RESTORATION PROGRESS
Help Support the Restoration of Historic
White Sulphur Springs Ranch with your donation today! Major Drainage Control and Event area Expansion in the Summerfest Venue |
|
Posted: 11/2/22 By: Tim Buckhout Photos: Tim Buckhout
A major draining control project was undertaken in the Summerfest venue area this season along with an expansion of our spring water system and electrical outlets. The work was done by volunteers Robert Ware, Bob Hermsmeyer, Jim Maul and Tim Buckhout. This work enlarged the Summerfest area for greater event capacity, while providing better drainage control within that area and more convenient access to the spring water system for our 3rd grade Living History School Days program where children from both the Portola and Quincy school districts spend a day on the ranch each September learning what life was like on a working ranch in the 1850's. This work will also enhance space in the area for our future amphitheaters.
OLD NEWSPAPERS FOUND AT WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS RANCH
Posted: 4/14/22 By: John Lullo Photos: John Lullo
The past has come to life many times during the work associated with the restoration of this historic property…..and it happened again on the 12th of April 2022.
New carpets had been ordered and John Barker, Robert Ware, Dennis Horton and Don Maddelena were painstakingly ripping out the old stuff. Suddenly, under layers of the old worn and torn carpet, in one of the upstairs bedrooms, some old newspapers appeared. The date on the masthead of an old San Francisco Chronicle was April 10, 1905. The front page had articles dealing with the participation of the Russian fleet in the Russo-Japanese war. Another article on the front page described a hit by the Mafia on a local San Franciso man. More than the front page was found but the interior pages were not explored for fear of them disintegrating into paper flakes.
Another publication found was entitled “Butchers and Stockgrowers Journal”. The date on the front page was June 11, 1904. It announced itself as the “Official Organ of the Butchers’ Board of Trade”. The quoted subscription price was “$2 per year….in advance”. Most of the ads and articles had San Francisco locations.
Another old tabloid sized paper entitled “Woman’s World” had a date of November 1904. It was published in Chicago and cost 25 cents a year or 5 cents a copy. It contained an ad for a “ball bearing sewing machine” the cost of which was $5.75. Another one was for “Hayner Whiskey”….”4 full quarts for $3.20,”express paid”.
It begs the question; how did these publications from faraway cities like San Francisco, and especially Chicago, find their way to rural Plumas County in the early nineteen hundreds?
The old newspapers were testament to the fact that the layers under the old carpets being replaced were laid down at least 117 years ago! It was another historical highlight experienced in the long and fascinating process of restoring White Sulphur Springs Ranch.
After a couple of lean pandemic years the volunteers of the Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) are getting back into high gear. Summerfest, the primary fundraiser, is coming back on the 26th of June. The old ranch house has a restored façade and vintage furnishings and will be available for tours during Summerfest.
New MVSC members are always welcomed.
If you would like to be a part of the restoration of this historic property or just make a tax-deductible donation, consider these options:
|
|
Work Goes on at White Sulphur Springs Ranch
Posted 3/6/22 by: John Lullo Photos: John Lullo
Motorists traveling on Highway 89 at the entrance to the Mohawk Valley have witnessed major improvements going on at the old white house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR). It's like viewing a progressive slide show. Each time they pass the site it looks a little different….a little better.
During the month of February and the first week in March volunteers made significant progress on the side of the ranch house facing the highway. One of the driest months in California history made for good working conditions. All of the structural rebuilding has been completed and approved by the county building inspector. Some of the original 140 year old balusters have been restored and new ones have been made to match the old ones. The public has not seen skirting and handrails on the downstairs porch since their destruction in 2008. Every effort is being made to restore the original character of the historic ranch house.
Wi-Fi is now available at the ranch house. Suddenly, the 19th century building has jumped into the computer age.
The easing of Covid-19 restrictions has put new life into the scores of Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers who are finally looking forward to a normal spring and summer fund raising season.
The first organizational meeting for Summerfest, the big annual outdoor event, has taken place after a two year absence. Details will be forthcoming as spring arrives.
New volunteers are always welcomed. If you would like to be a part of the process of restoring WSSR for use by the community, call Judy at 530-836-0254.
During the month of February and the first week in March volunteers made significant progress on the side of the ranch house facing the highway. One of the driest months in California history made for good working conditions. All of the structural rebuilding has been completed and approved by the county building inspector. Some of the original 140 year old balusters have been restored and new ones have been made to match the old ones. The public has not seen skirting and handrails on the downstairs porch since their destruction in 2008. Every effort is being made to restore the original character of the historic ranch house.
Wi-Fi is now available at the ranch house. Suddenly, the 19th century building has jumped into the computer age.
