THE CASE OF THE MISSING LAKE
7
P.O. Box 2046 • Yucca Valley, CA 92286 • 760-365-1877 • www.mbhs.net • Email: [email protected] VOLUME 9 NUMBER 4 NOVEMBER 2007 Continued on Page 5 FEATURES Page 1 The Case of the Missing Lake Page 2 Voices of the Past Page 2 Oral History Project Update Page 2 Board of Directors Page 3 MBHS Upcoming Events Page 3 Holiday Open House Page 3 President’s Corner Page 4 Onsite Cleanup Page 4 Member News Page 5 Image of America Page 5 Who Owned These Horses? Page 6 Movie Night Review Page 6 Ribbon Cutting Celebration Page 6 Writing Workshop Review Page 7 What’s New at the MBHS Gift Shop Page 7 Sponsors This publicity photo for the Coyote Lake project near Copper Mountain shows fun that never came to be. Erle Stanley Gardner himself couldn’t have concocted such a silly plot. One evening Joshua Tree had two brand new lakes. The next morning … they’d vanished! A little background to set the stage for this desert whodunit. Water activities like boating and fishing are limited in the Morongo Basin for obvious reasons. But there was a time in the 1960s when a group of promoters and developers put their heads together with some engineers. They convinced county government officials to fund the construction of two lakes near Copper Mountain in eastern Joshua Tree. The plan presented to the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors was to put in a 1.5-acre swimming lake with grass banks along with a 10-acre fishing and boating lake. The grand plan called for a campground, picnic area, activities center, snack bar, restrooms and landscaping including 23 acres of turf and 1,000 trees. In addition to government funds, private donations were sought. Honorary grant deeds were sold that did not entitle holders to any interest in land, but potential shareholders were promised, “One full acre of Photo: Courtesy of Morongo Basin Historical Society Happy Holidays from the MORONGO BASIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY By Jimmy Biggerstaff THE CASE OF THE MISSING LAKE On Earth IN THIS NEWSLETTER
Transcript of THE CASE OF THE MISSING LAKE
P.O. Box 2046 • Yucca Valley, CA 92286 • 760-365-1877 • www.mbhs.net • Email: [email protected]
VOLUME 9 NUMBER 4 NOVEMBER 2007
MORONGO BASIN HISTORICAL SOCIETYP.O. Box 2046 • Yucca Valley, CA 92286
Please renew your dues toenjoy our historic programs
Preserving Our Past For Our Future
www.mbhs.net
Continued on Page 5
FEATURESPage 1 The Case of the Missing LakePage 2 Voices of the PastPage 2 Oral History Project UpdatePage 2 Board of DirectorsPage 3 MBHS Upcoming EventsPage 3 Holiday Open HousePage 3 President’s CornerPage 4 Onsite CleanupPage 4 Member NewsPage 5 Image of AmericaPage 5 Who Owned These Horses?Page 6 Movie Night ReviewPage 6 Ribbon Cutting CelebrationPage 6 Writing Workshop ReviewPage 7 What’s New at the MBHS
Gift ShopPage 7 Sponsors
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
*Membership year is from July 1 to June 30.After January, membership rate is 1/2 dues amount.
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 to Treasurer:
Card sent: Newsletter sent: Other:
MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES (Please check one)
Individual .....................................$20.00 per year*
Family (1 address) ........................$35.00 per year*
Business/Organization ..................$35.00 per year*
Life (1 Ind/Bus/Org) ......................$300.00 per person
Newsletter Application
(Revised 7/07)
TO KNOW WHERE YOU ARE GOINGYOU NEED TO KNOW WHERE YOU’VE BEEN
This publicity photo for the Coyote Lake project near Copper Mountain shows fun that never came to be.
Erle Stanley Gardner himself couldn’t haveconcocted such a silly plot. One evening Joshua Treehad two brand new lakes. The next morning … they’dvanished!
A little background to set the stage for this desertwhodunit. Water activities like boating and fishing arelimited in the Morongo Basin for obvious reasons. Butthere was a time in the 1960s when a group ofpromoters and developers put their heads together withsome engineers. They convinced county governmentofficials to fund the construction of two lakes nearCopper Mountain in eastern Joshua Tree.
The plan presented to the San Bernardino CountyBoard of Supervisors was to put in a 1.5-acre swimminglake with grass banks along with a 10-acre fishing andboating lake. The grand plan called for a campground,picnic area, activities center, snack bar, restrooms andlandscaping including 23 acres of turf and 1,000 trees.
