Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper 2016 by Kern River Courier

Join us in Kernville February 12-15, 2016

February

2016

N W

The Best Map of the Flat E pages A4 & A5

Whiskey Flat, Californiia

FREE

Enjoy the old-fashioned fun as Kernville returns to the 1860’s for

Whiskey Flat Days!

INSIDE:

A2 Make sure that you know all the Whiskey Flat gun check requirements.

Whiskey Flat Days President’s Day Weekend February 12 through15

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. A7

A3 Michael Batelaan/Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

xxxx -\ Pictured left to right are ‘Mountain Mouth’ aka: Kate McDonald, ‘Dead Eye Dave’ aka: Dave Redman, ‘The City Slicker’ aka: Gary Ananian and Keeper Brother aka: Rex Hinkey.

Town mayoral race under way Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Dead Eye Dave and his lady Mountain Mouth Kate have been out makin' music fer bribes and pettin' dogs fer fun. The City Slicker has been pickin' thru trash with them Keeper Brothers thinkin' maybe there's some extra in there for him. The Whiskey Flat Mayor's race is in full swing. Each year the Kernville Chamber of Commerce holds

Whiskey Flat Days to raise the funds needed for the year for the community. Meet the mayor candidates The City Slicker heard a rumor back in the flatlands has it that there are some thirsty miners and horny outlaws in these parts of town and golden nuggets is to be made. So he jumped on his hybrid electric horse, guided by his Chinese made compass and headed north from the City of Angels, transporting some Appalachian shine and the finest mail order brides

to be found from the Siberian foothills of mother Russia. He made it over Tejon pass only to pay taxes at the Indian casino along the territory lines. He paid his taxes by donating one of his ugly Ukrainian brides to the Indians. He passed along the oily valley known as Bakersfield and into the Kern Canyon where I ran into some thirsty SoCal Edison employees. They asked for some shine and tail but he refused and kept

B2 Wild West Encampment rides into town

page B1

See Mayors pg. B5

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

The fun starts with the Whiskey Flat schedule of events

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.

What the heck is this riches to rag publication?

B3 Catch whats hoppin’ in Whiskey Flat

B4 Every town must include a little drama... This town is no different.

Whiskey Flat Daze Wild West Rodeo on pages B6 & B7

page A2

February 2016

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Whiskey Flat Celebration 2016 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 Encampment reenactors 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. 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 which is permitted by the weapons carry regulations or state law. Participants may be subject to random checks by the Kern County Sheriffs Department to confirm they are in compliance with the above regulations.

"NUUI CUNNI" "Our House"

Native American Intertribal Cultural Center & Museum Located at one of the most beautiful settings on Isabella Lake at French Gulch Recreation Area 2600 Hwy. 155

OPEN ALL YEAR

Wednesday-Sunday…9 a.m.-3 p.m winter hours may vary

• GIFT SHOP • • SWEAT LOGDE • PRAYER GARDEN • • WEDNESDAY CRAFTS • Sunday too!

Sponsored by the Kern River Paiute Council under a special use permit with the U.S. Forest Service on a nondiscriminatory basis.

“NUUI CUNNI KITCHEN” • ! W NE

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.

“

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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 2016

page A3

Schedule of Events

Whiskey Flat Days Moonshiners, Miners & Mail Order Birdes

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.

Note: The following Men

and women in hopes of finding a companion placed advertisements by number in a publication specifically designed for lonely hearts. State Historical Society 0f Missouri, Columbia 1887, edition of the Kansas City printing of Matrimonial News.

No. 221 A widow of 28. 5 feet 2

inches tall, black eyes and hair, weighing 125 pounds, wishes to make the acquaintance of some dark complexioned gentlemen of 25 to 45; am a first rate housekeeper.

