Contents:
About NAQCPA
Newsletters
Donate to NAQCPA
Almaden Quicksilver Park Info
Mining Museum
Museum Archives
Outdoor Museum
Pioneer Days
New Almaden Days
News, Media, Articles, and Links
Pictures, Special Reports
Almaden Quicksilver Park Events
Events in Other Parks
_____________
Links:
New Almaden and Almaden
Quicksilver:
New
Almaden
Self-Guided Walking Tour
Almaden
Quicksilver Mining Museum
Mining Museum
Archives
Directions
to Almaden Quicksilver
Almaden
Quicksilver County Park
Trail
Map
Open
Road TV show on Almaden Quicksilver
Santa Clara County Parks:
Santa Clara County Parks
Homepage
Calendar
of County Parks Activities
Play
Here! Activities Guide
Park
Here! Guide to the County Parks
County
Parks Volunteer Information
Volunteer
Calendar
County
Parks Healthy Trails Program
Parks for Life
Challenge
Santa
Clara
County Parks on Facebook
Ron
Horii's
Pictures of the Santa Clara County Parks
Ron Horii's
Pictures
of
County Park Volunteer Activities
Parks and Community:
Ron Horii's SF Bay
Rec &
Travel
Friends of Santa
Teresa Park
Friends of Los
Alamitos Watershed
New
Almaden Community Club (webpage under construction)
Webmaster
Contact
|

Welcome
to
the New Almaden
Quicksilver County
Park Association
(NAQCPA) website. Our purpose is to promote the
educational and
interpretive activities of the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation
Department, particularly in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. See below
for information about NAQCPA, our past and present activities, and how
you can join or help with the park. Also below is information about
Almaden Quicksilver County Park, maps, trail descriptions, and park
events. See the links on the side for related websites. Visit our Facebook
page. We have a new email address: naqcpa.newalmaden@gmail.com
News:
Ron
Horii had an exhibit at the Campbell Library in downtown Campbell from
2/1 to 2/28/19. It was based on his 2011
exhibition at the Santa Teresa Library.
He had posters with pictures of Santa Teresa County Park, Almaden
Quicksilver County Park, other County Parks, open space preserves, San
Francisco Bay parks, and San Jose parks. Here
is an album showing the exhibition.
A new
map is available for Almaden Quicsilver County Park.
Maps are being updated for all the County Parks. They show numbers at
every trail junction. Trail signs will have those numbers on them
eventually. The idea is that problems can be reported by listing the
nearest trail junction numbers.
On 4/13/19, there was a BioBlitz held at the
Mockingbird Hill Lane entrance to Almaden Quicksilver County Park,
sponsored by Keep
Coyote Creek Beautiful
and organized by biologist Merav Vonshak. "A BioBlitz is an event that
focuses on finding and identifying as many species as possible in a
specific area over a short period of time. At a BioBlitz,
scientists, families, students, teachers, and other community members
work together to get an overall count of the plants, animals, fungi,
and other organisms that live in a place." A large group of
participants divided up into smaller groups and documented plant and
animal life around the staging area and the nearby trails. These
are the results of the BioBlitz. Here
are pictures of the BioBlitz (need to sign onto Facebook to
view them).
Nearly
all the interpretive signs in the park have been replaced with new
signs, made of a more durable material. The signs were getting faded or
discolored after years of exposure to the elements. The worst was the
incline tramway sign, which suffered damage from the heavy rains of
2017. Above shows the sign from before (from 3/13/19) and after
(4/12/19) replacement.
On
7/7/19, there was a small grass fire on the north side of Alamitos Road
below the Alamitos Vineyard. San Jose Fire Department and CalFire
crews, including a Calfire helicopter, were able to stop the fire
before it could spread to the vineyard or surrounding hills in Almaden
Quicksilver County Park. The Alamitos Vineyards has their own fire
truck, which has appeared in the New Almaden Parade. It also fought the
fire.
From
7/8-7/12/19, the Casa Grande was closed for fumigation to kill pests.

The
annual Play Like a Miner event was held at the Casa Grande on 8/3/19.
About 450 people attended. Here are pictures: Play
Like a Miner Part 1, Outside Activities 8/3/19, Play
Like a Miner Part 2, Casa Grande & Blacksmith Shop 8/3/19
On
8/16/19, several NAQCPA members went on a boat tour of the Alviso
Slough. It was narrated by Park Interpreter Luke Bailey. Here are more pictures of the
boat tour.
The boat went down the Alviso Slough all the way to its confluence with
Coyote Creek. We saw lots of birds along the way, including an osprey.
Luke talked about the history of the Bay, plants and animals in the
wetlands, and the future challenge of sea level rise.
The New Almaden
Day Parade was held on 9/14/19.
Afterwards, the carnival
was held at the Community Center.

On 9/28/19, there was an ice cream social event for County Parks
volunteers at Vasona Lake.

On
9/29/19, there was a Quicksilver
History Hike,
led by Park Interpreters Chris Carson and Steve Leong, accompanied by
Park Docent Ron Horii. The hike went along the Wood Road Trail to Mine
Hill and the Rotary Furnace. There will be more hikes like this on
10/26/19, 11/24/19, 12/28/19, 1/26/20, 2/29/20, 3/29/20, 4/25/20.

