The historical society logo which is on each page of this site is Rainbow Bridge on old Highway 40 on Donner Summit. The real name is the Donner Summit Bridge and it was completed in 1926. Its uniqueness comes from the fact that it was, at the time, built in a compound horizontal curve of 360 ft. with a 110 ft. open spandal arch. It was also the first bridge built with Federal Forest Highway Funds. The cost; $40,000.
The Logo was drawn by Nancy Oudegeest
They Came for the Same Reasons We Do
"The air has a fresh crispness about it that gives a new life to the visitor whether he has come from the fertile plains or the foggy city. And no wonder, for though this be called Summit Valley, there are seven thousand feet between you and sea level. Seven thousand feet nearer heaven and so much nearer purity. It is a relief to….look up to the stars, nowhere brighter than here, with only the dark pines closing in the distance… The air redolent with the perfume of fresh grass and wild flowers; and aromatic with pine needles. It is a physical pleasure to breathe, a 'delight to exist'… It is small wonder that a millionaire [Mark Hopkins]… should confess to be happier and healthier here than in the handsomest house on California Street. Nob Hill, to the sierras indeed."
California Spirit of the Times magazine June 13, 1885 pg 3-4
| Check out our new page: Then and Now's by Art Clark - old scenes today |
| Historical Society News.............. Our New 2011 Poster..............20 Mile Museum |
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| The Heirloom in January, 2012: Finding Sierra SkiWays trails;Norden Store and Lodge; From the DSHS Archives; Then and Now with Art Clark; First Markings of the Donner Trail - Marshall Fey; Assembling California book review |
| Take Scenic Highway 40 instead of Interstate 80 |
