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P.O. Box 2046 • Yucca Valley, CA 92286 • 760-365-1877 • www.mbhs.net • Email: [email protected]
VOLUME 10 NUMBER 3 SEPTEMBER 2008
MORONGO BASIN HISTORICAL SOCIETYP.O. Box 2046 • Yucca Valley, CA 92286
Preserving Our Past For Our Future
www.mbhs.net
DR. JAMES B. LUCKIEFather of Twentynine Palms
PLEASE RENEW YOUR DUES TOENJOY OUR HISTORIC PROGRAMS!
If the city of Twentynine Palms has a“father,” that title goes to Dr. James BucknerLuckie, the man responsible for encouragingailing World War I veterans to relocate to thedry climate of the high desert. One of 29Palms’ famous wall murals and the Luckie Parkboth commemorate Dr. Luckie’s major role inthe founding of the community that becamethe city of 29 Palms.
Dr. Luckie was born in 1888 and raisedas the youngest child of a large family inBirmingham, Alabama. As a college studentin Florida and a medical student at theUniversity of Colorado, he was known for hisrich baritone voice, which led to singingengagements that helped fund his education.
In 1913, Dr. Luckie came to Pasadena asa resident physician at the La Vina Sanitarium,specializing in tuberculosis but changed tointernal medicine until he retired. He was onstaff at Huntington Memorial Hospital inPasadena.
When the United States entered WorldWar I, he left his practice to serve with anArmy medical unit as a tuberculosis examinerat Camp Kearney, north of San Diego. Therehe observed the wretched situation of oursoldiers wounded overseas. As a veteranhimself, he understood the term given toWorld War I veterans as a “lost generation”and wanted to help them back to health.
Dr. Luckie was strongly opposed tosending veterans suffering from the effectsof mustard gas, asthma, and/or tuberculosisto the Sawtelle Veterans Hospital near SantaMonica where coastal fog could intensify theirlung problems.
Dr. Luckie realized the benefits of a hot,dry climate at an altitude of about twothousand feet for veterans with damagedlungs. He and a veteran friend, Joe Davis, a
tuberculosis sufferer, relentlessly scoureddesert areas on weekends seeking a healthyclimate. After a night of camping at the 29Palms Oasis of Mara, Dr. Luckie had foundhis ideal healthy location. In addition, theveterans could homestead 160 free acres andbuild homes. Dr. Luckie began telling hisveteran patients to “Go out to 29 Palms andfile on a homestead.” (3)
When his veteran patients, as well asother veterans, arrived at this desert oasis,there was no town, only bleak stretches ofsand with an occasional home. In Sand in MyShoe, Helen Bagley describes this scene andestimates that when she and husband Frankarrived in 1927, there were about 50-100settlers from Yucca Valley to the Dale Miningregion. The miners, cattlemen and drifterswere highly nomadic. These newer settlers,especially the veterans, were here to stay.
Frank Bagley once asked Dr. Luckie howmany veterans he had sent to 29 Palms. Thedoctor said he didn’t know exactly butguessed about 300. Historian Lucille Weightprobably said it best, “29 Palms began as acolony: a group of World War I veterans withdisabilities due to serving their country.” (2)
Joe Davis was one of the first ailingveterans to move to 29 Palms and file ahomestead claim. He was helped byveterans from the Pasadena American Legionwho traveled to Joe’s homesteaded land tobuild his house. Unfortunately, Joe did notsurvive. He is remembered, however, by JoeDavis Drive intersecting with Luckie Lane.
Bill Campbill was another veteran whotook Dr. Luckie’s advice to homestead in 29Palms. Bill liked to tell the story that Dr.Luckie’s compassion extended to notcharging his disabled veterans for hisservice. When Bill tried to pay Dr. Luckie,the doctor refused, saying that he didn’tknow how much the bill was. In gratitude,Bill told Dr. Luckie, “Jim, I don’t know what Iowe you. So here is a deed to forty acres ofmy land – and I don’t know how much thatis worth either.” (4) Later Dr. Luckie deededthe land to the Desert Legion Post #334.
Realizing the value of recreation forrecovering veterans and their families, Dr.Luckie sent his friend John Way to 29 Palmsto offer to pay for a community pool. Yearslater the Legion built a park around the pooland named it Luckie Park to honor theirbenefactor.
When the doctor was invited to theFourth of July 1965 dedication of the park,he was an elderly man in bad health butattended anyway. He was deeply touchedby his community’s gratitude to him. The
IN UNIFORM: Dr. James B. Luckie left a thriving medicalpractice in Pasadena to do his duty to America duringWorld War I as tuberculosis examiner with the U. S.Army Medical Department at Camp Kearny. He was afirst lieutenant. (Susan Luckie Reilly collection photo)
Continued on Page 2
MEMBERSHIPAPPLICATION
MISSION STATEMENTThe specific purpose of this (non-profit) corporation is to collect, conserve and exhibit artifacts; tocollect, display, interpret and publish memorabilia relating to the history of the Morongo Basin; to
locate, identify and preserve historic sites; to promote the research and study of local history, and toshare the rich heritage of the Morongo Basin with all the communities within and surrounding it.
Please make checks payable to:MORONGO BASIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Preserving Our Past For Our FutureP.O. Box 2046 • Yucca Valley, CA 92286
760-365-1877Email: [email protected]
www.mbhs.net
I (We) would like to contribute an additional $ as a tax-deductible donation to the MORONGO BASIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Your Gift is Sincerely Appreciated
Name:
Additional Name (Family Membership only):
Mailing Address:
Telephone: ( ) E-mail:
LAST FIRST M.I.
