OAKHURST — History and nature-lovers, make note of this free event that’s right up your alley, as the good people at Fresno Flats Historic Park invite the community to attend the March edition of their First Friday Lecture Series.
On Friday, Mar. 9, Brenda L. Negley will present “Nelder Grove, Part I,” with information on the trail systems, sequoia ecology, flora, fauna, and fire history — including the recent Railroad Fire, as well as before-and-after photos.
The curious granddaughter of the Grove’s first camp hosts John and Marge Hawksworth, Brenda’s involvement with Nelder Grove dates back some 40 years. The Hawksworths’ tenancy lasted from 1975 – 1995, and later, Brenda took on the position. She then authored a well-researched and well-received tome that tells the comprehensive history of Nelder Grove in a way that only Brenda, with her unique background and deep connection to its magnificence, could express.
“Nelder Grove of Giant Sequoias, A Granddaughter’s Stories,” will be available for purchase after the lecture, and Brenda will happily sign copies.
Doors open to the Cunningham Schoolhouse at 6 p.m. and the presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited, so organizers ask that you arrive early if you don’t want to stand in the back. While the event is free, donations are gladly accepted to support Fresno Flats and its historical research.
Part II of the Nelder Grove presentation is scheduled for Friday, Apr. 6. That talk will cover Nelder Grove history, including the first inhabitants, first written accounts, John Muir, Galen Clark, John Nelder, and logging. Brenda will also share information about local families with ties to Nelder Grove, including the Bissetts, Hawksworths, Marks, and the Kelley family.
Fresno Flats Historical Park and Museum is located at 49777 School Road, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Please note: This event, originally scheduled for Friday, Mar. 2, has been rescheduled to Friday, Mar. 9 due to inclement weather. [1:37 p.m. Feb. 27 KF]
