Arvin, Lamont, and Weedpatch - Ruth Leon Barba

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Résumé :
At the southernmost end of California's Central Valley lie Arvin, Lamont, and Weedpatch. Although each is distinct, their histories are intertwined. The Yokuts were in the area for thousands of years, followed by Spanish, Mexican, and US settlers. The first seeds of Arvin, Lamont, and Weedpatch were planted in the late 1800s. Over the years, agriculture became a central part of the economy and attracted people from all walks of life. The Dust Bowl and Mexican migrations left an impact on the area that is visible to this day. The Dust Bowl Festival immerses attendees in nostalgic memories of a life that was, and businesses and social, religious, and educational centers celebrate the vibrant Latino cultures that thrive in these communities.

Biographie:
Ruth Leon Barba is proud of both her Arvin and Mexican roots. She is an educator and graduate of California State University, Bakersfield, with a background in political science and history. She selected the best images from the Arvin Historical Society, Dust Bowl Foundation, and other public and private collections, and interviewed community members. Mary Louise Durham moved to Arvin in 1942 from Oklahoma. She has served as the president of the Arvin Historical Society for the past nine years. Her connections and private photograph collection helped make this book possible.