Lassen Land and Trails Trust is excited to announce the return of Bob Woods on Thursday, October 20th at 7:00 p.m. for his presentation of “Ishi: The Last Yahi.”
The story is a remarkable tale of two cultures, the white settlers and the Native Americans, about 100 years ago. After suffering the loss of his family and tribe, Ishi wandered out near Oroville. Ishi did not meet the same fate many Native Americans suffered.
“Remember,” explains Woods, “this was a time when there was still a bounty on Indian scalps.”
Fortunately, according to Woods, Butte County Sheriff J. B. Webber had the foresight to protect Ishi and learn about the Native American’s origins and culture.
University of California anthropologist Dr. Alfred Kroeber began his study and friendship with Ishi in September 1911.
Woods’ presentation sheds light on Ishi’s life before being taken to San Francisco, as well as describing how Kroeber and others learned Ishi’s language and culture.
Kroeber’s wife, Theodora, wrote the children’s book about Ishi’s life as a California Indian offering insight to life most knew nothing about.
Some students in Marguerite Crane’s 5th grade class at Susanville’s McKinley school during the 1970s also have a personal connection to Ishi’s story.
“Marguerite’s students wrote Theodora Kroeber letters about Ishi after reading Kroeber’s book, Ishi in Two Worlds,” said Woods.
“Mrs. Kroeber sent a letter back to Mrs. Crane’s class telling the children about her experiences with Ishi.”
Kroeber’s book is still a mainstay for many Northern California elementary school students.
Woods explains, “Learning about Ishi has led to a better understanding of the rich and wonderful culture of California Indians. The Yahi never capitulated to the white invaders.”
Come to the Depot at 6:30 p.m. to mingle and have some refreshments before Woods’ presentation at 7:00 p.m.