In addition to government funds, private donationswere sought. Honorary grant deeds were sold that didnot entitle holders to any interest in land, but potentialshareholders were promised, “One full acre of
Photo: Courtesy of Morongo Basin Historical Society
Happy Holidays
from the
MORONGO BASINHISTORICAL SOCIETY
ByJimmy Biggerstaff
THECASE
OF THEMISSING
LAKE
On Earth
Membership Dues are due July 1
IN THISNEWSLETTER
MBHS PROGRAMJanuary 10th at
29 PalmsMarine Base
SEE PAGE 3 DETAILS
www.mbhs.net
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
2007-2008BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT Bob [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT Lloyd [email protected]
TREASURER Tom [email protected]
RECORDING Carol PostSECRETARY 760-369-9073
CORRESPONDING Sallie BrownSECRETARY 760-364-4446
REGISTRARS Les & Ruth [email protected]
WARREN’S WELL Sandy WilliamsPRESERVATION [email protected]
HISTORIAN Harvey [email protected]
HISTORICAL Dale NoelSITES 760-364-3544
LOCAL HISTORY/ ORALINTERVIEWS Ruth Long
MAPS Gerald [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP Bernice [email protected]
WEBMASTER Tom [email protected]
CREATIVE CONSULTANT / GRAPHICSCOORDINATOR Barbara Harris/Adset
NEWSLETTER Sallie BrownEDITOR 760-364-4446
PROGRAM Laurie GeesonCOMMITTEE 760-363-6681
FUND RAISER Carole [email protected]
PUBLICITY Jimmy [email protected]
SALES Linda & Wayne [email protected]
Page 2 Page 7
Located in Old TownMercantile Antique Mall
55727 Twenty-Nine Palms Hwy. • Yucca Valley
365-1877OPEN:7 Days a Week •10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. daily
Our newsletter is supported through advertising sponsorship. It is published andmailed to members four times a year, and distributed throughout the Basin duringmany of the local events. It’s a great way for you to advertise your business. To learnhow you can advertise in this newsletter contact Bob Connors at: 760-365-6163
HISTORY BROUGHT TO YOU BY
WHAT’S NEW IN THEMBHS GIFT SHOPBy Wayne & Linda Darnell, Sales Chairs
One of the fascinating aspects of theMorongo Basin is its colorful mining history.Exciting stories abound that are captivating. TheMBHS Gift Shop is emphasizing the area miningand featuring three newly delivered books thatdeal specifically with this subject.
Also being featured is a DVD that tells thestory of the Desert Queen Ranch. Bill Keys andhis family lived there in the early 1900s. Bill Keyswas a prominent figure in the area. His storyand escapades alone would interest anyonelooking at the area’s history and mining. SonWillis Keys and his wife Corrine are interviewedas they walk with memories at the KeysRanch. This historic ranch reflects an importantpresence of how life was in the early 1900s.
Plan to stop by the MBHS Gift Shop anddiscover what is available. In addition to mining,there are many other books and DVDs ofregional interest and a fine selection of giftitems. Your visit will be a delightful experience.
When you purchase from theMBHS Gift Shop, you are
supporting your historical society!
— Voice 5 —Frances Mae Keys
I was raised in the Los Angeles area in a comfortable, refinedhome. However, when I met and married Bill Keys in 1918, my citylife ended. Bill brought me to the desert to the small house he hadbuilt. Although not prepared for a rugged pioneer life, I adapted to
living such an isolated life. We raised 5 children by working together to make our ranch self-sufficient. Bill built dams for our water supply. We planted an orchard and a garden. During thehot summers, our whole family spent weeks canning food from the garden and orchard. Some ofour cattle provided food. Life was hard but good.
In May of 1943, our world changed traumatically. Myhusband’s feud with a neighbor ended when the neighborambushed Bill. In self-defense, Bill shot and killed him. Hewas convicted of murder and sent to San Quentin.
These were desperate years for me. I worked in a LosAngeles defense plant, went home on weekends to overlookthe ranch, traveled to visit Bill, tried toraise money for Bill’s legal expenses,and took care of the children still athome. For years, at night I wrote letterafter letter to seek help for Bill.I evenrode a bus to Sacramento to appeal toGovernor Earl Warren. I knew Bill wasinnocent. An old friend, Erle StanleyGardner—author of the Perry Masonnovels—responded, and his efforts freed Bill in 1948. We were together again.
MBHS proudly offers a presentation of our areahistory for your organization, group, or school
program. We invite you to leavetoday’s current world happenings.Step back in time for thirty minuteswith your guides (our MBHS
costumed narrators) as they introduce you to some of Morongo Basin’s earliest settlers,homesteaders and business leaders. Audience members will play these roles, reading from shortscripts (see the example of Frances Mae Keys below). You’ll look at Morongo Basin with newinsights and appreciation!
“Meet” historical and important Basin residents such as gold prospector David Poste, rancherChuck Warren, Johnnie “to the rescue” Hastie, poet June LeMert Paxton, and other fascinatingpeople who made choices that shaped our present.
V from theoicesPast
Want to know more or request the programfor your group at no cost?
Contact: Bob Connors 760-365-6163 or Sallie Brown 760-364-4446
Thanks to our volunteer interviewers & professional videographer Bob Stephenson, last monthwe produced two DVDs to capture the history of families and communities:
Geeson Siblings of Morongo ValleyPaul, John, Phillip and sister Regina Suddreth share their stories of growing up in MorongoValley: what the town was like during their childhood – town leaders and businesses, firstschool, recreation, and the development of the town.
Johnson ValleyThis presentation covers a wide area of topics by Bill Wilson, Alice Anderson, MertWaite, and Ed Warren. They discuss early Indians, water sources, early travelers, early settlers,Old Woman Springs Road, homesteading years, Rock Corral Tank, development of their communityassociation, and examples of “neighbors helping neighbors.”
If you are interested in volunteering to be an interviewer, please contactValerie Gleason at 760-364-2235.