P.O. BOX or STREET CITY STATEZIP
MEMBERSHIP (Please check one) New Renewal
FOR MBHS USE ONLY
Date received: Cash: $ Check: #
Date received by Treasurer: Date Newsletter sent:
Newsletter Application
(Revised 6/08)
Date:
NOTES:6/08 Newsletter
MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES (Please check one)
Individual .....................................$20.00 per year*Family (1 address) ........................$35.00 per year*Organization ................................$40.00 per year*Businesses ....................................$45.00 per year*Life (1 Ind/Bus/Org) ......................$300.00 per person
2008-2009BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT Bob [email protected]
1st VICE PRESIDENT Lloyd NoelProperties 760-364-3544
2nd VICE PRESIDENT Bob BurhleBudget & Audit 760-228-0898& Fundraising/Grants [email protected]
TREASURER Rachel Crawford& Volunteer Hours 760-363-1340
SECRETARY Sallie Brown& Newsletter Editor 760-364-4446
Page 2 Page 7
CREATIVE Barbara Harris/AdsetCONSULTANT 760-365-3266Newsletter Graphics [email protected]
CURATOR Jim BrockArchaeology Program 760-228-1142
HISTORIAN Harvey [email protected]
HISTORICAL Dale NoelSITES 760-364-3544
ORAL Cheryl NankervisINTERVIEWS 760-365-6323
MAPS Gerald [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP Carole [email protected]
NEWSLETTER Sallie BrownEditor 760-364-4446
NEWSLETTER Carol SandersAssistant Editor 760-364-3771& Timeline Keeper [email protected]
PROGRAM Laurie GeesonCOMMITTEE 760-363-6681
PUBLICITY Jimmy [email protected]
REGISTRAR Carol [email protected]
SALES Linda & Wayne [email protected]
WARREN’S WELL Sandy WilliamsPRESERVATION [email protected]
WEBSITE Rob [email protected]
2007-2008 CHAIRS
next day the Bagleys took him and his daughter Susan on apicnic where he shared with Helen a verse he wrote aboutthe first time he saw the valley that sheltered his chosen desertdream: (3)
If scenes like these thy heart can share,Then bide a welcome pilgrim here.
He said that if Luckie Park officials ever decided to erecta monument to him, he hoped it would be a simple boulderwith lines from Mozart’s The Magic Flute: (3)
Here far from noise and turmoilMay brotherly love prevail.
Ten days after the Luckie Park dedication, Dr. Luckie died,leaving the desert community a legacy of compassion, service,and love.
Compiled by Sallie Brown, EditorSources:(1) Interview with Susan Luckie Reilly
(2) Lucille Weight’s article “Area is ‘Luckie’ this doctor came here”
(3 Helen Bagley’s book Sand in My Shoe
(4) Frank Bagley’s article “Early History of Twentynine Palms”
Our newsletter is supported through advertising sponsorship. It is published and mailed to members four times a year, anddistributed throughout the Basin during many of the local events. It’s a great way for you to advertise your business.
To learn how you can advertise in this newsletter contact Bob Connors at: 760-365-6163
HISTORY BROUGHT TO YOU BYDr. Luckie continued from page 1
FATHER AND DAUGHTER: Dr. James B.Luckie holds his daughter, Susan,who still lives in Twentynine Palms.Susan Luckie Reilly is a desert-loverand environmentalist. She is still proudof her father ’s accomplishments.(Susan Luckie Reilly collection photo)
Editor’s Note: Deep appreciation to Susan Luckie Reilly for her permission, photos, andinformation for this article honoring her father. Thanks also to the Twentynine Palms HistoricalSociety’s Marilyn Collier and Al Gartner for their graciousness in providing research materialsand photos. Written sources available at the 29 Palms Historical Society Museum.
Received approval of a $25,000 County of San Bernardino Grant to make improvementsto our MBHS Museum and Research Center in Landers.
Received Laura June’s monumental work for research: Obituary Records: 2002 – 2006.Many thanks to Laura for her years of tedious compilation!
Moved 14 research file cabinets to MBHS Museum & Research Center and are nowready to make research appointments. Contact Registrar, Carol Schreiber by calling:760-369-0259 or email: [email protected]
Completed new MBHS Mining Display at the Hi-Desert Nature Museum.
Scheduled 1st Wednesdays in conjunction with the Hi-Desert Nature Museum for aseries of historical programs the first Wednesday of each month at the Museum, startingWednesday, September 3rd.
Scheduled a MBHS Benefit fundraiser with a showing of a locally produced film OnceUpon a Dirt Road on August 31 at the Joshua Tree Playhouse’s Blak Box Theater.
Accepted an invitation from Arlette Capel of the American Free Journal in Yucca Valley topublish a monthly history article. Look for our MBHS column starting in September.
Celebrate RecentMBHS Accomplishments
MBHS IS LOOKINGFOR VOLUNTEERS
• To help with pre & post event set-up and clean-up• To weed, rake, and water the yard• To file documents and transcribe. Transcribing can be done at home.
SUPPORT THEMBHS NEWSLETTER
WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR BUSINESS TO BEADVERTISED IN THE MBHS NEWSLETTER?
CONTACT: Wayne or Linda DarnellEMAIL: [email protected]
CALL: 619-933-9394
Page 3Page 6
PRESIDENT’SCORNER
Usually when we think of the history of theMorongo Basin we tend to dwell on the harsh lifeendured by the Native Americans, cowboys and goldminers as well as the settlers who first populated thispart of the Mojave Desert. I believe we should alsoinclude a more genteel endeavor begun byhomesteading women and the Basin’s longest runningannual event.
After WWI, many veterans suffering from lungailments contracted during their military service wereencouraged by Pasadena physician Dr. James B. Luckieto seek recovery in the warm, dry air of the desert.These men came from the cities with their familiesand most filed homestead claims on 160 acres ofwide-open land. Their wives had been used to a morerefined way of living with paved roads, electricity andindoor plumbing. In 1939, they established theWomen’s Club of Twentynine Palms in order to retainsome semblance of a cultured society. Each monththey held a luncheon with a guest speaker.
