Sac History Happenings

Born: Nov. 27, 1960

Known for: A Jesuit High School athlete and first-round draft pick by the New York Jets, Ken O'Brien played 11 seasons as an NFL quarterback.

Background: After graduating from Jesuit, O'Brien played one season for California State University, Sacramento, before transferring to UC Davis. From 1980 to '82, he excelled for the Aggies, passing for 6,673 yards and 44 touchdowns. He was part of the famous NFL "quarterback draft" in 1983. O'Brien was selected by the Jets as the 24th in the draft, after John Elway, Todd Blackledge, Jim Kelly and Tony Eason but three picks before Dan Marino. He played 10 seasons for New York and one for the Philadelphia Eagles, passing for 25,094 yards and 128 touchdowns. In the third week of the 1986 season, O'Brien threw for 465 yards and six touchdowns in a 51-45 overtime win against the Miami Dolphins. O'Brien was selected to play for two NFL Pro Bowl teams.

A highlight: O'Brien has been inducted into the National Football Foundation's College Hall of Fame, Cal Aggie Athletic Hall of Fame and the Division II football Hall of Fame.

-- Anthony Sorci

The San Francisco History Center (part of the San Francisco Public Library) has partnered with The Huffington Post to produce "Tales of the City," a monthly display showcasing historic photographs from the Center's collections.

The debut slideshow is 25 years of the Tenderloin (1939-1964), featuring rare images (some never before seen) of the 40-block neighborhood. Among them is the notorious Black Hawk bar in 1961, a 1941 car accident in front of the Hotel Shawmut and the Chop Suey & Del Monte Club on Jones St. in 1962.

PHOTO CREDIT: Aerial view of the San Francisco Public Library. 1996 San Francisco Chronicle photograph by Russell Yip

Connoisseurs of very vintage autos will want to check out the next Old Car Festival in Galt this Sunday. Working cars -- as well as trucks and motorcycles -- built before 1943 will be on display at the McFarland Living Historical Ranch. Awards will be given in two categories: "Peoples Choice," judged by spectators, and "Best of Show," judged by exhibitors.

Organized by the Galt Area Historical Society, this annual event is a fundraiser for the Rae House Museum.

What: 25th Annual Galt Old Car Festival
Where: McFarland Living Historical Ranch, 8899 Orr Rd., Galt (map)
When: Sept. 30, 11 to 3 p.m.
Cost: free for spectators. Vehicle registration: early $20; day of event $25.
For more info: 209-745-0951 or website

Event flyer
Vehicle registration form
Photos of past award winners

PHOTO CREDIT: 1930 Chevrolet Roadster Deluxe, owned by Richard Bertolucci of Sacramento, on display at the 2005 Galt Old Car Festival. Courtesy Galt Area Historical Society

Native American Day honors those who are instrumental in the preservation of tribal cultures and languages. This year's event focuses on the contributions of native women. Visitors to the Capitol will enjoy family-friendly cultural demonstrations, traditional drumming, dancing, music, games and art. Plus there will be exhibits, speeches and a performance by the Tule River Color Guard.

What: 45th Annual Native American Day
Where: State Capitol, 11th and N Sts., Sacramento
When: Sept. 28, 10 to 2 p.m.
Cost: free
For more info: (916) 445-9480 or website

Event flyer

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Pacific Railroad Act of 1862 that authorized the transcontinental railroad, the California State Railroad Museum will unveil a new exhibit documenting the history of the Union Pacific, beginning with Abraham Lincoln's initial support of the national project and its construction, through wars, disasters and expansion up to the present.

On display will be photos, maps, artifacts and memorabilia, including: a souvenir gold album locket containing a picture of Lincoln during his presidential campaign; railroad advertising, posters and marketing materials; large "drum-head" signs that once "brought up the rear" of famous passenger trains; photos of railroad workers building the Transcontinental Railroad; and the iconic Union Pacific logo as it changed over time.

