Have Fun, Meet People and Share Walnut Creek History

By Jane Roehrig, Resident since 1985

What could be more fun than hanging out with a bunch of wide-eyed third graders as they discover history by doing laundry the old fashioned way with washboards and clothes lines? Or sharing with them your amazing skills at hopscotch, marbles and jacks?

Children going through the Living History program enjoy games from the 18th century like marbles, jacks and hopscotch.

If you prefer, you might want to take those little third graders on an entertaining walking tour exploring the hidden gems, artwork and old buildings that make up our beautiful downtown Walnut Creek. The kids play bingo along the way and marvel at the photos of how our city used to look in bygone days.

If kids aren’t your thing, that’s quite all right. We have walking tours for both children and adults. This hands-(and feet) on experience opens up a memorable new way for the general public and local 3rd graders to see our city.

The Heritage Downtown for active seniors in the heart of downtown: theheritagedowntown.com.

We also need docents to give tours through a magical old Colonial Revival home, completely furnished with beautiful antiques and a very rich history. The house has a working mechanical disk Stella music box from the early 1900s and a Victrola with plenty of old 78 records to spin.

No matter what your cup of tea--we have that, too--an enchanting Victorian Christmas tea that would put even Mr. Scrooge in the holiday spirit.

I moved to Walnut Creek in 1985 and probably walked and drove past The Shadelands house more than a thousand times before I even knew it was a museum. Then, in 2014, when Walnut Creek celebrated its centennial as a city, I happened to be passing by and stopped to check out the festivities. The house was open to the public and I got my first peek inside.

125 miles an hour down to zero. I had a very difficult time relaxing. I was worried that my mind and body were quickly turning into mush. I needed something stimulating. I wanted to meet new friends. I wanted excitement!

Children in the Living History program weigh their walnuts on an antique scale.

Fortunately, I found all of this as a volunteer with the Walnut Creek Historical Society. And the best part is, I did not have to give up my freedom. I am not locked in to a set schedule or a routine. I can work as much or as little as I want.

I enjoy meeting new people and giving tours at the museum. The history of the Penniman family, who built the home, is like a juicy soap opera. I can almost feel the characters come alive when I tell their stories to our guests.

And there is nothing better, in my opinion, than seeing those bright little faces light up when I show them the butter churner or the soap saver. Playing jacks with them brings back so many wonderful memories of my own childhood.

If you’re looking for a great volunteer opportunity that’s educational, fun and flexible, we have it right here in our Northgate neighborhood. You could volunteer for one, two or even all three of these programs. Schedules are flexible. Training is provided. The rewards are priceless.

For information on how to become a docent, or to join the Walnut Creek Historical Society, please contact the Walnut Creek Historical Society for an application: email wcshadelands@ sbcglobal.net or call 925-935-7871.