In July of 1940, the lecturer was the much acclaimed etching artist Mildred Bryant Brooksof Pasadena. At that time, it was the social convention to present one’s guest with anarrangement of flowers, but fresh flowers were not available on a hot desert summer day. Thehostesses apologized to their guest for the omission. Mrs. Brooks countered by asking themwhy they needed fresh flowers when they had so many beautiful weeds. Two very puzzledmembers went out to the grounds of the 29 Palms Inn to collect a selection of dried vegetation.On their return, Mrs. Brooks showed the club members how to assemble the dried plants intoartistic arrangements. She so inspired the ladies that the following year they incorporatedweed displays into their annual flower show. Thus the Weed Show was born.
When the Women’s Club of Twentynine Palms disbanded, the sponsorship of the WeedShow was taken up by the Gardening Club, and subsequently by the Twentynine Palms HistoricalSociety.
This year’s Weed Show takes place on November 1 & 2, 2008, at the Old SchoolhouseMuseum, 6760 National Park Drive. It is open to the public, free of charge from noon to 4 p.m.on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Anyone can enter the competition, as long asthey abide by the rules. Three judges have the difficult task of choosing the winners (whoreceive merely a ribbon and bragging rights). Mark your calendars and plan to attend. If youwould like to enter, the rules are posted on the 29 Palms Historical Society Website at:groups.msn.com/29palmshistoricalsociety or call Pat Rimmington at (760) 362-4201.
By Pat Rimington
History of the 29 Palms AnnualWEED SHOW
Bob ConnorsPRESIDENT 2002-2009
I recently read thatlove at first sight is easyto understand. It’s whentwo people have beenlooking at each other foryears that it becomes amiracle. Needless to say,most of your board andchair members have been looking at each otherfor years and, I will admit, it is a miracle. Wehave been through some tough times togetherbut have survived the test of time. We haveaccomplished a lot in the ten years we havebeen a Society and our thanks to themembership for their support and trust.
With this in mind, I would like to welcomeon board four members who have stepped upto the plate and accepted the responsibility toserve by lending their knowledge to insure thatour society continues to move forward. I ampleased to welcome Bob Buhrle as our 2nd VP,Rachel Crawford as our Treasurer, CarolSchreiber as our Registrar, and Carol Sandersas our Newsletter Assistant Editor and TimelineKeeper.
My thanks to two of our Society’s founders,Ruth & Les Long, who have recently retired asour Registrars, and from the very beginninghave devoted many hours in their retirementto establish a solid foundation for the Societythat we have today. Their foresight has madeus a strong organization that will help to guideus through the coming years.
Last but not least, I am pleased toannounce that we applied for and recentlyreceived notification from the County ofSan Bernardino that our Society has beenapproved to receive a $25,000 grant to makeimprovements to our MBHS Museum andResearch Center in Landers. So stay tuned andwatch us continue to grow…there will be moregood news coming our way in the near future.
”Happiness is a voyage, not adestination; there is no better time
to be happy than...NOW.”
got junk?ON TIME AND READY!
License #CA296970364-9092
Rubbish and Discard RemovalClean-up and Haul-Away
We load for you...anything Everthing, any size, any problem
$20.00and up
All Terrain Trailer & Dump
We invite all members to join in & help whenever you can. Just let usknow your expertise & interest - We look forward to hearing from you.
VOLUNTEERS = PROGRESS
When member Brad Vickery heard that we needed help to clear and make a safer path to the museum post office, he brought his tractor to theproperty and made it happen.
When Desert Pacific received a call for extermination work, member Steve Hawkins was there immediately to ensure that our home wasprotected and safe.
With Co-Founders Ruth and Les Long retiring as Registrars and the relocation of the 14 full-of-local history MBHS file cabinets from their garageto the MBHS research rooms was announced, new member Carole Schreiber stepped forward to continue the Longs’ work as Registrars. Allrequests and appointments for research should now be scheduled through Carole Schreiber @ 369-0259 or desert_thorn2@ roadrunner.com.
To move and place the 14 file cabinets, members Lee Johnson, Paul & Laurie Geeson, Bob Buhrle, Lloyd & DaleNoel, Rachel Crawford and Carole Schreiber worked together to get it done, including a team lunch provided byCarole Schreiber. Lifetime member Lee Johnson quickly moved into place to help us put together amaster plan for landscaping the MBHS grounds. Mike Lipsitz, Michele Easterwood & Brad Vickeryhave all agreed to serve on the Landscaping Committee.
Jim Brock agreed to develop procedures as Curator for MBHS and toimplement a fall archaeological class for MBHS members.
Like all things, changes are still ongoing at our MBHS Museum & Research Center. Many volunteer members continue to pitch in to meet thecontinued growth needs of our Society to make the MBHS an important and accessible resource for all residents of the Morongo Basin.
Weeds can be beautiful!
SATURDAY12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
SUNDAY10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Weeds can be beautiful!
Weed Show entryby Ada Hatch 1950
Weed Show2007
Weed ShowWinner 2005
Weed Show OldSchoolhouse
Saturday & SundayNovember 1 & 2, 2008OLD SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM
6760 National Park Drive Twenty-Nine Palms
As a charter member andlife member of MBHS, I wasthinking of what I could do as aprofessional archaeologist tohelp the Society grow andcontribute to our knowledge ofMorongo Basin history. My ideais to establish a committee toallow members to activelyparticipate in legitimate archae-
ology that addresses important research questions for our area. Iwill provide basic archaeological training and backgroundinformation.
The group, of perhaps 10 to 15 people, would start off by meetingand establishing what research areas it wants to pursue. So the groupwill be self directed to a large extent. I don’t want to force myparticular research interests on the group. Do we want to find theoldest prehistoric sites? Do we want to understand cowboy lifeways?Do we want to record rock art? Do we want to do an overview studyof the Basin?
