News and Events
"Bartell's Backroads" Segments with museum curator Greg Zirbel
In the August 29th episode of "Bartell's Backroads", John Bartell interviews Greg Zirbel at the museum and visits the Chinese Catfish Pond above Donner Ski Ranch. In the September 5th edition, John and Greg visit the Rocking Stone and the Old Jail.
Truckee History Articles
The Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party of 1844
The Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party of 1844 successfully journeyed to Sutter's Fort, California. This group was the first to bring wagons over Donner Summit intact, driven by the ideals of Manifest Destiny, religious freedom, and opportunity. Their success, in contrast to the later Donner Party tragedy, was attributed to their strong leadership, organization, and communication skills, which allowed them to overcome difficult terrain and weather without any loss of life. Their successful crossing established a vital route for future migrations to California.
Truckee’s Gems – The Museum of Truckee history, more
This article discusses the historical importance of Truckee, California, emphasizing the role of local museums in preserving the town's heritage. It highlights the Museum of Truckee History (MoTH), with its interactive displays covering the area's past, including the Native American history, the Transcontinental Railroad, logging, and the Chinese community's contributions. Other museums, such as Truckee's Old Jail Museum and the Truckee Railroad Museum, also play a crucial role in preserving the town's character. The article stresses the significance of these museums in attracting tourists, boosting the local economy, and maintaining Truckee's unique identity.
Dog Sledding and Skijoring: What you need to know
This article provides an overview of dog sledding and skijoring, two popular winter sports. It includes a brief history of dog sledding, the qualities that make a great sled dog, and tips for training sled dogs. The article also explains skijoring, a sport where a person on skis is pulled by a dog, horse, or motor vehicle. The Truckee Winter Carnival 2025 will feature demonstrations of these activities, though some events may be modified due to lack of snow. Despite this, the carnival promises to offer fun and engaging winter activities for the entire family.
Every train station needs a trainmaster: The Truckee Train Depot
This article provides a historical overview of the Truckee Train Depot, highlighting its significance as a key hub in the town. It discusses the role of trainmasters, who were responsible for managing train operations and communication before the advent of modern technology. The depot has been central to Truckee's character since the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, serving not only as a transportation hub but also as a social center. The Museum of Truckee History now features exhibits related to the trainmaster's office, showcasing artifacts like an 1888 railroad map and vintage lanterns, preserving the rich heritage of the town.
History of the Donner Party Hike
The Donner Party Hike (DPH) has been running since 1992 to attract visitors to Truckee. The DPH combines love for the Sierra Nevada wilderness with its fascinating history, offering a variety of guided hikes that explore the region's historical landmarks. The event includes catered lunches, guest speakers, and tours that cover the history of emigrants and the Donner Party. The hikes have evolved over the years, adding new routes and facing challenges like weather conditions. The DPH continues to be a popular event, drawing participants who are passionate about history and the outdoors.
Van Norden Meadow: A Sierra Jewel
This article discusses the restoration efforts at Van Norden Meadow, a significant project undertaken by the South Yuba River Citizens' League (SYRCL) and the Forest Service in the Truckee Ranger District. The goal is to restore the meadow to its natural state, enhance water flow, and promote native plant growth. Key activities include willow cutting, beaver dam analogs, and removing invasive species. The project has shown progress, with increased water retention and native vegetation taking root. Future plans involve further restoration work, conifer removal, and developing a loop trail to encourage public engagement and education.
The Survival of Independence Lake, Part 1
This article discusses the history and significance of Independence Lake, a natural glacial lake in the Sierra Nevada of California. The lake has been preserved for its unique ecological attributes, including native fish species and Lahontan cutthroat trout. In the 1970s, Walt Disney Corporation planned to develop a large resort in the area, but faced opposition from local communities and environmental groups. Ultimately, the project was abandoned, and the land was preserved for conservation. Today, Independence Lake remains a protected area within the Tahoe National Forest, valued for its natural beauty and historical importance.
The Survival of Independence Lake, Part 2
This article describes Disney's ambitious plans in the 1970s to develop a massive four-season resort at Independence Lake, California, which faced strong opposition from local communities and environmental groups. Despite completing extensive studies and proposing alternatives, Disney ultimately abandoned the project in 1978 due to regulatory delays and public resistance. The land was later preserved for conservation through efforts by various organizations, ensuring the protection of the area’s natural resources and low-impact recreational use for future generations. Today, Independence Lake remains a cherished part of the Tahoe National Forest, protected for its ecological and historical significance.
1900s Tunneling Through the Sierra
This article details the ambitious tunneling projects proposed in the early 1900s to improve the Sierra Nevada railroad route, highlighting the significant challenges and advancements in tunneling technology of the time. Despite initial excitement and substantial plans, including proposals for five and six-mile tunnels and potential electrification, the projects faced numerous obstacles and delays. Ultimately, the ambitious plans were scaled down, and a two-mile summit tunnel was completed in 1925. This tunnel improved the efficiency of the Sierra crossing and played a crucial role in the development of the region's railroad infrastructure.
Trains Come Through Truckee Every Day
This article discusses the significance of trains in Truckee, California, noting the town's history and ongoing relationship with the railroad. It highlights the frequency of Union Pacific and Amtrak trains passing through Truckee, and outlines both historical and recent train accidents and derailments, some involving hazardous materials. Safety improvements, including thermal detectors and visual inspections, are detailed, showcasing efforts to ensure the trains' safe passage through the Sierra Nevada. The page also underscores Truckee's preparedness for potential accidents, with well-trained local emergency teams and ongoing community education efforts.
The 1952 Snowbound Streamliner
This article recounts the dramatic events of January 1952 when the luxury passenger train, the City of San Francisco, became snowbound west of Donner Summit during a severe winter storm. The train, unable to move due to deep snowdrifts, experienced multiple rescue attempts, including rotary plows and even a dog sled team. Passengers endured extreme cold, failing heating systems, and carbon monoxide buildup. Despite these hardships, there were no fatalities, and all 226 passengers were eventually evacuated safely. The incident remains a significant historical event, highlighting both the challenges of winter rail travel in the Sierra Nevada and the resilience of those involved.