California Frontier - A History Podcast: Recent Episodes
Damian Bacich, Ph.D.
Explore the rich legacy of early California history and culture. In each episode, college professor and researcher Damian Bacich sheds light on the world of the California frontier -- from ancient times to the recent past. Along the way we'll explode some myths and discover little-known facts about the Golden State.
It is summer and time for a short update on the show.
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The Bear Flag Revolt is one of the central episodes in the events leading to the U.S. annexation of California. In June of 1846, a group of Americans took over the Mexican Pueblo of Sonoma and declared a new “California Republic.” This is the story of their uprising.
**Episode transcript: https://www.californiafrontier.net/bear-flag-revolt/
Recommended Reading:**
- Book: Neal Harlow, California Conquered: The Annexation of a Mexican Province, 1846-1850
- Book: Alan Rosenus, General Vallejo and the Advent of the Americans
- Book: Kevin Starr, California: A History (Modern Library Chronicles)
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damian@californiafrontier.net
Support the Show.
Give a one-time donation
Learn more about the California Frontier Project:
- Website
- YouTube
Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
In part 2 of this interview, we delve further into the hidden astronomical alignments of many California mission churches. The orientations allowed sunlight to illuminate altars, tabernacles, and statues of saints on specific liturgical dates like the solstices, equinoxes, and religious feasts.
Dr. Rubén G. Mendoza explains the advanced knowledge of astronomy, calendars, and celestial mechanics that the Franciscan missionaries brought and applied in the architectural design of the missions.
Rubén describes how the illuminations shift yearly due to the lunar cycle and explains why this knowledge was, at times, lost. His quest to rediscover these hidden spectacles took him to Vatican astronomy archives, containing meticulous calculations from centuries ago.
He talks about how his interpretations have faced backlash, and how new examples keep emerging. He continues to write about the missions' complex legacies and offer counterpoints to narratives about figures like Junípero Serra.
Learn More
- Website: Solstice Chronicles
Books by Rubén G. Mendoza
- The California Missions
- The California Missions Sourcebook
- The Spanish Style House: From Enchanted Andalusia to California Dream
- Casa Santa Fe: Design, Style, Arts and Tradition
- North American Ritual Warfare and Indigenous Violence
- Latin American Indigenous Warfare and Ritual Violence
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damian@californiafrontier.net
In Part 1 of this interview, I talk with trailblazing archaeologist Dr. Rubén Mendoza.
Recounting his unexpected path from a curious young boy to a renowned scholar, Mendoza shares his pioneering work decoding the California missions' architectural secrets.
His discoveries point to an incredible cosmic architecture. The missions were constructed with startling precision to capture rays of sunlight during solstices, equinoxes, and sacred feast days.
This strategic solar geometry suggests a profound intermingling of European and indigenous astronomy.
Mendoza builds a compelling case that the missions embody a masterful hybrid tradition melding European and Native American influences into an architectural marvel.
Learn More
- Website: Solstice Chronicles
Books by Rubén G. Mendoza
- The California Missions
- The California Missions Sourcebook
- The Spanish Style House: From Enchanted Andalusia to California Dream
- Casa Santa Fe: Design, Style, Arts and Tradition
- North American Ritual Warfare and Indigenous Violence
- Latin American Indigenous Warfare and Ritual Violence
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Give a one-time donation
Learn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
Towering over people at 6'7", the imposing figure of Chief Francisco Solano loomed large in early 19th-century California.
Born a Suisun native named Sina, he received the name Francisco Solano at his Mission Dolores baptism in 1810. Solano rose to become a formidable military leader, commanding thousands of indigenous warriors for the Mexican authorities.
His skill in battle and diplomacy was invaluable to General Mariano Vallejo in establishing control over Native groups in Northern California. Solano straddled two worlds - respected by Indians and Californios for both his might and intelligence. Eyewitness accounts paint him as an awe-inspiring warrior.
After Mexican rule ended, Solano faded into legend, with conflicting reports of his final years and resting place. His legacy endures through place names, a towering statue, and the persistent mystique surrounding this titan who bestrode the eras of Spanish, Mexican and American California.
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damian@californiafrontier.net
This episode is dedicated the remarkable life of Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a central figure in the pivotal era of California's origins.