The easing of Covid-19 restrictions has put new life into the scores of Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers who are finally looking forward to a normal spring and summer fund raising season.
The first organizational meeting for Summerfest, the big annual outdoor event, has taken place after a two year absence. Details will be forthcoming as spring arrives.
New volunteers are always welcomed. If you would like to be a part of the process of restoring WSSR for use by the community, call Judy at 530-836-0254.
A NEW START FOR THE POOL AT WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS RANCH
Posted 1/6/22 by: John Lullo Photos: In File
In an 1855 account of a trip across the plains, a woman traveler named Lydia Milner Waters wrote the following. “Two miles above us was a bathhouse with water from a warm sulphur spring. Harris and Groves who owned it, gave us liberty to use it, and we did, every day. The water had an exhilarating effect, made one feel as lively as champagne.”
A full size swimming pool, fed by the warm springs, was built on the grounds of White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) in 1928. It was demolished in 2017 after almost 90 years of service, due to deterioration which was beyond repair. It was enjoyed by many generations of families and remains a fond memory for citizens and visitors to Plumas County.
On the 14th of December 2021, the board of directors of the Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) voted to commit funds specific to the development of a new pool on the original site. Much of the necessary infrastructure is now in place, such as a septic system and bathhouse, so timing was right for a serious attempt to begin raising funds for the new pool. This was an act of courage for the MVSC since, because of the pandemic, Summerfest, the major fundraiser has had to be cancelled for the last two years. The MVSC will try to raise the necessary funds by soliciting direct contributions from the public, by applying for grants, and by designating at least 10% of all income to the pool fund. The goal for 2022 is to raise $100,000 toward the completion of the new pool.
The MVSC is asking for assistance in any or all of these directions. The MVSC is a 501(3)c non- profit organization. Contributions are tax deductible. Contact Janet Reihsen at jreihsen@earthlink.net if you would like to help.
A full size swimming pool, fed by the warm springs, was built on the grounds of White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) in 1928. It was demolished in 2017 after almost 90 years of service, due to deterioration which was beyond repair. It was enjoyed by many generations of families and remains a fond memory for citizens and visitors to Plumas County.
On the 14th of December 2021, the board of directors of the Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) voted to commit funds specific to the development of a new pool on the original site. Much of the necessary infrastructure is now in place, such as a septic system and bathhouse, so timing was right for a serious attempt to begin raising funds for the new pool. This was an act of courage for the MVSC since, because of the pandemic, Summerfest, the major fundraiser has had to be cancelled for the last two years. The MVSC will try to raise the necessary funds by soliciting direct contributions from the public, by applying for grants, and by designating at least 10% of all income to the pool fund. The goal for 2022 is to raise $100,000 toward the completion of the new pool.
The MVSC is asking for assistance in any or all of these directions. The MVSC is a 501(3)c non- profit organization. Contributions are tax deductible. Contact Janet Reihsen at jreihsen@earthlink.net if you would like to help.
New Septic Tank and Pump Station Donated by Jensen Precast in Sparks, NV
Posted 9/27/2021 by: Tim Buckhout Photos: Linda Cooley
Today we received our new 3,000-gallon septic tank and 1,500-gallon pump station, donated by Jill and Kurt Jensen, owners of Jensen Precast in Sparks, NV. Their son Noah actually delivered the tanks representing the family and Jensen Precast. This system will now be connected to our new leach field complex that was installed by Rick Joy, Joy Engineering, Portola. The materials for the leach field were donated by Western Nevada Supply, Sparks, NV and the installation was donated by Rick Joy. This septic system and leach field will handle the eventual buildout at White Sulphur Springs Ranch, accommodating crowds for the replacement swimming pool and future entertainment center with two amphitheaters. Both the pool and the amphitheaters will have special accommodations for our disabled children and disabled veterans.
Thanks so much to Jill and Kurt Jensen and Rick Joy for their kind donations and wonderful support of this very worthwhile community project.
Thanks so much to Jill and Kurt Jensen and Rick Joy for their kind donations and wonderful support of this very worthwhile community project.
New Deck and Railing Has Many Contributors
Posted 6/2/2021 by: John Lullo Photos: Linda Cooley
Penhall Donates their Time
The volunteers of the Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) depend on the good will and generosity of the community to accomplish the goals that will allow the restoration of the White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) in Clio.
