Chautauqua of Hiram D. Scott at Dangberg Historic Park

The final Chautauqua of the 2019 Festival season will portray Hiram D. Scott, Alpine County, California pioneer, on Sunday, September 22, at 10:00 am.

Hiram Daniel Scott was a ship builder from Pittston, Maine by trade. Initially he settled in Santa Cruz, California in 1847, then followed the Gold Rush when gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill. There he operated a ferry business across the San Joaquin River.

Scott returned to Santa Cruz and bought land for a ranch which is now known as Scotts Valley. He followed the Silver Rush to the Sierra's when he learned that silver had been discovered at Silver Mountain City in what is now Alpine County. Along with other Santa Cruz men, Scott formed the Eureka Gold and Silver Mining Company.

Hiram Scott will tell of his life's adventures, his ups and downs in his businesses, and share his dreams of wealth and success. Scott was a true pioneer of the times when silver and gold built towns and destroyed them as well.

Jay Topping, who portrays Hiram D. Scott, is the Scotts Valley History Society historian and Scotts Valley Chamber History Ambassador. Topping is active in the Santa Cruz County area in promoting Scotts Valley’s rich history from its early beginnings and down through the last 160 years. He is currently writing a new book about Hiram Scott’s life.

This event is free to attend. Please bring your own seating to all events and no pets allowed - service animals only.

The Dangberg ranch house will be open for one hour before the event for anyone who would like an introduction to the park’s history.

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