Born into a military family in 1808 Monterey, Vallejo's thirst for knowledge and quick wit allowed him to receive a prestigious education from the governor himself. Vallejo rapidly ascended the military ranks, becoming the powerful commander who established a pueblo and presidio in Sonoma - the northernmost reaches of the territory. Vallejo's exploits included an unlikely friendship with a Native American chieftain that shaped the history of Mexican California.
When the Bear Flag Revolt sought to overthrow Mexican rule, the charismatic Vallejo charmed the insurgents over a meal before being imprisoned.
In the new State of California, Vallejo fought tirelessly to preserve the voices and stories of his fellow Californios. He collaborated extensively with esteemed historian H.H. Bancroft, opening doors to gather oral histories. Vallejo's own remarkable memoirs shed light on this captivating era.
Listen now to dive into the extraordinary life of this trailblazer who left an indelible mark on California history.
To learn more:
- Recuerdos: Historical and Personal Remembrances Relating to Alta California, 1769–1849
- Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo: Life in Spanish, Mexican, and American California
- General Vallejo and the Advent of the Americans
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damian@californiafrontier.net
Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo is best known for being the first European to successfully navigate the Pacific coast of what is today California to points north of the San Francisco Bay.
During the voyage, he and his men disembarked at several points and made direct contact with the Native American inhabitants of the coast and Channel Islands.
His and his men's account of their voyage was also the first written description of the West Coast of North America and its peoples.
Episode web page: https://www.californiafrontier.net/juan-rodriguez-cabrillo/
Mentioned in this episode:
Discovering Cabrillo by Harry Kelsey
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damian@californiafrontier.net
In this episode, I give my take on the California Missions Foundation conference that took place on April 12-14. It was the first in-person conference since 2020, making it an important occasion to reconnect with California history in a special way.
The California Missions Foundation does a huge amount to preserve the physical reminders of California's early past, particularly the missions, ranchos, and presidios. It also supports scholarship into California's native, mission, and rancho history. Each year, the conference is hosted by one of California's 21 missions. This year's conference events took place at two missions: La Purísima in Lompoc for the paper presentations and Mission Santa Inés for the banquet and social gatherings.
In addition to the conference and banquet, private tours were offered of nearby historical sites, such as the mission mills and the mission laundry area at Santa Inés. These tours are often led by experts, like the archaeologists who excavated these sites, providing a behind-the-scenes look into places that regular visitors might not be able to access.
For those interested in early California history, the conference presentations are fascinating. They delve into little-known but intriguing aspects of California's missions, ranchos, presidios, and native peoples. If you want to stay up-to-date on next year's event, make sure and subscribe to the podcast or join our email list at www.californiafrontier.net.
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Give a one-time donation
Learn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Jason Sexton, we delve into Kevin's attempt to understand the "California experience." Kevin Starr tried to chronicle California's history in a nuanced yet idealistic way, which connected him to earlier California historians such as Josiah Royce.
According to Jason, Starr was an open-minded, generous figure who sought to bring people together through his writings that celebrate ordinary Californians. His Catholic faith shaped this vision of California, and his honesty and empathy helped him grapple with darker aspects of the state's history, like the treatment of Native Americans. Along the way, Jason introduces us to Starr's major works, like Endangered Dreams and Embattled Dreams. These books show Starr's literary mastery in capturing California's depth and complexity—the awesome but conflicting stories that make California unique.
Learn more:
- Jason Sexton, Ph.D.
- Jason’s book Redemptive Dreams: Engaging Kevin Starr’s California
- Kevin Starr’s Books on Amazon.com
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damian@californiafrontier.net
This is the first part of a lively conversation with Dr. Jason Sexton, editor of a book on the renowned California historian Kevin Starr (1940-2017).
Sexton describes Starr as California’s most ambitious interpreter. Starr’s 8-volume history, spanning the state’s origins to the 2000s, is the most complete work on California in print.
Kevin Starr grew up in an orphanage and San Francisco’s housing projects. As a young man, he studied at the University of San Francisco before serving in the U.S. Army in Europe. He later went on to earn a doctorate at Harvard University and became a prolific newspaper columnist before dedicating himself to interpreting California history. Through his unique life experience, Starr developed an expansive perspective that embraced the character of both Northern and Southern California.
