California Frontier

In the second half of this interview with Edie Littlefield Sundby (The Mission Walker), she explains why she extended the California Mission Trail beyond San Diego and retraced the original mission route from Loreto, Baja California, to the U.S. border in 2015, after her cancer returned and she was treated with radiation. Guided by Harry Crosby’s maps and aided by (previous guest) Trudi Angell and local vaqueros, she walked nearly 1,000 GPS miles through roadless desert sierras with pack mules, scarce water, and minimal supplies, encountering both extraordinary hospitality on remote ranchos and increasing danger from narcos and drug routes in northern Baja. Edie contrasts the wild Jesuit trail with the more accessible Franciscan route in California, reflects on gratitude, trust, and spiritual pilgrimage, discusses the missions’ enduring “spirit” even in ruins, and closes with thoughts on history’s complexity and the California Mission Trail as a pilgrimage people can complete in segments. Purchase The Mission Walker Chapters 00:00 Why Baja Matters 01:21 Transcendence Then Relapse 03:28 Discovering Loreto Origins 05:20 Planning With Trudy 06:41 Keeping It Quiet 07:59 Jesuit Trail Realities 09:54 Launching From Loreto 10:25 Vaqueros And Survival 13:23 Rancho Hospitality Story 16:11 Living History On Ranchos 18:07 Timing The Desert Walk 19:23 Loreto Mission And Spirit 21:07 Jesuit Trail Highlights 23:04 Narcos on the Trail 24:23 Vaquero Protection 26:31 Respect and Trust 28:08 Desert Hunger Lessons 29:11 Water Survival System 30:16 Cactus and Gear 32:14 Shrines and Gratitude 33:19 Finishing the Journey 36:33 Drug Roads Reality 37:59 History Beyond Myths 40:31 Trust Over Fear 41:44 California Camino Dream 42:44 Walking in Segments 43:52 Next Big Adventures 44:55 Books and Farewell 46:57 Support the Show Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebookContact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Today's guest is Edie Littlefield Sundby, author of the memoir The Mission Walker, about becoming the first person to walk the full Camino Real of both Californias while living with stage four cancer. In Part 1, Edie recounts being initially denied treatment, finding aggressive care at Stanford, surviving extensive surgeries and chemotherapy, and using walking to purge toxicity and rebuild her body and spirit. She also describes her first mission journey, walking from San Diego to Sonoma in 55 days by following mission bells and a hiker’s guide, as well as the hospitality of Franciscan missions. Chapters: 00:00 California Mission Trail Intro 00:40 Meet Edie Littlefield Sun 02:40 Stage Four Cancer Turning Point 04:54 Walking as Medicine and Pilgrimage 08:13 Mission Bells and First Trail Walk 10:48 Chemo Walks and Healing Mindset 15:56 Follow the Bells Decision 18:14 Planning the 800 Mile Walk 21:18 Trail Logistics and One Lung 24:03 No Shortcuts Long Walk Lessons 27:04 Maps Over GPS Ground Truth 30:03 55 Days Mission to Mission 32:50 Mindfulness Outside the Head 34:56 Santa Susanna Pass Breakthrough 39:29 How the Trail Defines California Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebookContact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In 1769, Spain feared it was about to lose the Pacific coast. Russian traders were moving south from Alaska, British naval power was rising, and Spain had no permanent settlements north of Baja California. In response, imperial officials launched a land-and-sea operation known as the Sacred Expedition — a march that would found San Diego, search for the lost harbor of Monterey, and lead a small overland party to the first recorded European sighting of San Francisco Bay. The Portolá Expedition (1769–1770) was the first Spanish overland exploration of coastal Alta California, organized to secure Spain’s claim against rival empires. Led by Gaspar de Portolá and supported by Fr. Junípero Serra and José de Gálvez, the expedition established San Diego, attempted to locate Monterey Bay, and instead made the first documented European discovery of San Francisco Bay. These journeys laid the foundation for Spain’s missions and presidios in California. 0:00 -- Introduction 0:32 — Why Spain Moved into Alta California (Manila Galleon & Empire Strategy) 3:10 — Russian Expansion Threatens Spanish California 6:30 — José de Gálvez’s Plan: Missions and Presidios in Alta California 9:40 — The 1769 Portolá Expedition Begins 13:10 — Founding San Diego: First Mission and Presidio 16:40 — Why the Expedition Missed Monterey 19:50 — The European “Discovery” of San Francisco Bay (1769) 22:40 — The Return South and Near Failure 24:30 — 1770: Founding Monterey and Securing Spanish California References: Fray Juan Crespi, Missionary Explorer on the Pacific Coast, 1769-1774The Portolá Expedition in Orange CountyGateway to Alta California: The Expedition to San Diego, 1769Quest for Empire: Spanish Settlement in the SouthwestThe Occupation of the Port of San Diego de Alcalá, 1769West of the West. Witnesses to the California Experience, 1542-1906The History of San DiegoThe Explorers, 1492-1774. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In part two of this interview, Damian Bacich continues his conversation with David Kier, who shares stories from his travels to the Baja California missions and explains some of the legends people tell about “lost missions” and hidden treasures. David describes what the missions look like today—some are still standing and even used for church services, while others are in ruins because of weather and time. He also talks about other historians and writers who inspired his work and gives helpful advice for people who want to visit Baja California, including tips about safety, transportation, insurance, and travel documents. David encourages listeners to see Baja California as an important part of California’s history and to appreciate its culture, landscapes, and historic landmarks. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, host Damian Bacich talks with David Kier about his lifelong interest in Baja California and its missions. Kier explains how family trips he took as a child sparked a passion that later led him to make maps, write guidebooks, and become an expert on mission history. He describes when and why the Jesuit, Franciscan, and Dominican missions were founded in Baja California between 1697 and 1849, clears up myths about “lost missions,” and explains how disease and Spanish colonization affected Native peoples. The episode also looks at how the name “California” originally referred to Baja California before spreading north, how control of the region changed from Spain to Mexico, and why Kier believes it is important to study history carefully while staying open to new discoveries. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Today, I'm honored to speak with Craig S. Harwood, author of Bridget's Gambit, a captivating saga of family enterprise during the California Gold Rush. This really interesting book, coming out soon, tells a fascinating story of early California and its impact on American history. Craig shares insights about the gold mining and gold hunting in the region, his personal connection to the narrative, and what he discovered while writing this important piece of history. We explore the life of Bridget Evoy, a remarkable figure in California's Gold Rush history. The discussion highlights Bridget's leadership and resilience, as well as the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society during the Victorian era. We also cover Bridget's role in the development of the city of Oakland during the Gold Rush era, her resilience in the face of personal tragedy, her family's legacy, and the impact of their Catholic faith. The conversation also highlights the challenges and triumphs of women during this period, the writing process behind documenting Bridget's story, and the misconceptions surrounding women's roles in the Gold Rush. Craig also shares insights from his research and the importance of storytelling in preserving history. Pre-order Bridget's Gambit today Chapters 00:00 Introduction to California History and Bridget's Gambit 03:00 The Author's Background and Connection to Bridget 05:51 Bridget Evoy's Early Life in Ireland 08:40 Bridget's Journey to America and Challenges Faced 11:41 The Gold Rush Catalyst and Family Decisions 14:41 The Overland Journey and Leadership in Crisis 18:54 Exploiting Opportunities During the Gold Rush 22:11 The Family's Strategic Business Moves 25:40 Navigating Dangers in a Male-Dominated Society 31:52 Facing Tragedy with Resilience 35:12 Legacy of Tenacity and Business Acumen 38:30 Faith and Philanthropy in the Family 42:08 Researching the Past: A Detective Story 42:37 The Writing Process: From Idea to Publication 43:33 Crafting a Compelling Narrative Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In Part 2 of my interview with archaeologist Richard Carrico, our conversation delves into the significant archaeological findings at the Presidio, revealing insights into its history, architecture, and the lives of its inhabitants. Richard comments on the culinary practices of the time, leisure activities, and the transition from the Presidio to Old Town San Diego. The discussion also covers crime and punishment within the Presidio, the legal rights of Native Americans, and the broader implications of these historical narratives for contemporary readers. Purchase Richard's book: El Presidio de San Diego: Excavating Southern California's Lost City 00:00 Introduction to Richard Carrico and His Work 01:08 Excavation Discoveries and Archaeological Insights 07:33 Culinary Traditions at the Presidio 09:28 Authentic Culinary Traditions 12:09 Leisure and Games in Historical Context 15:43 The Evolution of Old Town 21:00 Crime and Punishment at the Presidio 32:53 Understanding the Reader's Perspective Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this conversation, I interview archaeologist Richard Carrico, an expert on the Presidio of San Diego, discussing its historical significance, the need for accessible literature on the subject, and the cultural heritage of the Kumeyaay people. Carrico shares insights from his new book, El Presidio de San Diego: Excavating Southern California's Lost City. In it, Richard emphasizes the importance of the Presidio in California's history and the challenges it faces in terms of preservation and public awareness. 