Join us in Kernville
Map of the Flat on page 4 & 5
February 13-16, 2015
February
2015
Whiskey Flat, Californiia
FREE
Enjoy the old-fashioned fun as Kernville returns to the 1860’s for
Whiskey Flat Days!
INSIDE:
2
Make sure that you know all the Whiskey Flat gun requirements.
Whiskey Flat Days President’s Day Weekend February 13 through16
Old west town returns to life Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Let your mind go back in time, back 150 years when the California was a state only 12 years old, when large portions of it were still Spanish land grants. The mighty Kern River splashed unfettered by concrete, dams or controls of any kind, down to a swampy San Joaquin Valley. The swampland down below, a vast area known as Tulare Lake, was full of tule reeds and was home to millions of birds. In those days, there was little travel in the San Joaquin Valley itself because of the almost impassable land. Travel existed mainly in the foothills, where rivers and streams still had to be forded, but riding by horseback or muleback was much easier.
See Old West pg. 7
3
Michael Batelaan/Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Trash Talkin’ - Honorary Whisky Flat Mayor canidates LtoR “The Keeper Brothers” aka Rex Hinkey and Joel Walling and “Man Trackin’ Jami” aka Jami Ward along with her sidekick “Whitewater Shawn” aka Shawn Ward.
Wild Town mayoral race under way W est Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Man Trackin' Jami and her sidekick Whitewater Shawn have been out hunting down buyers for one dollar bribes, and the Keeper Brothers, Jelly Belly Joel and Rockin' Rex picking through trash to find some, the Whiskey Flat Mayor's race is in full swing. Each year the Kernville Chamber of Commerce holds Whiskey Flat Days and to raise the operating funds needed for
the year. Meet the mayor candidates Man Trackin' Jami, Jami Ward grew up in the Kern River Valley and she and Shawn met in 2003 and married in 2007. They have three beautiful children Kaitlynn, Hunter and Lillie. Jami is currently am a manager at Rivernook campground and Shawn is learning how to brew beer at the Brewery. He is an electrician by trade. Shawn
moved here in 1998 from Reedley California. Shawn likes to bike, paddle, hike, or anything to do with the great outdoors and to play bass in the band Downfinger. Jami likes to spend time with her kids and volunteering in the community. She was recently a surrogate mom and says it was a life changing experience. She is currently enrolled in college to get an Associate's degree in Business Management. Man Trackin' says growing up on the banks of the mighty
Encampment rides into town
page 9 Kern River, she got so good at trackin' and sneakin' up on things, that's how she caught, I mean met, her husband, Whitewater
See Mayors pg. 13
Exactly where was Whiskey Flat? Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper A lot of visitors wonder, as they enjoy Whiskey Flat Days in the town of New Kernville, exactly where the town of Old Kernville was. They know the original location is out in the lake bed, but where was Whiskey Flat? A clue to where Whiskey Flat was is the old part of the Kern River Valley Cemetery,
which was a part of Old Kernville originally and is now part of the town of Wofford Heights. Wofford Heights is adjacent to the former site of Old Kernville. Wofford Heights is named after an old-time rancher by the name of Irven Wofford, who sold off part of his ranch to valley folks who needed new places to live when the lake went in during the early 1950s.
Old Kernville was located just to the northeast of Wofford Heights. Look in the lake bed just south of the Old Cemetery and you’ll see foundations. Those were part of Old Kernville. There are still people in New Kernville who can tell you what buildings those foundations belonged to. Many of them serve as docents at the Kern Valley Museum in Kernville, just down from the post
office. In years when the lake is higher, you can’t see the foundations at all. They’re covered by the waters of Isabella Lake. But in lower water years, the former location of Old Kernville/Whiskey Flat is visible again. The lake recedes and little sandy flat where Old Kernville was becomes much as it was, with the placid Kern River as it did in the old times.
The fun starts with the Whiskey Flat schedule of events
10 What the heck is this riches to rag publication?
11 Catch whats hoppin’ in Whiskey Flat
12 Every town must include a little drama... This town is no different.
Whiskey Flat Daze Wild West Rodeo on pages 14 & 15
page 2
February 2015
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Whiskey Flat Celebration 2014 Weapons Carry Regulations For anyone wanting to carry a weapon during the Whiskey Flat Days celebration, a weapons and ammunition check is required. There will be a weapons check station at the corner of Piute and Big Blue Road Kernville and for enactors it will be at the "Sheriff's" tent in Whiskey Flat Camp (across from the rodeo grounds) Thursday evening though the weekend. Those carrying weapons in the Whiskey Flat Parade can have a weapons check at parade line up/check-in on Saturday morning starting at 9 a.m. Each participant must sign a release agreeing to the following rules: 1. Safety is our prime concern; for the re-enactor and the viewing public. 2. Read and acknowledge your right and responsibilities under AB144 and PC 26350. 3. In order to be eligible for weapon carry, participants must be in period costume and participating in the parade or organized event as authorized by the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, such as costume contest, WFD Encampment, etc. 4. Handguns must be carried in a holster. No "belt" carrying allowed. 5. No live ammunition to be carried in the weapon or on your person at any time. If live ammunition is found, that individual will not qualify for "open carry" for this event and the Sheriff's Department will be notified and the applicant will be so advised. 6. Dummy ammunition only. Spent primers are preferred.
7. For those participants engaging in 'Gunfight' routines, blank rounds should only be chambered just prior to the routine, and removed immediately after it concludes. 8. Participants will be issued a ribbon indicating that they have agreed to the restrictions listed above and those required by law (AB-144 and PC 26350). This ribbon should be displayed prominently on the participant's costume above the waist. The ribbon means that the weapon with or without blank ammunition, confirmed as "dummy" type ammunition "for show only" has been checked by authorized designee appointed by the Chamber and the participant has read/signed the required waiver. 9. Weapons carrying participants may be subject to random checks by the Kern County Sheriffs Department to confirm they are in compliance with the above regulations and AB -144. All parade and Whiskey Flat Days open carry gun checks are provided as a courtesy service to the Kernville Chamber and at all times, are subject to any directives and/or restrictions of the Kern County Sheriff's Office. Kernville Chamber of Commerce and gun check personnel will not be held responsible for any gun display or use beyond that whichis permitted by the weapons carry regulations or state law. Weapons carrying participants may be subject to random checks by the Kern County Sheriffs Department to confirm they are in compliance with the above regulations.