Jason Sexton, who grew up in the Central Valley town of Tracy, became fascinated by Starr’s vision after reading his works. As a theologian and sociologist, Sexton saw religious dimensions in Starr’s works that he believed needed to be explored. This motivated him to edit a volume that would examine, appreciate and even critique Starr’s approach to the state’s history.
The interview also covers Jason’s unconventional path to academia in the UK before returning to California and how he sees Starr as embodying the “redemptive dreams” of people making history in the fragmented Golden State.
Learn more:
- Jason Sexton, Ph.D.
- Jason’s book Redemptive Dreams: Engaging Kevin Starr’s California
- Kevin Starr’s Books on Amazon.com
Support the Show.
Give a one-time donation
Learn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
Imagine California today without any remnants of its Spanish and Mexican past. That almost happened until a group of determined women took action to preserve the state's Hispanic heritage. At the turn of the 20th century, the historic El Camino Real
The California missions ended after Mexico became independent of Spain. The newly independent Mexican government eventually passed laws that called for an end to the mission system through secularization.The laws mandated the missions to be turned over
The episode chronicles the story of Fr. José Altimira, a Spanish Franciscan missionary in early 19th century California. Altimira pushed to establish a new mission north of San Francisco Bay, clashing with his Franciscan superiors; he explored the Sonoma Valley and established a new mission in 1823 with support from Mexican civil authorities. Though the mission was allowed to continue, Altimira's time there was filled with tension. As the last mission founded under Mexican rule, San Francisco Solano marked the northernmost reach of the California mission chain.
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damian@californiafrontier.net
In this episode, we look at the history of Native American Vaqueros.
Vaqueros were skilled horsemen who managed cattle and horses. Their tradition probably originates in the horse culture that arrived in Spain from North Africa in the 8th century AD and is widespread in Latin America.
The mission era brought ranching life to Alta California and created the unique figure of the California vaquero. Franciscan friars had some of the most trusted Native Americans at the missions trained as vaqueros, who excelled at horsemanship. Eventually, Indian vaqueros were a key part of rancho life on the California frontier.
Full text of the podcast
Learn more about Native American Vaqueros:
- Book: Rose Marie Beebe and Robert Senkewicz. Testimonios: Early California through the Eyes of Women, 1815–1848.
- Book: Russell Freedman. In the Days of the Vaqueros: America’s First True Cowboys.
- Book: Jo Mora. Californios: The Saga of the Hard-riding Vaqueros, America’s First Cowboys.
- Book: George Harwood Phillips: Vineyards and Vaqueros: Indian Labor and the Economic Expansion of Southern California, 1771–1877.
- Book: Arnold Rojas. These Were The Vaqueros: Collected Works of Arnold R. Rojas
- Book: Stephen W. Silliman: Lost Laborers in Colonial California: Native Americans and the Archaeology of Rancho Petaluma.
- Book chapter: Lee Panich: “Indigenous Vaqueros in Colonial California” in Foreign Objects: Rethinking Indigenous Consumption in American Archaeology.
- Article: Paul Albert Lacson. “Born of Horses:’ Missionaries, Indigenous Vaqueros, and Ecological Expansion during the Spanish Colonization of California.”
Support the showGive a one-time donation
Learn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
In this episode, we look at Native American life at Mission San Miguel Arcángel through the eyes of the padres who oversaw the mission.
Mission San Miguel is located in central California, almost equally distant from San Francisco to the north and Los Angeles to the south.
In 1813, the Spanish Government sent a questionnaire to the priests of the California Missions to learn about the life of the native people at each of the missions.
Each mission provided answers with more or less detail depending on the temperament and experience of the missionaries.
The padres recorded their observations of the life of the native people at the mission and often wrote down what they understood about indigenous customs outside the mission boundaries.
Their answers provide valuable glimpses into the lives of the native community at each mission over 200 years ago.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
In this episode, we delve into the lives of three remarkable women from early San Diego whose stories offer profound insights into the tumultuous times of California's frontier era. Drawing from the rich narratives preserved in Testimonios: Early California Through the Eyes of Women, 1815-1848 by Rose Marie Beebe and Robert Senkewicz, we explore the diverse paths of Josefa Carrillo de Fitch, Juana Machado de Wrightington, and Apolinaria Lorenzana.