00:00 Introduction to Richard Carrico and His Work 02:08 The Significance of the Presidio of San Diego 04:29 The Need for a Comprehensive Book on the Presidio 06:59 The Current State of the Presidio Site 12:30 Historical Occupation of the Presidio 18:00 Demographics and Community at the Presidio 23:08 The Origin and Meaning of 'Presidio' 25:35 Excavation Discoveries and Archaeological Insights Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, we delve into the second half of an interview with Tom Prezelski, author of Californio Lancers: The First Battalion of Native Cavalry in the Far West. The discussion covers the period post-Civil War, focusing on the unit's deployment to Arizona and the numerous challenges they faced, including malaria, desertion, and campaigns against the Apaches and French imperialists in Northern Mexico. We explore figures like Salvador Vallejo, Captain Pico, and Colonel Ronstadt, as well as the diverse backgrounds of the unit's soldiers and their complex motivations for joining. The episode provides a comprehensive look at the battalion's legacy and traces the intersections of various historical threads in the American Southwest during the 1860s. 00:00 Introduction to the Interview 01:25 Deployment to Arizona and Challenges 02:59 Campaigns Against the Apaches and French Imperialists 04:58 Health Issues and Desertion 06:36 Confrontations and Leadership Dynamics 15:34 Recruitment and Composition of the Unit 21:50 Cultural and Linguistic Diversity 31:12 Uniforms and Disbandment 35:11 Legacy and Memorials 37:40 Conclusion and Future Projects Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, I talk with author Tom Prezelski about his book The Californio Lancers: The 1st Battalion of Native Cavalry in the Far West, 1863–1866. Together, we explore the fascinating and often overlooked history of the First Battalion of Native Cavalry in California during the Civil War. Learn how these Californios (Mexican Californians) came together to form a unique unit that played a crucial role in both Union efforts and frontier defense from 1863 to 1866. Tom shares personal anecdotes and historical insights on the battalion's formation, the use of lances, and their deployment to Arizona and Sonora. This episode ties together the cultural, political, and social dynamics of the American West and Civil War history. 00:00 Introduction to the California Lancers 01:32 Meet the Author: Tom Prezelski 01:59 Tom's Background and Inspiration 03:19 Discovering the California Lancers 08:49 The Formation of the Native Cavalry 10:30 Challenges and Recruitment 14:19 The Unique Use of Lances 26:56 Deployment and Duties 29:49 Controversies and Legal Issues Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Join us as we conclude our interview with ethnohistorian April Farnham, delving into the lives and contributions of mixed Spanish and indigenous families in Northern California during the late 18th and 19th centuries. From the Anza Expedition to the intricate social fabrics of families like the Juarez and Carillo, we explore matrimonial investigations, multicultural interactions, and the significant roles of women in preserving and merging diverse cultures. Discover how these early settlers shaped the cultural and historical landscape of California, specifically in the areas surrounding San Francisco Bay, Napa, and Sonoma. Don't miss out on learning new historical revelations and the ongoing efforts to uncover more about California's rich heritage. 00:00 Introduction to the Interview with April Farham 01:52 Exploring Matrimonial Investigations 04:08 Connections to the Anza Expedition 05:22 The Carillo Family Lineage 07:32 Multilingual Influences and Relationships 14:23 Research Directions and Future Projects 23:55 The Role of Women in Preserving Culture 30:16 Events and Activities at Sonoma State Historic Park 32:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, I interview April Farham, who shares her fascinating work on the lives of early California settlers, specifically indigenous and Mestiza women. April discusses her personal journey into historical research that focuses on California's frontier in the 18th and 19th centuries. She elaborates on her work at the Maidu Indian Museum and her passion for unraveling the stories behind the extensive basket collections and their connection to indigenous women. The conversation also touches on the genealogical and historical intersections revealed through archival research and the impact of mixed ancestry on California's cultural landscape. 