The recent completion of the new deck that overlooks the entire entrance to the Mohawk Valley is a prime example. The overall coordinator and primary constructor of the new deck is Tim Buckhout, but a total of 13 business donors and 9 other volunteers were instrumental in seeing this project to conclusion. The business donors and their contributions are as follows;
ADI Inc. Roland Pfender (Deck Balusters and Lighting)
White Cap Ready-Mix Inc, Dixie Higgins
Cretecraft Concrete Construction, Bob Higgins (piers)
Sierra Pacific Industries in Quincy, Dave Little (surface decking)
Truckee Tahoe Lumber, Christine Keck-Andrew Cross (post & rail lumber)
Reno Carson Lumber, Chris Fleiner (deck understructure)
Graybar, Dan Ellis (electrical supplies)
Grainger, William Price (electrical supplies)
Royal Wholesale Electric, Randy Portner (electrical materials)
DHC Supplies, Dan Chafee (hardware)
Home Depot, Reno, Bob Osbourne/Kathy Lassiter (electrical materials)
Lowes, Reno, Tim (electrical materials)
Richard D. Short, Engineering Services (Deck design)
The new deck is an important addition to the facilities at WSSR. It will see some beautiful wedding ceremonies and important lectures. It is the focus of the “Living History School Days” program which has received grants from the Safeway/Albertson and the Grizzly-Stein foundations. It can be a dance floor and a stage for on-site entertainers.
The best thing of all, it is handicap accessible for our disabled children and disabled veterans.
The MVSC owes these organizations and individuals a huge thank you. Their generosity has inspired the dedicated volunteers that get the job done at the WSSR. The following individuals deserve special mention for their efforts on the deck project.
Mark and Georgia Cowan, Robert and Yvonne Ware, Tom and Linda Cooley, Roger Hermsmeyer, Brian Verhalen and Kent Hemmick. All of these MVSC volunteers, plus Tim Buckhout, worked tirelessly and efficiently to see this project to completion.
The recent completion of the new deck that overlooks the entire entrance to the Mohawk Valley is a prime example. The overall coordinator and primary constructor of the new deck is Tim Buckhout, but a total of 13 business donors and 9 other volunteers were instrumental in seeing this project to conclusion. The business donors and their contributions are as follows;
ADI Inc. Roland Pfender (Deck Balusters and Lighting)
White Cap Ready-Mix Inc, Dixie Higgins
Cretecraft Concrete Construction, Bob Higgins (piers)
Sierra Pacific Industries in Quincy, Dave Little (surface decking)
Truckee Tahoe Lumber, Christine Keck-Andrew Cross (post & rail lumber)
Reno Carson Lumber, Chris Fleiner (deck understructure)
Graybar, Dan Ellis (electrical supplies)
Grainger, William Price (electrical supplies)
Royal Wholesale Electric, Randy Portner (electrical materials)
DHC Supplies, Dan Chafee (hardware)
Home Depot, Reno, Bob Osbourne/Kathy Lassiter (electrical materials)
Lowes, Reno, Tim (electrical materials)
Richard D. Short, Engineering Services (Deck design)
The new deck is an important addition to the facilities at WSSR. It will see some beautiful wedding ceremonies and important lectures. It is the focus of the “Living History School Days” program which has received grants from the Safeway/Albertson and the Grizzly-Stein foundations. It can be a dance floor and a stage for on-site entertainers.
The best thing of all, it is handicap accessible for our disabled children and disabled veterans.
The MVSC owes these organizations and individuals a huge thank you. Their generosity has inspired the dedicated volunteers that get the job done at the WSSR. The following individuals deserve special mention for their efforts on the deck project.
Mark and Georgia Cowan, Robert and Yvonne Ware, Tom and Linda Cooley, Roger Hermsmeyer, Brian Verhalen and Kent Hemmick. All of these MVSC volunteers, plus Tim Buckhout, worked tirelessly and efficiently to see this project to completion.
RENOVATION CONTINUES AT
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS RANCH
The pandemic has slowed but not stopped Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers from the ongoing job of rehabilitation of the old ranch house. On Wednesday, July 15, fifty four of the original balusters were painted in a homemade assembly line operation. It took a lot of repair to get the balusters ready for painting. It was important that no reproductions but only the original pieces were used so volunteer Robert Ware glued, sanded and reassembled each of the hundred year old railing supports. They will soon be installed on the North and South porches of the ranch house.