On
9/30/19, a County Parks ranger promotion and badging ceremony was held
at the Casa Grande. Flint Glines was promoted to Chief Park Ranger.
Julie Cooper and Frank Weiland were promoted to Park Ranger
Supervisors. Ruben Suarez, Melissa Rodriguez, Christopher Shear,
Jackson Bramham, Bryce Winter, and Carley Bolitho received their badges
as Park Rangers. Above, left to right are Supervising Ranger Aniko
Millan, Ruben Suarez, Melissa Rodriguez, Christopher Shear, Frank
Weiland, Flint Glines, Julie Cooper, Jackson Bramham, Bryce Winter, and
Carley Bolitho.
On 10/12/19, NAQCPA, the New Almaden Quicksilver
County Park Association, celebrated their 37th anniversary at their
annual Pioneer
Day event. This year, it was held at the Casa Grande. It
featured the wagon restoration and Estaban Tunnel at the Blacksmith
Shop.
On
November 3, 2019, long-time NAQCPA member Bob Meyer passed away from
natural causes. He joined NAQCPA a year after it was formed and served
as its treasurer for many years. He helped at Pioneer Days, collecting
donations. Here
is his obituary:
"Robert Warren Meyer, May 2, 1932 – November 3, 2019, Resident of Los
Gatos. Robert passed away peacefully at his home in Los Gatos. Robert
is survived by his loving wife Patricia, his children Robert, Kathleen,
David, Gary, and his 6 grandchildren Samantha, Elizabeth, Brian,
Spencer, Jennifer, Olivia and great grandchild Jacob. Robert was born
in St. Louis, Missouri and grew up in Webster Groves, Missouri. He met
Patricia while they both attended the University of New Mexico. Robert
and Patricia were married in 1953 and called Los Gatos their home for
53 years. Robert served as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. He
loved the outdoors and filled his days with activities
including
skiing, running, biking, swimming and working in his yard. He will be
missed. A celebration of life will be held at the First Congregational
Church on November 23rd at 2pm, reception will follow the service."
On
November 7, 2019, at 7
pm in the Santa Teresa Golf Club Upper Banquet Room, New
Almaden
Quicksilver County Park Association President and Friends of Santa
Teresa Park (FOSTP) Vice-President Kitty Monahan gave a talk on "New
Almaden and Its Quicksilver Mines." This was the description of the
talk: "FOSTP
is honored to present Kitty Monahan, President of the New Almaden
Quicksilver County Park Association. She is known for giving
entertaining presentations about New Almaden Quicksilver County Park's
natural, cultural, and mining history. Don't miss this colorful
slideshow event with her expert experience and humorous storytelling.
The New Almaden mine was once the wealthiest mine in North America and
one of the reasons for the success of the 1849 California Gold
Rush. Learn about what mining life was like for the 1848-1972
miners
and settlers, who worked, lived, and died at this fabulous historical
wild west mining town!" Here's the flyer
for this event.
On
11/16/19, there was another BioBlitz held at the Mockingbird Hill Lane
entrance to Almaden Quicksilver County Park, sponsored by Keep Coyote
Creek Beautiful
and organized by biologist Merav Vonshak. It was a follow-up to the
spring BioBlitz held here on 4/13/19 (see above). See
here for pictures of the BioBlitz and links to the results.
On
Sunday, December 15, 2019, this event was held at the Casa Grande:
"Learn about the Victorian era at Casa Grande while participating in
activities from the 1880s with costumed staff and docents. There will
be demonstrations, crafts, and guided tours of the museum. Fun for the
whole family." Here
are pictures of the event (Facebook sign-in required). Above
are park interpretive staff members Whitney, Victoria, and
Lynda in period dress.
Below
are pictures of the historic wagon restoration project from 2014 to
2019:

Front of wagon, 6/29/14

Rear of wagon, 6/29/14

Wagon 2/14/15

Wagon 10/26/19

Wagon Restoration 12/15/19
NAQPA
members have been restoring an historic wagon at the Blacksmith Shop.
It was once parked in the yard behind the Casa Grande and used as a
stage. The elements have taken their toll on the wooden parts. They
have been replaced with new wood. The latest addition is the bench on
top. The most challenging part will be restoring the wooden wheels.
On
2/8/20, Chinese New Year Living History Day was held at the Casa
Grande. There were decorations, demonstrations, displays, and crafts
that were related to Chinese culture and Lunar New Year traditions.
Above is a demonstration of Chinese calligraphy. The New Almaden Mines
have Chinese connections. Chinese immigrants worked in the mines and in
the towns. In the 1850's, valuable cinnabar and mercury from New
Almaden was sent to China. In gratitude, the emperor of China sent a
pavilion with carved walls and columns. It stood on the grounds of the
Casa Grande until it was washed away in a flood. Parts of the pavilion,
or Ting in Chinese, survived. A group called the Friends of the New
Almaden Ting are working on restoring it. They had an informational
display, including a model of the Ting.
On
2/22/20, there was a Senior Resource Fair at Oakridge Mall. There were
exhibitors providing information about resources and volunteer
opportunities for seniors and the community. Johnny Khamis' office
invited the Friends of Santa Teresa Park (FOSTP) and the Friends of the
New Almaden Ting (FONAT) to participate. Both groups shared tables,
staffed by Mike Boulland, Steve Crockett, and Jennie Yeung. For FONAT,
they had the wooden model of the Ting, a 3D photograph of one of the
actual columns, historic photographs, and informational pamphlets.
The
COVID-19 pandemic has had major effects on the County Parks,
the
New Almaden Community, and NAQCPA. COVID-19 restrictions, which started
in March, 2020 and are in force until lifted, have resulted in the
following:
- While most of the County Parks,
including Almaden Quicksilver,
have remained open for trail use, some facilities have been closed and
some activities have been prohibited. The situation is subject to
change. Check
the County Parks' website for the latest updates.
- Live
meetings of the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association cannot
be held. We have not been able to hold Zoom meetings.
- The
Casa Grande, the home of the New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, is
closed, including the office and archive area. That means all volunteer
and interpretive activities, such as tours, archiving, and events,
cannot be held. There will be no Living History Day and Play Like a
Miner events.
- The NAQCPA newsletter cannot be
published because it requires the facilities of the Casa Grande.
- Group
events, both public and private, in New Almaden and in Almaden
Quicksilver County Park cannot be held. That means there will be no New
Almaden Parade/Carnival and no Pioneer Day.
- There will be no group hikes led by
volunteers, interpreters, or rangers.
Since
County Park trails have remained open, usage has skyrocketed, resulting
in parking lots filling up and trails becoming crowded. There are maps
of some parks showing recommended
road-width trails.
The maps have been highlighted to show trails that are wide enough to
maintain at social 6-feet social distancing when passing. There isn't a
modified map
for Almaden Quicksilver
yet. In general, most of the trails in park are wide, except for the
hiking-only trails, like the New Almaden, Cinnabar, Buena Vista, and
Prospect 3.
There have been personnel changes in the County Parks' Department since
the start of the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Park Interpreter Chris Carson
retired. Bridgett Orcutt-Diaz
retired earlier.
- Park Interpreter Dan LaFlash left the
department. Kelsi Ju also left before the shutdown.
- Park
Interpreter Jan Shriner has been temporarily re-assigned to work on
COVID-19 contact tracing, as has Patricia Vasquez, who worked in the
Volunteer Program office.
- Volunteer Program Manager Julie Lee has
been temporarily re-assigned to work in the County's housing
program.
- Debra King is temporarily working in the
Volunteer Program Office.
- Julie
Kahrnoff in the Volunteer Program Office got married. She's now Julie
Abbatelli. In May, she left the department to take a job in Valley
Water.
- 2 new interpreters joined the
department: Travis Trinh and Rob McDonnell, joining fellow interpreters
Luke Bailey and Victoria Heyse. They are doing virtual
programs now (see below).
- Rachel Caoili was hired as extra help in
the interpretive department in the Calero/Almaden Quicksilver unit.
- Senior
Ranger Holly Maximovich moved from the Calero/Almaden Quicksilver unit
to Ed Levin. Ranger Sadie Webster is now the acting senior ranger at
Calero/Almaden Quicksilver.
While organized group events in the County Parks and
open space preserves have been suspended due to COVID-19, videos
and Zoom conferences are available from various organizations.
Here are some examples (note: Facebook sign-in may be required):
We are very sad to announce that Mary
Lee Baiocchi, long-time NAQCPA member and
docent at the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, passed away. Here is
her Obituary
in the Mercury News:
Mary Lee Baiocchi
January 6, 1934 - November 21, 2020
Resident of San Jose
Mary Lee Baiocchi,"Cookie" to her family and friends, passed away
peacefully Saturday, November 21, 2020. She was a loving wife, mother,
sister, aunt and godmother. She is survived by her two sons Greg
(Josie) and Ken (Stephanie), sister Barbara and niece Stacia. She is
together now in heaven with her devoted husband Jerry Baiocchi,
daughter-in-law Sharon Baiocchi, and sisters Georgia Lumley and Bea
Lumley.
Mary Lee was the daughter of George and
Irene Smoot. She was a San Jose native and proud graduate of Notre Dame
High School Class of '51 and San Jose City College. She worked as an
instructor for Pacific Bell, becoming one of the first female
supervisors and trainers in the San Jose area. After taking time off to
raise her boys, she returned to the phone company, working in various
roles until retirement in 1988.
Mary Lee had a
vibrant "second act" after retirement. As the granddaughter and
daughter of New Almaden Quicksilver mine workers, she had a strong
connection to the rich history of the area. She served as a history
docent for over 30 years at the New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum
and served on the board of the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Association, activities that she shared with her lifelong friend Kitty
Monahan. She was recognized as the Santa Clara County Parks Volunteer
of the Year in 2006.
Mary Lee was involved with many other groups
and activities, including the San Jose Women's Club, Almaden Valley
Rotary Club, Transfiguration Catholic Church, Santa Theresa Women's
Golf Club, and numerous book clubs. Mary Lee also acted and sang with
the Almaden Senior Players acting troupe.
Mary
Lee had an inquisitive mind, a faith-filled heart and a thirst for
knowledge. Her library is full of books that range in topics near and
far. She loved all animals and enjoyed art classes and piano lessons.
She loved to travel, explore cultures and meet people. Her favorite
spot was Hawaii by far.
Due to pandemic
restrictions, Mary Lee was laid to rest in a private family service. A
memorial mass will follow when it's safe to gather.
We loved Cookie and if you knew her, you loved her as well. In honor of
Mary Lee, you may light a candle or make a donation in her memory at
San Jose's Notre Dame High School or Transfiguration Catholic Church.