00:00 Introduction to the Interview with April Farham 02:14 April's Background and Early Career 06:54 Exploring the State Indian Museum Collections 12:07 Graduate Studies and Research Focus Shift 19:37 Discovering the Juarez Family History 32:45 Ethnohistorical Research and Archival Work Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Exploring Historical Illustrations and California's Cultural Heritage with David W. Rickman Watch to the full YouTube video In the final installment of this interview series, historian and illustrator David W. Rickman delves into the history of Russians on Northern California's coast, his contributions to national and state parks, collaborations with the Smithsonian Institution, and his esteemed Sutter's Fort Costume Manual. David also discusses his forthcoming book on clothing and material culture in the American West, 'Where Worlds Met.' Throughout the conversation, Rickman highlights his endeavors in historical illustration, including his projects for Alviso Adobe, Fort Ross, and other national parks. David reflects on nearly participating in a Hollywood Zorro series, emphasizing the importance and challenges of historical accuracy in visual storytelling. The episode is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering rich insights into the cultural tapestry of early California and the American West. 00:00 Introduction to the Final Interview with David W. Rickman 01:01 David's Work in National and State Parks 05:27 Sutter's Fort Costume Manual and Upcoming Book 07:25 Challenges and Insights in Historical Costume Research 15:51 Illustrations and Projects for National Park Service 20:40 Hollywood and Historical Authenticity 24:40 Conclusion and Upcoming Events Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In the second part of our interview with illustrator and historian David W. Rickman, we delve into his research methodologies and his quest to accurately depict historical clothing. We discuss how Hollywood has influenced our perceptions of the American West and the common misconceptions about Native American attire in the past. David shares his experiences researching in various museums, including the National History Museum in Los Angeles and the de Young Museum, and talks about the challenges of getting people to wear authentic historical costumes. We also touch on his upcoming book, 'Where Worlds Met,' which explores California costumes from 1822 to 1860 and features never-before-seen images. Join us as we explore these fascinating insights into California history. 00:00 Introduction to the Interview with David W. Rickman 01:00 David's Research Methodology and Museum Experiences 05:04 Challenges in Historical Costume Accuracy 06:50 The Influence of the American West and Individualism 08:57 California's Historical and Cultural Revival 24:28 Misconceptions About Native American Clothing 31:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Join us for Part 1 of an interview with artist and historian David W. Rickman, renowned for his illustrations of California history and the Spanish borderlands. In this episode, we delve into the misconceptions influenced by Hollywood and incomplete historical records, and how David's unique expertise helps correct these narratives. Learn about his fascinating work on early Californian dress, the visual culture of the American West, and the painstaking research process behind his acclaimed illustrations. Don't miss this deep dive into the material culture and historical representation of the American West. 00:00 Introduction and Technical Notes 01:23 Understanding the Past Through Visuals 02:38 Meet David Rickman: Historian and Illustrator 04:03 David's Unique Perspective on History 06:09 The Influence of Early Experiences 08:12 Challenges in Historical Illustration 20:00 Research and Projects 27:52 The Importance of Accurate Representation 31:15 California's Rich Historical Record 39:55 Conclusion and Upcoming Part Two David's Website Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Antonio Coronel’s Gold Rush Tales in Mexican California In the final installment of 'The Tales of Mexican California,' we follow Antonio Coronel's vivid recount of his time in the Northern California gold fields post-1848. Coronel, who initially settled in Los Angeles after arriving from Mexico in 1834, shares graphic and poignant stories from the Gold Rush era. These include violent episodes, massacres of Native people, and the lawlessness that prevailed among fortune seekers. Coronel details his own experiences with gold mining, the lucrative yet perilous nature of the business, and the eventual abandonment of his efforts due to lawlessness and threats of violence. His firsthand accounts provide a unique perspective on the cultural and societal shifts during the transition of California from Mexican to American rule. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Coronel's Gold Rush Adventures 02:12 The Gold Rush Begins: Challenges and Opportunities 04:36 Life in the Gold Fields: Wealth and Lawlessness 08:09 A Violent Encounter in Sonoma 12:50 Return to the Gold Fields and New Ventures 18:42 Conflict and Prejudice in the Gold Fields 29:46 Final Reflections and Departure from the Gold Fields Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In the second part of my interview with Michael Hardwick, we hear about Hippolyte Bouchard, a pirate who raided California's coast, and learn about the history of the Spanish and Mexican presidios. This episode explores sea battles, invasions, and the armaments used during California's conquest and defense. Historian Michael R. Hardwick shares insights into powder supplies, Spanish cannons, and colonial history from 1769 to the Mexican War. In an interesting twist, Michael introduces also us to Spanish horticultural practices at the California missions. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

In this episode, I delve into the often overlooked history of the Spanish Presidios in California with expert Michael Hardwick, author of Spanish Arms and Armaments of the Presidios in California. Michael shares his extensive research on Spanish military fortifications during the colonial period. We discuss the arms, armaments, and strategies of these garrisons, their role in supporting the missions, and their adaptation to coastal defenses. Michael also shares personal anecdotes from his years of archaeological work at Presidio sites and his exploration of historical records, providing a fascinating glimpse into California's early military history. 00:00 Introduction to Spanish Presence in California 00:36 Meet Michael Hardwick: Expert on Presidios 03:17 Michael's Background and Work on the Presidio Project 04:22 The Historical Significance of Presidios 07:55 Uncovering the Foundations and Artifacts 16:08 The Evolution and Role of Presidios 22:06 The Armament and Defense Strategies 31:14 The Legacy of Spanish Artillery 40:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Purchase Spanish Arms and Armaments of the Presidios in California or email Michael: mrhardwick@icloud.com Michael's Book on Mission La Purísima Watch on YouTube Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Join me for another excerpt from Antonio Franco Coronel's memoirs, Tales of Mexican California. In this episode, we hear about the events of 1846, when the US military began its invasion and occupation of California. Coronel recounts Marine Captain Gillespie's heavy-handed rule in Los Angeles, local reactions to U.S. occupation, and the events leading to the (likely avoidable) revolt of the Pueblo of Los Angeles' residents against Gillespie and the U.S. occupiers. Antonio Coronel's account provides rich, firsthand insights into California's complex history during the Mexican-American War. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Franco Cordone's Memoirs 01:10 Context of the Mexican-American War 03:41 Captain Gillespie's Oppressive Rule 07:50 The Revolt Against Gillespie 15:35 The Siege and Surrender of Gillespie 26:13 Conclusion and Reflections Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net

Tales of Mexican California: Antonio Coronel's Memoirs - Part 2 To hear Part 1, go to Episode 065. In this episode of the California Frontier Podcast, Damian Bacich continues exploring the memoirs of Antonio Franco Coronel. Coronel's account provides a riveting look into his experiences as a Superior Court Judge in Mexican California during the 1840s, a time marked by political instability and frequent criminal conduct by soldiers. The memoir sheds light on key historical moments, including the failed colonization efforts, the uprising against Governor Manuel Micheltorena, and the early signs of American annexation. Coronel's detailed recounting of robberies and kidnappings from New Mexico and his interactions with notable figures like Pio Pico, Jose Castro, and John Sutter offer valuable insights into a tumultuous period in California history. 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Franco Coronel's Memoirs 00:21 Arrival and Early Challenges in Alta California 01:36 Political Instability and New Governance 03:34 The Crimes of the Permanent California Battalion 05:25 The Great Robbery at Don Vicente Sanchez's House 12:13 Banditry and Contraband on the Old Spanish Trail 13:18 The Case of the Stolen Turkeys 20:52 Rebellion Against Governor Micheltorena 25:17 Failed Negotiations and Micheltorena's Dilemma 30:16 Conclusion and Reflections on Coronel's Memoirs Purchase a copy of Tales of Mexican California. Send a Comment. Support the show Give a one-time donation Learn more about the California Frontier Project: WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebook Contact: damian@californiafrontier.net