[email protected] • (760) 228-1142Our first meeting is scheduled for:
Saturday, September 27th • 9:00 a.m.at my house
5525 Mountain View Lane • Pioneertown
At first we will examine and record sites that fit our stated researchinterests. Eventually we will do limited excavation on sites that canaddress our research questions. Ultimately we will analyze our materialsto present and publish our findings. For the first time since the Campbellsin the 1930s, there will be an on-going, non-profit archaeological researchprogram in the Morongo Basin. We get to do pure research that isn’tdictated by the needs of developers and government agencies.
I view the committee as an ongoing group whereby if membersleave new ones can join. Hopefully it will be an elite group of hotshotamateurs that really enjoy and take pride in what they’re doing. Withany luck the program will increase Society membership and bringyounger people into the group. Warning: members will have to signa code of ethics (archaeological site information is confidential).Five people have already signed the interest list. Anyone who is interestedshould contact me at:
Proposed Archaeology Program & Committee By Jim Brock, MBHS Curator
DATE: Wednesday, October 1, 2008TIME: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.LOCATION: Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca ValleySPEAKER: Dennis Casebier, Historian and AuthorTOPIC: Oral History in an Empty Land
FEATURE: TO BE DETERMINEDDATE: Friday, October, 10, 2008 • TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, Landers
ORCHID FESTIVALDATE: Saturday, October 4 & Sunday, October 5, 2008LOCATION: Gubler Orchids • 2200 Belfield Blvd. • LandersINFORMATION: www.gublers.com • Call 482-5377MBHS WILL PARTICIPATE IN THIS FESTIVAL
A geographical area may have a rich history but gathering its history wheneveryone is gone is a challenge. Dennis offers anecdotes about his conducting1,000 oral histories despite the challenge. His insights can guide us in preservingour own area history.
$5.00 donation to MBHS at the door • Light refreshments
1st WEDNESDAY PROGRAM
$8.00 per person • $10.00 non-members
PASTEL ART CLASSCome explore your hidden talent!
MOVIE NIGHT
DATE: Saturday, October 25, 2008TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, LandersFEE: $45.00 - pastels & art material included • $40.00 - bring your own pastelsINSTRUCTORS: Darrell Sanders (Beginners) • Hazel Bader (Intermediates)INFORMATION: Call Hazel Bader • 366-2104SEND CHECKS TO: Darrell Sanders • P.O. Box 3402, Landers CA 92285REGISTRATION BY: October 15, 2008
OCTOBER
Page 4 Page 5
New products have arrived! Stop by andsee the many faces of our desert animals andcritters. Why not pick up your desert gambelquail or roadrunner to place in a favorite spot?These are available in different sizes anddesigns.
You can find new books featuring theexploration and development of the AmericanWest. Other book categories cover the MojaveDesert, Joshua Tree National Park, hiking, cacti,rocks, Route 66, antique memorabilia, anddesert animals.
Images of America is a new popular seriesthat celebrates the history of neighborhoodsand towns across the country. Each titlepresents the distinctive stories from the pastthat shape the character of the communitytoday. Titles available at the gift shop are: 29Palms, Banning, Big Bear, Beaumont, Route 66,Wells Fargo, Redlands, San Gorgonio Pass, andThe Marines at 29 Palms.
See you at the gift shop!!
Located in Old Town Mercantile Antique Mall55727 Twenty-Nine Palms Hwy. • Yucca Valley
365-1877OPEN:7 Days a Week
10:00a.m. • 5:00p.m. daily
CHECK THENEW FALL
LOOK AT THEMBHS GIFT SHOP
By Wayne & Linda Darnell, Sales Chairs
GOAL 1Conduct Fundraisers to support our MBHS Museum and Reasearch Center.
GOAL 3Apply for grants to further our efforts in preserving our Morongo Basin History.
GOAL 2Increase our membership and volunteer team by 20%.
GOAL 4Continue to file CA Historical Site Resources, provide and
place historical site plaques, and produce Historical DVD’s.
MBHS MISSION STATEMENTThe specific purpose of this nonprofit corporation is to collect, conserve and exhibitartifacts; to collect, display, interpret and publish memorabilia relating to the historyof the Morongo Basin; to locate, identify and preserve historic sites; to promote theresearch and study of local history; and to share the rich heritage of the MorongoBasin with all the communities within and surrounding it.
TOTAL MEMBERSHIP AS OF AUGUST 8, 2008: 237DATE: Wednesday, September 3, 2008TIME: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.LOCATION: Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca ValleyTOPIC: 60th Anniversary of PioneertownThe MBHS & the Museum are offering a monthly series ofinteresting programs and speakers. Kickoff program is theMBHS DVD: 60th Anniversary of Pioneertown with a historicaloverview of Mane Street and interviews with Pioneertownresidents affected by the July 11, 2006 fire. Pioneertown historianErnest Kester will answer questions and provide handouts.
$5.00 donation to MBHS at the doorLight refreshments
1st WEDNESDAY PROGRAM
The best laid plans . . . Your program committee has again founditself in the position of having to cancel the Mad Hatter’s Tea.Unfortunately for us the historical Pioneer Pass Golf Tournamentis scheduled for the same weekend. Because a major part of ourprogram committee helps put on the tournament along withmany MBHS members playing in the golf tournament, we findourselves without enough “bodies” to do both events. To thosefolks who have made reservations for the Tea, we apologize.
MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTYCANCELLATION
Hot Dogs & yummy, yummy treats plus the movie for:$8.00 per person • $10.00 non-members
DATE: Friday, September 12, 2008TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center 632 Landers Lane • Landers
FEATURING: CAPTUREwith Lew Ayres, filmed in Pioneertown,
MOVIE NIGHT
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
MBHS SCHEDULE OF EVENTSBy Laurie Geeson, Program Chair
Learn easy writing techniques in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.Take home at least one rough draft.DATE: Saturday, November 1, 2008TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, LandersFEE: Members $30.00 • Non-Members$40.00 (includes lunch & materials)FACILITATOR: Sallie BrownQUESTIONS: Call Sallie • 364-4446SEND CHECKS TO: MBHS, P.O. Box 2406, Landers CA 92286 On the check memo - Writing WorkshopREGISTRATION BY: October 20, 2008
1st WEDNESDAY PROGRAMDATE: Wednesday, November 5, 2008TIME: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.LOCATION: Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca ValleyTOPIC: TO BE DETERMINED - MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
FEATURE: TO BE DETERMINEDDATE: Friday, November 14, 2008 • TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, Landers
MOVIE NIGHT
Preserve your family or personal history! Overcome Writer’s Block
WRITING YOUR FAMILYHISTORY WORKSHOP
BOARD MEETINGSFall Board Meetings are scheduled for TUESDAY
SEPTEMBER 9 • OCTOBER 14 • NOVEMBER (TBD) • DECEMBER (Dark) 1:00 p.m. at the MBHS Museum & Research Center in Landers.
— Members are welome to attend —
EVENT EMAILREMINDER SERVICE
If you are not receiving an events updateemail and would like to be on the list to be
notified of upcoming events and specialinformation, phone or email:Carole Kester, 365-4096 or
Are your membership dues past due? Check your mailing label as yourexpiration date is shown. We don’t want this to be the last newsletter you’llreceive! Send your dues to MBHS, P.O. Box 2046, Yucca Valley, CA 92286.
Remember to mark “Membership renewal” on your check memo. For yourrenewal, if you need special billing or invoicing, just let me know.
By Carole Kester, Membership Chair, 760-365-4096
NEW MEMBERSLanders area: George Platko; Pioneertown area: Harriet & Cheryl Allen, TerryWilliams, Gina Huggins, David Heiss; Yucca Valley area: Linda Jane Paino,Ronald M. & Gayle Montgomery, Joe T. Browning, Roberta J. & James A. McClure;Twentynine Palms area: Pat & Sid Rimington; Outside Morongo Basin: PattyDomay, Barbara Robertson, and Katherine E. Ring
Welcome new MBHS members!
GOAL: 300 MEMBERS: To meet our financial operating costs, we need to increaseour membership base to 300 members. Here are two ways you can help ourmembership drive:
IDEA #1: Invest in a GIFT MEMBERSHIP for someone who has everything in theirlives but MBHS . . . for family members near or far so they can learn the history ofwhere you live . . . for history buffs regardless of where they live.
IDEA #2: Let me know the name and address of someone you would like to see bea member. I will write a letter and send an application to them.
WHAT ARE YOUR IDEAS? Please do share them with me!
Notes: Our Board voted not to send membership cards yearly to cut down on postal costs.If you have an email address, we can send you a monthly reminder of upcoming events.Send your request to me: [email protected]
2008 GOALS
MEMBER NEWS
DATE: Wednesday, October 1, 2008TIME: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.LOCATION: Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca ValleySPEAKER: Dennis Casebier, Historian and AuthorTOPIC: Oral History in an Empty Land
FEATURE: TO BE DETERMINEDDATE: Friday, October, 10, 2008 • TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, Landers
ORCHID FESTIVALDATE: Saturday, October 4 & Sunday, October 5, 2008LOCATION: Gubler Orchids • 2200 Belfield Blvd. • LandersINFORMATION: www.gublers.com • Call 482-5377MBHS WILL PARTICIPATE IN THIS FESTIVAL
A geographical area may have a rich history but gathering its history wheneveryone is gone is a challenge. Dennis offers anecdotes about his conducting1,000 oral histories despite the challenge. His insights can guide us in preservingour own area history.
$5.00 donation to MBHS at the door • Light refreshments
1st WEDNESDAY PROGRAM
$8.00 per person • $10.00 non-members
PASTEL ART CLASSCome explore your hidden talent!
MOVIE NIGHT
DATE: Saturday, October 25, 2008TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, LandersFEE: $45.00 - pastels & art material included • $40.00 - bring your own pastelsINSTRUCTORS: Darrell Sanders (Beginners) • Hazel Bader (Intermediates)INFORMATION: Call Hazel Bader • 366-2104SEND CHECKS TO: Darrell Sanders • P.O. Box 3402, Landers CA 92285REGISTRATION BY: October 15, 2008
OCTOBER
Page 4 Page 5
New products have arrived! Stop by andsee the many faces of our desert animals andcritters. Why not pick up your desert gambelquail or roadrunner to place in a favorite spot?These are available in different sizes anddesigns.
You can find new books featuring theexploration and development of the AmericanWest. Other book categories cover the MojaveDesert, Joshua Tree National Park, hiking, cacti,rocks, Route 66, antique memorabilia, anddesert animals.
Images of America is a new popular seriesthat celebrates the history of neighborhoodsand towns across the country. Each titlepresents the distinctive stories from the pastthat shape the character of the communitytoday. Titles available at the gift shop are: 29Palms, Banning, Big Bear, Beaumont, Route 66,Wells Fargo, Redlands, San Gorgonio Pass, andThe Marines at 29 Palms.
See you at the gift shop!!
Located in Old Town Mercantile Antique Mall55727 Twenty-Nine Palms Hwy. • Yucca Valley
365-1877OPEN:7 Days a Week
10:00a.m. • 5:00p.m. daily
CHECK THENEW FALL
LOOK AT THEMBHS GIFT SHOP
By Wayne & Linda Darnell, Sales Chairs
GOAL 1Conduct Fundraisers to support our MBHS Museum and Reasearch Center.
GOAL 3Apply for grants to further our efforts in preserving our Morongo Basin History.