In January of 2021, John Slenter passed away at his
home in Arizona. John was a longtime resident of New Almaden. He was an
active volunteer for NAQCPA and helped with the Pioneer Day events. He
later became an interpreter for the County Parks, working at Almaden
Quicksilver. For many years, he gave van tours of the park.
At the 2009
Pioneer Day, he drove guests to the event in a park van and
served as the master of ceremonies (see picture above). After he
retired from the County Parks, he moved to Arizona to be with his
family.
On May
4, 2021, longtime NAQCPA member and County Parks docent John Atwood
passed away at his home in San Jose. Here
is his obituary. He knew the Almaden Quicksilver Mines better
than most people because he worked as a surveyor in the mines for 2
years, before spending 33 years as a surveyor for Santa Clara County.
As a volunteer for NAQCPA, he worked in the Casa Grande as a docent,
giving tours to visitors. During events at the Casa Grande, like Play
Like a Miner, he would bring out his surveying equipment and
show kids how to use them, as well as how to read maps.
Update 2021: The past 2 years have been
difficult for NAQCPA. The last board meeting was held on
2/12/20. The board has been unable to meet due to COVID-related
closures and the death and disability of many of the board's members.
We could not even meet on Zoom. The Casa Grande was closed for over a
year, starting in March of 2020, so volunteers could not go in to work
on the archives or the NAQCPA newsletter. Docent activities were
suspended, and most of the County Parks' interpretive staff were
re-deployed as Disaster Service Workers (DSW) to help with the
pandemic. In 2021, the Casa Grande re-opened, and some activities and
events are starting to come back. However, many staff members,
including several park interpreters, are still on DSW assignment. It
was
unclear when and if the NAQCPA board would meet again. Key
volunteers working on the newsletter have health issues and are no
longer able to work on it, even if facilities were
available.
It's not clear whether the newsletter will be published again. Pioneer
Day was cancelled in 2020 and 2021. It may be held again in 2022.
NAQCPA is still partially active. A small
group of
members still does maintenance projects in the park.
The
Casa Grande was decorated and open for the 2021 holiday season. On
12/18/22, there was a Victorian Holiday Craft event there. Visitors
could make cornucopias, which were traditional Christmas tree ornaments
during the Victorian era. The Blacksmith shop was also open for touring.
History
hikes have resumed in Almaden Quicksilver, led by park interpreters. On
2/26/22, Park Interpreter Luke Bailey, with help from NAQCPA member
Mike Cox, led a history hike on the Wood Road Trail to the Rotary
Furnace and English Camp. There was a huge turnout. Over 70 people came
to it. Here are pictures of
the hike. See the events
schedule below for future hikes.
Update
4/15/22: Starting in January 2022, Melissa Hippard, the County
Parks Strategic Partnership and Revenue Development Manager, wanted to
have a discussion about NAQCPA's partnership with the department. This
started a series of Zoom meetings, initiated by Tere Johnson, to
discuss
NAQCPA's fate and future
plans. The first meeting was on 1/24/22. We decided to keep NAQCPA
going, maintain and possibly enhance our partnership with the County
Parks, elect new board members, recruit new members, start a Facebook
page, keep the small maintenance group active, publish an e-newsletter
and email it to members, participate in park activities at the Casa
Grande, and hold a Pioneer Day. Tere Johnson was elected President. Art
Bouldreault volunteered to serve as temporary treasurer. Mike Cox
agreed to serve as temporary secretary. In later meetings,
Mike
Cox was elected vice president and Lisa
Laymon was elected secretary. Sue
McLain is being trained by Art to eventually become treasurer. Ron
Horii continued as webmaster.
NAQCPA now has a Facebook
page.
If you're a Facebook member, check it out and join it. You can see the
latest news, as well as historic pictures and stories. You can comment
on them, ask questions, or post
your own.