In addition to the debut of the exhibit Union Pacific is hosting a two-day celebration this weekend in Old Sacramento. Visitors will be treated to a tour of the "Living Legend" No. 844 steam locomotive and a chance to see the vintage 1960s Promontory baggage car and other historic passenger cars and equipment. Plus there will be free rides on the Sacramento Southern excursion train and UP's 956 miniature train. And for just this weekend, the Railroad Museum and Sacramento History Museum will offer free admission.

Also check out the UP 150 Anniversary website which includes an extensive timeline, employee stories and historic advertisements.

What: "Building America: Abraham Lincoln, California and the Union Pacific Railroad" Exhibit
Where: California State Railroad Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park
When: Sept. 29 through Aug. 2013
Cost: $10 adults; $5 youths ages 6-17; free for children ages 5 and under. Free museum admission on Sept. 29 & 30.
For more info: 916-445-6645 or website

News release for the CSRM exhibit
News release for the Union Pacific celebration

PHOTO CREDIT: C. Everett Johnson's painting of Gen. Grenville Dodge and Abraham Lincoln considering routes for the transcontinental railroad, Aug. 1859.

Born: 1894
Died: Jan. 25, 1918

Known for: An Air Force test pilot, Mather was killed in an air collision in 1918. Mather Field, later Mather Air Force Base and now Mather Airport, was named for him.

Background: Carl Spencer Mather earned his pilot's license at age 16. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army Signal Corps, but five days later, he was killed at Ellington Field in Texas. The remainder of his class was restationed at Mills Field and requested that the facility be renamed in Mather's honor. In January 1919, Mather graduated its 11th class of pilots and training ceased. For the next 22 years, the base lay dormant. As war raged in Europe in 1941, Mather was reborn to train thousands of World War II pilots, navigators and bombardiers. The base's resurgence continued through the Korean War with the addition of Strategic Air Command nuclear bombers. In 1988, Mather was shuttered. In 1995, Mather was reopened as a 2,675-acre cargo airport. An additional 1,432 acres became Mather Regional Park.

A highlight: In 1988, Mather had 1,962 civilian workers and 5,652 military personnel and an annual payroll of $154 million.

--Anthony Sorci

For over a 100 years baseball has played an important role in the life of the Japanese-American community, especially during the internment during World War II. Two films -- one a documentary, one a fictional story -- celebrate this enduring legacy. They'll be shown at a festival this Sunday in Grass Valley.

Diamonds in the Rough: Zeni and the Legacy of Japanese-American Baseball honors Kenichi Zenimura, a talented player and respected manager, who worked tirelessly to promote the American Nisei Leagues. American Pastime is the story of a Japanese-American family who finds strength and self-respect in the internment camps through baseball.

Historian and producer of both films, Kerry Yo Nakagawa, will meet with the audience at the film festival. He was interviewed on a recent KXJZ Insight segment, which you can listen to here.

What: Two films on Japanese-American Baseball
Where: Community Asian Theatre of the Sierra, 360 Sierra College Dr., Grass Valley
When: Sept. 23, 2 p.m.
Cost: $15 in advance (call 530-265-5462). $18 at the door.
For more info: (530) 273-6362 or website

Event flyer

PHOTO CREDIT: Japanese-American internees watch and play baseball in 1943 at the Manzanar War Relocation Center. Photograph by Ansel Adams. (AP Photo/Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division)

The next Historic City Cemetery tour examines the accomplishments of educators in early Sacramento who overcame hardships to teach children of pioneers. Come hear their personal stories told by the knowledgeable and engaging docents.

For a handy timeline and photos of vintage schools, browse on over to the History of Education in Sacramento County maintained by the Sacramento County Office of Education.

What: Educators Tour
Where: Historic City Cemetery, 1000 Broadway, Sacramento
When: Sept. 22, 10 a.m.
Cost: free, but donations welcome
For more info: (916) 264-7839 or website

News release

PHOTO CREDIT: American River School, built near 39th and J Sts, opened in 1860. In 1908 it joined the Sacramento City Unified School District. Courtesy of Sacramento County Office of Education

It's back to the swinging 60s when the California Automobile Museum debuts its "1968" exhibit this Saturday.