GOAL 2Increase our membership and volunteer team by 20%.
GOAL 4Continue to file CA Historical Site Resources, provide and
place historical site plaques, and produce Historical DVD’s.
MBHS MISSION STATEMENTThe specific purpose of this nonprofit corporation is to collect, conserve and exhibitartifacts; to collect, display, interpret and publish memorabilia relating to the historyof the Morongo Basin; to locate, identify and preserve historic sites; to promote theresearch and study of local history; and to share the rich heritage of the MorongoBasin with all the communities within and surrounding it.
TOTAL MEMBERSHIP AS OF AUGUST 8, 2008: 237DATE: Wednesday, September 3, 2008TIME: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.LOCATION: Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca ValleyTOPIC: 60th Anniversary of PioneertownThe MBHS & the Museum are offering a monthly series ofinteresting programs and speakers. Kickoff program is theMBHS DVD: 60th Anniversary of Pioneertown with a historicaloverview of Mane Street and interviews with Pioneertownresidents affected by the July 11, 2006 fire. Pioneertown historianErnest Kester will answer questions and provide handouts.
$5.00 donation to MBHS at the doorLight refreshments
1st WEDNESDAY PROGRAM
The best laid plans . . . Your program committee has again founditself in the position of having to cancel the Mad Hatter’s Tea.Unfortunately for us the historical Pioneer Pass Golf Tournamentis scheduled for the same weekend. Because a major part of ourprogram committee helps put on the tournament along withmany MBHS members playing in the golf tournament, we findourselves without enough “bodies” to do both events. To thosefolks who have made reservations for the Tea, we apologize.
MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTYCANCELLATION
Hot Dogs & yummy, yummy treats plus the movie for:$8.00 per person • $10.00 non-members
DATE: Friday, September 12, 2008TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center 632 Landers Lane • Landers
FEATURING: CAPTUREwith Lew Ayres, filmed in Pioneertown,
MOVIE NIGHT
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
MBHS SCHEDULE OF EVENTSBy Laurie Geeson, Program Chair
Learn easy writing techniques in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.Take home at least one rough draft.DATE: Saturday, November 1, 2008TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, LandersFEE: Members $30.00 • Non-Members$40.00 (includes lunch & materials)FACILITATOR: Sallie BrownQUESTIONS: Call Sallie • 364-4446SEND CHECKS TO: MBHS, P.O. Box 2406, Landers CA 92286 On the check memo - Writing WorkshopREGISTRATION BY: October 20, 2008
1st WEDNESDAY PROGRAMDATE: Wednesday, November 5, 2008TIME: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.LOCATION: Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca ValleyTOPIC: TO BE DETERMINED - MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
FEATURE: TO BE DETERMINEDDATE: Friday, November 14, 2008 • TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.LOCATION: MBHS Museum & Research Center, 632 Landers Lane, Landers
MOVIE NIGHT
Preserve your family or personal history! Overcome Writer’s Block
WRITING YOUR FAMILYHISTORY WORKSHOP
BOARD MEETINGSFall Board Meetings are scheduled for TUESDAY
SEPTEMBER 9 • OCTOBER 14 • NOVEMBER (TBD) • DECEMBER (Dark) 1:00 p.m. at the MBHS Museum & Research Center in Landers.
— Members are welome to attend —
EVENT EMAILREMINDER SERVICE
If you are not receiving an events updateemail and would like to be on the list to be
notified of upcoming events and specialinformation, phone or email:Carole Kester, 365-4096 or
Are your membership dues past due? Check your mailing label as yourexpiration date is shown. We don’t want this to be the last newsletter you’llreceive! Send your dues to MBHS, P.O. Box 2046, Yucca Valley, CA 92286.
Remember to mark “Membership renewal” on your check memo. For yourrenewal, if you need special billing or invoicing, just let me know.
By Carole Kester, Membership Chair, 760-365-4096
NEW MEMBERSLanders area: George Platko; Pioneertown area: Harriet & Cheryl Allen, TerryWilliams, Gina Huggins, David Heiss; Yucca Valley area: Linda Jane Paino,Ronald M. & Gayle Montgomery, Joe T. Browning, Roberta J. & James A. McClure;Twentynine Palms area: Pat & Sid Rimington; Outside Morongo Basin: PattyDomay, Barbara Robertson, and Katherine E. Ring
Welcome new MBHS members!
GOAL: 300 MEMBERS: To meet our financial operating costs, we need to increaseour membership base to 300 members. Here are two ways you can help ourmembership drive:
IDEA #1: Invest in a GIFT MEMBERSHIP for someone who has everything in theirlives but MBHS . . . for family members near or far so they can learn the history ofwhere you live . . . for history buffs regardless of where they live.
IDEA #2: Let me know the name and address of someone you would like to see bea member. I will write a letter and send an application to them.
WHAT ARE YOUR IDEAS? Please do share them with me!
Notes: Our Board voted not to send membership cards yearly to cut down on postal costs.If you have an email address, we can send you a monthly reminder of upcoming events.Send your request to me: [email protected]
2008 GOALS
MEMBER NEWS
Page 3Page 6
PRESIDENT’SCORNER
Usually when we think of the history of theMorongo Basin we tend to dwell on the harsh lifeendured by the Native Americans, cowboys and goldminers as well as the settlers who first populated thispart of the Mojave Desert. I believe we should alsoinclude a more genteel endeavor begun byhomesteading women and the Basin’s longest runningannual event.
After WWI, many veterans suffering from lungailments contracted during their military service wereencouraged by Pasadena physician Dr. James B. Luckieto seek recovery in the warm, dry air of the desert.These men came from the cities with their familiesand most filed homestead claims on 160 acres ofwide-open land. Their wives had been used to a morerefined way of living with paved roads, electricity andindoor plumbing. In 1939, they established theWomen’s Club of Twentynine Palms in order to retainsome semblance of a cultured society. Each monththey held a luncheon with a guest speaker.
