Shoshone Stories and the Applegate Trail: The California Trail Interpretive Center Announces June Programs
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ELKO, Nev. – Enjoy Shoshone stories and learn about the Applegate Trail at the California Trail Interpretive Center during June.
The Trail Center is presenting a variety of family friendly programs throughout June. Evening programs will also be presented from June through September.
“Our evening programs, focusing on natural and cultural history, will provide additional ways for us to serve our visitors,” said Supervisory Park Ranger Alex Rose. “We encourage folks to join us throughout the summer for a variety of experiences from art programs to storytelling.”
The following programs are free and open to everyone:
June 2, 10:00 a.m.: Most Cordially, I Hate You: The History of the Humboldt River
Although reviled for its bitter-tasting waters by many emigrants in colorful journal entries, the unassuming Humboldt River is one of the most important waterways in American history. Join Interpreter Tim Burns to learn why the Humboldt's water is so bitter, how the river acquired its many names, and the history of settlements in the valley.
June 2, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.: Evening Reception: “Nevada Wild”
The Trail Center is hosting a reception for its temporary art exhibit, “Nevada Wild: An Exhibition by the Elko Art Club.” The reception will include coffee and desserts. Artists will share the stories and inspirations behind their artwork.
The event will highlight Elko County Art Club Artist Lynne Kistler, as she officially signs her mural titled, “Hastings Cutoff.” The 14-foot mural is located in the Trail Center’s South Fork Room.
June 3, 2:00 p.m.: Junior Ranger Program: Wild Art
Join Volunteer Susanne Reese and explore the “Nevada Wild” art exhibit. Following conversations about the art, Reese will lead fun projects that will include, sketching, pastels, Nevada animals and landscapes.
June 9, 10:00 a.m.: The First National Trail: The Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Have you ever wondered what it is like to hike the length of the Appalachian Trail? The Trail Center is presenting a 50-minute documentary of our nation’s first National Trail. Following the documentary, Supervisory Park Ranger Alex Rose will provide a brief presentation about his experience of through hiking the 2,000-mile trail.
This program is part of a series of programs that celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System. The National Trails System Act protects thousands of miles of trails and waterways. For more information visit www.trails50.org
June 10, 2:00 p.m.: Junior Ranger Program: How to Make Pioneer Butter
Making pioneer butter required much preparation and hard work. Join Volunteer Dinna Frost and learn how to make butter like the pioneers.
June 16, 3:00 p.m.: Black Rock Desert Songs with Elizabeth Cadigan
Join Elizabeth Cadigan as she explores the wonders of the northern Nevada Desert through songs. This interactive concert is both entertaining and educational for audience members of all ages. In 2017, Cardigan served as the Bureau of Land Management/Friends of Black Rock High Rock Artist in Residence.
June 17, 2:00 p.m.: Junior Ranger Program: Sling It
What did Great Basin children do for fun 2,000 years ago? Play with slings! Slings have been used as toys and weapons around the world for thousands of years. 2,000-year-old slings made for children were unearthed in Lovelock Cave. Join Park Ranger Greg Feathers and learn how to use this ancient throwing device.
June 21, 7:00 p.m.: Evening Program: Shoshone Fireside Stories with Andrea Woods
Why do Coyotes have amber eyes? Why does a blue jay have black feet? Enjoy Shoshone legends with Andrea Woods. Woods is a member of the Wells Band.
June 23, 10:00 a.m.: The Applegate Trail: A Better Way to Oregon?
The Applegate Trail departs from the California Trail in western Nevada. Compared to the California and Oregon Trails, the Applegate Trail was used by very few emigrants. Still, the Applegate made a lasting impact on the history of the American West. Join Interpreter Jordan Thomas and learn why emigrants took the Southern Road to Oregon, and the controversies that the Applegate Trail caused.
June 24, 2:00 p.m.: Junior Ranger Program: Pioneer Journaling: A Glimpse into the Past
Attention all kids: How do we know what the pioneers thought and felt? Because they wrote their stories down in journals and diaries. Join Jordan Thomas and learn about pioneer journals, and create your own journal to document your journeys.
June 30, 10:00 a.m.: Travel at Your Own Risk: The Hastings Cutoff and Western Utah
Join Jessica Montcalm as she discusses the experiences of emigrants who chose to follow a "shortcut" to California and Oregon. While many who followed the route were traveling to the Kingdom of Deseret (Utah Territory), others took the word of William Hastings and attempted to follow his "shortcut," some to their famous demise.
For more information about the California Trail Interpretive Center, call (775) 738-1849. Visit the Trail Center online at www.californiatrailcenter.org or https://www.facebook.com/californiatrailinterpretivecenter/.
The California Trail Interpretive Center is located eight miles west of Elko on I-80, Hunter exit 292. The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.