ORAL HISTORY PROJECT UPDATE
BILL KEYES BILL & FRANCES KEYES
FRANCES KEYES
Page 3Page 6
PRESIDENT’SCORNER
LIFE MEMBERSHelen Dotts*Les Long*Ruth Long*Evelyn ConklinDorothy Granger*Norm Granger*George Falltrick*†
Bernice Falltrick*Sallie BrownLynAnne Felts*Kenneth EschmannJohn RistainoMarcia Pealstrom*
Billy Holcomb Chapter of ECV
Robert Leone*Peter WildRobert GreenLeota Bell*Laurie Geeson*Vernette Landers*†Pauline Hanson*Harvey Legrone*Monika Legrone*James P. Brock*Donna Davies*Bruce Miller*Marion ArnettFred KramerLois S. Johnson*Dale Noel*Taylor Jordon*
Mona Lowe*Bob Connors*Twilla Couzens*Betty Diederich†
William Reifel†Charlyne Connors*Betty Bilyeu*Lee Roy ArnettMildred ArnettCindy MellandCheryl Nankervis*Shirlene Doten*Merry L’EsperanceChris LongTim LongDavid Williams*Sandra Williams*Carole Kester*Lloyd Noel*Mary GaffneySwella ChiropracticJeannette WebsterTodd SwainR. Lee JohnsonBob StadumWanda StadumRoxanne Guez
Old TownMercantile AntiqueMall
William R. Hilburn †Leona EriksenAnna HilburnChris Gubler
As a history lover, you know the infiniteways that history enriches our lives. Asa member of the MBHS, we want to letyou know that there is another way foryou to preserve history far into thefuture. Most people know howimportant it is to have a will. Once youhave provided for the people you love,we hope you will consider making abequest to the MBHS. Bequests of anysize will ensure that we can continue ourwork to preserve Morongo Basin history.
† Deceased* Charter Member
* * * * * * * * *
Bob ConnorsPRESIDENT 2002-2007
Activity is stillpopping around theLanders Estate aswork crews con-tinue their effortsto make necessaryimprovements sothat we may holdvarious events forour membership as well as provide aservice to Morongo Basin communities.
After reviewing a number of sug-gestions on what to call the LandersEstate, it was decided to call it theMBHS Museum & Research Center -a name truly befitting who we are andwhat we are chartered to do.
Now that we are property owners,our responsibilities have increased, andmore than ever we must enter intomore fundraising events to pay thebills we continue to incur. So far weare holding our own but additionalfunds will be needed in the near futureso it is important that you keep yourdues current and participate in ourfundraising events.
Next year is right around the corner,and we will be looking for members toserve on our board of directors, bothelected and appointed. Most of ourexisting board members have beenserving for five years or longer and itwould be a great relief to some of thesefolks if interested members would stepup and volunteer to serve on our board.We need your support to continue topreserve our past for our future.
Finally, the Holiday Season is fastapproaching, and whatever you chooseto call it, Charlyne & I wish to thankyou for your support in the past andwish you all the best of health andhappiness in the coming years.
“Don’t do what others say, just listen tothem, but do what makes you feel good.”
— Warren Buffet
By Laurie Geeson, Program Chair andCarole Kester, Fundraiser Chair
MBHSWINTER 2007-08HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, December 9, 20071:30 - 3:30 p.m.
JANUARY 2008John Hale - Condor Field
Thursday, January 10, 200810:00 a.m. (first group)
Presentations at the29 Palms Marine Base, with lunch
in the Officers Club at noonProgam Cost: $5.00Lunch Cost: $20.00
Reservations will start December 18thReservation Deadline January 3
SEATS ARE LIMITED • RESERVATION ONLYCALL
Laurie Geeson: 760-363-6681OR
Carole Kester 760- 365-4096
MOVIE NITEWILLIE BOY
Friday, January 11, 20086:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Our next scheduled program will beaboard the Marine Corps Air GroundCombat Center in 29 Palms. John Hale willpresent “Paleontology & Petroglyphs ” onThursday, January 10.
John will do an orientation talk thatcovers five displays, two on paleontologicalexhibits (giant tortoise,Harlan’s groundsloth), one on Native Americans, one onrock art, and one on Condor Field, with timefor questions.We will be divided intogroups, with the first one starting at 10 a.m.Lunch will be served at the Officers Clubat noon, at which John will give an in-depth presentation on Condor Field. Costis $20.00 if you are having lunch. We willbe taking reservations starting December18th. Seats are limited. Call either LaurieGeason at 363-6681 or Carole Kester at365-4096 to make your reservations.
29 Palms Marine BaseJanuary 10th
Your program committee invitesyou all to join the MBHS at afestive holiday open house at ourMuseum and Research Center inLanders on Sunday, December 9th.We’ll start at 1:30 p.m. and greetyou with holiday music, beverages,and goodies to share with fellowMBHS members. We plan to sendyou home happy and in theChristmas mood at 3:30 p.m. Pleasemark your calendars now so youwon’t forget to save the date for usall to celebrate together.
Answers to Who Owned These Horses Page 51H, 2Y, 3T, 4AA , 5BB, 6L, 7 U, 8D, 9V, 10N, 11C, 12Z, 13B, 14K, 15O, 16A,17R, 18I, 19E, 20J, 21S, 22M, 23Q, 24G, 25DD, 26F, 27X, 28P, 29W, 30CC
MARK YOUR CALENDARTHERE IS NO MBHS Board Meeting in December
NEXT BOARD MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JANUARY 8, 20081:00 p.m. at the MBHS Museum & Research Center in Landers.
RIBBON CUTTING CELEBRATIONMBHS Museum & Research Center
Landers, California • August 23, 2007
Writing Family HistoryWorkshop
OPEN HOUSE
December 9, 2007For Members & Their Guests
Two workshops this fallhelped 21 participants from
five MB communities overcome writer’s blockand leave happily with a rough draft. This springMBHS will offer another workshop.
SEE NEXT ISSUE FOR DATE!Sallie Brown, Workshop Facilitator • 760-364-4446
Group enjoys a luncheon break
Sallie Brown
The Howling 7 movie get-together was the most fun movie nightyet! We were honored with the presence of two of the movie’sfinest performers, Ernest Kester and John Huff – oh, not to forgetMr. Kester’s Special Assistant, Carole Kester. Thank you to JohnHuff for his gift to the MBHS archives of the special, very rare,limited edition of “Howling” T-shirts. Thanks also go to a greatguy who took the Food Handler’s certification course just so hecan cook for us on Movie Night. Greg Anderson is now officiallythe MBHS “Hot Dog” Chef-in-Residence. Kim Pederson helpedset the stage for the “Howling” movie with her manyHalloween decorations for this Movie Night at MBHS.