WELCOMECome TO WHISKEY FLAT DAYS visit us at the
KERN VALLEY MUSEUM
Celebrate Valley History with the Kern River Valley Historical Society You will find artifacts and memorabilia which make the history of this valley come alive. Native American Objects • Gold Mining • Lumbering • Farming • Ranching • Western Movies • Gift Shop and Art Gallery. Museum HoursThursday ~ Sunday, 10am to 4pm ADMISSION IS FREE
49 Big Blue Road, Kernville (760) 376-6683 (Next to the Post Office)
Rango ”Rocky Stone”
Message from the Kern County Sheriff's Office On January 12, 2012, a new law was enacted in California related to the open carry of unloaded handguns. The new law, PC 26350(a)(1), makes it a misdemeanor to openly carry an unloaded firearm in public. Local law enforcement is committed to keeping the residents and visitors of Kern County safe and secure. They have also committed to enforcing both the spirit of the law as well as the letter of the law. They recognize the long time tradition of the Whiskey Flat celebration. It is the intent of local law enforcement to enhance the safety of both the spectators and those participating in the celebration. This will require a commitment of the Kernville Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Sheriff's Office to notify the public attending the Whiskey Flat event. Penal code 26375 states, "Section 26350 does not apply to, or affect, the open carrying of an unloaded handgun by an authorized participant in…[an] event, when the participant lawfully uses the handgun as part of that production or event, or while the participant or authorized employee or agent is at that production or event, or rehearsal or practice for that production or event." The Kern County Sheriff's Office will require the following: 1. On Saturday, February 14, 2015 during the
parade and events on Piute Street, the public will be exempt from PC 26350 providing they and their weapon have been checked at an official inspection site and are visibly wearing the proper identifying marker indicating their weapon has been inspected. Or 2. They are a member of an officially recognized reenactment group performing during the event; and their weapon has been checked at an official inspection site and are visibly wearing the proper identifying marker indicating their weapon has been inspected. Or 3. They are within the Whiskey Flat encampment; their weapon has been checked at an official inspection site and are visibly wearing the proper identifying marker indicating their weapon has been inspected. Law enforcement has the authority to inspect weapons upon demand, make arrests; issue citations and seize weapons as evidence if the law is violated. It is the Sheriff's Office's intent to insure the visitors and participants of the Whiskey Flat celebration adhere to these requirements in order to provide a safe environment for all in attendance.
“
”
There is nothing more exhilarating than to be shot at without result. --Winston Churchhill (1874-1965)
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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
February 2015
page 3
Calendar of Events
Whiskey Flat Days This schedule of events is subject to the information available to the Claim Jumper and the Kern River Courier at press time. All event times and locations are subject to change at any time without notice. Events may be canceled, postponed and/or rescheduled at any time due to weather, or any other circumstances beyond the control of the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, its independent entertainers, vendors, volunteers and groups involved.
Q: " Why is a fire hydrant called a fire plug? A: Originally firefighters would have to get the water from a water line. They would put a hole in the line and plug it with a piece of wood.
performance. Located at Riverside Park.
5 p.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens
9 a.m. Kern Valley Museum Opens
Dinner is served
10 a.m. AltaOne Main Stage
6 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center, enjoy great adult and children's rides & games. Open until 10 p.m.
All around town at all your favorite restaurants.
Music & Street Dance with Obsidian. Put on yur dancin' boots and hit the street! Let's rock! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
7 p.m. Whiskey Flat Melodrama
Friday February 13 7 a.m. Breakfast All 'Round the Valley
Find your favorite eatery. In Kernville, there is Cheryl's Diner, Cracked Egg Café, El Rio, Jacalito's, Big Blue Bear, and breakfast items are available at Sierra Gateway and Primo's.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kern Valley Museum
Open on Big Blue Road next to the Post Office. Historical Society, mining info, Indian exhibits, artifacts and photos from yesteryear when Kernville was Whiskey Flat, 1857.
11 a.m. to Sundown Whiskey Flat Encampment
Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments on Scodie Ave across from the Rodeo Grounds. you'll see history and gunfights. All day there will be a Wells Fargo station and eatery, Chuck wagon cook'n and coffee, a horse trader and livery. There'll be horse shoe'n and horse doctor'n, the Whiskey Flats Saloon, a Justice of the Peace, a Saddle maker and leather craft, a Bath house, Beautifier and Hygienist, storytellers of the Old West, mining and sawmill demonstrations and a Civil War Confederate camp! Open til sundown.
1 p.m. Golden Gulch opens
Circle Park : Crafts, handmade items, jewelry, info booths, & art vendors. Food vendors are non-profit organizations: Kern Valley FFA, Sweet Adelines, White Blanket Allotment, and the Rotary Club of KRV. Whiskey Flat Headquarters & Info on the corner of Kernville Road & Tobias Street selling Whiskey Flat shirts & memorabilia.
Q: " Why are Dalmatians Fire Department mascots? A: Dalmatians became mascots because they originally were helpful in directing the fire horses and,
forming a strong bond with them. They were also a very strong and energetic breed.
1 p.m. Riverside Park & Frontage Rd. opens
Riverside Park: Food court, family entertainment and misc. vendors. Frontage Rd.: Vendors, vendors, vendors!
Contest Applications available
At Kernville Chamber info booth: Adult Costume Contest Child Costume Contest Pet Parade Contest Whiskerino Contest Epitaph Contest: Tombstones on display at the Encampment. Check ‘em out!
2 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show
Cowboys & Indians Exhibition. Meet Annie Oakley and Chief Sitting Bull! Buffalo Bill himself will salute you at each
"Double Take At Beatrice's Boardin' House" ("Things Ain't Always What They Seem"). At the Kernville Elementary School auditorium. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under, and as always, lap sitters and stroller riders are free.
Q: " Why was it common place
for early Firefighters to grow mustaches?
A:
In the United States the tradition of firefighters wearing mustaches began in the 1960's as a reaction to fire department regulations forbidding beards because they interfered with SCBA masks, long before SCBA's, some wore beards and mustaches to help filter out smoke on fires.
Saturday February 14 7 to 10 a.m. "Breakfast"
$7 a plate, tickets at the door. Kern River Masonic Lodge, 562 James Road, Kernville. Turn uphill past Sierra Gateway Market. Always a favorite breakfast: get there early!
