Jack London State Historic Park

History and nature lovers can learn about an orchard originally planted in 1908-1912, later abandoned and recently restored at Jack London State Historic Park. Then they will hike to the newly reclaimed orchard to experience the rejuvenation that now provides fresh produce for those facing food insecurity.
Deputy Director of Operations Eric Metz will start the day with a presentation on the history and progress of the orchard.
The group will then have the option to take a medium-effort, six-mile (round trip) hike to the orchard for a for a personalized tour of the various areas that have been given a new lease on life and learn more about the unique challenges they had to overcome to revitalize the different areas, such as no access to water. Many of the fruit trees in the orchard now are much older than their average lifespans.
According to records from 1910, there were “675 apple trees, 175 apricots, 115 cherries, 250 pears, 75 plums, 810 prunes, and 575 peaches, and of grapevines 1,147 vines” in the orchard that was part of Sonoma Developmental Center. By the 1980s, the orchard had been abandoned.
In 2002 Jack London State Historic Park acquired approximately 600 acres of this land, including 110 acres of orchard. In 2017, Jack London Park Partners acquired permits to start the work to revive these struggling trees with the work performed by mainly volunteers.
Participants in the August 17 program will learn about the varieties that remain and a special project to reintroduce the heritage peach with the assistance of 18 volunteers, including 13 from the Sonoma Valley Rotary Club.
Today, the revitalized trees are producing a bounty of fruit. Jack London State Historic Park has now partnered with <a href="https://www.farmtopantry.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Farm to Pantry</a> to glean the fruit from the orchard and deliver it to Sonoma organizations that help people facing food insecurity. In 2023, 7,129 pounds of fruit was donated to Farm to Pantry.
Those planning the hike should bring plenty of water, hiking poles, a snack, dress in layers, and wear sturdy shoes.
When: Saturday, August 17, 2024, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Price: $15.00 per person plus the park entry fee of $10 per vehicle (up to nine passengers).
Tickets: <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/events/orchard-harvest/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/events/orchard-harvest/</a>

Local Event: Harvest is Coming!  A Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

Sonoma Valley

California

Harvest is Coming!  A Hike at Jack London State...

Saturday August 17, 2024: History and nature lovers can learn about an orchard originally planted in 1908-1912, later abandoned and recently...

Harvest is Coming!  A Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

Sonoma’s ragtime king John Partridge will be featured at the Jack London Piano Players’ afternoon concert of Ragtime and Early Jazz on Aug. 25, at 2-4 p.m. 
Partridge is a multifaceted composer who has written music for more than 50 years in genres including ragtime, church music, musical theater, and opera. Joining him will be talented piano club members Louise Bettner, Debbie Knapp, Michael O’Brien, and Paula Szoka.
Attendees are invited to dress in period costume to get into the spirit of the rollicking years of the early to mid-1900s. 
Charmian and Jack London would be tapping their toes as the concert will be played on Charmian London’s 1901 Steinway piano purchased on an installment plan. After receiving a hefty sum from his publisher, Jack gave Charmian $500 to finish payment and bring the piano to the ranch, where it became the center of entertainment for London’s many guests.
The concert will be performed on the second level of the House of Happy Walls Museum. Refreshments will be served under the portico during intermission and attendees can meet the performers.
The Jack London Piano Club has presented concerts quarterly since 2011, raising more than $20,000 to benefit the park which is operated by a nonprofit organization and receives no public funding.
Concert tickets are $20 per person and include the park entry fee (regularly $10 per car for up to nine passengers). 
Seating is limited. The performance space can be reached only by stairway. For more information about access, call 707- 938-5216.
To purchase tickets, visit <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/events/ragtime-early-jazz-concert/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/events/ragtime-early-jazz-concert/</a>.

Local Event: Ragtime and Early Jazz Piano Concert at Jack London State Historic Park

Ragtime and Early Jazz Piano Concert at Jack...

Sunday August 25, 2024: Sonoma’s ragtime king John Partridge will be featured at the Jack London Piano Players’ afternoon concert of Ragtime...