Movie Night ReviewTHE HOWLING 7 • NEW MOON RISING (1995)
NEXT MOVIE NIGHT • FEATURING: WILLIE BOYFRIDAY JANUARY 11, 2008 • 6:00p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Amid MB community leaders, MBHS’ first president and now CA State Assemblyman,Paul Cook cut the official opening ribbon with co-founder Ruth Long
and current MBHS president Bob Connors next to him.
Pictured from left to right, starting with Chris Gubler, a MBHS Life Member, Llyod Noel, Vice-President ,Ruth Long, co-founder of the MBHS, Bob Connors, current President, and Paul Cook, CA State Assemblyman
cut the Grand Opening Ribbon for the new MBHS Musem & Research Center in Landers
Owner of Horse
Allen Rocky LaneAndy DevineAnnie OakleyBrewster CogburnBuffalo Bill, Jr.Cisco KidDale EvansDurango KidGene AutryGuy MadisonHopalong CassidyJohnny MackKen MaynardLash LaRueLittle BeaverLone RangerPanchoPeco’s BillPhantomRed RyderRex AllenRory CalhounRoy RogersSmiley BurnetteStraight ArrowTex RitterTom MixTontoWilliam S. HartZorro
1.
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20.21.22.23.24.25.26.27.28.29.30.
A.B.C.D.E.F.
G. H. I.J.K.L.
M.N.O.P.
Q.R.S.T.
U.V.
W.X.Y.Z.
AA.BB.CC.DD.
SilverTarzanTopperRaiderHeroWhite FlashRing-Eyed NellieBlackjackWidow MakerThunderRushBrown DiabloDominoBuckshotPapooseScoutTriggerLocoKokoTargetButtermilkChampionFritzTonyJokerRebelDollarChiefTornadoFury
Name of Horse
Page 5Page 4
MEMBER NEWS
Need help in researching a topicabout the Morongo Basin?
CALL or EMAILRuth Long • 760-365-3573
Need general informationabout the MBHS?
CALL or EMAILBob Connors • 760-365-6163
MBHS MISSION STATEMENTThe specific purpose of this nonprofit corporation is to collect,
conserve and exhibit artifacts; to collect, display, interpret and publishmemorabilia relating to the history of the Morongo Basin; to locate
identify and preserve historic sites; to promote the research and studyof local history; and to share the rich heritage of the Morongo Basin
with all the communities within and surrounding it.
Our membership count as of November 1st is: 80 Individual members
48 Family13 Business/Organization
63 Lifetime members
See you next time, Bernice Falltrick, Membership Chair
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! GET INVOLVED, SHARE YOUR TALENTS!CALL or EMAIL BOB CONNORS • 760-365-6163 • [email protected]
GOAL 1Make ready the Landers
Estate for our MBHSHeadquarters/Museum
GOAL 3Apply for grants to further
our efforts in preserving ourMorongo Basin History
GOAL 2Increase our membership
and voulunteerteam by 20%
GOAL 4Continue to file CA Historical Site
Resources, provide and place historicalsite plaques, and produce Historical DVD’s
2007 GOALS
DUES ARE DUE JULY 1st EXCEPT FOR LIFETIME MEMBERS
Missing Lake continued from Page 1
enjoyment at Coyote Lake, Copper MountainPark, Joshua Tree, California.”
Touted as a “stake in the lake,” investorsin the project received a wooden stake, paintedaccording to the amount of the “investment,”from a white stake for a buck up to copper,silver or gold stakes for donations of $25, $50or $100.
In marketing copy resembling televisionreal estate infomercials, prospects were told,“The number of stakes is limited, so is the time.Enthusiasm is mounting and before we knowit, there’ll be blue, shimmering water and treeshaded grassy carpets beneath that gorgeoussunrise out by Copper Mountain.”
Assisting in the earthworks were Marinesfrom Twentynine Palms, brought in for the dualpurpose of training heavy equipment operatorsand fostering positive community relations.
Brig. Gen. Carl Hoffman, the basecommanding general at the time, immediatelyrecognized and embraced the public relationsopportunity presented by the endeavor.Hoffman was a military public relations geniuswhose community liaison strategies and tacticsare taught at the Defense Information Schoolas shining examples of how to manage effectivebase/community partnerships.
In the summer of 1972 the ambitiousundertaking was proceeding according toschedule. Wells had brought the water levelin the main lake up to the 10-foot mark. ThenEarth decided to reclaim her water from thesurface and return it to her underground aquifer.Around 10 p.m., July 28 a relatively gentle 2.7magnitude seismic event occurred in the area.
A newspaper account of the hydrogeologichiccup quoted Glenn Hall, a Sunfair CommunityAssociation member and night watchman atthe project site, who had just bedded downwith his wife on a knoll between the two lakeswhen there was a “noise like a whole herdof elephants trying to enter the lake at once.”
Another witness, a U.S. Marine sentry onduty to guard the earth-moving equipmentbeing used by the military engineers, attemptedto describe the sound as “The ‘sloop-whoosh’that would be produced by a hundred toiletsflushing at once.”
A mile-long fissure had opened and MotherNature rapidly reduced the lake to mud pits.
Failed enterprises can go up in smoke, bereduced to rubble or go out like a light. Thisproject pretty much went down the drain,leaving the learned lesson that it’s a mistake tomake a fake lake, for goodness sake.
