Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park (SHP) and the State Indian Museum are teaming up to present a special “Hands on History: They Came From All Over the World - Before the Gold Rush” event on Saturday, July 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Many people don’t realize that even before gold was discovered in 1848 (which prompted the Gold Rush in 1849), the community of Sutter’s Fort and the visitors to New Helvetia were already an incredibly diverse mixture of people and cultures.  Not surprisingly, many languages were spoken, many different religions were practiced, and attitudes towards dress, cooking and behavior varied greatly. 

As part of the special “Hands on History” event happening on the same day at the two historic parks, Fort visitors will have the opportunity to sample different foods and beverages enjoyed by the various early peoples and participate in activities and fun games practiced by the many cultures. Visitors will  especially enjoy watching the Folklorico Aztlan de Sacramento dance group perform as well as see different weapons demonstrations.  In addition, Fort visitors can participate in a variety of hands-on crafts such as stringing beads and doll making.  Then, at the adjacent State Indian Museum, visitors will have the opportunity to listen to compelling guest speakers who will share stories and talk about the Native Culture of some of California’s Indians, and watch demonstrations of soapstone carving, basket-making and acorn preparation.

For more information about this special “Hands on History” event, please call 916-445-4422 or 916-324-0971 or visit www.suttersfort.org or www.parks.ca.gov/indianmuseum.