In July of 1940, the lecturer was the much acclaimed etching artist Mildred Bryant Brooksof Pasadena. At that time, it was the social convention to present one’s guest with anarrangement of flowers, but fresh flowers were not available on a hot desert summer day. Thehostesses apologized to their guest for the omission. Mrs. Brooks countered by asking themwhy they needed fresh flowers when they had so many beautiful weeds. Two very puzzledmembers went out to the grounds of the 29 Palms Inn to collect a selection of dried vegetation.On their return, Mrs. Brooks showed the club members how to assemble the dried plants intoartistic arrangements. She so inspired the ladies that the following year they incorporatedweed displays into their annual flower show. Thus the Weed Show was born.
When the Women’s Club of Twentynine Palms disbanded, the sponsorship of the WeedShow was taken up by the Gardening Club, and subsequently by the Twentynine Palms HistoricalSociety.
This year’s Weed Show takes place on November 1 & 2, 2008, at the Old SchoolhouseMuseum, 6760 National Park Drive. It is open to the public, free of charge from noon to 4 p.m.on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Anyone can enter the competition, as long asthey abide by the rules. Three judges have the difficult task of choosing the winners (whoreceive merely a ribbon and bragging rights). Mark your calendars and plan to attend. If youwould like to enter, the rules are posted on the 29 Palms Historical Society Website at:groups.msn.com/29palmshistoricalsociety or call Pat Rimmington at (760) 362-4201.
By Pat Rimington
History of the 29 Palms AnnualWEED SHOW
Bob ConnorsPRESIDENT 2002-2009
I recently read thatlove at first sight is easyto understand. It’s whentwo people have beenlooking at each other foryears that it becomes amiracle. Needless to say,most of your board andchair members have been looking at each otherfor years and, I will admit, it is a miracle. Wehave been through some tough times togetherbut have survived the test of time. We haveaccomplished a lot in the ten years we havebeen a Society and our thanks to themembership for their support and trust.
With this in mind, I would like to welcomeon board four members who have stepped upto the plate and accepted the responsibility toserve by lending their knowledge to insure thatour society continues to move forward. I ampleased to welcome Bob Buhrle as our 2nd VP,Rachel Crawford as our Treasurer, CarolSchreiber as our Registrar, and Carol Sandersas our Newsletter Assistant Editor and TimelineKeeper.
My thanks to two of our Society’s founders,Ruth & Les Long, who have recently retired asour Registrars, and from the very beginninghave devoted many hours in their retirementto establish a solid foundation for the Societythat we have today. Their foresight has madeus a strong organization that will help to guideus through the coming years.
Last but not least, I am pleased toannounce that we applied for and recentlyreceived notification from the County ofSan Bernardino that our Society has beenapproved to receive a $25,000 grant to makeimprovements to our MBHS Museum andResearch Center in Landers. So stay tuned andwatch us continue to grow…there will be moregood news coming our way in the near future.
”Happiness is a voyage, not adestination; there is no better time
to be happy than...NOW.”
got junk?ON TIME AND READY!
License #CA296970364-9092
Rubbish and Discard RemovalClean-up and Haul-Away
We load for you...anything Everthing, any size, any problem
$20.00and up
All Terrain Trailer & Dump
We invite all members to join in & help whenever you can. Just let usknow your expertise & interest - We look forward to hearing from you.
VOLUNTEERS = PROGRESS
When member Brad Vickery heard that we needed help to clear and make a safer path to the museum post office, he brought his tractor to theproperty and made it happen.
When Desert Pacific received a call for extermination work, member Steve Hawkins was there immediately to ensure that our home wasprotected and safe.
With Co-Founders Ruth and Les Long retiring as Registrars and the relocation of the 14 full-of-local history MBHS file cabinets from their garageto the MBHS research rooms was announced, new member Carole Schreiber stepped forward to continue the Longs’ work as Registrars. Allrequests and appointments for research should now be scheduled through Carole Schreiber @ 369-0259 or desert_thorn2@ roadrunner.com.
To move and place the 14 file cabinets, members Lee Johnson, Paul & Laurie Geeson, Bob Buhrle, Lloyd & DaleNoel, Rachel Crawford and Carole Schreiber worked together to get it done, including a team lunch provided byCarole Schreiber. Lifetime member Lee Johnson quickly moved into place to help us put together amaster plan for landscaping the MBHS grounds. Mike Lipsitz, Michele Easterwood & Brad Vickeryhave all agreed to serve on the Landscaping Committee.
Jim Brock agreed to develop procedures as Curator for MBHS and toimplement a fall archaeological class for MBHS members.
Like all things, changes are still ongoing at our MBHS Museum & Research Center. Many volunteer members continue to pitch in to meet thecontinued growth needs of our Society to make the MBHS an important and accessible resource for all residents of the Morongo Basin.
Weeds can be beautiful!
SATURDAY12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
SUNDAY10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Weeds can be beautiful!
Weed Show entryby Ada Hatch 1950
Weed Show2007
Weed ShowWinner 2005
Weed Show OldSchoolhouse
Saturday & SundayNovember 1 & 2, 2008OLD SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM
6760 National Park Drive Twenty-Nine Palms
As a charter member andlife member of MBHS, I wasthinking of what I could do as aprofessional archaeologist tohelp the Society grow andcontribute to our knowledge ofMorongo Basin history. My ideais to establish a committee toallow members to activelyparticipate in legitimate archae-
ology that addresses important research questions for our area. Iwill provide basic archaeological training and backgroundinformation.
The group, of perhaps 10 to 15 people, would start off by meetingand establishing what research areas it wants to pursue. So the groupwill be self directed to a large extent. I don’t want to force myparticular research interests on the group. Do we want to find theoldest prehistoric sites? Do we want to understand cowboy lifeways?Do we want to record rock art? Do we want to do an overview studyof the Basin?