Reprinted with permission fromHi-Desert Publishing.
New members since the last newsletter are Versatile Video, Christy Nicholson, MerlAbel, Carole Schreiber, Steve Hawkins, Cindy Mackie, Mary Ellen DeCremer, and theHi-Desert Nature Museum, all from Yucca Valley. Also, Meg Foley from Morongo Valley,Terry Burkhart, Joe Delgado, Beth Pfarr, Mel & Judith Bailey, and Carol Sanders, all fromLanders. Linda Waite from Johnson Valley and Richard & Patricia Heumann from 29Palms. Lynn Brubak, Long Beach, and Lillian Thacher, Yucca Valley, renewed membership.Member Chris Gubler from Landers changed to a Life Member.
Member LynAnne Felts is taking care of our “MBHS Information Binders” with ournewsletters and MBHS applications that we have in the waiting rooms of 10 doctors,dentists and chiropractors in the Basin.
IN MEMORIAMWilliam “Bill” Reifel
Life MemberOctober 25, 1923- Sept. 27, 2007
Roland M. WarrenGrandson of Mark “Chuck” WarrenMay 1, 1919 - August 17, 2007
Writing Workshops
Answers on page 6
The weather continues to remain cooland it’s time to resume our outside
cleanup. On-going work crews are neededat the MBHS Museum and Research
Center on a regular and steady basis.Members have requested planned
cleanup/work days. Please mark yourcalendar for the following dates
scheduled in November. December andJanuary. We hope you will join us to help out.
H-E-L-P!!!Lloyd Noel & Rachel Crawford
MBHS Onsite CleanupIMAGES OF AMERICA:
Twentynine Palms
Match the following owners with their horses:
Who Owned These Horses?Compiled by Ernie Kester
A new book has been released by ArcadiaPublishing, using 234 historic photos with text totell the history of Twentynine Palms. Co-authoredby Vickie Waite of the Sun Runner magazine,Al Gartner of the Twentynine Palms HistoricalSociety, and Paul Smith of the Twentynine PalmsInn, this 124-page book traces the community’sorigins through ten chapters to cityhood in 1987.Delightful reading!
Hot off the Press!
MBHS WORK DAYSWednesdays
November 28 • December 5December 12, 2007, January 2, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Everyone’s time is important, so we
do recommend that you confirm withRachel at 760-363-1340
the day before coming out to work,just in case the work day had to be
rescheduled for a different day or time.
Thanks for giving of your time!!
AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE MBHS GIFT SHOP (see pg. 7)
Owner of Horse
Allen Rocky LaneAndy DevineAnnie OakleyBrewster CogburnBuffalo Bill, Jr.Cisco KidDale EvansDurango KidGene AutryGuy MadisonHopalong CassidyJohnny MackKen MaynardLash LaRueLittle BeaverLone RangerPanchoPeco’s BillPhantomRed RyderRex AllenRory CalhounRoy RogersSmiley BurnetteStraight ArrowTex RitterTom MixTontoWilliam S. HartZorro
1.
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20.21.22.23.24.25.26.27.28.29.30.
A.B.C.D.E.F.
G. H. I.J.K.L.
M.N.O.P.
Q.R.S.T.
U.V.
W.X.Y.Z.
AA.BB.CC.DD.
SilverTarzanTopperRaiderHeroWhite FlashRing-Eyed NellieBlackjackWidow MakerThunderRushBrown DiabloDominoBuckshotPapooseScoutTriggerLocoKokoTargetButtermilkChampionFritzTonyJokerRebelDollarChiefTornadoFury
Name of Horse
Page 5Page 4
MEMBER NEWS
Need help in researching a topicabout the Morongo Basin?
CALL or EMAILRuth Long • 760-365-3573
Need general informationabout the MBHS?
CALL or EMAILBob Connors • 760-365-6163
MBHS MISSION STATEMENTThe specific purpose of this nonprofit corporation is to collect,
conserve and exhibit artifacts; to collect, display, interpret and publishmemorabilia relating to the history of the Morongo Basin; to locate
identify and preserve historic sites; to promote the research and studyof local history; and to share the rich heritage of the Morongo Basin
with all the communities within and surrounding it.
Our membership count as of November 1st is: 80 Individual members
48 Family13 Business/Organization
63 Lifetime members
See you next time, Bernice Falltrick, Membership Chair
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! GET INVOLVED, SHARE YOUR TALENTS!CALL or EMAIL BOB CONNORS • 760-365-6163 • [email protected]
GOAL 1Make ready the Landers
Estate for our MBHSHeadquarters/Museum
GOAL 3Apply for grants to further
our efforts in preserving ourMorongo Basin History
GOAL 2Increase our membership
and voulunteerteam by 20%
GOAL 4Continue to file CA Historical Site
Resources, provide and place historicalsite plaques, and produce Historical DVD’s
2007 GOALS
DUES ARE DUE JULY 1st EXCEPT FOR LIFETIME MEMBERS
Missing Lake continued from Page 1
enjoyment at Coyote Lake, Copper MountainPark, Joshua Tree, California.”
Touted as a “stake in the lake,” investorsin the project received a wooden stake, paintedaccording to the amount of the “investment,”from a white stake for a buck up to copper,silver or gold stakes for donations of $25, $50or $100.
In marketing copy resembling televisionreal estate infomercials, prospects were told,“The number of stakes is limited, so is the time.Enthusiasm is mounting and before we knowit, there’ll be blue, shimmering water and treeshaded grassy carpets beneath that gorgeoussunrise out by Copper Mountain.”