Josefa Carrillo de Fitch, daughter of a soldier and a descendant of early California settlers, embarked on a journey of love and resilience, eloping with an American sea captain amidst familial tensions and navigating the challenges of land disputes in the aftermath of her husband's passing.
Juana Machado de Wrightington, born into a military family, experienced the transformations of California through the Mexican-American War and the U.S. annexation, offering poignant reflections on loss, survival, and the enduring presence of tradition amidst change.
Apolinaria Lorenzana, a beloved figure in San Diego society, emerged from humble beginnings as an orphan to become a pillar of her community, advocating for education and serving as a beacon of compassion amidst the violence and upheaval of the era.
Through their testimonies, we uncover the individual trials and triumphs of these women and the collective resilience and strength of those who shaped the early fabric of California. Join us as we listen to the voices often forgotten yet integral to understanding the complex tapestry of California's history.
Learn More:
Testimonios: Early California Through the Eyes of Women, 1815-1848
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
This episode features an intriguing conversation with Jorge Del Castillo as he shares his experiences following the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. This historic trail was a route used by Spanish settlers in the 18th century to reach Northern California from New Spain (Mexico).
Jorge describes his journey, detailing various memorable sites, and shares his love for the history of California, the West, and Mexico. He also offers practical travel advice for anyone interested in following the trail, emphasizing the richness the trip adds to one’s understanding of history and culture. Additionally, Jorge shares his perspective on the Spanish influence on culture and historical sites in the Southwest.
A brief addendum from Jorge:
“Anza did find the trail and traveled back and forth on it at least twice. It was supposed to provide an alternative land route to the ocean route by boats, but it did not remain open. Initially, the Anza party, including a Native American translator and priests, established very friendly relations with the Yumans near the Yuma crossing of the Colorado River. He felt confident that he could leave a small contingent of Spanish colonists, including soldiers and priests, in two communities, one on each side of the river; however, those relations soured over a period from 1779 to 1781. The Spaniards demanded that the Native Americans provide food and other things for their subsistence in the desert along the river. They pushed too hard and deprived the natives of the necessary things for their own survival. This led to an eventual Yuman revolt and massacre or enslavement of all of the colonists.
Though the war against the Yumans continued throughout 1782, the principal leaders of the revolt were never apprehended, and the Yumans once again controlled their own lands. The Colorado River mission project had ended in failure. The Yuman revolt closed Spain’s overland route to Alta California, leaving the province dependent on resupply by sea for about the next 50 years. Anza had gone on to become the Governor of New Mexico, where he eventually subdued the Comanche tribe.”
References:
- Font, Pedro, trans and ed by Alan K. Brown, 2011, With Anza to California 1775-1776, The Journal of Pedro Font, O,F.M. Norman Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma Press, 464pp
- Bernal-Mendoza Smestad, Greg, PhD, 2005, “A Guide to the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail”, Antepasados, a publication of Los Californianos, Vol XI
- Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, United States National Park System website.
To learn more:
- The Story of Juan Bautista de Anza
- The Anza Expedition
- Interview with Descendant Greg Bernal Smestad
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
This is a special episode from the California Frontier Show archives.
In this episode, I speak with Greg Bernal-Mendoza Smestad, a direct descendant of the families who settled Alta California over 200 years ago. Greg talks to us about their journey, the character of those who risked their lives to come north, and the legacy they passed on.
When Spanish explorers came to Alta California in 1769, they soon understood that they would never be able to defend the province from the English and Russians if they did not found a colony populated by families.
In 1775, Felipe de Neve, the governor of California, together with Juan Bautista de Anza, an intrepid army officer from Tubac, in Sonora, recruited a group of about 200 people to journey north on foot and establish towns in Alta California. Neve knew that without families to raise crops and establish towns, creating a stable Spanish presence in the territory would be hard.
Anza led these families of mixed European, Native American, and African ancestry from what is today southern Arizona. They traveled for almost 1,000 miles on foot, horseback and mule, arriving at the Presidio of Monterey in March of 1776. Members of the expedition later branched off to found the Presidio of San Francisco and the Pueblo (now City) of San José.