Friday February 12 7 a.m. Breakfast All 'Round the Valley

Find your favorite eatery. In Kernville, there is Cheryl's Diner, Cracked Egg Café, El Rio, Ewings on the Kern, 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. Whiskey Flat Headquarters & Info on the corner of Kernville Road & Tobias Street selling Whiskey Flat shirts & memorabilia.

No. 245

I am fat, fair, and 48, 5 feet high. Am a No. 1 lady, well fixed with no encumbrance: am in business in city, but want a partner who lives in the West. Want an energetic man that has some means, not under 40 years of age and weight not less than 180. Of good habits. A Christian gentlemen preferred.

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

Whiskey Flat Days Info Booth

Pick up your Whiskey Flat Days gear, Claim Jumper, Whiskey Flat Miner and the most “up-to-date” Schedule of Events, Contest forms on the corner of Tobias and Kernville Road.

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.

5 p.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens

On Kern River Drive, enjoy great adult and children's rides & games. Open until 10 p.m.

Dinner is served

All around town at all your favorite restaurants.

5 to 7 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage

Music & Street Dance with Stoneflys. Stoneflys are an original alternative/ska/jam/rock/jazz/reggae music group of musicians formed out of Ventura and Kernville. Put on yur dancin' boots and hit the street! Let's rock! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gazebo.

7 p.m. Whiskey Flat Melodrama

Westward Whoa! A fast paced comedy that is filled with a stable of goofy characters. When the wagon train breaks outside the town of Whiskey Flat, it gets robbed by the mysterious outlaw known as “The Snake.” Come see what happens next! At the Kernville Elementary School auditorium. Admission is $10 for adults, children 12 and under are free.

No. 283

A gentleman of 25 years old, 5 feet 3 inches, doing a good business in the city, desires the acquaintance of a young, intelligent and refined lady possessed of some means, of a loving disposition from 18 to 23, and one who could make a home a paradise.

Saturday February 13 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: 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 Along Sierra Way and Kernville Road.

10 a.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens

On Kern River Drive, enjoy great adult and children's rides & games. Open until 10 p.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.

No. 228

If there is a gentleman of honor and intelligence between the ages of 35 and 50 who wants a genuine housekeeper, let him write to this number. I am a widow, 34 years old, weight 110 pounds, 4 feet and 5 inches in height; am brunette and have very fine black hair.

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.

10 a.m. AltaOne Main Stage Music by The Kern River Band! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gazebo.

11 a.m. Whiskey Flat Days Parade

Whiskey Flat Days Parade. 2016 Grand Marshall: Congressman Kevin McCarthyAnnounced by Geoff Emery 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.

No. 280 A lively widower

of 40, looking much younger, 5 feet 7 inches high, weighing 145 pounds would like to correspond with some maiden or widow lady of honor who would like a good home, kind husband and plenty.

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 82 Deluxe! A Country group that loves to play live and get people dancing. The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gazebo.

1 p.m. Whiskey Flat Days Rodeo

Sponsored by Coors. McNally Rodeo Arena. Brought to you by Cotton Rosser's Flying U Rodeo. Featuring the Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls & Event Parachuter. Open Team Roping, Bull Riding, Hide Race, Open Barrel Race, Junior Barrel Race, Calf Scramble, Sheep Riding, and more.

No. 292 A girl who will love, honest, true and not sour; a nice little cooing dove, and willing to work in flour.

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'

Held at the corner of Tobias 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.

See Schedule pg. A6

page A6

February 2016

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Schedule of Events

Whiskey Flat Days Schedule

continued from pg. A3

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.

9 a.m. Riverside Park & Frontage Rd. opens

Riverside Park: Food Court, Family Entertainment and misc. vendors. Frontage Rd.: Vendors, vendors, vendors!

9:45 a.m. AltaOne Main Stage

3:30 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage

Music by 82 Deluxe! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gezebo.

5 p.m. Budweiser’s Whiskey Town Hoe Down

On Kern River Drive. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills.

Music by 82 Deluxe! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gezebo.