A rotating display of vintage cars (including the 1968 Pontiac GTO, Dodge Charger, Chevy Nova, Ford Mustang, Plymouth Road Runner and Ford Torino) will be accompanied by special exhibits explaining the historic context (in music, toys, politics and advertising) of that tumultuous year.

Dress up in your mod 60s clothing and come to the special exhibit preview Friday (6 to 8 p.m.). Light refreshments and photo opportunities will be available. All ages welcome.

What: 1968
Where: California Automobile Museum, 2200 Front St. Sacramento
When: Sept. 22 thru May 12, 1913. Museum Hours: 10 to 6 p.m. Monday thru Sunday Open until 9 p.m. on third Thursdays.
Cost: $8 adults; $7 vintage (65 and older); $4 students (with current student ID); children 4 and under free.
For more info: (916) 442-6802 or website

Today the Railroad Museum unveils a whimsical exhibit depicting an 1880s steam train carved out of wood by master whittlers. Accompanied by "a handcar, water tower, railroad depot, crossing gate and a cadre of more than 40 humorous characters from all walks of life in the West," this display will sure to delight visitors of all ages.

It took 25 artisans of the Caricature Carvers of America a year to meticulously whittle, sculpt and paint the colorful ensemble. On Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. the carvers will be on hand to meet the public and provide a special demonstration of the whittler's art.

"Whittle Stop" will be available for public viewing for one year in the Gallery Lobby near the Museum entrance and store.

What: "Whittle Stop: A Cast of Caricatures on a Wild West Train" Exhibit
Where: California State Railroad Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park
When: Sept. 18 through Sept. 2013
Cost: Museum admission -- $10 adults; $5 youths ages 6-17; free for children ages 5 and under.
For more info: 916-445-6645 or website

News Release

PHOTO CREDIT: 1880s steam engine, part of the Whittle Stop exhibit. Courtesy California State Railroad Museum

The public is invited to a memorial ceremony Sunday marking the 40th anniversary of the 1972 plane crash into a Farrell's ice cream parlor on Freeport Boulevard in Sacramento that killed 22 people. A jet from nearby Sacramento Executive Airport crashed into the ice cream shop shortly after takeoff. Sunday's ceremony takes place at 1 p.m. at the city's Public Safety Center, 5770 Freeport Blvd.

Info: Firefighters Burn Institute at (916) 739-8525 or email staff@ffburn.org.

-- Bee Staff

Also, see The Bee's anniversary resources on Sacbee.com:

Gallery of historic photos taken of the crash
Archive of The Bee's 1972 stories
Readers remember the disaster
NTSB report on the causes of the accident

PHOTO CREDIT: Firefighters and police officers rescue survivors of the Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor air accident on Sept. 24, 1972. Sacramento Bee photograph by Leo Neibaur

This Saturday the Governor's Mansion will host a talk and book signing by Catherine Millard, a historian and author of 14 books, including her latest The Dismantling of America's History, in which she warns about the threat to essential historic landmarks such as the Governor's Mansion.

Millard argues that to lose any of these precious artifacts is to lose "their immeasurable contribution to the social, natural, cultural, educational and economic development of the entire country."

What: Author Appearance & Book Signing Opportunity
Where: Visitor's Center at the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, 1526 H Street in Sacramento
When: Sept. 22, Noon to 2 p.m.
Cost: free
For more info: 916-323-5916 or website

News release

PHOTO CREDIT: Historian Catherine Millard. Courtesy Governor's Mansion State Historic Park

Born: Jan. 24, 1932

Known for: Illa Collin served the longest tenure -- 28 years -- on the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors before stepping down in 2006.

Background: A Rock Springs, Wyo., native, Collin was the daughter of a coal miner and homemaker. Her father was killed in a mining accident when she was 10. She married her husband, Don, in 1957 and they and their three daughters moved to Sacramento in 1967. Collin joined the League of Women Voters and eventually became its president. She was also served on the state Reclamation Board, the city Planning Commission and two county advisory panels. When the 2nd District supervisorial seat opened in 1978, Collin was set to support Sacramento City Councilman Robert T. Matsui. When he opted to run for Congress, Collin ran for the seat herself. Finishing second among 12 candidates in the primary race, she won a runoff to become the second woman elected to the board. During her tenure, Collin played an integral role in defining the shape and feel of suburban development.

