RECORDINGS OF PAST EVENTS AND SPECIAL TALKS
CHRISTMAS WITH THE BIDWELLS – 2021
Grab a plate of Christmas cookies and a cup of eggnog or sparkling cider, and sit down at your computer, smart phone, tablet, or smart TV, for our virtual presentation of Christmas with the Bidwells. Enjoy an amusing tale told by John Bidwell and his friend Mr. Swasey, about their first Christmases at Sutter's Fort.
The video can be seen on the BMA YouTube channel by going here, or by clicking the embedded video to the right. |
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TALK BY AUTHOR ANY MARK
Enjoy a talk from author Andy Mark speak about John Bidwell’s investment in the development of the Humboldt Wagon Road and his little-known involvement in a significant mining venture in northwestern Nevada.
Andy Mark worked as a brakeman and conductor on the Western Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads for twenty-one years before going back to college to earn degrees in mathematics and psychology from CSU, Chico. After working sixteen years as a statistical consultant and data analyst, Andy retired in 2013. |
Before retirement, Andy began directing his attention toward local history. His articles include “1859 Butte Creek White Settler-Indians Conflicts” (Diggin’s, Spring 2010) and “How Western Pacific’s Scenic Feather River Route Almost Wasn’t” (California Territorial Quarterly, Winter 2013). He is the author of The West Branch Mill of the Sierra Lumber Company, published by The History Press in 2012.
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Andy enjoys hiking and has explored the backcountry of Butte, Plumas, and Tehama Counties on foot and by mountain bike, often coming across evidence left by humans from earlier times. Andy feels his interest in local history helped him find a way to blend an understanding and appreciation for the past with his love of nature. Andy and his wife, Jill, are longtime rock hounds and have searched many of the western states for stony treasures. This inspired them to learn the history of the deserts of northwestern Nevada, the destination of the Humboldt Wagon Road.
Christmas with the bidwells – 2020
Travel back in time and hear from four residents of Bidwell Mansion as they prepare for the holiday season. General John Bidwell will give you a tour of his office and tell you about the time he met General Sherman. Annie Bidwell is going shopping in downtown Chico—find out which stores she prefers for buying Christmas gifts. Florence the cook is in the kitchen preparing a delicious dinner, and Peter the coachman is out at the carriage house getting ready to give you a ride around Rancho Chico. All of them will welcome you to Bidwell Mansion and fill you with the holiday spirit.
The video can be seen on the BMA YouTube channel by going here, or by clicking the embedded video to the right. |
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