Assisting in the earthworks were Marinesfrom Twentynine Palms, brought in for the dualpurpose of training heavy equipment operatorsand fostering positive community relations.
Brig. Gen. Carl Hoffman, the basecommanding general at the time, immediatelyrecognized and embraced the public relationsopportunity presented by the endeavor.Hoffman was a military public relations geniuswhose community liaison strategies and tacticsare taught at the Defense Information Schoolas shining examples of how to manage effectivebase/community partnerships.
In the summer of 1972 the ambitiousundertaking was proceeding according toschedule. Wells had brought the water levelin the main lake up to the 10-foot mark. ThenEarth decided to reclaim her water from thesurface and return it to her underground aquifer.Around 10 p.m., July 28 a relatively gentle 2.7magnitude seismic event occurred in the area.
A newspaper account of the hydrogeologichiccup quoted Glenn Hall, a Sunfair CommunityAssociation member and night watchman atthe project site, who had just bedded downwith his wife on a knoll between the two lakeswhen there was a “noise like a whole herdof elephants trying to enter the lake at once.”
Another witness, a U.S. Marine sentry onduty to guard the earth-moving equipmentbeing used by the military engineers, attemptedto describe the sound as “The ‘sloop-whoosh’that would be produced by a hundred toiletsflushing at once.”
A mile-long fissure had opened and MotherNature rapidly reduced the lake to mud pits.
Failed enterprises can go up in smoke, bereduced to rubble or go out like a light. Thisproject pretty much went down the drain,leaving the learned lesson that it’s a mistake tomake a fake lake, for goodness sake.
Reprinted with permission fromHi-Desert Publishing.
New members since the last newsletter are Versatile Video, Christy Nicholson, MerlAbel, Carole Schreiber, Steve Hawkins, Cindy Mackie, Mary Ellen DeCremer, and theHi-Desert Nature Museum, all from Yucca Valley. Also, Meg Foley from Morongo Valley,Terry Burkhart, Joe Delgado, Beth Pfarr, Mel & Judith Bailey, and Carol Sanders, all fromLanders. Linda Waite from Johnson Valley and Richard & Patricia Heumann from 29Palms. Lynn Brubak, Long Beach, and Lillian Thacher, Yucca Valley, renewed membership.Member Chris Gubler from Landers changed to a Life Member.
Member LynAnne Felts is taking care of our “MBHS Information Binders” with ournewsletters and MBHS applications that we have in the waiting rooms of 10 doctors,dentists and chiropractors in the Basin.
IN MEMORIAMWilliam “Bill” Reifel
Life MemberOctober 25, 1923- Sept. 27, 2007
Roland M. WarrenGrandson of Mark “Chuck” WarrenMay 1, 1919 - August 17, 2007
Writing Workshops
Answers on page 6
The weather continues to remain cooland it’s time to resume our outside
cleanup. On-going work crews are neededat the MBHS Museum and Research
Center on a regular and steady basis.Members have requested planned
cleanup/work days. Please mark yourcalendar for the following dates
scheduled in November. December andJanuary. We hope you will join us to help out.
H-E-L-P!!!Lloyd Noel & Rachel Crawford
MBHS Onsite CleanupIMAGES OF AMERICA:
Twentynine Palms
Match the following owners with their horses:
Who Owned These Horses?Compiled by Ernie Kester
A new book has been released by ArcadiaPublishing, using 234 historic photos with text totell the history of Twentynine Palms. Co-authoredby Vickie Waite of the Sun Runner magazine,Al Gartner of the Twentynine Palms HistoricalSociety, and Paul Smith of the Twentynine PalmsInn, this 124-page book traces the community’sorigins through ten chapters to cityhood in 1987.Delightful reading!
Hot off the Press!
MBHS WORK DAYSWednesdays
November 28 • December 5December 12, 2007, January 2, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Everyone’s time is important, so we
do recommend that you confirm withRachel at 760-363-1340
the day before coming out to work,just in case the work day had to be
rescheduled for a different day or time.
Thanks for giving of your time!!
AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE MBHS GIFT SHOP (see pg. 7)
Page 3Page 6
PRESIDENT’SCORNER
LIFE MEMBERSHelen Dotts*Les Long*Ruth Long*Evelyn ConklinDorothy Granger*Norm Granger*George Falltrick*†
Bernice Falltrick*Sallie BrownLynAnne Felts*Kenneth EschmannJohn RistainoMarcia Pealstrom*
Billy Holcomb Chapter of ECV
Robert Leone*Peter WildRobert GreenLeota Bell*Laurie Geeson*Vernette Landers*†Pauline Hanson*Harvey Legrone*Monika Legrone*James P. Brock*Donna Davies*Bruce Miller*Marion ArnettFred KramerLois S. Johnson*Dale Noel*Taylor Jordon*
Mona Lowe*Bob Connors*Twilla Couzens*Betty Diederich†
William Reifel†Charlyne Connors*Betty Bilyeu*Lee Roy ArnettMildred ArnettCindy MellandCheryl Nankervis*Shirlene Doten*Merry L’EsperanceChris LongTim LongDavid Williams*Sandra Williams*Carole Kester*Lloyd Noel*Mary GaffneySwella ChiropracticJeannette WebsterTodd SwainR. Lee JohnsonBob StadumWanda StadumRoxanne Guez
Old TownMercantile AntiqueMall
William R. Hilburn †Leona EriksenAnna HilburnChris Gubler
As a history lover, you know the infiniteways that history enriches our lives. Asa member of the MBHS, we want to letyou know that there is another way foryou to preserve history far into thefuture. Most people know howimportant it is to have a will. Once youhave provided for the people you love,we hope you will consider making abequest to the MBHS. Bequests of anysize will ensure that we can continue ourwork to preserve Morongo Basin history.