A highlight: Collin holds the board's record for longest-serving supervisor, ahead of James R. Garlick (1941-1960) and Sandra Smoley (1971-1992).

-- Anthony Sorci

The Sacramento Public Library has chosen two books for this fall's Big Read/One Book program to celebrate our nation's founding documents: The Penguin Guide to the U.S. Constitution, edited by Richard Beeman, Ph.D; and Constitution Café by Christopher Phillips, Ph.D.

One Book begins on September 18, the day after the 225th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Free events including author presentations, special exhibitions, craft programs, performances, book discussions and film screenings will explore the history and enduring legacy of the U.S. Constitution through the end of October at a number of library locations. In addition, two displays will go up in the lobby of the Central Library: a panel display on our nation's constitution and an exhibit case featuring Sacramento Room treasures on the history of the U.S. and California constitutions.

Copies of both books will be on sale at the authors' presentations and free copies of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights will be available at all Sacramento Public Library locations during Constitution Week (September 17-21). 

All One Book events are listed in the Sacramento Public Library's online events calendar. For more information, visit www.saclibrary.org or call (916) 264-2920.

The California State Railroad Museum and Old Sacramento Historic State Park are looking for volunteers to help educate the public about the city's Gold Rush and rail heritage.

Volunteers contribute in many ways: as docents and museum tour guides, helping with clerical and restoration work, maintaining track and even operating excursion trains.

You don't have to have extensive knowledge of local history. Volunteers learn as they go. If you're interested, submit your application for fall training and interview by Sept. 19. Training begins Oct. 8 and requires a commitment of 84 volunteer hours annually (schedule is flexible).

What: Volunteer Applications Accepted Now
Where: California State Railroad Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park
When: Volunteer applications are due September 19. Orientation and volunteer training begins on October 8
Cost: free
For more info: 916-324-7593 or visit website

News Release

PHOTO CREDIT: California State Railroad Museum docent Jack Seigal talks about the completion of the transcontinental railroad during a tour. 2001 Sacramento Bee photograph by Randy Pench

Before gold was discovered at his mill in Coloma, Sacramento pioneer John Sutter aimed to create a farming empire in the Sacramento Valley. In 1848 he amassed thousands of sheep, cows, horses and mules and grew wheat, grapes and melons -- much of it lost when the hordes of gold seekers flooded into the region.

The next Hands on History program honors the state's agricultural past with docent demonstrations of corn shucking, threshing, winnowing and grinding wheat, as well as goat milking, spinning, wool weaving and property branding.

What: Hands on History - Harvest Time: The Real Gold in California
Where: Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, 2701 L St., Sacramento
When: Sept. 15. Fort hours: 10 to 5 p.m. Cannon firing demonstrations:  11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Musket demonstrations periodically throughout the day
Cost: $7 per adult (18 and older), $5 per youth (ages 6-17), free for children 5 years and under
For more info: call 916-445-4422 or website

News release

PHOTO CREDIT: Aerial of Sutter's Fort taken from the Goodyear blimp Spirit of America. 2003 Sacramento Bee photograph by Hector Amezcua

Since 1975 the Sacramento Old City Association has offered docent tours of historic buildings in the Midtown and Downtown areas. This year's event honors the Poverty Ridge Neighborhood with an inside look at seven homes that includes the McClatchy House (now site of the Ella K. McClatchy Library) and the Roan-Didion House (former childhood home of author Joan Didion).

Accompanying the Home Tour is a street fair featuring local building contractors and artisans, artists, crafters, and advocacy and history groups. Live music will be performed by the Freebadge Serenaders, Autumn Sky and Garage Jazz Architects.

What: 37th Annual SOCA Home Tour and Street Fair
Where: 22nd St. between U and V Sts.
When: Sept. 16, 10 to 4 p.m.
Cost: Fair is free. Tour tickets are $25 day of event; $20 advance purchase. Buy tickets online.
For more info:  (916) 202-4815 or Sacramento Old City Association

News release

"Rollin' on the River" is this year's Historic Old Sacramento Foundation fundraiser honoring both restauranteur Lina Fat and the 100-year-old I St. Bridge.

