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

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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

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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

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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net