9 a.m. Golden Gulch opens
Circle Park, Frontage Road, Riverside Park. Circle Park : Crafts, handmade items, jewelry, info booths, & art vendors. Food vendors are non-profit organizations: Kern Valley FFA, Sweet Adelines, White Blanket Allotment, and the Rotary Club of KRV.
9 a.m. Riverside Park & Frontage Rd. opens
Riverside Park: Food Court, Family Entertainment and misc. vendors. Frontage Rd.: Vendors, vendors, vendors!
9 a.m. 2015 WFD Parade Line Up On Sierra Way.
9 a.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens
On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills. Open until 10 p.m.
9 a.m. Trout Hatchery Opens
On Big Blue Road next to the Post Office. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Historical Society, mining info, Indian exhibits, artifacts and photos from yesteryear when Kernville was Whiskey Flat, 1857.
Q: " Which is correct - Smokey the Bear, or Smokey Bear?
A: Smokey Bear
11 a.m. Whiskey Flat Days Parade
Whiskey Flat Days Parade Sponsored by So. California Edison. 2015 Grand Marshall: Mr. Steve Gradowitz of KUZZ Radio. Get yer spot early! Parade route: From Sierra Way and Kernville Road, south. Across the bridge to Kern River Drive by Riverside Park. Around Riverside One Stop and up to Kernville Road to Tobias. Then Piute Drive to Big Blue Road and end at Kernville United Methodist Church, Big Blue Road and Sirretta Street.
High Noon Whiskey Flat Encampment
Immediately following the Parade. Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments, on Scodie Avenue across from the Rodeo Grounds. Life in the Old West! Save the leather on yer boots and catch the Western Express Railway Train in town and ride to the encampments. Watch hold-ups and gunfights, horse shoein' and horse doctorin', turn of the century saw mill demonstrations. There's cowboy cookin', a Whiskey Flats Saloon, and Old West Mercantile Shoppe, shot gun weddings, saddle makin' and leather craft, and more! Story tellers, Dave Ryskamp, Dave "Horse" Robinson, and Nathan Eddy will tell stories about miners, cowboys and outlaws. Open til sundown.
1 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
1 p.m. Whiskey Flat Days Rodeo
Sponsored by BudLight, the official Beer of the Wild West Daze Rodeo. McNally Rodeo Arena. Brought to you by Cotton Rosser's Flying U Rodeo. Open Team Roping, Bull Riding, Hide Race, Open Barrel Race, Junior Barrel Race, Calf Scramble, Sheep Riding, and more.
Q: " Fire Prevention Day is October 9th. It marks the anniver-
sary of a fire that killed 250 people, destroyed 17,000 buildings and cost $168 million dollars. What famous fire was this?
A: The great Chicago Fire of 1871
2 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show
Cowboys & Indians Exhibition. Meet Annie Oakley and Chief Sitting Bull! Buffalo Bill himself will salute you at each performance. Located at Riverside Park.
2 p.m. "First Heat" of the Frog Jumpin'
Museum and Visitor Center 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sierra Way, one mile north of Kernville. Free admission.
Held at the corner of Big Blue and Kernville Rd. Look for the Green Stage come and bet on your favorite jumpin’ frog! Bet on the Jumpin'est Frogs in the West! Finals Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Free admission.
Q: " Where was the first fire hydrant in the United States locat-
2:30 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
ed?
A: Liberty Street in New York City. Installed in 1808.
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
See Schedule pg. 6
page 6
February 2015
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Calendar of Events
Whiskey Flat Days Schedule
continued from pg. 3
3 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show
Cowboys & Indians Exhibition. Meet Annie Oakley and Chief Sitting Bull! Buffalo Bill himself will salute you at each performance. Located at Riverside Park.
4 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
6 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music & street dance by The Stoneflys an original alternative/ska/reggae/jazz group of musicians formed out of Ventura and Kernville, California. The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
6 p.m Whiskey Flat Encampment Old Time Dance
Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments old time dance on Scodie Ave across from the Rodeo Grounds. Put your old west duds on, come out and kick up your heals.
7 p.m. Whiskey Flat Melodrama
"Double Take At Beatrice's Boardin' House" (or "Things Ain't Always What They Seem) At the Kernville Elementary School auditorium. Admission is $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for children 12 and under, and as always, lap sitters and stroller riders are free.
On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills.
Q: What is the difference between
"Under Control" and "Out"?
A:
"Under control" generally indicates that the fire is no longer spreading. There may still be some overhaul needed. If the fire is reported "out" this means that there is no longer any fire to be dealt with.
10 a.m. Whiskey church
Flat
Encampment
Old West church service at 10 a.m.
10 a.m. Trout Hatchery Opens
Museum and Visitor Center 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sierra Way, one mile north of Kernville. Free admission.
Q: What is Overhaul? A: "The search for, and extinguishing of hidden fires." 10 a.m. Kern Valley Museum Opens
On Big Blue Road next to the Post Office. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Historical Society, mining info, Indian exhibits, artifacts and photos from yesteryear when Kernville was Whiskey Flat, 1857.
11 a.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
Q: What is the difference between and "Engine" and a "Pumper"? A: Not much. These are usually just different terms for the same thing in different parts of the country.
11:30 a.m. "Final Heat" Frog Jumpin' Contest
Sunday February 15
High Noon Contest Sign Ups!
7 a.m. Breakfast All 'Round the Valley
Pet Parade Sign Ups!
Find your favorite eatery. In Kernville, there is Cheryl's Diner, Cracked Egg Café, El Rio, Jacalito's, Big Blue Bear, and breakfast items are available at Sierra Gateway and Primo's.
8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Whiskey Flat Encampments
Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments on Scodie Ave. across from the Rodeo Grounds. You'll see history and gunfights. All day there will be a Wells Fargo station and eatery, chuck wagon cook'n and coffee, a horse trader and livery. There'll be horse shoe'n and horse doctor'n, the Whiskey Flats Saloon, a Justice of the Peace, a saddle maker and leather craft, a bath house, Beautifier and Hygienist, storytellers of the Old West, mining and sawmill demonstrations and a Civil War Confederate camp!
9 a.m. Golden Gulch opens
Circle Park: Crafts, handmade items, jewelry, info booths, & art vendors. Food vendors are non-profit organizations: Kern Valley FFA, Sweet Adelines, White Blanket Allotment, and the Rotary Club of KRV.