Over time, a new, hybrid culture grew: the culture of the Californios.
In my conversation with Greg, he explained the significance of the Anza expedition, told some wonderful stories about his ancestors and their dramatic journey, and gave insight into what it means to be a Californio.
Greg talks about his grandmother’s insistence that he carry on the family legacy. Later, he tells us about the network of Californio descendants who are keeping their heritage alive and sharing it with others.
In his drive to share his ancestors’ story, Greg has worked with the National Park Service to help found the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. He has created original materials in both English and Spanish to help visitors understand the significance of this national treasure. He was instrumental in starting Founders Day or Happy Birthday San José, which celebrates the birth of California’s third largest city.
Links for this episode:
- Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
- Los Californianos
- The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area
- Mount Umunhum
- Chitactac-Adams Heritage County Park
- My story about Happy Birthday San José:
- My article about Greg
- Alan K. Brown’s book on the Anza Expedition of 1775-76.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
Although little known today, the name of William Alexander Leidesdorff is enshrined on streets in San Francisco and a town along the American River. He was also one of California’s pioneers of African descent and instrumental in bringing about the American annexation of California.
Further Reading:
William Alexander Leidesdorff – First Black Millionaire, American Consul and California Pioneerby Gary Palgon.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
This is a special episode from the California Frontier Show archives.
A growing number of people of all ages are taking up the challenge of walking the entire California mission trail. For many, it is an adventure, a spiritual pilgrimage, a scenic tour, a way to get to know themselves, or all of the above.
So today, I'm going into the archives and presenting the first podcast episode I ever did for California Frontier. It's an interview with author Maggie Espinosa, who walked the whole trail herself and wrote a very engaging book about it called On a Mission.
Maggie Espinosa is a journalist, travel writer, and blogger who decided to set off on a quest to visit all 21 of California missions. She overcame challenges, made friends, and learned about herself along the way. The story of her journey is detailed in the book On a Mission: An 800-mile Walk to Discover California’s El Camino Real. On a Mission is a wonderful, personal account of her life on the mission trail. When I read it, I knew I had to interview Maggie somehow and hear her story.
Maggie’s website: https://travelwithmaggie.com/
Maggie’s book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3qAUwSI
The California Mission Walkers Facebook page: www.facebook.com/groups/californiamissionwalkers
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net
Juan Bautista de Anza was a military officer, governor, explorer and diplomat. His life had an enormous impact on the history of California, Arizona, Texas, New Mexico, and Northern Mexico.
To learn more:
- Book: Carlos R. Herrera. Juan Bautista de Anza: The King’s Governor in New Mexico.
- Book: Vladimir Guerrero. The Anza Trail and the Settling of California.
- Anza Trail Guide: This guide to the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail was developed by Anza party descendant Greg Bernal-Mendoza Smestad. I interviewed Greg on the California Frontier Podcast.
- The Anza Society has an extensive list of books about Anza.
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In this episode of the California Frontier Podcast, Damian interviews Trudi Angell, producer of the documentary film La Récua (The Mule Pack Train).
La Récua follows the story of Darío Higuera, a 70-year-old Baja California ranchero, who dreams of recreating an early-20th-century mule train transporting traditional goods from Comondú to La Paz in southern Baja California.
Accompanied by his son, 8-year-old grandson, and friends, Darïo plans to travel 200 miles on mule-back through the daunting Baja outback, retracing historical routes and discovering never-before-filmed sections of El Camino Real.
Along the way, the travelers face dangers, encounter old and new friends, and exchange memories, providing viewers with insights into the traditional lifestyle of Baja California’s backcountry ranchers.
The documentary uses breathtaking cinematography and captivating storytelling to take the viewer on a legendary journey into Californio vaquero history.
The official website of La Récua: https://larecua.com/
The California Frontier Project: https://www.californiafrontier.net
California History Teachers: https://www.californiahistoryteachers.com
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In part two of this interview with author Eric Plunkett, we get into some real stories of people who lived through some of the enormous changes of the early years. Eric emphasizes the importance of translating and making primary sources from Spanish colonial California available, as they provide deeper and more authentic insights into the […]
The post Stories of Early Orange County: Eric Plunkett, Part 2 first appeared on Early California Resource Center.
