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Featured in our Community Case during the month of November is the Society of Humboldt County Pioneers.  Established in 1876 by early settlers, the Society is the oldest historical organization in the County.  After over 140 years, the Society of Humboldt County Pioneers continues its original goals of the collection and preservation of information about early settlers, settlements, and the history of the county; and, the provision of a forum for educational and social activities.
 
When pioneers first met, their ranks included such recognizable local names as James Hanna, Reverend A.J. Huestis, H.H. Buhne, Joseph Russ, Elias Howard, Uriah Albee, Alexander Brizard, Seth Kinman, Casper Ricks, Stephen Hill, and John J. DeHaven.  During its history, over 1,500 pioneers and their descendants have been members.  Current eligibility requires roots in Humboldt County for at least 100 years
 
The exhibit at the Clarke Museum will showcase historic documents and photographs, Society memorabilia, original letters and manuscripts, and Society record books.  Some of the items displayed have never previously been publically shown.
 
In years past, the Society served as a repository for local historic documents and objects.  These items were displayed in the Society’s own museum and eventually found their way to the collections of the Clarke Historical Museum.
 
One notable item on long-term loan from the Society to the Museum is a portrait of Kiwelahttah, a Wiyot elder that greeted and fed the Gregg/Wood exploration party who were the first non-natives to travel overland from the Trinity mines to the Humboldt Bay in 1849. The portrait was commissioned by L.K. Wood and painted by J.A. Shaw in 1852.
 
The Society continues to meet monthly for a potluck luncheon and a presentation by a guest speaker.  Guests and prospective members are welcome.  Details about the Society and its programs can be found on the organization’s Facebook page. Representatives from the group will be at the Clarke Museum to answer questions at both November's & December's Arts Alive.
Clarke Historical Museum
240 E Street ~ Eureka, California 95501
admin@clarkemuseum.org
(707) 443-1947
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