9 a.m. Riverside Park & Frontage Rd. opens
Riverside Park: Food Court, Family Entertainment and misc. vendors. Frontage Rd.: Vendors, vendors, vendors!
10 a.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens
Held at the corner of Big Blue and Kernville Rd. Look for the Green Stage come and bet on your favorite jumpin’ frog! Free admission.
1860's costume contest sign-ups! Adult & children forms at WFD's Info Booth. Judging starts at 12:30 p.m.
Forms at WFD Info Booth. Judging at 2:30 p.m.
12:05 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys!.The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
Q: Why is it called "turnout gear"? A: It should probably just be called "turnout". To use the term
"turnout gear" is possibly redundant. That is like saying "equipment tools." Turnout can simply mean gear, or equipment.
12:30 p.m. Old Fashioned 1860's Costume Contest
Held at the corner of Big Blue and Kernville Rd. Look for the Green Stage. Adult categories include Frontier Lady and Man, American Indian Lady and Man, Fancy Lady and Man, Authentic Indian Dress, Modern PowWow, Best Overall Family. Children categories include Frontier Girl and Boy, American Indian Girl and Boy, and Fancy Girl and Boy. Prizes awarded. Entry is free.
1 p.m. Sign Ups for Whiskerino Contest
Whiskers, beards, & all mustaches apply. Ribbons awarded. Free to enter. Forms at Whiskey Flat Days Info Booth.
1 p.m. Whiskey Flat Days Rodeo
Sponsored by BudLight, the official Beer of the Wild West Daze Rodeo, McNally Rodeo Arena. Brought to you by Cotton Rosser's Flying U Rodeo. Open Team Roping, Bull Riding, Hide Race, Open Barrel Race, Junior Barrel Race, Calf Scramble, Sheep Riding, and more.
1:50 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys!.The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
2 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show
Cowboys & Indians Exhibition. Meet Annie Oakley and Chief Sitting Bull! Buffalo Bill himself will salute you at each performance. Located at Riverside Park.
2 p.m. Old Fashioned Whiskerino Contest
Held at the corner of Big Blue and Kernville Rd. Look for the Green Stage.
2:30 p.m. Pet Parade
Five Categories: WFD's Theme, Matched Pair, Smallest, Largest, Funniest! Grand prize and ribbons awarded - Free.
Q: " Why are fire hydrants different colors? A: Fire hydrants are painted different colors to allow fire fighters to quickly identify flow rates of any fire hydrant.
3 p.m. 2013 Honorary Whiskey Flat Mayor Announced!
Who will be the 2014 Whiskey Flat Mayor? Piute Drive by Circle Park. Drawings: Who will win candidate’s raffles and the $500 shopping spree?
2:55 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by The Rock Bottom Boys!.The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
3:55 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage
Music by OMG! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the northeast end of Circle Park.
Monday February 16 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Golden Gulch opens
Circle Park : Crafts, handmade items, jewelry, info booths, & art vendors. Food vendors are non-profit organizations: Kern Valley FFA, Sweet Adelines, White Blanket Allotment, and the Rotary Club of KRV.
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Riverside Park & Frontage Rd. opens
Riverside Park: Food Court, Family Entertainment and misc. vendors.
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens
On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center.
Q: Why do firefighters wear red suspenders? A: To hold their pants up, silly
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Old Kernville Hollywood discovered old Kernville during the Western movie craze of the late 1920’s and it was the site for many movies. You can learn more at the Kern Valley Museum in Kernville.
Old West continued from pg. 1 Gold had been discovered at about the same time California had become one of the United States. Gold seekers came from every corner of the world, many by sailing ship into the port of San Francisco. They streamed overland into the interior portions of California. Gold was rumored to have been discovered at a place where two forks of a big river met, a place called the Kern River Valley. They streamed over the Greenhorn Mountains that formed the western boundary of the valley, their wagons slowed on the downhill side by big logs cut for that purpose. They came in mainly through Keyesville and down over the route that is now State Highway 155. In the year 1860, a man by the name of Adam Hamilton was one of those who made the trip over the Greenhorn Mountains. He was an American entrepreneur who decided to make himself a bit of money by selling what many of the miners craved after a hard day’s work – a
drink of spirits. So he led his burro laden with two barrels of whiskey down the eastern side of the Greenhorns. He had heard about a gold strike at the bottom of the gulch he was traveling down. It was some mighty well-paying ore, and there were a lot of miners working in a mine called the Big Blue. So Hamilton found the center of the mining camp, found a plank of wood, set it across his two barrels and started selling his whiskey. Unfortunately, the spot he picked was in the middle of folks who did not care for the evils of spirits. They asked him to move his makeshift bar away from that spot, and he did. The spot he picked was on a little sandy flat next to the river, now more placid than it was higher up in the mountains. The miners started moving their own camps down closer to his establishment. As the ones who enjoyed a tipple now and again gravitated there, a town started to grow. That town was called by several names, but the one that stuck was Whiskey Flat.
February 2015 Four years later, things had changed a lot. A new county, Kern County, had formed. There were houses and hotels in the town, some eating houses and a few stores. There were real streets, a dry goods store, a feed stable, some saloons, a blacksmith shop and a brewery. The town was now too civilized to be called Whiskey Flat any more. So it was renamed. The name that they chose was Kernville. Kernville in its original location existed for almost 100 years. It survived the years when the gold ran out. The citizenry switched to ranching and similar pursuits. Kernville saw the coming of hydropower plants put in to serve the electricity-hungry city of Los Angeles. The area was later discovered by Hollywood as an ideal place to make Western movies, and from time to time, stars like Tom Mix, Roy Rogers and Hopalong Cassidy could be seen here. John Wayne came here to shoot a scene for the classic “Stagecoach.” WWII came and went, and then the Kern River Valley saw something new coming in that changed the face of it forever. Kernville was told its days were numbered. Residents who had grown up here, some whose families had been here for generations, were told they had to move away. A government flood control reservoir was coming into the Kern River Valley. The citizens of Kernville More history is to be found at the Kern Valley Museum
We hope you enjoyed reading about Old Kernville. There are many more historical photos than we could possibly print, and lots of stories, artifacts and maps of all kinds of at the Kern Valley Museum in Kernville. It’s not hard to find -- it’s across the street from Alta One Credit Union on Big Blue Road. If you like exploring the history of this area the museum is a good place to start.