Covid-19 has dealt a serious blow to the fundraising efforts of the MVSC. Both Summerfest and the rummage sale had to be canceled to protect the volunteers and the public. The Board of Directors is asking the public to support membership drives and contribute directly to the MVSC when possible, so that basic expenses can be covered. The MVSC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization so contributions are tax deductible. The mailing address is P.O. Box 25, Clio, CA, 96106-0025
Covid-19 has dealt a serious blow to the fundraising efforts of the MVSC. Both Summerfest and the rummage sale had to be canceled to protect the volunteers and the public. The Board of Directors is asking the public to support membership drives and contribute directly to the MVSC when possible, so that basic expenses can be covered. The MVSC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization so contributions are tax deductible. The mailing address is P.O. Box 25, Clio, CA, 96106-0025
HISTORIC RANCH HOUSE
GETS SOME NEW OLD FURNISHINGS
Posted: 6/25/20 By: John Lullo
The old ranch house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch has received some wonderful period furniture from generous donors interested in preserving the original interior look. The old structure was built in 1852 and has survived some serious and sometimes careless, remodeling down through the years. However, Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers have started to bring it back to life. There is a living room, dining room kitchen and bath on the first floor plus five more rooms and a bath upstairs. All these rooms have furniture, wall hangings and photos, donated from collections from as far back as the late 1800’s. Since June of 2019, heirloom items such as chandeliers, a roll top desk, a hand braided rug and brass candlesticks, have been received.
MVSC volunteers are very proud of how the interior of the old ranch house has been restored; so much so that they invite interested individuals to experience a personal tour. Membership chairperson, Janet Reihsen and/or volunteer coordinator Judy Porep-Lullo, are available to guide these tours on request, and by appointment. Call Janet at 530-836-2495, or Judy at 530-836-0254, to set up a time and date.
The MVSC continues to bring White Sulphur Springs Ranch back to where it belongs….an historic monument to the early days of Plumas County and the Mohawk Valley.
Photo Captions
Volunteer Chairwoman Judy Porep-Lullo stands behind the two vintage couches delivered to the ranch house by Mary Davey, manager of the O’Gara-Hayes house in Sierra City. These two pieces belonged to the Hayes family, who bought the Sierra Buttes Mine in Sierra City in 1899.
The upstairs nursery room at the old Ranch House complete with antique white iron crib and wicker bassinet previously owned by the Ghirardelli family of San Francisco.
The restored living room on the main floor of the old house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch reminds of the late 1800’s thanks to donations by local patrons.
The old ranch house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch has received some wonderful period furniture from generous donors interested in preserving the original interior look. The old structure was built in 1852 and has survived some serious and sometimes careless, remodeling down through the years. However, Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers have started to bring it back to life. There is a living room, dining room kitchen and bath on the first floor plus five more rooms and a bath upstairs. All these rooms have furniture, wall hangings and photos, donated from collections from as far back as the late 1800’s. Since June of 2019, heirloom items such as chandeliers, a roll top desk, a hand braided rug and brass candlesticks, have been received.
MVSC volunteers are very proud of how the interior of the old ranch house has been restored; so much so that they invite interested individuals to experience a personal tour. Membership chairperson, Janet Reihsen and/or volunteer coordinator Judy Porep-Lullo, are available to guide these tours on request, and by appointment. Call Janet at 530-836-2495, or Judy at 530-836-0254, to set up a time and date.
The MVSC continues to bring White Sulphur Springs Ranch back to where it belongs….an historic monument to the early days of Plumas County and the Mohawk Valley.
Photo Captions
Volunteer Chairwoman Judy Porep-Lullo stands behind the two vintage couches delivered to the ranch house by Mary Davey, manager of the O’Gara-Hayes house in Sierra City. These two pieces belonged to the Hayes family, who bought the Sierra Buttes Mine in Sierra City in 1899.
The upstairs nursery room at the old Ranch House complete with antique white iron crib and wicker bassinet previously owned by the Ghirardelli family of San Francisco.
The restored living room on the main floor of the old house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch reminds of the late 1800’s thanks to donations by local patrons.
Progress on the
Ranch House Roof
and
Bath House
By: John Lullo Posted: November 10, 2019 Link to Press Release
|
|
Travelers on highway 89 at the South end of the Mohawk Valley may have noticed a few changes at the historic ranch site. On the first of October a major roof repair was completed on the ranch house by Kenny Davis Roofing in Quincy.
In addition, progress moved forward with the new bath house as siding, donated by Allura through Truckee-Tahoe Lumber was added to the structure by volunteers under the direction of project leader Tim Buckhout. The final paint job was donated by Clio contractor Miles Huggins Painting.
A big thanks goes out to additional bath house contributors for this most recent phase of construction. Those donating their time and expertise included: Jeff Miller, Kenny Davis Roofing, Wesley Boyd of WESFAB Construction in Portola, Bear Cub Industries, and Gumba's Family Pizza.
For a more complete description of our recent work, click on this link to the article in the Portola Reporter.
