From the Director

Today I finished an Internet class entitled Fundamentals of Volunteer Management, sponsored by the Northern States Conservation Center. This is not my first Internet class,and I hope it will not be my last. The instructor, an expert in volunteer training programs, was in Denver. The other students were in Fresno, Cedar Rapids and Peshawabestown MI. This class was a great opportunity not only to learn recent information about museum best practices but a window on other communities and their volunteer programs. Twice a week we logged on to our website for an hour of "chat." Assignments, reading resource materials, and forums completed the rest of the class format. I will be bringing back ideas for the creation of a volunteer handbook, job descriptions, training, recognition, and budgets for our volunteer program.

From the Director

Today once again the 1803 flag of Spain was raised (alongside the flag of the US) to commemorate the historic Battle of San Diego Bay. The Naval Base Point Loma, the Casa De Espana, and the Fort Guijarros Museum Foundation were sponsors of this event. Our connection to Spain began long before that battle when Cabrillo's expedition landed here and claimed the land as property of the King of Spain. Then, it was called San Miguel, renamed later by Vizcaino as San Diego. In 1769 the Spanish Fort Guijarros named for the cobblestones that lay on the waterfront was constructed. To learn more about the battle, search for the American brig "Leila Byrd" and the reason why the Spanish cannons were fired at this trespassing ship. A California Registered Landmark serves to remind us of the history which took place on this site.

I have been very fortunate to have been a part of the Fort Guijarros Museum Foundation since 1980. Contact me if you have any questions about this organization.

From the Director

Twice a year, the RBHS holds a General Meeting which is open the public. Speakers focus on local history with interesting past presentations. Today Carolyn and I went to our neighboring town of Ramona to meet the director of the Guy Woodward Museum. It's located right on the main street surrounded by other historic buildings. We invited him to speak at this April General Meeting, and he in turn showed us around the museum. In addition to the historic Verlaque house with rooms which recreate the 1900 time period, there is a barn, a school room, gardens, even a small cemetery plot. This site is well worth a visit.

As a bonus, along the drive to Ramona we were able to see the hills alive with golden fields of poppies and lupin.