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page 7
were told they had to move to higher ground or have their houses by covered by the rising lake. Kernville refused to lose almost 100 years of history. Many of the citizens of Kernville decided to move en masse to higher ground a few miles to the north, onto the former Burlando Ranch, where they could establish a new Kernville. By the early 1950s a new Kernville stood. Some of the original buildings from Old Kernville were moved there; others were newly built. The people of New Kernville picked up their lives and started a new history. But the citizens couldn’t forget the original town’s old history, a colorful Gold Rush past that was matched by very few communities. So the townspeople decided to hold a yearly celebration in the winters when times were slower and people could enjoy the fullWestern
mountain experience and remember the Gold Rush times.
Each year the townspeople of New Kernville put on their Western duds and prepare to greet the many thousands of visitors who come to join in the celebration that celebrates the 1860-64 days of Whiskey Flat. People come from all over to see the Whiskey Flat Days Grand Parade and the shoot-’em-up shows, take part in the many contests such as the old-time costume contest or the frog jumpin’ contest, partake of the carnival rides, enjoy the shenanigans of the Honorary Whiskey Flat Mayor contest (during which the candidates try to out-joke each other), eat some great food, or just walk around and enjoy the clean mountain air in one of the nicest little towns you’ll ever see. People flock to the Kern Valley Museum to see photos of the original Kernville, maps of the area before the lake was here, and displays featuring the history of the Indians called this area home long before settlers came. Want to see some of the other original buildings from Whiskey Flat? Go to Silver City Ghost Town in Bodfish, where they moved a lot of local old-time historical buildings in order to save them. Enjoy the music, the parade, the old-fashioned contests, the mountain views, even the weather as we celebrate the era of 1860-64 all over again, when Old Kernville was Whiskey Flat.
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February 2015
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Encampment Cast & Credits ~ Event directors ~ Producer: Mike Woodward, Lone Star Productions Whiskey Flat Camp Director and Manager: Francis Moore Mountain Man Camp Director: Parry Boone Indian Camp Director: Dave “Horse” and Kate Robinson Mountain Man Camp Manager: DeeDee Moore Miner & Sawmill Camp Manager: Perry Steinhoff Safety Officers: Francis Moore & Dean Marshall Story Telling Coordinator: Robert Lambert Weapons Check Coordinators: Dave Ryskamp, Francis Moore, Dean Marshall ~ Groups represented ~ Lone Star Productions, Native American Indians, Old West Mounted Lawmen’s Assoc, Bakersfield Buckskinners, Blacksmithing, Gold Mining, Sawmill & Small Engine Historians, 2nd Kentucky Calvary, LawDawgs. Thanks to the Folks that help make Whiskey Flat Encampment possible Kernville Chamber of Commerce for on-going assistance. Mike Ludiker for our Web Page USFS for camp wood Kern County Sheriffs Department for outstanding cooperation and support. Kern County Sheriffs SAL Kids Chuck Barbee for Documenting the history of the Valley in "Wild West Country" on DVD. Perry Steinhoff for his Encampment layout expertise.
Make your reservations now!
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Encampment’s 12th year River. There will be five camps for your enjoyment: The Whiskey Flat Camp, Whiskey Flat Encampment is back. It's Mountain Man Camp, the Native hard to believe this year is the 12th American Indian Camp, Mining Camp anniversary of Lone Star Productions with real Gold Mine, and Civil War Camp . These attracWhiskey Flat tions show you Encampment. the real Whiskey Every year the Flat town as it Encampment has was 150 years ago grown and last and have been a year it was estiFriday: 11: a.m. to sundown feature of mated that on Saturday: Immediately following Whiskey Flat Saturday there the Parade to sundown Days celebration were upwards of Sunday: 8: a.m. a.m. to 3 p.m. for over a decade 5,000 visitors It's an educational encampment now. treated to with authentic demonstrations of The Encampabsolutely period life in the Old West! On Friday 11 ment is designed correct experia.m., Saturday Noon to sundown, to give the whole ence by over 100 with a old time dance at 6 p.m. family a glimpse re-enactors. This Sunday at 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at what life may Camp promises a Including a old west church servhave been like very unique hisice Sunday at 10 a.m. , you'll see back in the torically accurate history and gunfights. All 1800's. Camp experience for the day there will be a Wells Fargo activities will be whole family station and eatery, chuck wagon interactive and again this year, cook'n and coffee, a horse trader there will be says Mike and livery. There'll be horse many opportuniWoodward, shoe'n and horse doctor'n, the ties to speak with Producer of Whiskey Flats Saloon, a Justice of the residents of Whiskey Flat the Peace, a Saddle maker and Whiskey Flat, encampment. We leather craft, a bath house, beautiMountain Men, even have a surfier and hygienist, storytellers of and Native prise or two in the Old West, mining and sawmill American Indians mind for the new demonstrations and a Civil War from the 1800's. and repeat visiConfederate camp! Come smell the tors. This Camp cowboy coffee is dynamic and and experience offers new experilife as the pioences every year. This all takes place February 13 thru the neers did. Old fashioned train service 15 during Whiskey Flat Days. Camp events begins from the Museum to the Whiskey begin at 11 a.m. Friday Feb. 13 and ends at Flat Encampment. The Whiskey Flat Encampment will 3 p.m. Sunday Feb. 15. The Encampment is across from the feature hold-ups and gunfights, immigrant Rodeo Grounds down in the "Flats" by the wagon with period music, cowboy cookin', Lone Star Productions
A NT I G
Come Join Us This Whiskey Flat
February 2015
Encampment Schedule
STE AK S
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horse tradin', livery and wagon sales, blacksmithing and handmade trinkets, horse shoein' and horse doctorin', Whiskey Flats Saloon with dancing girls, Justice of the Peace and old west church service on Sunday at 10 a.m., saddle maker and leather craft, old west chuck wagon, old saw mill and mining demonstrations and story tellers of Old Whiskey Flats. Stories will be acted out by real actors and actresses of how miners, cowboys and outlaws got along (or didn't get along) in the old days. A hold-up or two of the scheduled coach service to the Whiskey Flat Camp will thrill the coach riders (or scare 'em to death). Don’t miss the Saturday night dance feature the Bill Hillies. The Native American Encampment led by Horse and Kate Robinson will include authentic crafts, Native American hand games, Native American food, demonstration on basket making, beading, regalia making, and other items, drumming, singing, dancing, speaking in local native language, Native American cultural displays using artifacts from their ancestors, and actual building of the huts from natural native resources. There will be a display and information of the local native plants used by local Native Americans and activities throughout the day and constructed houses used in the 1800's by the Native Americans in this area, an open fire pit used for cooking and a storyteller of Native Americans from the Valley. The Mountain Man Camp will include Fur trading, Tee Pee's, trapping and hunting demonstrations, period cooking demonstrations, mountain man shelters, winter camp and clothing.