† Deceased* Charter Member
* * * * * * * * *
Bob ConnorsPRESIDENT 2002-2007
Activity is stillpopping around theLanders Estate aswork crews con-tinue their effortsto make necessaryimprovements sothat we may holdvarious events forour membership as well as provide aservice to Morongo Basin communities.
After reviewing a number of sug-gestions on what to call the LandersEstate, it was decided to call it theMBHS Museum & Research Center -a name truly befitting who we are andwhat we are chartered to do.
Now that we are property owners,our responsibilities have increased, andmore than ever we must enter intomore fundraising events to pay thebills we continue to incur. So far weare holding our own but additionalfunds will be needed in the near futureso it is important that you keep yourdues current and participate in ourfundraising events.
Next year is right around the corner,and we will be looking for members toserve on our board of directors, bothelected and appointed. Most of ourexisting board members have beenserving for five years or longer and itwould be a great relief to some of thesefolks if interested members would stepup and volunteer to serve on our board.We need your support to continue topreserve our past for our future.
Finally, the Holiday Season is fastapproaching, and whatever you chooseto call it, Charlyne & I wish to thankyou for your support in the past andwish you all the best of health andhappiness in the coming years.
“Don’t do what others say, just listen tothem, but do what makes you feel good.”
— Warren Buffet
By Laurie Geeson, Program Chair andCarole Kester, Fundraiser Chair
MBHSWINTER 2007-08HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, December 9, 20071:30 - 3:30 p.m.
JANUARY 2008John Hale - Condor Field
Thursday, January 10, 200810:00 a.m. (first group)
Presentations at the29 Palms Marine Base, with lunch
in the Officers Club at noonProgam Cost: $5.00Lunch Cost: $20.00
Reservations will start December 18thReservation Deadline January 3
SEATS ARE LIMITED • RESERVATION ONLYCALL
Laurie Geeson: 760-363-6681OR
Carole Kester 760- 365-4096
MOVIE NITEWILLIE BOY
Friday, January 11, 20086:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Our next scheduled program will beaboard the Marine Corps Air GroundCombat Center in 29 Palms. John Hale willpresent “Paleontology & Petroglyphs ” onThursday, January 10.
John will do an orientation talk thatcovers five displays, two on paleontologicalexhibits (giant tortoise,Harlan’s groundsloth), one on Native Americans, one onrock art, and one on Condor Field, with timefor questions.We will be divided intogroups, with the first one starting at 10 a.m.Lunch will be served at the Officers Clubat noon, at which John will give an in-depth presentation on Condor Field. Costis $20.00 if you are having lunch. We willbe taking reservations starting December18th. Seats are limited. Call either LaurieGeason at 363-6681 or Carole Kester at365-4096 to make your reservations.
29 Palms Marine BaseJanuary 10th
Your program committee invitesyou all to join the MBHS at afestive holiday open house at ourMuseum and Research Center inLanders on Sunday, December 9th.We’ll start at 1:30 p.m. and greetyou with holiday music, beverages,and goodies to share with fellowMBHS members. We plan to sendyou home happy and in theChristmas mood at 3:30 p.m. Pleasemark your calendars now so youwon’t forget to save the date for usall to celebrate together.
Answers to Who Owned These Horses Page 51H, 2Y, 3T, 4AA , 5BB, 6L, 7 U, 8D, 9V, 10N, 11C, 12Z, 13B, 14K, 15O, 16A,17R, 18I, 19E, 20J, 21S, 22M, 23Q, 24G, 25DD, 26F, 27X, 28P, 29W, 30CC
MARK YOUR CALENDARTHERE IS NO MBHS Board Meeting in December
NEXT BOARD MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JANUARY 8, 20081:00 p.m. at the MBHS Museum & Research Center in Landers.
RIBBON CUTTING CELEBRATIONMBHS Museum & Research Center
Landers, California • August 23, 2007
Writing Family HistoryWorkshop
OPEN HOUSE
December 9, 2007For Members & Their Guests
Two workshops this fallhelped 21 participants from
five MB communities overcome writer’s blockand leave happily with a rough draft. This springMBHS will offer another workshop.
SEE NEXT ISSUE FOR DATE!Sallie Brown, Workshop Facilitator • 760-364-4446
Group enjoys a luncheon break
Sallie Brown
The Howling 7 movie get-together was the most fun movie nightyet! We were honored with the presence of two of the movie’sfinest performers, Ernest Kester and John Huff – oh, not to forgetMr. Kester’s Special Assistant, Carole Kester. Thank you to JohnHuff for his gift to the MBHS archives of the special, very rare,limited edition of “Howling” T-shirts. Thanks also go to a greatguy who took the Food Handler’s certification course just so hecan cook for us on Movie Night. Greg Anderson is now officiallythe MBHS “Hot Dog” Chef-in-Residence. Kim Pederson helpedset the stage for the “Howling” movie with her manyHalloween decorations for this Movie Night at MBHS.
Movie Night ReviewTHE HOWLING 7 • NEW MOON RISING (1995)
NEXT MOVIE NIGHT • FEATURING: WILLIE BOYFRIDAY JANUARY 11, 2008 • 6:00p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Amid MB community leaders, MBHS’ first president and now CA State Assemblyman,Paul Cook cut the official opening ribbon with co-founder Ruth Long
and current MBHS president Bob Connors next to him.
