LUCERNE, Calif. – Thanks to the contributions of many, the April 29 meeting of the Lake County Historical Society at the Lucerne Castle was an extraordinary success.

To an overflow crowd, Eric Seely gave a presentation about the renovation and future of the hotel, and exhibited a large color poster depicting the detailed history of the building.   

The subsequent tour finished with most attendees staying to wander around on their own for up to another hour.  

The weather was great, the views spectacular, and there were abundant desserts and snacks.  Membership reported many new Historical Society enrollments and membership renewals.  Also, several books were sold and $178 was raised to add to our college scholarship fund.

The group owes a special debt of gratitude to Eric Seely, deputy county administrative officer for special projects.

Seely supervised the Kelseyville High School prom the night before the meeting until 1 a.m., then came back the next morning to aid in cleaning and setting up the hall for the historical society meeting before his outstanding presentation.

Those attending found improvements and restoration of the castle by the county to be remarkable, a unique and spectacular asset to our county.  

For that, in addition to Seely, the group also said it owed appreciation to the Board of Supervisors for their vision and ongoing support; County Administrative Officer  Kelly Cox and Carolyn Chavez, Public Services director who also oversees the county's building, grounds and parks department.

Also thank you to all the volunteers who helped make the event successful: Nick Voegtly and Vonn Fuqua on membership/signups, Bonnie and Shelly Skee with the snacks and drinks, Kevin Engle on camera, Floraine Chalk on raffle and Jackie Ridgel on publicity.  

To those who attended and to all who brought cookies and cakes to share, and to everyone who helped with the event to make it an incredible day, the club offered its appreciation.

Congratulations to Jean Beeson who won the Volunteer of the Year Award for all of her dedicated service to the LCHS.

The group's next general meeting is scheduled for June 24, the annual picnic. Members' fingers are crossed that we can have it in the orchard just below the peak of Konocti but if Carolyn Chavez, Tom Nixon and the group can’t figure how to safely lift all of the members people and all that equipment 4,000 feet in the air this year, they’ll save it for next year and have their picnic this year at the Ely Stage Stop and Country Museum. Both prospects are exciting.

Lake County has an incredible history. If you wish to join the group, call Nick Voegtly at 707-349-7233. Annual membership dues are $15 a person or $20 a household per year. That entitles you to three Pomo Bulletins, five informative general meetings and lots of camaraderie and fun.