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February 2015
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
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The publication you be holding is called the Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper. It’s published once year, especially for the Whiskey Flat Days festival. And this is our 12th year in publication! In 2004, then Kern Valley residents Dolly Ogawa and Allyn Amsk started this little gem of a paper, followed shortly thereafter with the introduction of the Kern River Courier. Back then today’s publisher, Michael Batelaan, was the Production Manager for this upstart paper. Other papers had come and gone and they said this one would never last, but here it is, eleven years later! In 2009, Michael Batelaan and Michael Devich purchased the Kern River Courier and all its publications from Ogawa and Amsk, who had decided to leave the Kern Valley for other pursuits. Batelaan and Devich were both experienced newspaper men who relished the idea of promoting the Kern River Valley and all of its virtues. Then in 2011 Devich decided to retire, leaving Batelaan alone to keep the labor of love alive, promoting area tourism and highlighting the positive view of life as we live it in the Kern River Valley. For a few days every February, Kernville residents return to the 18601864 era of the Gold Rush, when the town went by its original name, Whiskey Flat. The Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper is put out by the same folks who publish the Kern River Courier, the Valley’s only free distribution weekly newspaper based out of Wofford Heights and available for pickup Fridays all over the Valley and found oline at Kernrivercourier.com. Or if you want the convenience of subscribing by mail, you can receive the Kern River Courier every week for only $65 a year. Here’s a list of some of the Courier folks and friends who contributed to this year’s Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper. (If your name isn’t here, forgive us!): Michael Batelaan, Sara Wakeman, Val Minoux, the help of the folks at the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, and too many others to list. The Kern River Courier and Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper would love to hear from its readers. If you’d like to make a comment on the Claim Jumper or get a hold of us at the Courier, here’s our contact information: Mail: P.O. Box 1145, Wofford Heights, CA 93285. (760) 376-2860. Fax: (760) 376-2862. E-mail: office@kernrivercourier.com.
KERNVILLE APOTHECARY HAS FOR SALE A FULL ASSORTMENT OF
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February 2015
page 11
Erin Hanley Designer/Owner
Whiskey Flat
Frog jumping lineup
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Whiskey Flat Weekend Friday February 13th thru Monday 16th
Why the leap to frog jumping?
9:00am to 6:00pm Corner Sirretta & Kernville Rd.
In 1863, a young journalist named Samuel Langhorne Clemens, traveling from San Francisco, CA to Virginia City, NV spent the night in Angels Camp, Calaveras County, California. Here, he heard the story of Daniel Webster, a famous frog who jumped higher and further than any other frog around. His owner, local gambler Jim Smiley never got tired of placing bets on his celebrated jumping frog. One day, a stranger took the bet. But when Jim wasn't looking, the stranger poured quail shot into Daniel Webster's mouth making it impossible for him to jump at all. The stranger won the $40 bet and escaped before Jim realized the con.
in front of Mountain River Adventures
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The story was first published in 1865 in New York's Saturday Press and the young journalist used the pen name Mark Twain. It not only laid the foundation for his fame, it also put the tiny mining town Angels Camp on the world's map. Here at Whiskey Flat, we celebrate this history with a frog jumping contest of our own. Everyone has a fun time placing wagers on the frogs and cheering the little guys on. It is fun to try to beat the odds. The winning frog nets you "frog bucks" script worth merchandise at local participating Kern Valley merchants. See Whiskey Flat schedule for the times and place of the races on Saturday and Sunday.
The Elks Lodge & Ladies of the Elks will be servin’ up mouth waterin’ Tri-Tip BBQ Sandwiches Hot Links Hot Dogs Water & Sasparilla All proceeds after bills,go to support the Elks charities, which include scholarships and other youth activities & Veteran’s needs in VA Hospitals.
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February 2015
Like Martin the mule, the Law Office of Phyllis
M. Hix team is looking forward to helping you solve your legal problem. We'll be in the office from our rides, Monday thru Friday, 9am to 3pm Call us at 760-376-3761 or see us at 112 Buena Vista, Kernville, CA 93238
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Whiskey Flat Melodrama "Double Take At Beatrice's Boardin' House" (or "Things Ain't Always What They Seem") Sierra Performing Arts Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Beatrice's Boarding House is in the fairto-middlin' town of Goodale. Beatrice, the young, beautiful (but somewhat longwinded) owner is in distress. If business doesn't pick up soon, the honorable establishment will have to close its doors forever. If our poor heroine loses her abode, she and her closest friends will find themselves on the town's streets. Luther Swett, the cad, not only wants the boarding house, but has his eyes on the beautiful Beatrice. Can the ugliest hero in the history of melodrama save the day? And will the changing of the boarding house to a hilarious "Broadway and Brunch"
solve all problems? Throw in a mild-mannered mortician and a cranky boarder who needs a hearing aid and you have a light snow! (Or did we say a nice show?!) The cast features local Kern Valley talent. But wait--that's not all! Included in this production is a Wild West Musical Comedy Review, featuring musical numbers, comedy acts, and even a ventriloquist. There's something for every taste, including none at all. There will be two performances, Friday and Saturday nights, February 13th and 14th, at 7 p.m., in the Kernville Elementary School auditorium. Admission is $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for children 12 and under, and as always, lap sitters and stroller riders are free.
Event theme selected Kernville Chamber of Commerce Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper This is the thought process behind this year’s winning Whiskey Flat Days theme. The theme was submitted by a firefighter. Just a few months ago after being plagued with a series of wild fires that left unimaginable destruction in the kern river Valley. Families lost their homes and many of their most precious items and memories. The intention of this theme was to salute our brave men and women who fought bravely to save as many homes as they possibly
could. Some people may see fire and destruction in this picture, but when we look at this picture, we see community. We see a community that comes together in times of hardship and devastation. This depiction was not meant to be insensitive to someone’s loss. It is meant to create an alertness to the strength and support that grows in this family (despite the drought). We are very proud to call the Kern River Valley home. This beautiful theme artwork was created by Kerville resident Jeanette Rogers-Erickson. The Kernville Chamber of Commerce thanks her for capturing the importance of this community.