[email protected] • (760) 228-1142Our first meeting is scheduled for:
Saturday, September 27th • 9:00 a.m.at my house
5525 Mountain View Lane • Pioneertown
At first we will examine and record sites that fit our stated researchinterests. Eventually we will do limited excavation on sites that canaddress our research questions. Ultimately we will analyze our materialsto present and publish our findings. For the first time since the Campbellsin the 1930s, there will be an on-going, non-profit archaeological researchprogram in the Morongo Basin. We get to do pure research that isn’tdictated by the needs of developers and government agencies.
I view the committee as an ongoing group whereby if membersleave new ones can join. Hopefully it will be an elite group of hotshotamateurs that really enjoy and take pride in what they’re doing. Withany luck the program will increase Society membership and bringyounger people into the group. Warning: members will have to signa code of ethics (archaeological site information is confidential).Five people have already signed the interest list. Anyone who is interestedshould contact me at:
Proposed Archaeology Program & Committee By Jim Brock, MBHS Curator
2008-2009BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT Bob [email protected]
1st VICE PRESIDENT Lloyd NoelProperties 760-364-3544
2nd VICE PRESIDENT Bob BurhleBudget & Audit 760-228-0898& Fundraising/Grants [email protected]
TREASURER Rachel Crawford& Volunteer Hours 760-363-1340
SECRETARY Sallie Brown& Newsletter Editor 760-364-4446
Page 2 Page 7
CREATIVE Barbara Harris/AdsetCONSULTANT 760-365-3266Newsletter Graphics [email protected]
CURATOR Jim BrockArchaeology Program 760-228-1142
HISTORIAN Harvey [email protected]
HISTORICAL Dale NoelSITES 760-364-3544
ORAL Cheryl NankervisINTERVIEWS 760-365-6323
MAPS Gerald [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP Carole [email protected]
NEWSLETTER Sallie BrownEditor 760-364-4446
NEWSLETTER Carol SandersAssistant Editor 760-364-3771& Timeline Keeper [email protected]
PROGRAM Laurie GeesonCOMMITTEE 760-363-6681
PUBLICITY Jimmy [email protected]
REGISTRAR Carol [email protected]
SALES Linda & Wayne [email protected]
WARREN’S WELL Sandy WilliamsPRESERVATION [email protected]
WEBSITE Rob [email protected]
2007-2008 CHAIRS
next day the Bagleys took him and his daughter Susan on apicnic where he shared with Helen a verse he wrote aboutthe first time he saw the valley that sheltered his chosen desertdream: (3)
If scenes like these thy heart can share,Then bide a welcome pilgrim here.
He said that if Luckie Park officials ever decided to erecta monument to him, he hoped it would be a simple boulderwith lines from Mozart’s The Magic Flute: (3)
Here far from noise and turmoilMay brotherly love prevail.
Ten days after the Luckie Park dedication, Dr. Luckie died,leaving the desert community a legacy of compassion, service,and love.
Compiled by Sallie Brown, EditorSources:(1) Interview with Susan Luckie Reilly
(2) Lucille Weight’s article “Area is ‘Luckie’ this doctor came here”
(3 Helen Bagley’s book Sand in My Shoe
(4) Frank Bagley’s article “Early History of Twentynine Palms”
Our newsletter is supported through advertising sponsorship. It is published and mailed to members four times a year, anddistributed throughout the Basin during many of the local events. It’s a great way for you to advertise your business.
To learn how you can advertise in this newsletter contact Bob Connors at: 760-365-6163
HISTORY BROUGHT TO YOU BYDr. Luckie continued from page 1
FATHER AND DAUGHTER: Dr. James B.Luckie holds his daughter, Susan,who still lives in Twentynine Palms.Susan Luckie Reilly is a desert-loverand environmentalist. She is still proudof her father ’s accomplishments.(Susan Luckie Reilly collection photo)
Editor’s Note: Deep appreciation to Susan Luckie Reilly for her permission, photos, andinformation for this article honoring her father. Thanks also to the Twentynine Palms HistoricalSociety’s Marilyn Collier and Al Gartner for their graciousness in providing research materialsand photos. Written sources available at the 29 Palms Historical Society Museum.
Received approval of a $25,000 County of San Bernardino Grant to make improvementsto our MBHS Museum and Research Center in Landers.
Received Laura June’s monumental work for research: Obituary Records: 2002 – 2006.Many thanks to Laura for her years of tedious compilation!
Moved 14 research file cabinets to MBHS Museum & Research Center and are nowready to make research appointments. Contact Registrar, Carol Schreiber by calling:760-369-0259 or email: [email protected]
Completed new MBHS Mining Display at the Hi-Desert Nature Museum.
Scheduled 1st Wednesdays in conjunction with the Hi-Desert Nature Museum for aseries of historical programs the first Wednesday of each month at the Museum, startingWednesday, September 3rd.
Scheduled a MBHS Benefit fundraiser with a showing of a locally produced film OnceUpon a Dirt Road on August 31 at the Joshua Tree Playhouse’s Blak Box Theater.
Accepted an invitation from Arlette Capel of the American Free Journal in Yucca Valley topublish a monthly history article. Look for our MBHS column starting in September.
Celebrate RecentMBHS Accomplishments
MBHS IS LOOKINGFOR VOLUNTEERS
• To help with pre & post event set-up and clean-up• To weed, rake, and water the yard• To file documents and transcribe. Transcribing can be done at home.
SUPPORT THEMBHS NEWSLETTER
WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR BUSINESS TO BEADVERTISED IN THE MBHS NEWSLETTER?
CONTACT: Wayne or Linda DarnellEMAIL: [email protected]
CALL: 619-933-9394
