It’s an annual fundraiser with no deliberate connection to the events of Sept. 11, 2001, but this year the East Contra Costa Historical Society (ECCHS) Barbecue took on greater meaning. Held last Sunday, 9/11/11, the event began with a remembrance of the nearly 3,000 lives lost on that fateful day 10 years ago. An American flag, previously lowered to half-mast, was raised as the East County Concert band played the National Anthem, and sisters Madeline and Olivia Bustos sang patriotic songs.

Society treasurer Joyce Enos said the event fed 378 people, the largest turnout in recent history. Two of the attendees were Brentwood Mayor Bob Taylor and his wife, Pam. The mayor delivered a City Council Proclamation to the family of the late ECCHS founding member Bob Gromm, who was recognized for his efforts to establish the Society and preserve the historic John Marsh House.

“I’m a history buff,” said the mayor. “And we can thank God we have organizations like this (society) that preserve memories of the past.”

The barbecue gives many old-timers the chance to reminisce while providing a historical source for teachers, researchers and anyone interested in exploring East County history, from Native American beginnings to contemporary events.

Attendees were entertained by the East County Concert Band, a trio of musicians called the Old Buzzards, demonstrations of horseshoeing, a Civil War exhibit, gold panning, yarn spinning and an old car show that included a World War I Harley Davidson motorcycle complete with sidecar. The Byer-Nail Museum’s collection was also on full display, featuring relics, memorabilia, old photographs, documents and even clothing from East County’s bygone days.

The barbecue meal, cooked up by the Brentwood Rotary Club, was highlighted by tri-tip and plenty of local produce, including Brentwood sweet corn and tomatoes. Cooks, servers and bottle-washers all donated their labor to the cause.

New Brentwood residents Lance and Michelle Stornetta were impressed with the society’s efforts to preserve history. “It makes you want to be involved so kids can find out about the area’s history,” Michelle said. Lance, a contractor, hopes he can get involved with helping rebuild an old school house awaiting restoration on Society property.

“It’s an honor to have a community event like this where people can come to eat, have a good time and remember the police and firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11,” said ECCHS President Virginia Karlberg.

For more information on the East Contra Costa Historical Society, visit www.ecchs.net.