The large pear tree shown in the photo dates back well over a hundred years, and in spring it puts forth a fine show of blossoms, which later in the year yield small pears. They are an old variety that is not ripe until it is soft in the middle, like jam. Delicious!
The tree is in an area that was used extensively by the first known
pioneer settler here, William Dempsey.
He set up near the year-round artesian spring, where the remains of a small spring house and some posts to contain livestock are still in place.
On the other side of the hillside area is an old apple tree which still produces abundantly. A large fenced garden was raised, plowed again and again, many years of rock removal having taken place.
The area can produce abundant amounts of food, although the frost season begins early there and ends late.
Pioneer life was full of comforting rhythms, although the challenges were great.
There was always something to do, whether looking after the livestock, tending the trees and vegetables, cutting firewood, splitting lumber from the nearby redwood trees, or making nails and iron parts by hand in a small smelter. Tanning of leather from animal hides would give materials for many types of implements and for clothing.
Leisure time could be used in pursuit of making objects of beauty or in making music, reading or reciting from great works of literature, as was the custom in those times.
Constant vigilance was the order of the day, since the more resources were created, the greater the appeal to the wild animals near by. Staying home to guard the food was really important!
The area remains wild in its essence. Our own generation of
pioneers had a lot of challenges, even with all the machinery we were able to use.
A large population of deer in the area still use the trail that runs down the hill right next to the homestead area. In autumn, great flocks of pigeons thunder into the skies during their migrations.
Mountain life holds its own rhythms, which continue during this time, with new additions, yet it can truly be said that in many cases the old ways serve best. Low technology such as drying fruit, using wood for heating, and solar for electricity, help to keep the feeling of
serenity that the mountains offer as their greatest gift. Making things by hand just comes naturally here.
I honor the spirit of the people who lived here before me, and learn from their examples.
Faith, perseverance, creativity, and adaptability, along with continual cooperation with nature, were the things they knew so well. It is my hope to carry forward the lessons they have for us.
Come and visit!
Four ways to visit me:
Youtube!
http://youtu.be/XmcVpeYVL3E/
www.bettyofbigsur.com My web site, where you will find information and updates about events and my work,
ww.etsy.com/shop/bettyofbigsur, a shop to showcase and sell examples of my art and fashion designs,
www.retreatcampchecklist.com, a checklist about camping retreats, to let you know what is here, and let me know what you would like to have, and to do, in Big Sur! Fun, quick, instant feedback!
