Museum exhibit traces Lake Sonoma ‘before and after’

The Healdsburg Museum’s newest exhibit, “Lake Sonoma: Before and After,” is open. The exhibit focuses on the early history of upper Dry Creek Valley and the construction of Lake Sonoma and Warm Springs Dam, the largest environmental undertaking in the history of Sonoma County.
These events are examined from a range of perspectives, from the native Pomo to the advocacy group who led the battle for Lake Sonoma. Local native history is showcased through the eyes of the Mihilakawna (Dry Creek) Pomo.
A multimedia computer kiosk created by David Ferri and Sherrie Smith-Ferri of the Dry Creek Pomo tribe is the highlight of this section. Materials donated to the Museum by F.M. “Milt” Brandt and the well-organized advocacy group, Citizens for Community Improvement, who led the battle for Lake Sonoma are the focus of another unit.
Visitors will also see never-before displayed photos from the construction of Warm Springs Dam, contributed by Stan Chapman, who worked on the project, along with additional project photos taken by Coni Beeson.
A display featuring the SSU archaeological investigations that accompanied the project is also included.
The exhibit also highlights historic properties flooded by the creation of Lake Sonoma, including Skaggs Springs Resort and the Hallengren Ranch.
Of special interest will be a model of the old Skaggs Springs Resort, built by museum volunteer Jon Lacaillade, who replicated the resort’s various structures from historical photos.
Volunteer Maggie Bates added her own features, including tiny signage and miniature guests of the resort, handcrafted and dressed in the fashions of the day.
The Healdsburg Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is located at 221 Matheson Street. Admission is always free.
– Submitted by Pamela Vana-Paxhia