Historic Duncans Mills hosts week-long holiday event

The little town of Duncans Mills is often overlooked by
motorists driving by. But those who stop are often impressed with
it’s unique friendliness, and end up staying a while.
“I think we’re somewhat like a mini version of Mendocino,” said Ron
Quercia, of Quercia Gallery.
The quaint coastal town will embrace an influx of visitors on
Saturday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 4, when they host a week-long
holiday celebration.
The village christmas tree that will be lit up at about 4:30 p.m.
on Saturday and is bound to be impressive.
“There must be at least 5,000 lights on that tree,” said Brian
Trombly, of Mr. Trombly’s Tea.
Each business in the “village,” will do something special,
explained Trombly, who plans to bake a selection of scones and
offer various toppings for a festive twist.
He will also have teas available for tasting, and plenty of tea and
tea-related items for sale.
Other gift shops and galleries will have treats as well, like fresh
baked cookies and Santa will be there along with a group of
instrumental musicians and carolers for entertainment.
For the past three years, the town has held an official tree
lighting event, but even before that there was always a tree and
plenty going on, historical and otherwise throughout the
year.
Duncans Mills history dates back to 1877, when Alexander Duncan
established a sawmill there, providing lumber that helped to build
the city of San Francisco.
The original look of the town, is a lot like what visitors see
today thanks to a restoration project that took place in
1976.
The North Pacific Coast Railroad that ceased operation in 1930s ran
through Duncans Mills on it’s way from Cazadero to Sausalito.
Several original railroad cars and the depot are on display in the
town and books and maps about the area are available in one of the
old railroad buildings that is now a California State Park Ranger
Station and store.
So, there is not only shopping, but also exploring, camping, the
annual Russian River Rodeo, and Civil War Days that take place in
this little town that is only about four miles from the Pacific.
Quercia, who is a painter and his wife, Bobbi Jeanne, a potter and
sculptor, are seasoned business owners in Duncans Mills.
“We’re celebrating 25 years of existence here,” said Quercia, who
lives near Salmon Creek and often paints what he views from his
backyard; beach scenes or the mouth of the Russian River.
At Quercia Gallery the couple will be offering miniature (4×6)
artwork for sale from a wide array of artists throughout the North
Bay.
Last year, the holiday celebration event drew somewhere around 150
people to the town, even though it was a rainy day.
Many left with unique one-of-a-kind gifts, and a calm feeling that
can’t be duplicated at the chaotic mall.