The County Parks' PixInParks
Challenge
runs from May 1 until December 15, 2022. Participants hike 7
trail
routes in different parks, take a picture at the prescribed destination
points, and post the pictures on social media, with the hashtag
#PixInParks. After completing the challenge, they can get a t-shirt or
bandana. The route at Almaden Quicksilver follows the Deep Gulch Trail
to English Camp and returns on the Mine Hill Trail, with a picture spot
at English Camp (above). Other hikes are at Santa Teresa, Ed Levin, Mt.
Madonna, Coyote Lake/Harvey Bear, Upper Stevens Creek, and Sanborn.
Sat. May 21, 7-9 pm. Preservation Awards Night.
History San Jose
Park. $15 General Admission, Under 18 Free. In recognition of this
year’s National Preservation Month, the newly formed Santa Clara County
Preservation Alliance will host a Preservation Awards Night to bring
the public and local preservation groups together for a celebratory
event. NAQCPA President Kitty Monahan and NAQCPA member Bruce Bartlett
will be
honored at this event. See here for
more information and to purchase tickets.
The intent of the SCCPA Awards Night is:
- To
recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations in the community
who have made outstanding contributions to historic preservation.
- To showcase
exemplary preservation throughout the community that may serve as
inspiration for future preservation.
- To encourage
preservation of historic homes or buildings that may prevent future
demolition of historic properties.
- To educate the
community on the merits of historic architecture and preservation.
- To share ideas
and projects various preservation groups throughout the county.
Here are pictures from the 1st
Annual Preservation Alliance Awards Night, 5/21/22.
This
is NAQCPA's and FOSTP's table at the Preservation Alliance Awards Night
at History San Jose. Veronica Jordan staffed the table, talked to
visitors, and passed out information. The table, which had pictures and
brochures, was shared with Mike Boulland and the Friends of Santa
Teresa Park. Mike had pictures of Kitty Monahan, who besides serving as
President of NAQCPA, was also Vice President of the Friends of Santa
Teresa Park.
At
the Preservation Alliance Awards Night, Bruce Bartlett received the
Distinguished Preservation Service Award for his work on
projects
at Almaden Quicksilver.
At
the Preservation Alliance Awards Night, former NAQCPA President Kitty
Monahan was awarded the
Preservation Lifetime Achievement Award. Tere Johnson (left), read the
award, while Mike Cox (right) accepted the award for Kitty. She could
not attend due to her health conditions. Kathy Sutherland (center),
assistant to County Supervisor Cindy Chavez, is holding a commendation
from the Board of Supervisors to Kitty. Here's a link to the video
of the award presentations to Kitty.

On
June 1, NAQCPA members visited Kitty Monahan at her house and presented
her with the awards. She was happy to see everyone and receive the
awards.
On
July 9, 2022 from 11 am to 3 pm, after a 2-year absence, the Play Like a Miner event was
held again at the Casa Grande: "Imagine a day in the life of a mercury
miner and other 19th century residents of New Almaden at this fun
family event, featuring games, crafts, rocks, and mining-era activities
for all ages." There was a simulated mine tunnel (above). Here are pictures of the event. Here
are pictures from the previous Play Like a Miner in 2019: Play
Like a Miner Part 1, Outside Activities 8/3/19, Play
Like a Miner Part 2, Casa Grande & Blacksmith Shop 8/3/19.
NAQCPA
has been holding its annual Pioneer Day celebration event since 1983.
Its purpose has been to celebrate the New Almaden miners and their
families or to dedicate signs or projects in the park. However, due to
the pandemic, it was canceled in 2020 and 2021. We are planning to hold
it this year on 10/8/22 starting at 11:00 am at the Casa Grande. Planning is in progress. Here is a poster for the event.
Come meet our new NAQCPA Board, hear from local community leaders and
listen to live music from the fabulous StarGeezers. We will serve a
tasty empanada lunch around 12:00 and will pay tribute to Kitty Monahan
and other dear NAQCPA friends who have passed in the last couple years. Here are pictures of some of the past Pioneer Days,
with a list of all them and excerpts of newsletter articles
about them. Above is Pioneer
Day 2016.
 The
County Parks are conducting a user survey. These signs are posted all
over the parks. If you take the survey, which is free, you are entered
into a contest to win a prize. NAQCPA donated the prizes, which are 5
$100 gift cards. Here is the survey website.
We
are very sad to report that NAQCPA's co-founder and President for
nearly
40 years, Kitty Monahan, passed away on July 25, 2022. She has been in
declining health the past few months. Most recently, she fell and
suffered a hip fracture. She received hospice care and passed away
peacefully at home. A celebration of life/memorial for Kitty will be
held at the Santa Clara County Horsemen's Association at 20350 McKean Road, San Jose, on September 4 at
1:00 pm. Here's a biography of Kitty from 2018. Here's an article about her death in the Mercury News. Here's her obituary. Here are pictures of Kitty over the years at different events for different organizations:
 On
9/4/22, there was a Celebration of Life for Kitty Monahan at the Santa
Clara County Horsemen's Association. Kitty was a lifelong member of the
club. She joined it in 1983 and was an
avid equestrian. A couple hundred people came to the celebration.
There were scheduled speakers and an open mic where anyone could come
up and share their memories of Kitty. Here are pictures and videos of the event: There
will be 2 weeding work days at the Hacienda Entrance to Almaden
Quicksilver County Park on 9/11 and 10/9 from 9 am to 12 pm. Come and
help remove invasive plants. If you can help, contact the County Parks
Volunteer Office. Sign up here. Here's a flyer for the event.
 The
38th annual Pioneer Day, in the 40th year since NAQCPA was founded, was
held at the Casa Grande on 10/8/22. The theme was to honor and
memorialize NAQCPA leaders who have recently passed away. They included
John Slenter, John Atwood, Mary Lee Baiocchi, Bob Meyer, and of course,
Kitty Monahan. Speakers and audience members gave tributes to them.
Visiting dignitaries included San Jose City Councilmember Matt Mahan,
State Senator Dave Cortese, and Melissa Hippard representing County
Parks Director Don Rocha. Senator Cortese presented a recognition
certificate to NAQCPA. Boy Scouts led the flag salute. The Stargeezers
provided musical entertainment during lunch, which was empanada meals
from the Big E Cafe. Russell Pearce showed a New Almaden voter registry
from 1896, showing names of many well-known New Almaden ancestors.
Photo albums from the NAQCPA archives, containing
hundreds of pictures of past NAQCPA events and historic scenes of New
Almaden were on display. There was a door prize drawing. For pictures
and videos of the event, see these Facebook albums: This
is artist Gillian Altieri with the cutout figure of Kitty Monahan. Rich
Robertson made the cutout from plywood. Gillian painted it. It will be
installed in the Hacienda Outdoor Museum. Kitty's figure will greet
visitors. John Drew, long-time NAQCPA member, passed away in 2022 at the age of 92. He was the descendant of New Almaden miners. Here's his obituary.
This is an excerpt from it: "John reconnected with his family roots at
the Almaden Quicksilver Mines by volunteering his time at the Museum as
a researcher and docent. He was there for over 25 years and was awarded
a plaque for his many hours of service." Celebration Of Life: 11/5/22,
12:00 p.m. Foothill Presbyterian Church, 5301 McKee Rd., San Jose, CA.
John attended NAQCPA's annual Pioneer Day celebrations in Almaden
Quicksilver County Park. At the events, he often spoke about his family
and their connections to the New Almaden Mines. Here are pictures of John at Pioneer Days.
 Composite
animated photo prepared by Charles Cox from 1863 Carleton Watkins photo
of New Almaden and the same scene recently photographed by Charles Cox.
Please credit the gif to Charles Cox if sharing or reposting, and
please do not post to online photography resellers or use for
commercial purposes.
About NAQCPA

