Editor:

East Contra Costa Historical Society held its annual Community Barbecue on Sept. 13. The barbecue serves as the major fundraiser to help maintain the museum for public and school tours and to preserve historical documents and photos. ECCHS does not receive revenue from any governmental source, so all funds derived for its support come from individual and business donors, membership dues and events such as the barbecue.

At the present time, we are attempting to raise enough revenue to replace the septic system and restore an 1890s-era schoolhouse. As an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, any contributions and donations that offset the costs of the barbecue are greatly appreciated.

East County has once again shown its giving spirit in contributing to this cause. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the following organizations, individuals and businesses for their donations: Rotary Club and Rotary Interact; G&S Farms; Smith Farms; Wild West Bar-B-Q & Catering; Delta Pure Water; Harvest Park Bowl; Sweeney’s Grill and Bar; Bloomfield Vineyards; Cline Cellars; Viano Winery; Hannah Nicole Vineyards; Costco; Oakley Disposal; Orin Allen Youth Rehabilitation Facility.

And to the raffle donors: from Brentwood – Shiny Nails; Prevot’s Oyster Bar & Grill; Crème del Gem Jewelry; Straw Hat Pizza (Lone Tree Way); Bill Brandt Ford; Sticky Chicken & Ribs; Health Hut; Gabby’s Grind; CK Pizzeria; SpeeDee Oil Change & Tune-up; Doggie Depot; from Oakley – Yogurt Island; Gene’s Handiwork; Oakley Super Beauty Salon; from Knightsen – Pampered Pets; and from Antioch – The Red Caboose. Please support these businesses and show them how much their philanthropic efforts are appreciated.

In addition, ECCHS thanks the American Legion; Samantha, Madelyn, and Olivia Bustos; the Community Band; Byron Station; and Rod Linn and his musical group for their participation in the event.

East Contra Costa County has once again proved why it has the best of the best! Thank you again for your generous support.

We invite anyone interested in the history of this area to join ECCHS (annual dues are $20 for families; $15 for individuals and $50 for business concerns); to become docents for the museum (open on Saturdays from April to October); to tour the Byer/Nail House; and to aid the historians who labor many hours in preserving and cataloging photos and records from yesteryear.

Patrick McHenry, Chairman