The post Stories of Early Orange County: Eric Plunkett, Part 2 appeared first on Early California Resource Center.
Support the showGive a one-time donation
Learn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
Eric Plunkett is an amazing historian whose enthusiasm for discovering the riches of California’s past is contagious. In this episode, Damian Bacich hosts a deep-dive discussion with Eric on the history of early California, especially Orange County. They touch on indigenous languages, the California grizzly bear, and their mutual interest in archival research. Eric shares […]
The post Uncovering Orange County’s Hidden History with Eric Plunkett (Pt. 1) first appeared on Early California Resource Center.
The post Uncovering Orange County’s Hidden History with Eric Plunkett (Pt. 1) appeared first on Early California Resource Center.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
In the third part of my conversation with Marie Christine Duggan, we discuss the life and experiences of Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Cuadra, a naval officer in the Spanish colonial era. Bodega faced financial struggles throughout his life, as his primary motivation was to prove himself rather than amass wealth. He eventually became […]
The post California, Mexico and the Far East: Part 3 first appeared on Early California Resource Center.
The post California, Mexico and the Far East: Part 3 appeared first on Early California Resource Center.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
The interview uncovers complexities in Pacific trade routes, challenging conventional narratives about the Spanish Empire’s trade. It focuses on San Blas, a naval base in New Spain, which caused discontent among Mexico City merchants. Dr. Duggan explains how the Spanish Crown aimed to weaken the Mexico City merchants by granting San Blas more autonomy, turning […]
The post California, Mexico and the Far East: Part 2 first appeared on Early California Resource Center.
The post California, Mexico and the Far East: Part 2 appeared first on Early California Resource Center.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
Dr. Marie Christine Duggan is a Professor of Business Management at Keene State University, which gives her a unique approach to the history of New Spain, and especially the Pacific coast. In Part 1, we talk how trade between Mexico and the Philippines impacted California’s early history.
The post California, Mexico and the Far East: Pt. 1 first appeared on Early California Resource Center.
The post California, Mexico and the Far East: Pt. 1 appeared first on Early California Resource Center.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
In this episode, I finish my conversation with Dr. Jarrell Jackman. He gives us some insight into his personal journey, the obstacles that had to be overcome and the future of Santa Barbara’s presidio.
The post 300,000 Bricks, pt. 2 first appeared on Early California Resource Center.
The post 300,000 Bricks, pt. 2 appeared first on Early California Resource Center.
Support the showLearn more about the California Frontier Project:
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damian@californiafrontier.net
Soldiers and presidios played a key role in establishing the Spanish presence in California, but they are still misunderstood. Jarrell Jackman has been at the forefront of preserving and documenting this crucial element of the California frontier. Jarrell C. Jackman Dr. Jarrell C. Jackman was Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation for […]
The post Rebuilding a Presidio: Interview with Jarrell Jackman appeared first on The California Frontier Project.
The novel Ramona by Helen Hunt Jackson sparked an interest in California’s Mission Era that attracted visitors from all over the country. But Jackson’s novel was much more than nostalgia for a bygone era — it was a cry for human rights. The story of the author, her work and how Cuba’s most famous exile […]
The post Ramona, the Novel that Changed California: Interview with Jonathan Alcántar appeared first on The California Frontier Project.
This is a special episode of the California Frontier podcast. The shoe is on the other foot this time, and I am the one being interviewed. My host is Jordan Mattox, a California junior high school teacher who his passionate about California history. He has an excellent podcast, appropriately titled “History of California.” In this session we talk about the Mexican War for Independence, the legacy of Spain in California, colonial policy, and learning languages.
I hope you are going to enjoy this conversation . Afterward, head over to History of California Podcast on Soundcloud (https://soundcloud.com/jordanmattox-99235683) and subscribe.
Once again, I want to thank Jordan for giving me this opportunity. I really enjoyed talking with him!
Episode Highlights:
- How did the California Frontier Project get its start? How were the two monarchies that ruled Spain different? The transition between Spanish control and the war for Latin American independence. How a French family came to rule Spain. The Enlightenment and how it influenced Spanish rule in Latin American. How Napoleon influenced the movements for Latin American independence. Why is it important to know about Spanish and Mexican California.* Why everyone should learn Spanish and how to start.
