Upcoming Dinner Program

“The Rancho Era in the San Ramon Valley”

At our upcoming November 20th meeting, Leigh Ann Davis, Executive Director of the Contra Costa County Historical Society, will present on The Great Big Rancho Project — an ambitious new effort to document and share the history of the original ranchos of Contra Costa County, including those that once covered the San Ramon Valley. Working with fellow local historians, Davis is developing a digital community engagement project that will feature an interactive map, a website, and eventually a comprehensive book on the ranchos and their descendants. Her talk will explore how the rancho era shaped our region — from the origins of local town names to enduring traditions like rodeos and farming — and how these early Californio families are connected to our modern communities.

DINNER PROGRAM DETAILS

• Date/Time: Thursday, November 20th, 7:00pm

• Location: Black Bear Diner; 807 Camino Ramon, Danville CA 94526

• Cost: $25 per person

Advanced reservations are encouraged. To reserve your spot, please email us at [email protected] to let us know you’re coming.

Click here to purchase dinner tickets, or visit www.srvhistoricalsociety.org and click the “Buy Dinner Tickets” button. Alternately, you can mail payment to the address at the bottom of this email or pay at the door.

ELLIOTT’S PLAQUE DEDICATION

Friday November 7^th, 5:30PM

Join us next Friday, November 7^th at 5:30pm for the dedication of our newest San Ramon Valley Historical Society plaque at Elliott’s Bar in downtown Danville. This special event celebrates Elliott’s long and colorful place in our valley’s history.

Come out, raise a glass, and help honor one of Danville’s most beloved landmarks!

FROM THE ARCHIVES

“The Early Days & Families of the San Ramon Valley” by Howard Wiedemann

A recently-digitized 1976 recording of a presentation to the Contra Costa County Historical Society features Howard Wiedemann sharing his memories of the early days and families of the San Ramon Valley. A third-generation rancher, farmer, and local community leader, Howard’s talk offers stories and personal reflections on the land, people, and traditions that shaped our community. You can watch this fascinating glimpse into local history on the San Ramon Valley Historical Society YouTube channel by clicking here.

NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE PAYMENTS

We are excited to announce that we are now offering online payment options! In addition to cash and checks, you can now easily pay for memberships, purchase dinner tickets, and make donations directly through our secure online payment platform.

Please visit www.srvhistoricalsociety.org for more information. Thank you for your support!

We’re always looking for feedback and new ideas from our members

Please email us at [email protected] with ideas for dinner speakers you’d like to hear from, local history topics you want to learn more about, suggestions for new commemorative plaques or online content, or anything else that’s on your mind.