Pictured from left to right, starting with Chris Gubler, a MBHS Life Member, Llyod Noel, Vice-President ,Ruth Long, co-founder of the MBHS, Bob Connors, current President, and Paul Cook, CA State Assemblyman
cut the Grand Opening Ribbon for the new MBHS Musem & Research Center in Landers
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
2007-2008BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT Bob [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT Lloyd [email protected]
TREASURER Tom [email protected]
RECORDING Carol PostSECRETARY 760-369-9073
CORRESPONDING Sallie BrownSECRETARY 760-364-4446
REGISTRARS Les & Ruth [email protected]
WARREN’S WELL Sandy WilliamsPRESERVATION [email protected]
HISTORIAN Harvey [email protected]
HISTORICAL Dale NoelSITES 760-364-3544
LOCAL HISTORY/ ORALINTERVIEWS Ruth Long
MAPS Gerald [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP Bernice [email protected]
WEBMASTER Tom [email protected]
CREATIVE CONSULTANT / GRAPHICSCOORDINATOR Barbara Harris/Adset
NEWSLETTER Sallie BrownEDITOR 760-364-4446
PROGRAM Laurie GeesonCOMMITTEE 760-363-6681
FUND RAISER Carole [email protected]
PUBLICITY Jimmy [email protected]
SALES Linda & Wayne [email protected]
Page 2 Page 7
Located in Old TownMercantile Antique Mall
55727 Twenty-Nine Palms Hwy. • Yucca Valley
365-1877OPEN:7 Days a Week •10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. daily
Our newsletter is supported through advertising sponsorship. It is published andmailed to members four times a year, and distributed throughout the Basin duringmany of the local events. It’s a great way for you to advertise your business. To learnhow you can advertise in this newsletter contact Bob Connors at: 760-365-6163
HISTORY BROUGHT TO YOU BY
WHAT’S NEW IN THEMBHS GIFT SHOPBy Wayne & Linda Darnell, Sales Chairs
One of the fascinating aspects of theMorongo Basin is its colorful mining history.Exciting stories abound that are captivating. TheMBHS Gift Shop is emphasizing the area miningand featuring three newly delivered books thatdeal specifically with this subject.
Also being featured is a DVD that tells thestory of the Desert Queen Ranch. Bill Keys andhis family lived there in the early 1900s. Bill Keyswas a prominent figure in the area. His storyand escapades alone would interest anyonelooking at the area’s history and mining. SonWillis Keys and his wife Corrine are interviewedas they walk with memories at the KeysRanch. This historic ranch reflects an importantpresence of how life was in the early 1900s.
Plan to stop by the MBHS Gift Shop anddiscover what is available. In addition to mining,there are many other books and DVDs ofregional interest and a fine selection of giftitems. Your visit will be a delightful experience.
When you purchase from theMBHS Gift Shop, you are
supporting your historical society!
— Voice 5 —Frances Mae Keys
I was raised in the Los Angeles area in a comfortable, refinedhome. However, when I met and married Bill Keys in 1918, my citylife ended. Bill brought me to the desert to the small house he hadbuilt. Although not prepared for a rugged pioneer life, I adapted to
living such an isolated life. We raised 5 children by working together to make our ranch self-sufficient. Bill built dams for our water supply. We planted an orchard and a garden. During thehot summers, our whole family spent weeks canning food from the garden and orchard. Some ofour cattle provided food. Life was hard but good.
In May of 1943, our world changed traumatically. Myhusband’s feud with a neighbor ended when the neighborambushed Bill. In self-defense, Bill shot and killed him. Hewas convicted of murder and sent to San Quentin.
These were desperate years for me. I worked in a LosAngeles defense plant, went home on weekends to overlookthe ranch, traveled to visit Bill, tried toraise money for Bill’s legal expenses,and took care of the children still athome. For years, at night I wrote letterafter letter to seek help for Bill.I evenrode a bus to Sacramento to appeal toGovernor Earl Warren. I knew Bill wasinnocent. An old friend, Erle StanleyGardner—author of the Perry Masonnovels—responded, and his efforts freed Bill in 1948. We were together again.
MBHS proudly offers a presentation of our areahistory for your organization, group, or school
program. We invite you to leavetoday’s current world happenings.Step back in time for thirty minuteswith your guides (our MBHS
costumed narrators) as they introduce you to some of Morongo Basin’s earliest settlers,homesteaders and business leaders. Audience members will play these roles, reading from shortscripts (see the example of Frances Mae Keys below). You’ll look at Morongo Basin with newinsights and appreciation!
“Meet” historical and important Basin residents such as gold prospector David Poste, rancherChuck Warren, Johnnie “to the rescue” Hastie, poet June LeMert Paxton, and other fascinatingpeople who made choices that shaped our present.
V from theoicesPast
Want to know more or request the programfor your group at no cost?
Contact: Bob Connors 760-365-6163 or Sallie Brown 760-364-4446
Thanks to our volunteer interviewers & professional videographer Bob Stephenson, last monthwe produced two DVDs to capture the history of families and communities:
Geeson Siblings of Morongo ValleyPaul, John, Phillip and sister Regina Suddreth share their stories of growing up in MorongoValley: what the town was like during their childhood – town leaders and businesses, firstschool, recreation, and the development of the town.
Johnson ValleyThis presentation covers a wide area of topics by Bill Wilson, Alice Anderson, MertWaite, and Ed Warren. They discuss early Indians, water sources, early travelers, early settlers,Old Woman Springs Road, homesteading years, Rock Corral Tank, development of their communityassociation, and examples of “neighbors helping neighbors.”
If you are interested in volunteering to be an interviewer, please contactValerie Gleason at 760-364-2235.
ORAL HISTORY PROJECT UPDATE
BILL KEYES BILL & FRANCES KEYES
FRANCES KEYES
