My office is an old barnwood cabin, in an historic complex that had been established early in the 19th Century by General Vallejo when he built a sawmill at the confluence of two brisk streams. There are many stories about the colorful people who have lived here, from the struggling pioneers and settlers to the artists and musicians that have made it their home. The articles I have written about them can be found here, and they have been published with historic photographs in a book titled A Brief & Amateur History of Jack London Village.
My interest in the history of the Valley of the Moon is not simply about the events of the past; it’s about the soul of this place. For thousands of years the original people had lived a vigorous and contemplative life here, a life permitted by the gentle climate and graciously fertile land. The Europeans that arrived here relatively recently— and the Americans that came to settle soon afterwards— recognized the possibilities of living in collaboration with nature, developing a distinctly epicurean culture in all its positive meanings.
There is a very real pleasure in learning about the people who have lived here before us, and how they sought to be stewards of the land while pursuing a conscious way of life. Certainly, they made mistakes along the way, but they did create the world that we inhabit today. It would be best for us to remember their vision while taking into account their errors, in order to provide a better world for those who have yet to arrive. In this way we will take our best place in history’s continued unfolding.
Lately, I’ve been at work on a couple of wikis
for the region, and have become involved with the
Glen Ellen Historical Society. I invite your exploration of these external links, and your participation.