Ragtime and Early Jazz Piano Concert at Jack London State Historic Park

Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail Challenge, a series of five hikes on five consecutive Saturdays, covering every trail in the park for a total of 31.2 miles. Each week the hikes increase in duration and/or difficulty. 
The series begins on Sept. 7 and concludes on Oct. 5, 2024. 
Participants can sign up for individual hikes or do them all and become a true “WILD One.” The price for each hike is $25 (including the $10 park entry fee). Those who sign up for all five hikes before Sept. 7 save 20 percent and pay only $100. Details and reservations are available at <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/</a>. 
The hikes will highlight the history and natural beauty of the park while offering participants a meaningful fitness challenge. Hikes will be guided by the knowledgeable staff and volunteers of Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that operates and funds the park. 
All hikes except Hike #3 begin at Jack London State Historic Park, 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442. Meet in the Ranch parking lot (turn right after the entrance kiosk). Hike #3 begins at Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431, Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Hike # 1 – Historic Trails
Sept. 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
This hike explores the historic sites and trails of the park. Navigate both sides of the park to discover Jack London’s Beauty Ranch, London Lake, and the Wolf House ruins. Easy - moderate hike (approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 2 – Ancient Redwood
Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Meander through the redwoods and sunny oak woodlands of the park’s three Bridge Trails (Upper, Lower, and Fallen). The journey travels to the majestic ancient redwood, fondly known as the Grandmother Tree. Moderate hike (approximately 5.7 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 3 - Historic Orchard
September 21, 9 am – 12:30 pm
Start Location: Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431. Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Stroll along the blue shores of Fern Lake before reaching the Historic Orchard. Learn about the history of the land and the fruit-bearing trees that bear produce donated to <a href="https://www.farmtopantry.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Farm to Pantry</a>. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 5.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 4 – The Ridge
Sept. 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
Gain elevation and an appreciation for the diverse habitats found within the park. Hikers will also traverse part of the ever-growing Bay Area Ridge Trail. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 8.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 5 – The Summit
Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Complete the hiking series with a trek to the park summit. Climb Sonoma Mountain to enjoy stunning views, celebrate with fellow hikers, and become a WILD One. Difficult hike (approximately 8 miles roundtrip).
Hikers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for every hike. Participants will also receive an event reminder email 48 hours before the hike with updates about current trail conditions and hiking gear recommendations.
Dogs will not be permitted on any of the five hikes, which travel through the park’s backcountry trails and protected wildlife habitats. For more information about dogs at the park, visit <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/</a>. 
For more information about the WILD Trail Challenge, contact Ciara Pegg at cpegg@jacklondonpark.com or 707-938-5216 Ext 5.

Local Event: WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State...

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Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that funds and operates Jack London State Historic Park, has announced the theme for their annual gala: “Yesterday’s Tomorrow.”
The event will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 5-9 p.m. at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen.
The evening will be an immersive culinary experience celebrating the agricultural legacy of Jack and Charmian London, whose visionary concepts from the past are still acknowledged for shaping a sustainable future today. 
The progressive dinner, “Charmian’s Feast” by Elaine Bell, will begin upon arrival, so guests can indulge their senses amidst a bountiful moving banquet. Corporate sponsor Kenwood Vineyards will provide wines – including the red wines made from grapes grown at the center of the park.
 
Charmian London will be the hostess for the evening, with an appearance by Jack London himself (as portrayed by Lynne Lancaster and Chuck Levine respectively). 
Ellen Toscano, “<a href="https://www.yoursingingauctioneer.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Singing Auctioneer</a>,” and Noa Weiswasser will provide musical entertainment and Toscano will lead a lively “Fund a Need” donations drive. 
Creative direction is by <a href="https://www.velocityartssf.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gregangelo’s Velocity Arts &amp; Entertainment</a>.
For the fourth year, Jack London Park Partners will honor those who have made significant contributions in three areas: 
<ul><li>Philanthropy: The KHR McNeely Family Fund - Kevin, Rosemary and Hannah Rose McNeely.</li><li>Park Advocate: Sonoma Land Trust, for their support of land transfers from the former Sonoma Developmental Center.</li><li>Volunteer: Bern Lefson, a park docent for the past 12 years, who provided new golf carts to carry guests throughout the park. </li></ul>
Proceeds of the event support Jack London State Historic Park, which has been operated and funded since 2012 by Jack London Park Partners, one of the first non-profit organizations to be entrusted with management of a state park on behalf of the people of California. Jack London Park Partners is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization

Local Event: "Yesterday's Tomorrow" Gala for Jack London Park Partners

"Yesterday's Tomorrow" Gala for Jack London...

Saturday September 21, 2024: Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that funds and operates Jack London State Historic Park, has...

"Yesterday's Tomorrow" Gala for Jack London Park Partners

Deer Camp is a lovely destination at any time of the year and for a Farewell to Summer Hike, the shade will be a welcome respite. This moderate, medium-paced 5.5-mile roundtrip hike travels the Mountain Trail and ends at Deer Camp, surrounded by redwoods, picnic tables, and a creek. 
Bring water, hiking poles, and a snack, dress for the weather,
and wear sturdy shoes.
Note: Extreme heat will cancel this hike.

Local Event: Farewell to Summer Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

Farewell to Summer Hike at Jack London State...