In addition, progress moved forward with the new bath house as siding, donated by Allura through Truckee-Tahoe Lumber was added to the structure by volunteers under the direction of project leader Tim Buckhout. The final paint job was donated by Clio contractor Miles Huggins Painting.
A big thanks goes out to additional bath house contributors for this most recent phase of construction. Those donating their time and expertise included: Jeff Miller, Kenny Davis Roofing, Wesley Boyd of WESFAB Construction in Portola, Bear Cub Industries, and Gumba's Family Pizza.
For a more complete description of our recent work, click on this link to the article in the Portola Reporter.
Business Neighbors
Help Raise the Bath House
By: John Lullo Posted: January 28, 2019 Photos: Linda Cooley Link to Plumas News article, Click Here
On the two freezing days after Christmas, business members and Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers began construction of the new bath house at the White Sulphur Springs Ranch site (WSSR) in Clio. The bath house is part of an overall restoration effort at WSSR and a major component of the planned community ADA swimming facility that will accommodate all users, including children and the disabled.
Businesses from Redding, Reno, Quincy and Clio all contributed the necessary building materials and labor to raise the new bath house. General contractor, Taylor Carr, owner of Artifex Homes in Clio donated the construction crew. Dave Little with Sierra Pacific Industries in Quincy donated the framing lumber and their Redding Division provided the windows. Andrew Cross, general manager of the Truckee-Tahoe Lumber Company in Truckee donated all the paneling, roof sheathing and hardware.
The MVSC depends on the generosity of community businesses and individuals to achieve the goal of renovation of the historic Mohawk Valley site. Businesses as far away as Reno also helped. Western Nevada Supply, Reno Truss, DHC Supplies and Titan Construction Supply were all major contributors. The complete list of companies that contributed to the project are listed below.
Things are happening that locals and visitors alike can see from Highway 89 in the Mohawk Valley. If you are already a member, Thank you. If you are interested in becoming a member of the MVSC, select one of the green buttons to the right.
Businesses from Redding, Reno, Quincy and Clio all contributed the necessary building materials and labor to raise the new bath house. General contractor, Taylor Carr, owner of Artifex Homes in Clio donated the construction crew. Dave Little with Sierra Pacific Industries in Quincy donated the framing lumber and their Redding Division provided the windows. Andrew Cross, general manager of the Truckee-Tahoe Lumber Company in Truckee donated all the paneling, roof sheathing and hardware.
The MVSC depends on the generosity of community businesses and individuals to achieve the goal of renovation of the historic Mohawk Valley site. Businesses as far away as Reno also helped. Western Nevada Supply, Reno Truss, DHC Supplies and Titan Construction Supply were all major contributors. The complete list of companies that contributed to the project are listed below.
Things are happening that locals and visitors alike can see from Highway 89 in the Mohawk Valley. If you are already a member, Thank you. If you are interested in becoming a member of the MVSC, select one of the green buttons to the right.
Look What We Did in 2018
There is More To Do
But . . .
Look What
Your Donations
Have Accomplished in 2018
Allura
Artifex Homes
CreteCraft Concrete Construction
Current Electric & Alarm Co.
DHC Supplies, Inc
The Genesis Group
Gumba’s Family Pizza
Hanford Consulting, Inc.
Jefferson Supply Company
McGarr Construction
Payen-Tong Ranches
Pioneer Plumbing & Excavation
Reno Truss, Inc.
Richard D. Short Engineering
Sierra Pacific Industries
Steve’s Pump & Well Drilling, Inc.
Titan Construction Supply
Truckee-Tahoe Lumber Co.
Western Nevada Supply
White Cap Concrete Mix, Inc.
YourH2O Pro
Significant Contributors added since first publishing this list
Glen Dimplex Americas
GAF Roofing
GCP Applied Technologies
Graybar Electric
Grainger
CDF Commercial Doors
Hitachi Power Tools
Werner Ladders
Honeywell
GAF Roofing Products
ABC Supply
Platt Electric
Tencate Geosynthetic Fabrics
Consolidated Electrical Distribution (CED)
Micro-Matic
Lowe's
Home Depot
Edges Electric Supply
Square D
Reno-Carson Lumber
Ferguson Supply
Mountain Hardware & Sports
Plumas Ace Hardware
Joy Engineering
Waxie Janitorial Supply
Royal Wholesale Electric Supply
WEDCO Electric Supply
Penhall
WesFab Construction
Miles Huggins Painting
2018 has been a remarkable year for progress at Historic White Sulphur Springs Ranch
Did You Know in 2018 Volunteers Contributed more than
21,644 hours and drove more than 14,286 miles
- January -
Marked the ground for the final locations of the pool and bath house.
