The Lake County Historical Society thanks its members and guests for attending and helping with the annual picnic at the Ely Stage Station and Country Museum.

In the shade of the oak grove there the crowd enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs and chili as well as an abundance of delicious potluck dishes.  

Special thanks go to Bruno’s Shop Smart, which provided the hamburgers, hot dogs and buns. Also thanks to Abid Hussain, 3 Brothers Travel Plaza, for ice; University of California, Cooperative Extension of Lake County for the loan of 15 tables; and Bud Boyce for the use of his huge barbecue cooker.

Thanks to John Parker who led a delightful skit about the Cole Creek Gang, Lake County bandits who were busy robbing on the roads during the heyday of the Ely Stage Stop.  

His cast included himself, Bent Nose John Parker, Big Gun Greg Blinn, Gangly Greg Dills, Rebel Phil Smoley and Rattlesnake Randy Ridgel.

They represented the gangs of real Lake County robbers, Buck English and Charles Boles, also known as Black Bart.

The group’s next meeting is on Sunday, Sept. 23. They hope to hold their picnic next year near the top of Konocti.

Lake County has a captivating history and the historical society’s meetings are informative and fun.

If you wish to join them call Nick Voegtly at 707-349-7233. Annual membership dues are $15 a person or $20 a family.