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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
February 2015
page 13
Mayors continued from pg. 1 Shawn. He didn't even know he'd been trapped 'til they was married and she took the cuffs off of him! After a spell, word traveled around Whiskey Flat about her expertise in man trackin'. Well, ol' Tumbleweed Tony and the Rescue Brigade hired her to be their number one tracker. They're always searchin' for folks in need of rescuin'. So she joined up. Well, she and Whitewater Shawn and the gang was ridin' up on the Whiskey Flat trail and seen the twisted, winding tracks of two fellers earlier and lo and behold, if she didn't ride up on these two dirty, rotten scoundrels right smack dab in the middle of the Kern River. Folks, Jami went in after them herself, rescued 'em and got them dried off and on their way, and they showed up to run against her in the mayor's race! Now all of Man Trackin' Jami's proceeds will go to the Kern Valley Search and Rescue, and remember, if it hadn't been for her and her trackin' abilities and the Rescue Brigade, those two "trash talkers" wouldn't be here to keep nothin'. The Keeper Brothers, Rex Hinkey was born in old Kernville, before the dam in 1949, and now lives in Kernville. He has 5 children, 8 grand children and one great granddaughter. He was general manager at Chehalis Farm Store for 35 years and has been retired for almost 3 years. His most favorite thing to do is fish and backpack into the Forks of the Kern. Joel Walling was born in old Kernville, before the Dam in 1948. He now lives in Kernville after retiring a few years ago from a business in Redding, CA. He has quite a few favorite things to do, but he enjoys playing the ukulele, listening to music, fishing and is a volunteer at Nuui Cunni. Joel has 5 kids and 11 grand kids. Both of their grandfathers were the barbers in old Kernville. Their fathers were Edison employees and helped put in all the lines for new towns of Kernville, Wofford
Heights and Lake Isabella. Both of their mothers worked in the same diner in front of the pool hall that was next to Bert James's Store. Their sisters were in the same grade at the old grammar school. Both of their families left when Kernville was moved and the dam was completed and they have had no contact with each other until a year ago when they met at Whiskey Flat Days when introduced to each other by Linda Clark, who is Joel's cousin. Jelly Belly Joel and Rockin' Rex are the Keeper Brothers are a runnin' fer Whiskey Flat Mayor. They say they got some hot dam good ideas fer the folks on the Flats. They also say the Flats need a couple of good ole boys to clean it up and make fer a better place to hang yer hat. Them boys were a bred and born right here afore them damn dam folks done went and clogged up the ole Kern River. They done learned a thing 'er two 'bout how ta keep thangs tidied up and makin' a happy place fer all you folks. If'n folks be happy, they be a spendin' plenty more of thar gold dust 'round town and that be a makin' all them busyness folks plumb happy. All of the Keeper Brothers proceeds will go to the Keepers of the Kern and to the Nuui Cunni Indian Cultural Center.
Century 21 Crew The Best Team In The Valley Marty O’Hara, Julie Jones, Becky Starr-Harris, Linda Phillips, Betty Heins, Paul Mooney, Broker, Linda Mooney
What the Whiskey Flat mayors race is all about In 1991, the Kernville Chamber was having trouble getting Whiskey Flat Mayor candidates. Then Chamber president, Lanny Borthick got the idea of splitting profits with charitable organizations. The group then agreed on a 60/40 split with 60 per cent going to the Chamber. "That 60 percent promotes local business, promotes tourism, and keeps the visitors coming," said Cheryl Borthick, the current Kernville Chamber President.
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page 14
February 2015
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
Kernville's Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo John E. McNally Arena Kernville Saturday & Sunday February 14th & 15th Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper The Kernville Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo is the town's first Rodeo of the season and a rip roarin' western gathering. Get your boots and saddles and head on up for this leap back to the good ol' wild west days. The 2 day event is held at McNalley Rodeo Arena in Kernville at 1:00 p.m.
Kernville Rodeo History
Irwin Wofford had the contract to provide horses and cattle for these Westerns and John E. McNally, Jr. was one of the ranchers who rented out his stock to the
movies. In the 40s and 50s, McNally also supplied horses and cattle for rodeos as far away as Nevada and Oregon. He supplied animals for the Kernville Rodeo and maintained the grounds and buildings for several years. The Kernville Chamber of Commerce named those rodeo grounds the "John E. McNally Rodeo Grounds" and they remain in active use. McNally also worked as a logging truck driver for Mount Whitney Lumber Company. He drove a DW-20 while working on the Isabella Dam project in the late 40s, early 1950s. Along with author/historian, Ardis Manly Walker, John helped to start the annual Whiskey Flat Days Parade in 1957 and he was there announcing from a portable stand in Circle Park for 28 years. He also served as the parade's Grand Marshall.
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Before his death at age 94 in July 2007, John E. McNally, Jr. said, "I wouldn't trade anything I've done. I'd do it all over again. My life has been very interesting with lots of experiences."
Rodeo Events Barrel Racing
In this event, time is the only enemy and horsemanship is a rider's greatest weapon. Because of barrel racing's fast and furious pace it is always a crowd favorite. Each contestant enters the arena on a sprinting quarter horse at full gallop. An electronic eye begins time the moment the rider enters and ends the instant they leave. Every contestant must ride a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels before exiting the arena. A five-second penalty is awarded for each overturned barrel; however no penalty is given for touching or moving a barrel. The final times are recorded to the hundredths of a second.
Bull Riding
This is one rodeo contest the novice spectator can enjoy fully as much as does the hard core fan. It, of course, demands athletic skill and hard-won knowhow. But, essentially this is a contest of raw courage and a true, deep-seated spirit of try. In short, it takes good, honest guts. A loose rope straps a man's hand to three-quarters of a ton of awesome power. There isn't time to think and react. It must be natural, automatic coordination and determination that keeps the man on top. If the spirit hesitates for a split second, even subconsciously, the rider is doomed. Though the rider isn't required to move his feet as in bronc riding, you will see many cowboys do so. They are scrambling to keep contact with the bull, whose power is too great to permit a solid lasting hold with the rider's feet. The animal is still judged for how hard he bucks, and the bulls that perform in a tight, fast spin usually draw the highest scores.