- June -
Graded and set the proper elevations for the pool and bath house.
Painted and performed repairs to the rail fence along highway 89.
- July -
Installed French drains and surface drains to protect the future pool and bath house.
- September -
Penhall donated their time to core drill the almost three foot thick concrete wall at the back of the house to allow water and electrical access.
- October -
McGarr excavation installed the underground water system to supply water to the house, bath house and the pool.
- November -
David Recasens, Pioneer Plumbing and Excavation, installed bath house plumbing.
Volunteers trenched bath house footings and prepared the site to pour concrete.
White Cap Concrete and Crete Craft poured the concrete pad for the bath house.
Steve's Pumps & Well Drilling, installed a well pump and motor which will supply water to the house, pool and bath house and provide irrigation water to the entire property
- December -
Beginning the day after Christmas, Taylor Carr, owner of Artifex Homes, donated his time to frame and seal the bath house in 2-1/2 days. A remarkable accomplishment to end 2018 with. Thank You Taylor.
It is important to acknowledge the contractors who have donated their services or provided services at a much reduced cost to help us accomplish work this season. It is equally important to acknowledge the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help prepare for each phase of the project.
Many of these volunteers are retired but have donated their time and equipment and personally paid for thousands of dollars in materials to help us achieve our goals this season.
Marked the ground for the final locations of the pool and bath house.
- June -
Graded and set the proper elevations for the pool and bath house.
Painted and performed repairs to the rail fence along highway 89.
- July -
Installed French drains and surface drains to protect the future pool and bath house.
- September -
Penhall donated their time to core drill the almost three foot thick concrete wall at the back of the house to allow water and electrical access.
- October -
McGarr excavation installed the underground water system to supply water to the house, bath house and the pool.
- November -
David Recasens, Pioneer Plumbing and Excavation, installed bath house plumbing.
Volunteers trenched bath house footings and prepared the site to pour concrete.
White Cap Concrete and Crete Craft poured the concrete pad for the bath house.
Steve's Pumps & Well Drilling, installed a well pump and motor which will supply water to the house, pool and bath house and provide irrigation water to the entire property
- December -
Beginning the day after Christmas, Taylor Carr, owner of Artifex Homes, donated his time to frame and seal the bath house in 2-1/2 days. A remarkable accomplishment to end 2018 with. Thank You Taylor.
It is important to acknowledge the contractors who have donated their services or provided services at a much reduced cost to help us accomplish work this season. It is equally important to acknowledge the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help prepare for each phase of the project.
Many of these volunteers are retired but have donated their time and equipment and personally paid for thousands of dollars in materials to help us achieve our goals this season.
Thanks to Everyone for Your Help
Project Contractors
Kent Hanford Engineering (project manager), Richard Short Engineering, Western Nevada Plumbing, Jefferson Supply, Mountain Hardware & Sports-Blairsden, Steve's Pumps & Well Drilling, McGarr Excavation, CreteCraft, White Cap Concrete, Curtis Hartwig Construction, Plumas Ace Hardware, High Sierra Gas, Jimmy West Tree service, Penhall Company
Kent Hanford Engineering (project manager), Richard Short Engineering, Western Nevada Plumbing, Jefferson Supply, Mountain Hardware & Sports-Blairsden, Steve's Pumps & Well Drilling, McGarr Excavation, CreteCraft, White Cap Concrete, Curtis Hartwig Construction, Plumas Ace Hardware, High Sierra Gas, Jimmy West Tree service, Penhall Company
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sept. 1, 2018
A great big shout out to PENHALL-RENO for donating their concrete drilling services at White Sulphur Springs Ranch. PENHALL drilled 9 holes through a 30" thick concrete wall at the ranch in preparation for the installation of our new water system that will service the ranch house, the bath house and most importantly the future swimming pool.
This was a huge help to our project and we thank Pat for his expert drilling services and Greg Howder with PENHALL-RENO for allowing this generous donation.
This was a huge help to our project and we thank Pat for his expert drilling services and Greg Howder with PENHALL-RENO for allowing this generous donation.
Posted: June 27, 2018
A Little Face Painting
Posted: June 22, 2018
Preparing for the Bath House and Utilities
|
|
Grading work was completed for a small but important area at White Sulphur Springs Ranch yesterday, 6-27-18. The work was done by Curtis Hartwig. Curtis was assisted by Robert Ware and retired heavy equipment construction contractor Roger Hermsmeyer.
|
Posted: Jan. 22, 2018
Marking the Final Locations of the Pool and Bath House
Progress continues in January 2018, on the pool and bath house. January 13-14, construction crews set elevation staking and determined final locations for the pool and bath house. Some grading was done and the foundation and concrete pad for the bath house was prepared. Crews did additional work to shape the dirt walls of the new pool and removed small trees and old underground piping that is no longer needed.