At Frandy Park. This is the Whiskey Flat Days Country concert in Kernville. Professional concert brought to you by Notorious Entertainment. Tickets $10 Gate opens at 4 p.m. Concert from 5 to 8 p.m. Featuring the Calico Girls & Rebel Heart!

No. 221 A widow of 28. 5 feet 2 inches tall, black eyes and hair, weighing 125 pounds, wishes to make the acquaintance of some dark complexioned gentlemen of 25 to 45; am a first rate housekeeper.

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

No. 241 I am a widow,

aged 28, have one child, height 64 inches, blue eyes, weight 125 pounds, loving disposition. I am poor; would like to hear from honorable men from 30 to 40 years of old: working men preferred.

Sunday February 15 7 a.m. Breakfast All 'Round the Valley

Find your favorite eatery. In Kernville, there is Cheryl's Diner, Cracked Egg Café, El Rio, Ewings on the Kern, 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

10 a.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens

No. 278

Wanted to correspond with a young lady matrimonially inclined who would make a young man a good wife: am of good standing and good family, strictly temperate, a professional man and will make a kind husband.

10 a.m. Whiskey Flat Encampment church

1:55 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage

Music by The Kern River Band! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gezebo.

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. Held at the corner of Big Blue and Kernville Rd. Look for the Green Stage.

No. 225

10 a.m. Trout Hatchery Opens

I am fond of fun, age 18, height 5 feet 5 inches, weight 140 pounds, have auburn hair, dark eyes; I want a gentleman correspondent, from 20 to 25. Object, fun and perhaps matrimony if suited.

10 a.m. Kern Valley Museum Opens

3 p.m. 2013 Honorary Whiskey Flat Mayor Announced!

Old West church service at 10 a.m.

Museum and Visitor Center 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sierra Way, one mile north of Kernville. Free admission.

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.

11:30 a.m. "Final Heat" Frog Jumpin' Contest

Held at the corner of Tobias and Kernville Rd. Come and bet on your favorite jumpin’ frog! Free admission.

High Noon Contest Sign Up Time! 1860's costume contest sign-ups! Adult & children forms at WFD's Info Booth. Judging starts at 12:30 p.m.

Pet Parade Sign Ups!

Forms at WFD Info Booth. Judging at 2:30 p.m.

No. 282

A few lady correspondents wanted by a bashful man of 36, of fair complexion. 5 feet 5 inches tall, weight 130 pounds. Would prefer a brunette of fair form about five feet, between 18 and 25 years of age. Object, improvement, and if suited, matrimony.

12:30 p.m. Old Fashioned 1860's Costume Contest

Held at the corner of Tobias and Kernville Rd. 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 Coors, McNally Rodeo Arena. Brought to you by Cotton Rosser's Flying U Rodeo. Featuring the Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls and Event Parachuter. Open Team Roping, Bull Riding, Hide Race, Open Barrel Race, Junior Barrel Race, Calf Scramble, Sheep Riding, and more.

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?

3:30 p.m. AltaOne Main Stage

Music by 82 Deluxe! The AltaOne Main Stage is located at the Circle Park gezebo.

Monday February 15 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.

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 Kern River Drive. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills.

No. 287

An intelligent young fellow of 22 years, 6 feet height, weight 170 pounds. Would like to correspond with a lady from 18 to 22. Will exchange photos: object, fun and amusement, and perhaps when acquainted, if suitable, matrimony.

Whiskey Flat Days Info Booth Pick up your Whiskey Flat Days gear, Claim Jumper, Whiskey Flat Miner and the most “up-to-date” Schedule of Events, Contest forms on the corner of Tobias and Kernville Road

Note: It is estimated that in the three decades the paper was in existence more than 2,600 couples who advertised with the newspaper corresponded, exchanged photos, and eventually married.

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.

WELCOMECome TO WHISKEY FLAT DAYS visit us at the

KERN VALLEY MUSEUM

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 next door to the Kernville Post office. If you like exploring the history of this area the museum is a good place to start and admission is always free!

page A7

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.