Sunday September 22, 2024: Deer Camp is a lovely destination at any time of the year and for a Farewell to Summer Hike, the shade will be a...

Farewell to Summer Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail Challenge, a series of five hikes on five consecutive Saturdays, covering every trail in the park for a total of 31.2 miles. Each week the hikes increase in duration and/or difficulty. 
The series begins on Sept. 7 and concludes on Oct. 5, 2024. 
Participants can sign up for individual hikes or do them all and become a true “WILD One.” The price for each hike is $25 (including the $10 park entry fee). Those who sign up for all five hikes before Sept. 7 save 20 percent and pay only $100. Details and reservations are available at <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/</a>. 
The hikes will highlight the history and natural beauty of the park while offering participants a meaningful fitness challenge. Hikes will be guided by the knowledgeable staff and volunteers of Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that operates and funds the park. 
All hikes except Hike #3 begin at Jack London State Historic Park, 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442. Meet in the Ranch parking lot (turn right after the entrance kiosk). Hike #3 begins at Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431, Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Hike # 1 – Historic Trails
Sept. 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
This hike explores the historic sites and trails of the park. Navigate both sides of the park to discover Jack London’s Beauty Ranch, London Lake, and the Wolf House ruins. Easy - moderate hike (approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 2 – Ancient Redwood
Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Meander through the redwoods and sunny oak woodlands of the park’s three Bridge Trails (Upper, Lower, and Fallen). The journey travels to the majestic ancient redwood, fondly known as the Grandmother Tree. Moderate hike (approximately 5.7 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 3 - Historic Orchard
September 21, 9 am – 12:30 pm
Start Location: Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431. Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Stroll along the blue shores of Fern Lake before reaching the Historic Orchard. Learn about the history of the land and the fruit-bearing trees that bear produce donated to <a href="https://www.farmtopantry.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Farm to Pantry</a>. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 5.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 4 – The Ridge
Sept. 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
Gain elevation and an appreciation for the diverse habitats found within the park. Hikers will also traverse part of the ever-growing Bay Area Ridge Trail. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 8.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 5 – The Summit
Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Complete the hiking series with a trek to the park summit. Climb Sonoma Mountain to enjoy stunning views, celebrate with fellow hikers, and become a WILD One. Difficult hike (approximately 8 miles roundtrip).
Hikers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for every hike. Participants will also receive an event reminder email 48 hours before the hike with updates about current trail conditions and hiking gear recommendations.
Dogs will not be permitted on any of the five hikes, which travel through the park’s backcountry trails and protected wildlife habitats. For more information about dogs at the park, visit <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/</a>. 
&nbsp;

Saturday September 28, 2024: Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail...

Have you ever been lured by the siren song to set sail for the South Pacific? Learn about two couples who made it a reality, Jack and Charmian London and Rob and Nancy Novak.
For Jack and Charmian London, living and owning land near Glen Ellen was a way of escaping Oakland, from the city way of life he called “the man trap.” But, restless and eager for foreign travel and adventure, he and his wife, Charmian London, decided to build a ship, the Snark, and sail around the world, serializing his adventure.
Nancy and Rob Novak, Sonoma County residents and real-life sailors left on their cruise of a lifetime in 2012. During that time, unknowingly, they visited some of the London’s South Seas destinations like the Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Bora Bora and Raiatea), 105 years after Jack London’s Snark came to call.
Join Nancy and Rob Novak for an enchanting afternoon as they recount their amazing voyage. They will set the stage with a summary of Jack and Charmian’s South Seas sailing adventures before sharing their personal story of sailing their own 48 ft sailboat, “Shindig” in the Mexican and South Pacific waters for over a decade.
“Our goal was to go on our own sailing adventure. We had been sailing in the SF Bay for many years, and our sailboat Shindig was bought specifically for an offshore adventure. We resigned from our jobs, and spent a year downsizing our belongings and putting the rest into storage. Our initial plan was to take 1-2 years off of work, and see where the winds would take us. We thought we’d stay in Mexico for a year, and then possibly go across the Pacific Ocean to the South Pacific. When we finished our adventure, we had sailed over 14 years and covered 15,000 nautical miles. “
Note: Limited seating is available. Performance space can be reached by stairway only; for more information about access, please call (707) 938-5216

Local Event: The Story of Jack London’s Snark and the Cruise of the Shindig

The Story of Jack London’s Snark and the Cruise...

Saturday September 28, 2024: Have you ever been lured by the siren song to set sail for the South Pacific?  Learn about two couples who made it a...

The Story of Jack London’s Snark and the Cruise of the Shindig

Saturday October 5, 2024: Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail...

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Harvest is Coming! A Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

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WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

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WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

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WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

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WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

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