NAQCPA was originally founded in
1983 and
incorporated in 1984, It is the oldest and largest Santa Clara County
Park friends
organization. If you are interested in
finding out more about Almaden Quicksilver County Park or want to help
with our projects, you are invited to join NAQCPA. You will receive our
newsletters and invitations to our
events, such as Pioneer Day. Dues are used to pay for the newsletter
and our projects. Print
out
and mail
this form for sending in membership dues and donations, which
are
tax-deductible. You can start or renew your membership online (also includes donations). See below for more information about donations.
Current NAQCPA Officers:
- President: Tere Johnson
- Vice President: Mike Cox
- Treasurer: Art Boudreault
- Secretary: Lisa Laymon
NAQCPA is a 501c3
nonprofit
public benefit corporation: Articles
of
Incorporation
Here is a document about NAQCPA's history,
originally prepared by Art Boudreault and passed out in 2017 at Pioneer
Day. It was updated by Mike Cox for Pioneer Day 2022. (Updated 11/15/22
to correct errors and add John Drew to Obituaries.)
NAQCPA
has published and mailed out paper newsletters to members, usually quarterly,
starting in April 1983. The last issue was published in 2020. It was
stopped because of pandemic restrictions and disabilities of the
editors. It has been resumed in 2022 as an e-newsletter. It was
emailed to members whose email addresses are on file or if they sent
their email addresses to:
naqcpa.newalmaden@gmail.com Members who need a paper copy can request one by sending a letter with their return address to our address below.
New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association PO Box 124 New Almaden, CA 95042-0124
NAQCPA
accepts donations of volunteer time, financial support, and artifacts.
Since NAQCPA is a nonprofit 501c3 corporation recognized by the state
of California and the IRS, donations may be tax-deductible.
VOLUNTEER
- To
volunteer as a museum docent, online museum archivist, or support other
efforts related to the New Almaden Mining Museum, see the Park
Volunteer Program's webpage or call the museum at
408-918-7770.
- To
volunteer with our NAQCPA Volunteer Team for trail clean up, graffiti
mitigation, special projects, or help with our annual Pioneer Day, call
Tere Johnson at 408-406-3001 or email at terenaqcpa@gmail.com.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Financial
support is important to serve our members with newsletter distribution,
historical preservation efforts, as well as fund special projects
throughout the year. You can donate online (also includes membership renewal). Financial contributions by check can be
mailed to:
NAQCPA
P.O. Box 124
New Almaden, CA
95042-0124
ARTIFACTS
- Historic photos, books,
articles or other artifacts related to New Almaden may be considered
for NAQCPA’s or the New Almaden Mining Museum’s archive collection.
- For artifact donation consideration,
call Tere Johnson at 408-406-3001 or email at terenaqcpa@gmail.com.
Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Information