Whiskey Flat Weekend Friday February 12th thru Monday 15th 9:00am to 6:00pm At the food court in Riverside Park The Elks Lodge & Ladies of the Elks will be servin’ up mouth waterin’

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

Tri-Tip BBQ Sandwiches & Meals Hot Dogs & Meals Water & Sasparilla

49 Big Blue Road, Kernville (760) 376-6683 (Next to the Post Office)

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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THE

February 2016

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

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•

This warning appeared in an insert in several editions of the Matrimonial News in the 1870s.

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2016

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Time travel -\ Step back in time and see what the Old West was like. Stroll the Indian village, above, see reenactments of old Whiskey Flat tales, middle, and see how wood was sawn and corn was husked, right. Michael Batelaan 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: Parry Boone Miner & Sawmill Camp Manager: Perry Steinhoff Safety Officers: Francis Moore & Dean Marshall Story Telling Coordinator: Tim Dawson Gunfight Coordinator: Robert Lambert Weapons Check Coordinators: Dean Marshall, Robert Lambert ~ 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 Kern County Sheriffs SAL Kids Chuck Barbee for Documenting the history of the Valley in "Wild West Country" on DVD.

1800’s campout returns 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 13th American Indian Village, 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 and Encampment has Native American grown and last traditional life as year it was estiFriday: 11: a.m. to sundown it was 150 years mated that on Saturday: Immediately following ago and a feature Saturday there the Parade to sundown of Whiskey Flat were upwards of Sunday: 8: a.m. a.m. to 3 p.m. Days celebration 5,000 visitors It's an educational encampment for over a decade treated to the with authentic demonstrations of now. absolutely period life in the Old West! On Friday 11 The Encampcorrect experia.m., Saturday Noon to sundown, ment is designed ence by over 100 with a old time dance at 6 p.m. to give the whole re-enactors. Sunday at 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. family a glimpse This Camp Including a old west church servat what life may promises a very ice Sunday at 10 a.m. , you'll see have been like unique historically history and gunfights. All day back in the day of accurate experithere will be miner and mine shaft the 1800's. ence for the demonstrations and skits, chuck Camp activities whole family wagon cook'n and coffee, a horse will be interactive again this year, trader and livery. There'll be horse and there will be siad Mike Woodshoe'n and horse doctor'n, the many opportuniward, Producer of Whiskey Flats Saloon, old time ties to speak with Whiskey Flat woodworkin, gun fights and storythe residents of encampment. We tellers of the Old West, mining- n old Whiskey Flat, even have a sursawmill demonstrations, Cavelry Mountain Men, prise or two in camp, and the best darn old west and Native mind for the new Fiddlin by the BillHillyz for your American Indians and repeat visilistenin and dancin pleasure. from the 1800's. tors. This Camp Come smell the is dynamic and cowboy coffee offers new experiand experience ences every year. This all takes place February 12 thru the life as the pioneers did. Old fashioned 14 during Whiskey Flat Days. Camp events train service begins from the Museum to begin at 11 a.m. Friday Feb. 12 and ends at the Whiskey Flat Encampment. The Whiskey Flat Encampment will 3 p.m. Sunday Feb. 14. 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

Encampment Schedule

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 pack string led by Mule Skinner Julie to the Whiskey Flat Camp. Visitors will be thrill ed at how Julie never backs down from an outlaw and sends em a packin. (your gold is safe with Julie). Don’t miss the Saturday night dance featuring the Bill Hillies. The Native American Village 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 and speaking in local native language Native American cultural displays using artifacts from their ancestors, and actual building of the huts from natural native resources of the local native plants. Many ctivities throughout the day and an open fire pit used for cooking and storytelling. 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 and tomahawk throwing opportunities to test your skills. For further information and a schedule of events go to whiskeyflatcamp.org/ or on Facebook 'Whiskey Flat Encampment"

