November 13, 2017 – Discover a wide range of landmarks associated with women who played prominent roles in Nevada County’s history at the November 18th American Association of University Women (AAUW) meeting, which is open to the public. The historical landmarks, which dot the region’s towns and rural areas, tell the story of the many thousands who came here to make their fortune and to make a difference. Evidence of their successes and occasional failures remains. Guest speakers are Elinor Barnes, Fran Cole, and Bernard Zimmerman, who are members of the Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission. The Commission was established by the Board of Supervisors in 1969 to preserve and promote Nevada County history.

Elinor Barnes is a fourth generation Californian, born in Tulare.  Shortly after the end of World War II, her father reopened the Altaville gold mine near Angels Camp.  It was while spending many happy childhood days there that she developed a love of the Mother Lode and its history.

Fran Cole has been a member of the Nevada County Historical Commission for several years, serving as its Promotional Director.

In that capacity she has recently developed a video featuring people and events of historical interest to Nevada County.

Bernard Zimmerman is the Chair of the Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission.  He and his wife have been instrumental in developing a new interactive “E-Guide” for “Exploring Nevada County.”

The AAUW Nevada County Branch meeting will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 828 West Main Street, Grass Valley, on Saturday, November 18th, at 9:30 – 11:30 am (program begins at 10:00 am). It is free and open to everyone. AAUW membership is open to individuals with an associate, baccalaureate or higher degree from a qualified educational institution. For individuals interested in participating in branch interest groups and other activities, but who have not had the opportunity to complete a degree, the Nevada County Branch offers “Friends of AAUW” membership. For more than 75 years, the AAUW Nevada County Branch has been striving to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. For more information: www.nevadacounty-ca.aauw.net or call 530-470-9395.