The evening cruise aboard the Empress Hornblower features an elegant dinner, 19th century gambling, a champagne toast for the I Street Bridge and a silent auction. Proceeds will go to support ongoing programs provided by the Foundation.

Advanced tickets are available for purchase online, at the Sacramento History Museum, 101 I Street or by calling 916-808-7059.

What: Rollin' on the River! Honoring Lina Fat and a 100th Birthday Salute to the I Street Bridge!
Where: Aboard the Empress Hornblower. Old Sacramento waterfront, 1206 Front St.
When: Sept.14, 5-6 p.m. -- VIP Reception at Sacramento History Museum. 6-8:30 p.m. -- Cruise down the Sacramento River. Note: this rescheduled event was originally set for June 14.
Cost: $75 for River Cruise only; $125 for VIP Reception & River Cruise
For more info: 916-808-7059 or website

News release

PHOTO CREDIT: Empress Hornblower. Courtesy Hornblower Cruises & Events

Born: Nov. 20, 1925

Known for: George Barris is a renowned custom car designer who created such famous Hollywood vehicles as the Munster Koach and the Batmobile.

Background: An Illinois native, Barris was raised in Roseville and graduated from San Juan High School in 1943. George and his older brother, Sam, learned about cars and customizing at area auto shops. George created his first custom car from a used 1936 Ford convertible before graduating from high school. The brothers opened a custom car shop in Los Angeles after World War II. Sam specialized in metal craftsmanship while George mainly worked on designing, painting, managing and promoting. Movie studios took notice, which led to George designing cars for films, TV shows and stars, including the Batmobile for the mid-'60s "Batman" TV show. He took a 1955 Lincoln-Mercury Futura concept and transformed it into a 5,500-pound black icon.

A highlight: George Barris and his creations make numerous appearances at auto shows, including the annual Sacramento Autorama. At that show, the coveted Sam Barris Award is given to the car featuring the best metal work, paint and finish.

In History's Spotlight profiles of Sacramento newsmakers were published originally in 2007 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of The Sacramento Bee. They were written by Anthony Sorci. Look for them every Sunday in Sac History Happenings.

With the usual crowds it's normally difficult to photograph the amazing exhibits at the California State Railroad Museum. But amateur shooters will have a chance to snap the trains before the facility opens next Saturday.

It's all part of a weekend photography event, which includes an optional lighting class on Friday conducted by former Sacramento Bee photographer Dave Henry.

Space is limited to 50 participants and advance registration is required.

What: Trains & Tripods Photo Opportunity & Lighting Seminar
Where: California State Railroad Museum, 125 I St. in Old Sacramento
When: Sept. 14 and 15. Friday - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. (Photography Seminar); Saturday - 7 to 9:30 a.m. (Shooting Workshop).
Cost: $35.00 per person Friday night seminar; $35.00 per person shooting workshop; $60.00 per person for both.
For more info: website or 916-445-7373

News release
Event flyer

PHOTO CREDIT: Photographers line up their shots at a previous Trains & Tripod weekend. Courtesy California State Railroad Museum

September not only ushers in the school year, it also brings a wealth of genealogy classes designed to help family historians learn the tricks and tools of research.

The Sacramento Public Library (828 I St.) is offering three Sunday afternoon seminars in the West Meeting Room. Register for these classes by calling (916) 264-2920 or visiting www.saclibrary.org.

Sept. 9 (1:30 p.m.): Genealogy On the Go with the iPad or Tablet with Lisa Louise Cooke
Sept. 16 (1:30 p.m.): Build Your Own Genealogy Blog with Craig Siulinski
Sept. 23 (1:30 p.m.): The WPA, Resources for Your Genealogy with Gena Philibert Ortega

The Family History Center (2745 Eastern Ave., Sacramento) has announced these classes. To register call 487-2090.