RIVERNOOK CAMPGROUND Located in the northern end of the Kern River Valley and situated at the base of the southern range of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, we're within an hours drive of both the Giant Redwoods and the Mojave desert. While staying with us you'll be able to relax at your campsite or enjoy exploring all our campground has to offer on 40 acres of riverfront property featuring some of the best fishing spots in the town of Kernville on site. Hot showers are available at one of our two large restroom buildings, which are currently being remodeled and upgraded. We'll also be opening a general store to better serve our customers needs, featuring an assortment of goods for all your RV and tent camping needs as well as some basic grocery items and fishing bait and lures.

Under New Management and Ownership

14001 Sierra Way, Box 8, Kernville, CA 93238

(760) 376-2705

www.rivernook.co Facebook.com/familycampingrivernookcampground

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February 2016

What in theheck is this riches to rag publication? 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 13th 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, thirteen 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 gold seeking 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 skip town, 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 1860-1864 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, Priscilla Scott, Ron benson, 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.

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Event theme selected Kernville Chamber of Commerce Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper This is the process behind this year's Whiskey Flat Days theme. The theme was actually submitted last year, but it was just after last year's theme had been selected and was in the works. Beverly Demetriff, who manages Frandy Park in Kernville, had been given a book of Western history. While reading through it she noticed that mail order brides played a big part in how families were developed in the Old West. Because old Whiskey Flat was a mining town, she realized that some

original families may have involved a mail order bride. And of course miners and moonshiners in old Whiskey Flat goes without saying! It also goes without saying that those of us who call the Kern River Valley home love it here because we are a caring community, ready to pitch in and help. Following this year's Mayor candidates' leads, we will pick up trash and help get pets fixed. This beautiful theme artwork was created by Kernville resident Jeanette RogersErickson. The Kernville Chamber of Commerce thanks her for capturing the joyfulness of this community.

Friends of the Hatchery

Fishing in a barrel Bob Talbot, Friends of the Hatchery Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Whiskey Flat Days is comin'. EEYHAA!! Hey! All you moms and pops with yer miner kids that have growed to 15 years and hanker to a fishin' fer a "free" fat fighten trout, just gotta stop by the trout pond along the Whiskey Flat park riverwalk. Thars a scraggely bunch of olde timer fishermen of "Friends of the Hatchery" that can be talked into helpin' ya to hook one of those purty slippery "rainbow" fish, once each

day of the festivities. Those old anglers will stamp yer eager hand, put a pole in yer fist and bait the hook, too! Plus, you got yer choice: take that flippin' fish home, or put it back in the pond or the river to swim off for another day. Whatcha think of that? To help ya remember this jolly excitement there's a rainbow fish T-shirt or a hatchery hat available for a fair donation, too! The California State Department of Fish and Wildlife are the rangers of those sparkly rainbow trout and are always thinking and providin' for ya! Happy catchin' kids!

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Whiskey Flat

m ai l C

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Whiskey Flat

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Frog jumping lineup

Sponsor Amazing Bounce Better Times Barbara Betty B’s Vacation Rentals Charlie Busch Cheryl's Diner Corral Creek Cowboy Bail Bonds Cynthia Cowden Fence Post Harry Thal Julie Jones Century 21

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Frog Name Amazing Bounce Good Times Just Jumpin’ 4 U Don’t Fear the Leaper Pie Ala Toad Rick Coffin’ City Pete Fast Bucks Fence Post Bob Bud-weis-er Deal Closer

Sponsor Keepers of the Kern Keeper Brothers Kern Candle Company Kern River Conservancy Kern River Courier Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce Kern Valley Sun KRV Gun Association Lanny Borthick Old West Kettle Corn Shepard of the Hills Sweet Adelines The Drug Store The Reel Cinema Tricia Busch

Frog Name Keeper 'er Clean Trash Jumper Wick It City Slicker Claim Jumper Anna Phabian Sun Spot Shot Gun Willie Douglas Fir Banks Lola Ann Jumpin’ 4 Jesus 4-Part Harmony Pill Popper Popcorn Tasts Like Chicken

Why the leap to frog jumping? 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. 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. The winning frog nets you "frog bucks" script worth merchandise at local participating Kern Valley merchants. See the Whiskey Flat activities for the times and place of the races on Saturday and Sunday.