Click
here for
visitor
information about
Almaden Quicksilver County Park These pages, created by Ron Horii, have
park pictures, trail descriptions, information about the New Almaden
Quicksilver
Mining Museum, and related links.
If
you live in or near the Santa Clara Valley or Silicon Valley in
Northern California or are planning a trip to the area, you may enjoy a
visit to the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Come and see our
beautiful park and learn about its wildlife, and many historic
photographs, writings, relics, and landmarks. You can reach the park
office at (408) 268-3883.
Almaden
Quicksilver Mining Museum
Note: the Casa
Grande and the
Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum are temporarily closed due to
problems with the power from PG&E to the heating and air conditioning system. No re-opening
date has been set.
The
Casa
Grande and the Almaden
Quicksilver Mining Museum were closed
for
renovation starting in 2009. The Grand
Re-Opening ceremony was held on Pioneer Day,
November 13, 2010. It re-opened on January 14, 2011. The museum is
open-year round except for Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas Day and New Year's Day. You can reach the museum at
(408) 918-7770. It is located at
21350 Almaden Road in New Almaden.
Call
the museum first to be sure it is open.
Many
NAQCPA members
have served as docents in the museum, giving guided tours. There are
frequent
events at the Casa Grande, such as Living History Days, Play Like a
Miner, and historical talks. See the events
calendar below. There are education
programs for 4-6 graders. (Here is the Teaching
and Activity Guide for Almaden Quicksilver.)

One of the period
rooms in the
Casa Grande

Mining exhibits in the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum
See
Ron Horii's picture and
description of the Casa
Grande for the Visual San Jose 2015 Photo Contest.
The Archives
of the New
Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum are online. NAQCPA members have been helping
to scan
in thousands of historical documents and
pictures into the archive. The archives are available for
searching and viewing. You can search for specific topics using
keywords or just display random images to get a sample of the
collection. You can order high-resolution images without watermarks.
Here is an example of an historic photo from the archives:
This
yard, at the
former site of the Hacienda Reduction Works, contains a collection of
equipment from the New Almaden Mine and the Guadalupe mine. One item of
particular interest is an old wooden Cornish pump from an English
design which was used to pump water out of the mine shafts. Another
unusual item, a cylindrical piece of machinery, was a small rotary
furnace used for extracting Mercury from crushed cinnabar ore.
Hacienda
Mining Display Outdoor Museum

Displays at the Hacienda Outdoor
Museum

For years, there was an
unorganized collection of rusting mining equipment sitting behind a
fence in the Hacienda area of Almaden Quicksilver near the Deep Gulch
Trail entrance. Above is how it looked in 2008.

NAQCPA members, led by Bruce
Bartlett (above), organized, repaired, and re-arranged the equipment
and added other mining equipment. They had interpretive signs made,
paid for the fencing, and created life-size figures.
Pioneer
Days

Pioneer Day 2014,
Rossi Retort
Dedication
Since
1983, NAQCPA has
held their
annual Pioneer Day celebration in Almaden Quicksilver County Park, in
partnership with the County Parks Department. The original purpose of
Pioneer Day was to be a get-together to share stories with former New
Almaden miners and people who remembered the mines. While that is still
the case, it has also been associated with the dedication of historic
sites, interpretive signs, or projects in the park. Most of these were
NAQCPA projects, or NAQCPA members were involved with them.
Pioneer Day – 10/09/22 – Returning after two-year Covid hiatus

NAQCPA's
annual Pioneer Day is a time to remember and celebrate the glory days
of the New Almaden Quicksilver Mine. After a two-year Covid hiatus,
this year's Pioneer Day will be even more special - we will recognize
Kitty for 40 years of NAQCPA leadership, say farewell to NAQCPA leaders
who have passed in the last two years, and hear from a descendent
(Richard Williams) of Cornish Quicksilver Miners. Join us on October
8th, 11:00 am, at the Casa Grande in New Almaden.
- NAQCPA Newsletter
stories about past Pioneer Days (copied from archived
newsletters up to 2004).
- List
of Pioneer Days and their locations.
- Self-running slideshows (Windows
only):
- Pioneer Day, Senador Mine Site, Almaden Quicksilver, 10/11/03 (Facebook album)
- See the pictures
from Pioneer Day in Almaden Quicksilver's Spanishtown,
Saturday
October 14, 2006.
- Pictures from Pioneer Day, October
13, 2007, New
Almaden Community Center, Santa
Isabel Shafthouse Dedication.
- Almaden
Times Weekly article on Pioneer Day, 10/13/07
- Pictures
from Pioneer Day 10/11/08, Wood Road
- Pioneer
Day,
English Camp Map House, 10/10/09
- Almaden
Times Weekly article on Pioneer Day, 10/10/09
- Pioneer
Day:
Reopening of the Casa Grande, 11/13/10
- Pioneer
Day: Hacienda Mining Display Outdoor Museum, 10/8/11
- Pioneer
Day, Almaden Quicksilver 10/13/12, Incline Railroad Sign Dedication
- Pioneer
Day, Almaden Quicksilver 10/12/13, Hacienda Mining Display Outdoor
Museum and Cornish Miners
- Pioneer
Day, Rossi Retort
Dedication at the Rotary Furnace Site, Spanishtown, 10/11/14
- Pioneer
Day, Dedication of the Hacienda Bell Tower, 10/10/15 (Facebook
album version)
- Pioneer
Day, Casa Grande Pathway and Memorial Bench Dedication, October 8, 2016
(Facebook
album version)
- Pioneer
Day, NAQCPA's 35th Anniversary Celebration at the Hacienda Mining
Display, 10/14/17 (Facebook album)
- Pioneer
Day, Almaden Quicksilver County Park, 10/17/18 (Facebook album)
- Pioneer
Day, Almaden Quicksilver, Casa Grande, 10/12/19 (Facebook
album)
- Pioneer Day Returns, Casa Grande 10/8/22, 11 am: poster
- Pioneer Day, Casa Grande, Almaden Quicksilver County Park 10/8/22 (Facebook)
- Pioneer Day 10/8/22 Videos (Facebook)
- 1896 New Almaden Voter Registry (Facebook). High-resolutions versions of the registry pages: Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4
- Photo Albums on Display at Pioneer Day, 10/8/22 (Facebook)
New
Almaden Days