Learn more:
Origins of Mexican Independence (Part 1)
Origins of Mexican Independence: Part 2 of a Series
Origins of Mexican Independence Part 3: Breaking Away
The Mexican-American War
The story of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island was made famous by Scott O’Dell’s novel The Island of the Blue Dolphins. In this episode of the podcast, we learn more about her real life with archeologist Elisabeth Rareshide, along with a new exhibit at the Mission Santa Barbara museum. Elisabeth Rareshide Elisabeth Rareshide […]
The post The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island: Interview with Elisabeth Rareshide appeared first on The California Frontier Project.
The California frontier is full of reports of the marvelous or miraculous events that defy scientific explanation. Historian Skyler Reidy has been investigating curious stories of the mission era, and he helps us make sense of them.
Skyler Reidy
Skyler Reidy is a PhD candidate in the history department at the University of Southern California. His dissertation analyzes material religion in nineteenth-century California, and argues that settler colonialism drove secularization in the state. Skyler has also published work on the origins of Pentecostalism, and has spoken to academic and public audiences about the history of the California missions.
Skyler was born and raised in Encinitas, California, and now lives in Los Angeles with his wife and daughters.
Episode Highlights
- What does it look like when a society isn’t modern? Fr. Juan Crespí, Gaspar de Portolá and the land expedition to Monterey The levitating cross and the beginnings of California. How does a cross have a social life? How do rituals to maintain relationships and define communities? The miracle of Mission San Antonio de Padua. Who had power in the mission?* What is syncretism?
To Learn More
- Skyler Reidy at the University of Southern California Read more about the early exploration and settlement of California Book: Diary of Gaspar de Portolá During the California Expedition of 1769-1770* Book: Children of the Coyote, Missionaries of St. Francis: Indian-Spanish Relations in Colonial California 1769-1850
As the Spanish Empire become more consolidated, language and writing became more and more important — both for the Spanish government and for native peoples. In part 2 of this interview we learn how indigenous people in Colonial Spanish America preserved their knowledge in the face of restrictive government policies. Listen to Part 1 Highlights […]
The post Native Knowledge in Colonial Latin America: Interview with Ezekiel Stear (Part 2) appeared first on The California Frontier Project.
The story of the Spanish missions in California has its roots in 16th century Mexico. There, Franciscan friars and their native partners sought to record the memories of Aztec elders before their culture was changed forever. The information they collected is contained in the Florentine Codex.
In this second part of the interview we learn about what studying economic history can reveal about the past. In particular, we learn about California’s early connections to the Far East, and how competition over the fur trade created some unusual rivalries and alliances. Highlights of Part 2: Franciscan views of money and morality. The […]
The post “Follow the Money”: Interview with Marie Christine Duggan (Part 2) appeared first on The California Frontier Project.
The story of the Spanish missions in California isn’t always what it seems. By delving into Mexico’s National Archives, Dr. Marie Christine Duggan uncovered facts that provide a unique inside view of mission life. From murder trials to Indian militias, we talk about some of the lesser-known aspects of California mission history. Marie Christine Duggan […]
The post Missions and Misconceptions: Interview with Marie Christine Duggan (Part 1) appeared first on The California Frontier Project.
The story of land ownership in modern California begins with the Spanish and later Mexican land grants. These became the great ranchos of California.
European interest in California stretches back over 400 years. Spanish mariners began exploring the Pacific coast of North America in the early 16th century.
What do a warrior queen, north African pirates and the city of San Francisco have in common? They are all connected to the origin of the name “California.”
The California Frontier Podcast is back! Our first season was short — interviews with journalist and travel writer Maggie Espinosa about her pilgrimage to all 21 of the Spanish missions in California, and with Greg Bernal Smestad about his quest to preserve the Californio traditions pass on to him by his grandmother. Both were very well-received and many people have asked to hear more episodes of this podcast, and rightly so.
Season 2 of The California Frontier Podcast will be a mix of content about important topics and stories related to California’s early heritage, as well as interviews with interesting people who have something to contribute to our understanding of this rich heritage.
