California Frontier

In this episode, I interview April Farham, who shares her fascinating work on the lives of early California settlers, specifically indigenous and Mestiza women. April discusses her personal journey into historical research that focuses on California's frontier in the 18th and 19th centuries. She elaborates on her work at the Maidu Indian Museum and her passion for unraveling the stories behind the extensive basket collections and their connection to indigenous women. The conversation also touches on the genealogical and historical intersections revealed through archival research and the impact of mixed ancestry on California's cultural landscape. 00:00 Introduction to the Interview with April Farham 02:14 April's Background and Early Career 06:54 Exploring the State Indian Museum Collections 12:07 Graduate Studies and Research Focus Shift 19:37 Discovering the Juarez Family History 32:45 Ethnohistorical Research and Archival Work Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Exploring Historical Illustrations and California's Cultural Heritage with David W. Rickman Watch to the full YouTube video In the final installment of this interview series, historian and illustrator David W. Rickman delves into the history of Russians on Northern California's coast, his contributions to national and state parks, collaborations with the Smithsonian Institution, and his esteemed Sutter's Fort Costume Manual. David also discusses his forthcoming book on clothing and material culture in the American West, 'Where Worlds Met.' Throughout the conversation, Rickman highlights his endeavors in historical illustration, including his projects for Alviso Adobe, Fort Ross, and other national parks. David reflects on nearly participating in a Hollywood Zorro series, emphasizing the importance and challenges of historical accuracy in visual storytelling. The episode is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering rich insights into the cultural tapestry of early California and the American West. 00:00 Introduction to the Final Interview with David W. Rickman 01:01 David's Work in National and State Parks 05:27 Sutter's Fort Costume Manual and Upcoming Book 07:25 Challenges and Insights in Historical Costume Research 15:51 Illustrations and Projects for National Park Service 20:40 Hollywood and Historical Authenticity 24:40 Conclusion and Upcoming Events Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In the second part of our interview with illustrator and historian David W. Rickman, we delve into his research methodologies and his quest to accurately depict historical clothing. We discuss how Hollywood has influenced our perceptions of the American West and the common misconceptions about Native American attire in the past. David shares his experiences researching in various museums, including the National History Museum in Los Angeles and the de Young Museum, and talks about the challenges of getting people to wear authentic historical costumes. We also touch on his upcoming book, 'Where Worlds Met,' which explores California costumes from 1822 to 1860 and features never-before-seen images. Join us as we explore these fascinating insights into California history. 00:00 Introduction to the Interview with David W. Rickman 01:00 David's Research Methodology and Museum Experiences 05:04 Challenges in Historical Costume Accuracy 06:50 The Influence of the American West and Individualism 08:57 California's Historical and Cultural Revival 24:28 Misconceptions About Native American Clothing 31:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Join us for Part 1 of an interview with artist and historian David W. Rickman, renowned for his illustrations of California history and the Spanish borderlands. In this episode, we delve into the misconceptions influenced by Hollywood and incomplete historical records, and how David's unique expertise helps correct these narratives. Learn about his fascinating work on early Californian dress, the visual culture of the American West, and the painstaking research process behind his acclaimed illustrations. Don't miss this deep dive into the material culture and historical representation of the American West. 00:00 Introduction and Technical Notes 01:23 Understanding the Past Through Visuals 02:38 Meet David Rickman: Historian and Illustrator 04:03 David's Unique Perspective on History 06:09 The Influence of Early Experiences 08:12 Challenges in Historical Illustration 20:00 Research and Projects 27:52 The Importance of Accurate Representation 31:15 California's Rich Historical Record 39:55 Conclusion and Upcoming Part Two David's Website Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Antonio Coronel’s Gold Rush Tales in Mexican California In the final installment of 'The Tales of Mexican California,' we follow Antonio Coronel's vivid recount of his time in the Northern California gold fields post-1848. Coronel, who initially settled in Los Angeles after arriving from Mexico in 1834, shares graphic and poignant stories from the Gold Rush era. These include violent episodes, massacres of Native people, and the lawlessness that prevailed among fortune seekers. Coronel details his own experiences with gold mining, the lucrative yet perilous nature of the business, and the eventual abandonment of his efforts due to lawlessness and threats of violence. His firsthand accounts provide a unique perspective on the cultural and societal shifts during the transition of California from Mexican to American rule. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Coronel's Gold Rush Adventures 02:12 The Gold Rush Begins: Challenges and Opportunities 04:36 Life in the Gold Fields: Wealth and Lawlessness 08:09 A Violent Encounter in Sonoma 12:50 Return to the Gold Fields and New Ventures 18:42 Conflict and Prejudice in the Gold Fields 29:46 Final Reflections and Departure from the Gold Fields Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In the second part of my interview with Michael Hardwick, we hear about Hippolyte Bouchard, a pirate who raided California's coast, and learn about the history of the Spanish and Mexican presidios. This episode explores sea battles, invasions, and the armaments used during California's conquest and defense. Historian Michael R. Hardwick shares insights into powder supplies, Spanish cannons, and colonial history from 1769 to the Mexican War. In an interesting twist, Michael introduces also us to Spanish horticultural practices at the California missions. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, I delve into the often overlooked history of the Spanish Presidios in California with expert Michael Hardwick, author of Spanish Arms and Armaments of the Presidios in California. Michael shares his extensive research on Spanish military fortifications during the colonial period. We discuss the arms, armaments, and strategies of these garrisons, their role in supporting the missions, and their adaptation to coastal defenses. Michael also shares personal anecdotes from his years of archaeological work at Presidio sites and his exploration of historical records, providing a fascinating glimpse into California's early military history. 00:00 Introduction to Spanish Presence in California 00:36 Meet Michael Hardwick: Expert on Presidios 03:17 Michael's Background and Work on the Presidio Project 04:22 The Historical Significance of Presidios 07:55 Uncovering the Foundations and Artifacts 16:08 The Evolution and Role of Presidios 22:06 The Armament and Defense Strategies 31:14 The Legacy of Spanish Artillery 40:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Purchase Spanish Arms and Armaments of the Presidios in California or email Michael: mrhardwick@icloud.com Michael's Book on Mission La Purísima Watch on YouTube Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Join me for another excerpt from Antonio Franco Coronel's memoirs, Tales of Mexican California. In this episode, we hear about the events of 1846, when the US military began its invasion and occupation of California. Coronel recounts Marine Captain Gillespie's heavy-handed rule in Los Angeles, local reactions to U.S. occupation, and the events leading to the (likely avoidable) revolt of the Pueblo of Los Angeles' residents against Gillespie and the U.S. occupiers. Antonio Coronel's account provides rich, firsthand insights into California's complex history during the Mexican-American War. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Franco Cordone's Memoirs 01:10 Context of the Mexican-American War 03:41 Captain Gillespie's Oppressive Rule 07:50 The Revolt Against Gillespie 15:35 The Siege and Surrender of Gillespie 26:13 Conclusion and Reflections Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Tales of Mexican California: Antonio Coronel's Memoirs - Part 2 To hear Part 1, go to Episode 065. In this episode of the California Frontier Podcast, Damian Bacich continues exploring the memoirs of Antonio Franco Coronel. Coronel's account provides a riveting look into his experiences as a Superior Court Judge in Mexican California during the 1840s, a time marked by political instability and frequent criminal conduct by soldiers. The memoir sheds light on key historical moments, including the failed colonization efforts, the uprising against Governor Manuel Micheltorena, and the early signs of American annexation. Coronel's detailed recounting of robberies and kidnappings from New Mexico and his interactions with notable figures like Pio Pico, Jose Castro, and John Sutter offer valuable insights into a tumultuous period in California history. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Franco Coronel's Memoirs 00:21 Arrival and Early Challenges in Alta California 01:36 Political Instability and New Governance 03:34 The Crimes of the Permanent California Battalion 05:25 The Great Robbery at Don Vicente Sanchez's House 12:13 Banditry and Contraband on the Old Spanish Trail 13:18 The Case of the Stolen Turkeys 20:52 Rebellion Against Governor Micheltorena 25:17 Failed Negotiations and Micheltorena's Dilemma 30:16 Conclusion and Reflections on Coronel's Memoirs Purchase a copy of Tales of Mexican California. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In the second half of my interview with Father Paul Mark Swan, Abbot of the Abbey of New Clairvaux, we find out about the journey of a medieval Spanish monastery, brought to San Francisco by William Randolph Hearst, and later reassembled in Vina, California. Fr. Paul describes the meticulous process of restoring the Romanesque-Gothic church, as well as the architectural experts and stonemasons who made it possible. We also hear about the monastery's successful venture into the California wine industry and how you can visit and appreciate this unique California location. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:25 The Journey of the Stones 03:20 Restoration Efforts and Challenges 09:35 Rebuilding the Church 23:09 The Winery and Self-Support 28:40 Visiting the Monastery 32:40 Conclusion and Support The Abbey of New Clairvaux's Website Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Part 1 of this interview explores the rich history of the Abbey of New Clairvaux, a Roman Catholic monastery in Vina, California. The abbey is rooted in the Benedictine tradition, a monastic lifestyle that began over 1,500 years ago. Abbot Fr. Paul Mark Schwan shares how through the monastery, medieval European monasticism intersected with U.S. westward expansion, touching upon historical figures like William Randolph Hearst and Leland Stanford, and the early years of the California wine industry. We learn about the abbey's foundation in 1955 by monks from Gethsemane Abbey in Kentucky, as well as the extensive history of the Vina location itself, which was once home to Native American tribes and later became an important site for prominent historical figures in California. The discussion also delves into the medieval stone church purchased by William Randolph Hearst, and its journey to California from Spain. Tune in to discover how these stones connect with present-day Golden Gate Park and their ultimate fate. 00:00 Introduction to the Abbey of New Clairvaux 00:31 Meeting the Monks and Learning the History 01:23 The Monastic Life and Its Origins 06:25 Founding of New Clairvaux 08:12 The Location and Its Historical Significance 10:18 The Property's Previous Owners 16:16 Leland Stanford's Vision and Challenges 26:20 William Randolph Hearst and the Ovila Monastery 33:31 Conclusion and Segue to Part 2 The Abbey of New Clairvaux's Website Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In Part 2 of my conversation with author James Tejani, we delve into the Civil War's role in shaping California's economic and political landscape. The discussion highlights the transformation of California from the Gold Rush period to an industrial powerhouse in the late 19th century, emphasizing the importance of the transcontinental railroad. James explores the divisive debates in Congress about where the railroad would be placed, spotlighting California's critical position. We also cover California's strategic importance during the Civil War, the role of the LDS Church, Native American interactions, and the parallel between U.S. imperial ambitions and the earlier Spanish Empire's transpacific project. 00:00 Introduction: The Civil War's Impact on California 00:38 Railroads and the Civil War 01:26 California's Role in the Civil War 02:14 The Pacific Railroad Controversy 05:40 San Pedro Bay and the Civil War 06:50 The Civil War's Broader Implications 15:15 Native Americans, Mormons, and the Civil War 22:16 California's Transformation Post-Civil War 31:26 Reflections on California's History 34:35 Conclusion and Future Projects Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In Part 1, we sit down with author James Tejani to discuss his book, A Machine to Move Ocean and Earth: The Making of the Port of Los Angeles and America. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Gold Rush, demographic shifts in California, and the significant roles played by individuals like Edward Ord and Manuel Dominguez. We also explore the impact of federal scientific initiatives, the Coast Survey, and political patronage systems on the development of the port. Tejani ties these elements to broader themes like U.S. imperial expansion and the interface between science and politics. 00:36 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:06 Author's Background and Early Influences 04:15 The Significance of the Port of Los Angeles 08:30 Key Figures in the Port's History 09:26 The Ord-Dominguez Relationship 20:28 Political and Economic Context 26:03 Science and Politics Intersect 32:54 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two Get the book: A Machine to Move Ocean and Earth: The Making of the Port of Los Angeles and America Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

A quick message of thanks at the end of 2024 from the California Frontier Project. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In the first episode of this series, we explore the memoirs of Antonio Franco Coronel, a significant figure in Southern California's Mexican past. Coronel takes us through his reminiscences of the struggles the controversial Híjar-Padrés Colony faced in early California. He describes the hardships encountered by the colonists, the betrayal by Don Mariano Vallejo's troops, and the political tensions between Mexican leaders over California's future. Coronel's narrative also offers a different perspective on the controversial secularization of missions and the role of the colonists in California's development. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Franco Coronel's Memoirs 01:38 Who Was Antonio Coronel? 