lamb, lambswool blankets, fleece and soap.
Sierra Nevada History Days was organized by Anna Harvey and Janet Baldridge, who are both involved in the Sierra Valley/Calpine communities. After months of planning and with the help of over 15 volunteers, Sierra Valley History Days became a reality. The Harvey Ranch will host a second history day event May 30 for students from the elementary school in Loyalton, as well as homeschooled students. Funding for both events was provided by the Common Good Community Foundation.
Plans are underway for similar events next year. For more information, contact Harvey at annagotwool@gmail.com.
Information provided by Common Good Community Foundation
