'Snowshoe Thompson: Superhero of the Sierra' explored at Carson City Historical Society chautauqua
Carson City Historical Society hosts local authors and historians David and Gayle Woodruff, who will present a Chautauqua on "Snowshoe Thompson: Superhero of the Sierra" from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11 in the Carriage House behind the Foreman-Roberts Historic House located at 1207 Carson Street, Carson City, during Mark Twain Days.
The Woodruffs assume the characters of "Snowshoe" Thompson and his wife Agnes in this 55-minute Chautauqua performance. Thompson carried the mail across the deep Sierra Nevada snow for 20 winters. Packing 80 pounds of mail, he did the 180-mile round trip in just 5 days on his handcrafted skis, with nothing more than a jacket, dried meat, and matches.
Thompson made one of the first recorded surveys of Lake Tahoe, is often credited with being the father of skiing in California, and was a larger-than-life character, saving numerous lives, serving his community unwaveringly, and devoted his life to the betterment of all, a true Sierra Nevada Superhero.
This is a ticketed event ($15 for CCHS members, and $20 for non-members). Funds benefit CCHS. Tickets are available at breweryarts.org/event/20240511-mtd-chautauqua
David & Gayle Woodruff have lived in the Lake Tahoe and Eastern Sierra area for most of their lives. They are the authors of eight books on Eastern Sierra history, including the popular "Tales Along El Camino Sierra" series, and are also presenters of a variety of local history programs. When not researching or writing, you'll probably find them out hiking in their beloved Sierra Nevada mountains.
CCHS lectures are held periodically in the Carriage House. Information about Carson City Historical Society events can be found at CCHistorical.org. For further information about CCHS events, email carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.