Favorable weather conditions have allowed project manager, Kent Hanford, to continue work on site. Kent is donating his time as project manager to coordinate and oversee work on the pool, bath house, septic & leach field system, well and water infrastructure work and needed electrical upgrade for the project.
Favorable weather conditions have allowed project manager, Kent Hanford, to continue work on site. Kent is donating his time as project manager to coordinate and oversee work on the pool, bath house, septic & leach field system, well and water infrastructure work and needed electrical upgrade for the project.
Posted: Oct. 30, 2017
Volunteers install Conduit for the Main Electrical Service to the Bath House
On the 26th and 27th of October a crew of volunteers took another step in the restoration of White Sulphur Springs Ranch.(WSSR) Trenches were dug and conduit laid to extend the primary electrical feed to the pool site. Project Manager Kent Hanford planned and organized the two day effort. The next steps will be to complete the conduit extension along with some final grading.
After this first stage of the conduit work, the piles of demolished snack shack and pool concrete were hauled out over a two day period. The time and equipment for this was donated by Joy Engineering.
The Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) continues the long process of bringing the site up to current standards so it can be shared by all members of the community.
New volunteers are always needed. Call volunteer chairperson, Judy Porep-Lullo at 530-836-0254 if you would like to be a part of this wonderful community effort.
After this first stage of the conduit work, the piles of demolished snack shack and pool concrete were hauled out over a two day period. The time and equipment for this was donated by Joy Engineering.
The Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) continues the long process of bringing the site up to current standards so it can be shared by all members of the community.
New volunteers are always needed. Call volunteer chairperson, Judy Porep-Lullo at 530-836-0254 if you would like to be a part of this wonderful community effort.
Removal of the Old White Sulphur Springs Ranch Swimming Pool
Posted: May 29, 2017
|
|
On Thursday, May 25, 2017, Joy Engineering brought in two large excavators and began the process of demolishing the pool and the concrete pads for the bath house and snack shack. The pool was installed around 1928 and was used for decades by Plumas County residents. Many locals learned to swim in this swimming pool that was fed by naturally heated warm spring water that flowed from the Sierra Nevada mountains on the ranch. Also removed was the concrete plunge bath (pictured left) that was built prior to the turn of the century and used by travelers visiting the Mohawk Valley. Many travelers came by way of stage coach which stopped at White Sulphur Springs Ranch until 1907 when the railroad came through and replaced the need for the stage.
Significant restoration is expected in 2017 as we complete the final phase of the septic system, install underground utilities and look ahead to installing a new swimming pool that will continue to be fed by the same naturally heated warm spring waters that have flowed from the Sierra Nevada mountains on the ranch for more than 160 years.
When restoration efforts are complete, White Sulphur Springs Ranch will once again be a place for the community to enjoy family gatherings, weekend activities, special events and of course swimming as has been done for many decades.
A special thanks to Rick Joy, owner of Joy Engineering for once again donating his time, equipment and expertise to removing the old pool and other concrete on the property.
For information on how you can help support this important community project please call 530-836-1436 or email webmaster@WhiteSulphurSpringsRanch.com. We are looking for volunteers with trade skills such as plumbers, electricians, engineering contractors, carpenters and general contractors to help support planned work this year.
Significant restoration is expected in 2017 as we complete the final phase of the septic system, install underground utilities and look ahead to installing a new swimming pool that will continue to be fed by the same naturally heated warm spring waters that have flowed from the Sierra Nevada mountains on the ranch for more than 160 years.
When restoration efforts are complete, White Sulphur Springs Ranch will once again be a place for the community to enjoy family gatherings, weekend activities, special events and of course swimming as has been done for many decades.
A special thanks to Rick Joy, owner of Joy Engineering for once again donating his time, equipment and expertise to removing the old pool and other concrete on the property.
For information on how you can help support this important community project please call 530-836-1436 or email webmaster@WhiteSulphurSpringsRanch.com. We are looking for volunteers with trade skills such as plumbers, electricians, engineering contractors, carpenters and general contractors to help support planned work this year.
