Other Information
Ripples
Along
Chico
Creek:
Perspectives
on
People
and
Times
by
members
of
Butte
County
Branch,
National
League
of
American
Pen
Women
Material
reflecting
each
pen
woman's
interest
with
emphasis
on
Butte
County,
California,
history
and
its
people.
From the publisher
Three years in the writing, this book of collected essays provides the definitive work on various aspects of John Bidwell's life. It describes Bidwell's early years before becoming a rancher and orchardist in detail. Emphasizing his agricultural achievements, fifty years of Bidwell's life on the rancho are richly documented.
The opinion Bidwell held of Native Americans, Chinese and other ethnic groups -- and how they were handled as a work force -- is examined. Additionally, the sometimes stormy relationship between Bidwell and the people of Chico is described forcefully.
Annie Bidwell is given a chapter of her own, as are the several Bidwell relatives who came to Chico at John's invitation but failed to emulate his success.
James P. Morehead, a Butte County pioneer and agriculturist whose renown in political circles did not match Bidwell's, but whose business acumen and local reputation did match or outdo Chico's founder, is the subject of a chapter.
Poems reflect the pioneer period as does the artwork created by pen women. A word portrait of Chico in the 1930s is certain to create nostalgia for those people who attended school here.
One unique chapter is a presentation of Maidu Indian culture, adapted for use with elementary school children.
And the Sacramento River, highway to the great valley, rates a chapter of its own.
