Native American
Chief Solano: Sem-Yeto and the Story Behind Solano County’s Name
Chief Solano is one of those California figures whose name is everywhere in the North Bay, but whose story is often misunderstood. People see the name attached to Solano County, Mission San Francisco Solano, Suisun Valley, local statues, historical plaques, and old California stories. But that also creates confusion. Was Chief Solano the...
Captain Jack’s Stronghold: a cultural and historical centerpiece of California
Captain Jack’s Stronghold is one of Northern California’s most moving historic sites for anyone interested in the Modoc War, California Native Americans, or the way a place can explain a conflict better than a textbook. Hidden in the lava trenches of Lava Beds National Monument, this rugged volcanic ground was not just a natural...
Donner Pass Petroglyphs: remnants of the mysterious Martis people
Prior to covered wagons, the Donner Party, the Gold Rush and the railroad, Donner Pass was home to an ancient Native American tribe referred to as the Martis Tribe (Martis People or Martis Complex). It’s believed that this tribe lived throughout Northern California and the Sierras from 2000 BC to 500 AD. As of now, …...
Fallen Leaf Lake History: Name Origins, Washoe Legends, and Early Settlement
Fallen Leaf Lake history is deeper than a simple question about how the lake got its name. Tucked just south of Lake Tahoe, this Sierra lake carries layers of history that stretch from Washoe connections and oral tradition to 19th-century exploration, early settlement, resort development, and even modern scientific discoveries hidden...
Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area: three historic eras in one scenic location
The Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area is Sierra County’s little known historic site that’s actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its blend of three different historic eras into one scenic location. Under the supervision of the Sierraville Ranger District, the Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area is nestled...