02:44 Coronel's Early Life and Journey to California 05:01 The Colonization Efforts and Challenges 08:26 The Journey to Monterey and Sonoma 12:21 Struggles and Dissolution of the Colony 18:18 Reflections on the Mission Secularization 20:51 Conclusion and Next Steps Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, we conclude the story of Fr. José María del Real. We cover the U.S. annexation and occupation of California and the tensions between new American settlers and the local population. We delve into Father Real's efforts to accommodate new immigrants, his rumored illegal sales of mission property, and his eventual departure from the mission. We also highlight Fr. Real's involvement in discovering a mercury mine and his life after leaving Alta California. 00:00 Overiew of Prior Episodes 01:47 The Arrival of American Settlers in California 04:15 Tensions Between Immigrants and Native Californians 07:36 Religious and Social Conflicts 14:12 Father Real's Involvement in Local Developments 20:19 The Catholic Church in California: A New Era 20:42 Bishop Joseph Alemany: A New Leader 21:32 Challenges and Changes: The Arrival of the Jesuits 23:21 The Controversial Transfer of Mission Santa Clara 26:05 Disputes and Legal Battles Over Mission Property 31:06 Father Real's Departure and Final Days 37:18 Legacy and Reflections on Father Real's Life Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, we delve further into the life and challenges faced by Fr. José María Suárez del Real, the last Franciscan missionary at Mission Santa Clara. The episode recounts Father Real's advocacy for the native people, his disputes with local elites, and the hardships he endured, including the occupation by militia troops. The narrative also touches upon the broader political struggles in Alta California, including the rise of local Californio leaders and the influence of American settlers leading up to the Mexican-American War. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 00:20 Challenges of Secularization 01:16 Mission Indians' Struggles 02:38 Father Real's Advocacy 04:06 Political Turmoil and Land Disputes 07:12 American Influence and Rebellion 11:17 Father Rael's Later Years 19:45 The Catholic Church's Struggles 22:50 New Immigrants Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Father José María Suárez del Real, a Mexican Franciscan missionary in 1840s California. Through anecdotes and historical context, we explore his role during the mission secularization period, his challenges in Alta California, and his impact on the local communities and California history. The episode sheds light on a tumultuous era of California's past, often overlooked in simplified historical narratives. Tune in to better understand this critical period in California history. 00:00 Introduction to Father Real 01:02 Complexities of California History 02:27 Introducing Father Jose María Suárez del Real 04:05 Arrival of the Franciscan Missionaries 05:32 Challenges Faced by the Missionaries 08:58 Secularization of the Missions 11:38 Struggles and Adaptations 18:35 Conclusion and Further Insights 19:06 Support and Resources Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In Part 2 of our conversation, we delve into the 1775 sacking of Mission San Diego de Alcalá, a pivotal event in California's history. Richard's detailed research challenges mainstream historical accounts and highlights the specific involvement of the Tipai subgroup of the Kumeyaay people in the attack. Richard discusses the complex motives behind the sacking, including religious conflicts, cultural grievances, and retribution for abuses by Spanish soldiers. We also explore the nuanced aftermath of the event, the Spanish military's response, and the broader implications for Spanish-Kumeyaay relations. This episode offers a deep dive into the anthropology and ethnohistory of the Kumeyaay, providing a richer understanding of their complex relationship with the Spanish, Mexican and U.S. governments. 00:00 Introduction to the 1775 Sacking of Mission San Diego 00:57 Excavation and Historical Research 02:32 Anthropological Insights and Clan Dynamics 04:46 Motives Behind the Attack 05:34 Aftermath and Spanish Military Response 11:56 Cultural and Religious Implications 31:27 Long-term Effects and Legacy 44:43 Modern Reflections and Career Advice Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In Part 1 of this interview, I speak with archeologist Richard Carrico, a prominent expert on the Native peoples of California, especially those in the San Diego area. Carrico shares his intriguing journey into archaeology, beginning with his service in the U.S. Army and a twist of fate that led him to discover his passion for archaeological studies. Richard details his educational path and various pivotal excavations, including working on the Presidio of San Diego and the Bancroft Ranch House. Carrico emphasizes the importance of understanding Native cultures, highlighting his ethnographic studies and collaboration with the Kumeyaay people of Southern California. This episode is a rich exploration of historical archaeology and the stories that shape our understanding of Native Californian history. Richard's book: Strangers in a Stolen Land: Indians of San Diego County from Prehistory to the New Deal 00:29 Introduction to Richard Carrico 01:18 Richard's Journey into Archaeology 02:35 Early Career and Mentorship 05:01 Professional Growth and Historic Archaeology 07:25 Transition to Commercial Archaeology 09:45 Balancing Academic and Commercial Work 17:59 Focus on Kumeyaay People and Ethnography 26:02 Challenges and Diplomatic Skills Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net