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Just in!

Steroid scandal injected into frog jumping contest Illegal steroid usage has been detected in three of the frogs scheduled to jump at the Whiskey Flat Frog Jumping Contest this year. Contest officials were tipped off by a neighbor of an unnamed frog owner who said he saw frogs in the neighbor’s back yard jumping all the way over the house to a pond in the front yard. Contest officials were unsure of how to

handle the scandal, but it was generally agreed that all the frogs should be tested and all those that tested positive would be disqualified. “It may be a coincidence and it may not be, but I’m planning a special on frog legs the day after the contest,” said Cheryl Borthick of Cheryl’s Dinner House. “Actually, I’m hopin’ there’ll be a lot of disqualification goin’ on.”

Open 11:00am to 11:00pm

Valentine's festival February 9th-13th ❤ Helium Balloons Available Feb 9th-13th ❤ 20%off Ceramics Feb 12th - Paint by 5pm, pick up Feb 13th@3pm

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February 2016

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

Host of chracters -\ Lydon Olivares tries to talk Frank Liebert out of socializing with criminals and low-lifes while a masked desparado looks on in the goofy melodrama Westward Whoa! Come see it Friday or Saturday night at 7 p.m. at the Kernville Elementary School. Photo submitted

Whiskey Flat Melodrama

"Westward Whoa!" Sierra Performing Arts Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

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In the Whiskey Flat melodrama, Westward Whoa! our hero, Chuck Wagon, comes to the aid of our sweet heroine, Candy Cane, and the villainous Smiling Slade tries to foil their plans. When the wagon train breaks down outside of town, it gets robbed by the mysterious outlaw known as 'The Snake.' Through a crazy twist, poor Chuck is accused of being the culprit! Proving his

innocence may not be easy, but it sure is hilarious! This show is filled with fun roles and a spry music score. A host of other characters add extra spice to this wild romp. Ride this one into the sunset! See a fast-paced comedy that is filled with a stable of goofy characters Friday and Saturday nights February 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. each night at the Kernville Elementary School. The Sierra Performing Arts production is directed by Kathleen Creighton. Admission is $10 with 12 and under are free.

A bang up job: A tough old cowboy told his grandson that if he wanted to live a long life, the secret was to sprinkle a pinch of gunpowder on his oatmeal every morning. The grandson did this religiously to the age of 103. When he died, he left 14 children, 30 grandchildren, 25 great-grand-children and a 15-foot crater where the crematorium used to be.

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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2016

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Mayors continued from pg. A1 going as they still haven't fixed the water meters on his high rise homestead back in old Mexico. His hybrid wagon blew a wheel and he was stuck on some dusty old road where he found two drunken fools who called themselves the Keeper Brothers. He agreed to exchange moonshine for repairs with them so they can fix the wheel which they did. He also asked them to help with his journey through the canyon and they agreed to show me the promised land of miners and outlaws that were seeking my services. He finally made it to Whiskey Flats and met two young ladies named Better Times Barb and Shameless Merry who showed him around the encampments of thirsty souls. But now a local musician named Dead Eye Dave and his accomplice Mountain Mouth Kate and a wolverine looking dog named Fydo stand in his way of making money and jeopardizing his shipment of moonshine and Russian brides. The City Slicker vows to find a sleazy way to prevail the City Slicker way and get them golden nugget bribes to help him and his band of warriors from Kern River Conservancy beautify this mighty wild and scenic Kern River. Dead-Eye Dave is well known to our community as the lead singer/guitarist of the band Riverwind and befor he semi retired, and began a-playin the guitar for his supper, he was known far and wide as Double-Down Davy, a gambler of some success. Those who have travelled some may have visited one of the virtually countless number of gambling boats, gin mills, and saloons he founded during that time, in towns and timeforgot collections of hovels. Anyhow, that was all before his accident. The gambling accident which ruined his credibility as a gambler, for what man has the fortitude to throw money before a Blind Man a-holding cards? "Twas a random thrown poker chip which took out my right eye, and an Ace of Hearts in the hand of a past paramour which destroyed my remaining orb," the now