Steer Riding
This event is offered for our teenaged cowboys and cowgirls ages 12 to 15. It is similar to bull riding only the riders are mounted on steers-which can buck as any bull! The rider must stay mounted for eight seconds and is judged on how the animal bucks as well as how the contestant rides. The cowboy or cowgirl with the highest score wins.
Mutton Bustin’
This even has evolved over the past several years for our young buckaroos ages 5 to 7. These youngsters can give you a run for their money as they bounce out of a chute mounted on the back of a wooly sheep. No
rope is used, and these youngsters, wearing protective helmets, can give as exciting a ride as seen anywhere. Each buckaroo is awarded a ribbon and bandana for their daredevil ride.
Hide Racing
The hide race is exciting and unique to the Kern River Valley. The race consists of a team of two of any gender. One person is mounted on horseback; the other is mounted on a rawhide attached to the end of a lariat. The person on horseback holds the other end of the rope usually dallied around the saddle horn and races around the arena, pulling their teammate on the rawhide. The excitement comes as the one on the rawhide is dragged around the arena flipping, turning and eating arena dirt at breakneck speed. The team with the fastest time wins.
Bell Calf Roping
For this event, the calves have turned into young steers. A group of steers is turned loose in the arena, and one wears a bell around his neck. At the same time, all mounted contestants, cowboys or cowgirls, enter the arena on horseback with ropes ready. The contestants attempt to rope the steer wearing the bell. The one who ropes the belled steer first wins.
Team Roping
In team roping, two riders are in a race against the clock to rope both ends of a steer. The "header" rides from the left-hand box behind the barrier. The header's task is to rope the steer first, ideally by the horns, but no penalty is awarded for catching it by either the neck or "half head," which is one horn and neck. After the catch, the header "dallies," or wraps the roe around the saddle horn, and turns the steer to the left in a wide arc. His teammate, the "heeler," who rides from the right box, stays behind the steer until the header turns it. The heeler's task is to rope both the steer's back legs with one throw. If he manages to catch only one hind foot, the team receives a five-second penalty. Time is stopped when both ropes are tight and cowboy's horses are facing each other.
Rodeo Terminolgy Arena Director
The person responsible for conducting a fast, smooth-running rodeo.
Average
At rodeos with more than one g-round, contestants earn money for each go, and those with the best total scores or times win additional money.
Rick Gonzalez
760-379-4422
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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
February 2015
page 15
Kernville's Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo John E. McNally Arena Kernville Saturday & Sunday February 14th & 15th Bareback Rigging
A leather fixture with a suitcase-like handle that the rider grips with one hand.
Barrier
A line stretched across the roping box that is released when a calf or steer crossed the scoreline. If the contestant rides through, breaks the barrier before it is released, a tensecond penalty is added to his total time.
Bull Rope
A flat, braided rope that circles the bull's chest and is the rider's only means of holding on. No cinches or buckles are allowed-it's held in position by the grip of the rider. A heavy bell attached to the rope pulls the rope free after the ride.
Cantle
The seat back of a bronc riding saddle. The rider attempts to reach the cantle at the end of a spurring stroke. This is called "cantle-boarding."
Catch-as-catch-can
A calf roper is allowed to catch the animal in any way he chooses as long as he turns loose of the rope when throwing the loop, and so long as the rope hold the calf until the roper reaches it.
Contact Rule
Flagman
Rodeo Official who signals the end of elapsed time in the timed events.
Flank Strap
A sheepskin-lined strap with a quick-release buckle that is passed around th flank of a bucking horse or bull. It causes no pain but encourages the animal to buck.
Free Hand
The hand not used to hold on during a ride. The rider is not disqualified if he touches the animal, himself or his equipment with his free hand.
Go-round
Downing the steer in steer wrestling so all four feet and the head are not facing the same direction. Illegal. To get a time, the cowboy must turn the steer over or let it up and throw it again legally.
Draw
1. Distance between the chute opening and the score line; the head start timed event cattle are given in roping and steer wrestling, determined by the size of the arena. 2. The marking
Circular, notched, bluntly pointed and freewheeling portion of a spur. They do not cut a bronc or bull.
Score
1. Distance between the chute opening and the score line; the head start timed event cattle are given in roping and steer wrestling, determined by the size of the arena. 2. The marking given rough-stock riders by the judges after a qualified ride.
Turn Out
To withdraw from a competition.
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A horse that leaps high into the air when bucking.
Hondo
The eye in one end of a lariat through which the opposite end is passed to form a sliding loop.
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The half-hitch knot a calf roper uses to tie three of the calf's legs. An even start where the cattle in timed events do not get an advantage of 10 to 30 feet; used in small arenas.
No Time (NT)
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Failure to qualify on timed event cattle, signaled by field flagman waving his flag side to side.
Pickup Man
Mounted arena official who assists bareback and saddle bronc riders in dismounting from their horses.
Piggin' String
Small soft rope, six feet long used by calf ropers to tie the animal's feet.
Stock selection.
Entry fee
The money paid by the contestant before he can compete at a rodeo. Contestant must pay a separate entry fee for each event entered.
Fair
Score
High Roller
Lap and Tap
Dog-fall
Rowel
Another ride given to a bronc or bull rider in the same go-round when either the animal or cowboy is not afforded a fair opportunity to show his best, such as a chute-fighting animal that is impossible to get mounted on, when the animal falls or drags the cowboy off the chute gate.
A cowboy who rides alongside a steer opposite the steer wrestler. His job is to keep the steer running straight and close to the contestant's horse.
Dally
A bucking horse with a reputation as a poor bucker.
Re-ride
Hazer
Hooey
Dink
given rough-stock riders by the judges after a qualified ride.
That part of a rodeo event in which every contestant has competed on one head of stock .
States that bucking horse riders must place their heels above the horse's shoulders, making contact until the first jump is completed. If the rider fails to do so, he "misses the mark" and is disqualified. A turn of the rope around the saddle horn. Team ropers dally their ropes after a catch to secure the steer.
riders are not, but sometimes score higher when they do so.
(Legal) Catch: In team roping, the header must catch the steer around the horns, head or neck.
Pulling leather
When a saddle bronc rider touches any part of the saddle with his free hand during the eight-second ride he is said to be pulling leather, or "grabbing a the apple" and is disqualified.
Rake
Spurring action of the rider on rough-stock. Bareback and saddle bronc riders are required to continue spurring throughout the rides; bull
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page 16
February 2015
Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper
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