In the tradition of mountain men who gathered, or "rendezvoused", yearly to
trade goods, swap stories and make merry, Helendale will host the first annual Helendale
Rendezvous Saturday, Sept. 29.
Sponsored by the Helendale School District and the Mojave Historical society, the event
is like an "historical show and tell", according to elementary principal James
Brown.
"We don't want the history of the area to die", says Brown. "Helendale
played a part in the development of California-- it was a key link between Los Angeles and
other western states," including Arizona, Utah and New Mexico.
More than 10 speakers are scheduled to appear, each bringing artifacts and mementos of
the area. Displays will include antique radios, dated railroad spikes and firearms.
Presentations will run from 10 to 15 minutes, with topics ranging from development of the
National Trails Highway to the people and places once found here.
Helendale students will receive in-class presentations Sept. 28, with the following day
set aside for their parents and other area residents interested in Helendale history.
Among those speaking Sept. 29 are: Ellsworth Sylvestor, an oral historian and recipient
of highest recognition of the California Historical Society;
John Swisher, past president of the Mojave Historical Society, author, and long-time
desert resident;
Bill Bender, "Leanin' Tree" artist and author, member of
"Westerners" and long-time Helendale resident;
Bob Older, former county supervisor and long-time area resident, helped in development
of Silver Lakes;
Merle and Sarah Orebaugh, Helendale residents since the 1930s and local historians.
The gathering begins at 10 a.m. at Helendale Elementary School, 27274 Peach Tree Lane.
Following a lunch break, tours will be given of area historical sites. For more
information, call the elementary school at 952-1204.