I’d love to get your feedback on the episodes, and your suggestions for interesting topics or people to interview. One of the reasons I started the California frontier project was because I believe that there are so many fascinating topics to delve into, and there are a whole group of interesting people with stories to share. Let us know what you think.
Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes every two weeks!
In this episode, I speak with Greg Bernal-Mendoza Smestad, a direct descendant of the families who settled Alta California over 200 years ago. Greg talks to us about their journey, the character of those people who risked their lives to come to come north, and the legacy they passed on.
When Spanish explorers came to Alta California in 1769, they soon understood that they would never be able to defend the province from the English and Russians if they did not found a colony populated by families. In 1775, Felipe de Neve, the governor of California, together with Juan Bautista de Anza, an intrepid army officer from Tubac, in Sonora, recruited a group of about 200 people to journey north on foot and establish towns in Alta California. Neve knew that without families to raise crops and establish towns, it would be hard to create a stable Spanish presence in the territory. Anza led these families, of mixed European, Native American and African ancestry, from what is today southern Arizona. They traveled for almost 1,000 miles on foot, horseback and mule, arriving at the Presidio of Monterey in March of 1776. Members of the expedition later branched off to found the Presidio of San Francisco and the Pueblo (now City) of San José. Over time, a new, hybrid culture grew: the culture of the Californios. In my conversation with Greg, he explains the significance of the Anza expedition, tells some wonderful stories about his ancestors and their dramatic journey, and gives insight into what it means to be a Californio. Greg talks about his grandmother’s insistence that he carry on the family legacy. Later he tells us about the network of Californio descendants who are keeping their heritage alive and in sharing it with others.
In his drive to share his ancestors’ story, Greg has worked with the National Park Service to help found the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. He has created original materials, in both English and Spanish, to help visitors understand the significance of this national treasure. He was instrumental in starting Founders Day or Happy Birthday San José, which celebrates the birth of the California’s third largest city.
Links for this episode:
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail: https://www.nps.gov/juba/index.htm Los Californianos: http://www.loscalifornianos.org The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area: http://www.muwekma.org. Mount Umunhum: https://www.openspace.org/mount-umunhum Chitactac-Adams Heritage County Park: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/pages/chitactac-adams.aspx My story about Ulistac Open Space Preserve: A Hidden Gem: Ulistac Natural Area (Video) My story about Happy Birthday San José: http://www.californiafrontier.net/happy-birthday-san-jose. Article from December about Greg:
A conversation with writer Maggie Espinosa, on her quest to visit all 21 California missions, from San Diego to Sonoma. A growing number of people of all ages are taking up the challenge of walking the entire California mission trail. For many, it is an adventure, a spiritual pilgrimage, a scenic tour, a way to get to know themselves, or all of the above. Maggie Espinosa is a journalist, travel writer and blogger, who decided to set off on a quest to visit all 21 of California missions. Along the way, she overcame challenges, made friends, and learned about herself. The story of her journey is detailed in the book, On a Mission: An 800-mile Walk to Discover California’s El Camino Real. On a Mission is a wonderful, personal account of her life on the mission trail. When I read it, I new that I had to somehow interview Maggie and hear her story. Maggie was happy to answer my questions about her journey. She’s a lively and engaging person, and I know you are going to enjoy our conversation. In it, I ask her about what prompted her to hit the trail, the challenges she met along the way, her favorite mission, and advice for people who would like to walk the Camino Real like she did. She provides a whole lot of great information, and talks about the California Mission Walkers, an organization that supports people like Maggie who want to take up the challenge of walking El Camino Real. I’ve met some of the group’s members, and they all have great stories from the trail. Links for this episode:
Maggie’s website: travelwithmaggie.com Maggie’s book on Amazon: On a Mission: An 800-mile Walk to Discover California’s El Camino Real Videos about Maggie’s mission journey:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvXAt29ZITM www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuOvSHY0_S4 www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLYGd4e1MkY
The California Mission Walkers Facebook page: www.facebook.com/groups/californiamissionwalkers * List of all 21 California missions
Introducing the California Frontier Podcast, dedicated to the people and stories of the California mission and rancho eras. For some months now I have been promising to launch a California Frontier Podcast. Well, as they say in Spanish, Lo prometido es deuda (“A promise is a debt”). I owe you a debt, and it is one I am happy to pay. […]