Site Clean-up at White Sulphur Springs Ranch
Posted: April 28, 2017
|
We do this for our Children and our Grandchildren
Seventeen Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers, aged 67 to 82, worked like teenagers as they removed all of the debris from the breakdown of the old bath house and snack shack at the historic White Sulphur Springs Ranch site. It was the sunny but cool morning of April 28 when this hardy crew carried and stacked old boards of all shapes and sizes into a huge dumpster. The total load came close to 15,000 pounds and the group did it in about 2 ½ hours. It is estimated that the two old buildings were erected in 1928, which is the year the old pool was built. It was hoped that the lumber from the two buildings could be used in the restoration process but time and insects had taken their toll and little of the lumber was usable. Some of the boards had been recycled from earlier construction in the 1890s.
This was another phase in the restoration of White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR). Last December the leach field, that will service all facilities at the site, was completed. The next step will be the removal of the cyclone fence that surrounds the old pool. For more information about the history of the area and the goals of the MVSC, visit our website. White Sulphur Springs Ranch will be the site of our annual fundraiser, Summerfest 2017, on June 25. This year the entertainment is the popular Comstock Cowboys. Tickets are available on our website and at EcoCentric in Graeagle. |
|
|
Posted: Dec. 25, 2016
Early this December, the long-awaited leach field that will provide service to all facilities at White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) was completed. The work was done under the watchful eye of Project Manager Kent Hanford and Project Engineer, Richard Short who donated their time to coordinate and manage each phase of this important project. Richard Short donated the design work for the leach field and septic system that has been designed to handle all facilities at WSSR. Work still needs to be done to connect the leach filed to the pool area, house and other planned facilities on the ranch, but completing the leach field is a huge step forward in the progress that must be made to begin grading and additional work in the spring of 2017.
Work began on the leach field in November when Jim West Tree Services cleared trees from the leach field site and the 1800-foot long path for the pipeline from the leach field to the pool area. Jim West has been a long-time supporter or WSSR and once again donated much of his time and equipment to complete this phase of the project.
The list of materials needed to install this commercial leach field and septic system was significant. Western Nevada Supply, a great supporter of WSSR with a long history of community involvement, agreed to donate all the plumbing related materials for this project. Our thanks to Christine Hogan, Andrew Siderius and Rod Smith for making this donation possible.
Installation of the leach field was done by Rick Joy Engineering and foreman Jim Berg in early December. Rick Joy, who is another great supporter of WSSR and a very benevolent person in his own right, agreed to donate installation of the leach field. The project took about two weeks and was done under difficult weather conditions on some days, but as the picture above illustrates, that did not compromise the quality of the work that was done. According to Project Manager, Kent Hanford and Project Engineer, Richard Short, Rick Joy Engineering made every effort to ensure we were satisfied with the progress of the work from day one. His team of workers, supervised by foreman Jim Berg, were very professional and their work was of the highest quality.
I must say that this is what “community” is all about. Members of the community coming together and donating their time and money to support this worthwhile community project called, White Sulphur Springs Ranch, is simply heartwarming.
While there are many volunteers that have worked hard to get us to this point and who certainly deserve our thanks, I would encourage everyone who looks forward to the day when WSSR is ready to open, to please take the time this Christmas season to say thank you to those who have helped us complete this phase of the restoration, for without their help this simply could not be accomplished.
Merry Christmas
Work began on the leach field in November when Jim West Tree Services cleared trees from the leach field site and the 1800-foot long path for the pipeline from the leach field to the pool area. Jim West has been a long-time supporter or WSSR and once again donated much of his time and equipment to complete this phase of the project.
The list of materials needed to install this commercial leach field and septic system was significant. Western Nevada Supply, a great supporter of WSSR with a long history of community involvement, agreed to donate all the plumbing related materials for this project. Our thanks to Christine Hogan, Andrew Siderius and Rod Smith for making this donation possible.
Installation of the leach field was done by Rick Joy Engineering and foreman Jim Berg in early December. Rick Joy, who is another great supporter of WSSR and a very benevolent person in his own right, agreed to donate installation of the leach field. The project took about two weeks and was done under difficult weather conditions on some days, but as the picture above illustrates, that did not compromise the quality of the work that was done. According to Project Manager, Kent Hanford and Project Engineer, Richard Short, Rick Joy Engineering made every effort to ensure we were satisfied with the progress of the work from day one. His team of workers, supervised by foreman Jim Berg, were very professional and their work was of the highest quality.
I must say that this is what “community” is all about. Members of the community coming together and donating their time and money to support this worthwhile community project called, White Sulphur Springs Ranch, is simply heartwarming.
While there are many volunteers that have worked hard to get us to this point and who certainly deserve our thanks, I would encourage everyone who looks forward to the day when WSSR is ready to open, to please take the time this Christmas season to say thank you to those who have helped us complete this phase of the restoration, for without their help this simply could not be accomplished.
Merry Christmas
