Author Frank Tortorich to Speak on Snowshoe Thomspon

Author Frank Tortorich will speak on his book, John A. “Snowshoe” Thompson, Pioneer Mail Carrier of the Sierra in a free presentation at the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park on Sunday, September 25, at 10:00 am.

John A. Thompson was born Norway in 1827. His family emigrated to the U.S. just ten years later and by 1851 John was a young man, ready to try his luck in the gold fields of California. Of the many interests he pursued in the years that followed, as a farmer, rancher, guide, trader, Indian agent and politician, the thing Thompson is remembered most for is his service as a dependable mail carrier, who made record time traversing the Sierra Nevada on "snow-shoes”, carrying the winter mail and keeping the lines of communication open for those who lived in the region.

Frank Tortorich captures the fortitude and stamina of this legendary Norwegian American whose strength and perseverance is still inspirational today. Tortorich's gripping account of the legendary life, legacy, and accomplishments of John "Snowshoe" Thompson is most captivating.

Frank Tortorich is a native of Jackson, California and a retired school administrator, teacher, principal and Assistant Superintendent of Schools from the Amador County Unified School District. Tortorich is also a charter and life member of OCTA – Oregon California Trails Association and recipient of three of its most prestigious awards including the Greg Franzaw Meritorious Achievement Award.

He is the author of two other books; Gold Rush Trail, A Guide to the Carson River Route of the Emigrant Trail and Hiking the Gold Rush Trail. This will be our final speaker in this year’s Sunday Morning Author Series.

The park is located at 1450 Hwy 88m ¼ mile north of the Carson Valley Veterinary Hospital. This is an outdoor event, and visitors should bring their own seating. Dogs are not permitted at this event. For more information, visit dangberghomeranch.org.

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