monikered Dead-Eye Dave proclaims. Dead-Eye's gambling prowess will serve our mountain village right. Dead-Eye can bluff a buffalo and has no fear of playing at the big stakes table. Endorsed by the notorious Law Dawgs, Mayor-to-Be Dead-Eye promises Law and Order for everyone who votes for him. Everyone who doesn't, you shall be on your own. Dave promised your women and children will be safe and the dogs…well the puppies will not be sad. Running alongside her man is The Mountain Mouth, also known as Big-Nose Kate. This fiery gal, although sporting more enemies than is seemly, has her supporters. Kate and her cohort from across the lake, Whip Crackin' Wendy, have been a-savin' puppies and dogs around these parts fer years. The Mountain Mouth's origins are bizarre to say the least. Raised by dogs, the orphan Kate never spoke a word until she was well on in years, instead, utilizin' barking, growling and the such, to communicate. But once "tamed", by the nuns at a remote convent, she began a career of writing and crusading for Right over Wrong. Any bribe money left over from partyin' and raisin' heck will be used to benefit FYDO the Fix Your Dog Org. You can inspect it at fixyourdogorg.com. 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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February 2016

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Kernville's Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo John E. McNally Arena Kernville Saturday & Sunday February 13th & 14th 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.

Thrills & spills -\ Bull rider, right, risks it all to wow the crowd. Participants ride in for opening ceremonies, left, with pomp and circumstance. Michael Batelaan Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

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

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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 Bustinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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.

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Dog-fall

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.

February 2016

Piggin' String

Small soft rope, six feet long used by calf ropers to tie the animal's feet.

Pulling leather

Draw

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.

Entry fee

Rake

Stock selection.

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

(Legal) Catch: In team roping, the header must catch the steer around the horns, head or neck.

Flagman

Rodeo Official who signals the end of elapsed time in the timed events.

Spurring action of the rider on rough-stock. Bareback and saddle bronc riders are required to continue spurring throughout the rides; bull riders are not, but sometimes score higher when they do so.

Re-ride

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.

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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.

Rowel

Circular, notched, bluntly pointed and freewheeling portion of a spur. They do not cut a bronc or bull.

Score

Turn Out

To withdraw from a competition.

Flank Strap

Terminolgy Cont.

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.

Bareback Rigging

A leather fixture with a suitcase-like handle that the rider grips with one hand.

Free Hand

Barrier

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.

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.

One

Go-round

That part of a rodeo event in which every contestant has competed on one head of stock .

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.

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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.

Cantle

good turn deserves another...

A horse that leaps high into the air when bucking.

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."

Hondo

The eye in one end of a lariat through which the opposite end is passed to form a sliding loop.

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.

Hooey

The half-hitch knot a calf roper uses to tie three of the calf's legs.

Lap and Tap

Contact Rule

An even start where the cattle in timed events do not get an advantage of 10 to 30 feet; used in small arenas.

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.

No Time (NT)

Failure to qualify on timed event cattle, signaled by field flagman waving his flag side to side.

Dally

A turn of the rope around the saddle horn. Team ropers dally their ropes after a catch to secure the steer.

Pickup Man

Mounted arena official who assists bareback and saddle bronc riders in dismounting from their horses.

Dink

A bucking horse with a reputation as a poor bucker.

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February 2016

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