Sept. 12 (2 p.m.): Newspaper Research with Kathryn Moore
Sept. 12 (7 p.m.): Social Security with Pam Dallas
Sept. 19 (2 p.m.): Italian Research with Jerry Googiel
Sept. 19 (7 p.m.): Using Dropbox for Genealogy and More with Marian Kile
Sept. 26 (2 p.m.): City Directories, A Problem Solving Approach with Glenda Lloyd
Sept. 26 (7 p.m.): Family History Center Portal with Gordon Orchard

PHOTO CREDIT: Harold Nash uses microfilm to explore his family's roots at the Family History Center. 2001 Sacramento Bee photograph by Chris Crewell

This Sunday marks the 162nd anniversary of the the admission of California into the United States.

Celebrate this milestone at the State Capitol. Visitors will be treated with live music, cake and ice cream provided by California State Parks, the State Capitol Museum with financial support from the California State Capitol Museum Volunteer Association. And while your there, check out the Capitol Museum itself.

What: Admission Day Celebration
Where: California State Capitol (north steps)
When: Sept. 9, 11:30 to 1 p.m.
Cost: free
For more info: 916-324-0333 or website

News release

IMAGE CREDIT: Grand Admission Celebration, California Department of Parks and Recreation

There's an abundance of vintage homes and other sites in Woodland. And this Saturday the town will show off its historic heritage during its 24rd Annual Stroll through History.

Visitors will have the opportunity to examine the Victorians, Craftsman homes and other vintage buildings during several guided open house, bus, bicycle and walking tours. Maps will be available for self-guided tours in the historic downtown district.

In addition to the home tours, several Landmark Buildings -- churches, lodges, offices, train stations and the Carnegie library -- will be open to the public for docent-led interior tours.

What: 24th Annual Woodland Stroll Through History
Where: Open Homes Tour and Bus Tour tickets and walking, bike and bus tour information can be found at the Stroll Heritage Plaza Information Booth at 2nd & Main Sts.
When: Sept. 8. Set your own schedule from 11 to 4 p.m.
Cost: Advance tickets, $25. Day of stroll, $30.
For more info: website

Event schedule

PHOTO CREDIT: This bungalow with Craftsman influences is one of nine homes featured in the 2003 Woodland Stroll Through History. Courtesy Stroll Through History, Inc.

On September 8, the Folsom History Museum will bring in volunteer appraisers to identify and evaluate antiques for the 16th Annual Antique Evaluation Day.  The event will be held on historic Sutter Street in Folsom from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.  Participants are invited to bring in family heirlooms, garage sale treasures and other collectibles.  Twenty appraisers will be on hand to evaluate pieces from all categories and provide an estimate of current market value. Proceeds will benefit the Folsom History Museum, and registration opens at 10:00 a.m. on the morning of the event.

What: Antique Evaluation Day
When: Sept. 8, 10 to 1:00 p.m.
Where: 823 Sutter Street, Folsom
Cost: $8 per evaluation or 5 for $35; Registration at event
For more info: (916) 985-2707; http://www.folsomhistorymuseum.org

Born: March 19, 1891
Died: July 9, 1974

Known for: Earl Warren was U.S. chief justice for 16 years (1953-69) after serving a record 10 years, nine months as California's governor (1943-53).

Background: A Los Angeles native who grew up in Bakersfield, Warren earned his law degree at UC Berkeley before becoming district attorney for Alameda County. In 1939, he became the state's first attorney general born in California. Three years later, the Republican defeated incumbent governor Culbert Olson. He was also the running mate of Thomas Dewey, who was narrowly defeated by Harry Truman in the 1948 presidential election. Warren is best known for his years as chief justice, during which racial segregation in public schools was declared unconstitutional and the "one-man one-vote" ruling caused a major shift in legislative power. He also headed the commission that investigated the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

A highlight: In August 2007, it was announced that Warren will be one of 13 people who will be inducted next month into the California Museum for History, Women and the Arts Hall of Fame.

In History's Spotlight profiles of Sacramento newsmakers were published originally in 2007 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of The Sacramento Bee. They were written by Anthony Sorci. Look for them every Sunday in Sac History Happenings.