The
Santa Clara County Horsemen's Association at the Jump-In
Parade, 9/13/14
For more than 34 years, the
community of
New Almaden has held their New Almaden Day community celebration,
kicked off by the Jump-In parade. It's an informal parade around the
town, where anyone can jump in and join. Afterwards, there is a
carnival held at the New Almaden Community Center, featuring games,
prizes, food, and entertainment. The last New Almaden Day and
Jump-In Parade was held on Saturday September 14, 2019, starting at
11:00 am at the New Almaden Community Center. It was canceled in 2020
and 2021 due to the pandemic. It will be coming back on September 10,
2022.
- Pictures from New Almaden
Coummunity Day 9/8/07: Jump-In
Parade on Bertram Road, Jump-In
Parade on Almaden Road, Dedication
of Pat Tillman Memorial, and the BBQ
and Games at the New Almaden Community Center.
- New Almaden Community Day Sept. 13,
2008: Jump-In
Parade, BBQ
and Games.
- Almaden
Times Weekly article on New Almaden Day, 9/12/09
- New
Almaden
Jump-In Parade 9/11/10
- Almaden
Times Weekly article on the Jump-In Parade, Sept. 12-23 issue
- New
Almaden Community Day, Jump-In Parade 9/8/12
- New
Almaden
Community Day 9/13/14: Jump-In
Parade, Carnival
at the New Almaden Community Center
- Almaden Times Weekly
article
on the Jump-In Parade, see Sept. 19-Oct. 2, 2014 issue, page 4.
- Facebook:
New
Almaden Day Jump-In Parade, 9/12/15
- Facebook:
New
Almaden Day Carnival, 9/12/15
- Facebook:
New
Almaden Day Jump-In Parade, 9/10/16
- Facebook:
New
Almaden Day Carnival, 9/10/16
- Facebook: New Almaden Day: Jump-In
Parade, 9/9/17, Part
1, Part
2, Carnival
- Facebook: New
Almaden Day: Jump-In
Parade, 9/8/18: parade
preparations, the parade
going north on Almaden Road, the parade
returning south on Almaden Road, and the carnival
after the parade at the Community Center.
- Facebook: New Almaden Day 9/14/19: Jump-In
Parade, Carnival
News,
Media, Articles, and Links

Recipients
of the Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award (L to R): Art
Boudreault, Roy Ichinaga, Ron Horii, Mike Boulland, Ranger John Heenan
accepting for Richard and Margaret Brunner, Kitty Monahan, Jaime Day
- Almaden Times Weekly article, "Living
at the
mines, circa 1880-1914: Quicksilver miners worked hard, played hard"
- Almaden Times Weekly article, "History
Repeats
Itself: Two New Almaden Historic Homes Dedicated With Monuments"
- The
History of Mercury Emissions from the New Almaden Mines, Santa Clara
County, California by Michael Cox
- Bay
Nature Magazine: Legacy of the Red Ore Almaden Quicksilver County Park
by John Dorrance, 1/1/02
- You can vote to save the Casa
Grande! See
here for details.
- The County Parks' Healthy
Trails program includes 2 trail routes in Almaden Quicksilver.
- NAQCPA has adopted 3 trails in
Quicksilver Park: The
Yellow Kid, the Great Eastern and Day Tunnel, and the Deep Gulch Trail.
The trail group meets on the second Wednesday of the month and drives
up to the trail for work from 9 am to 11:30 am. We need volunteers to
help in the spring and summer. Contact Kitty Monahan to volunteer.
- Erosion Reconnaissance of the
Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Santa Clara County, California, August
2007
- San
Jose
Mercury News Section, Where We Live, Almaden Valley.
- Open
Road TV show on Almaden Quicksilver
- Almaden
Resident: Casa Grande in Quicksilver Park set for $5 million building
restoration, March 6, 2009.
- Hacienda
and Deep Gulch Remediation Project Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration, September 14, 2010
- DAR
honor renovation of Santa Clara County's Casa Grande and costuming of
Feather Tippetts, 7/7/11
- On
November 18,
2014, the Santa
Clara County Board of Supervisors presented the Lifetime Presidential
Volunteer Service Award to County Park volunteers (here
is the list). They included several NAQCPA members
and
officers: Kitty Monahan, Mike Boulland, Art Boudreault, Bob Meyer, and
Ron Horii. Here is the commendation
letter from the President. Above is a picture of some of the
award
winners.
- Hacienda and Deep Gulch Remediation Project
- Environmental Review Documents for the
Calcine Roads Remediation Project
- Almaden
Quicksilver County Park Final Trail Master Plan Report, October 1998
- Casa
Grande Historic Structure Report: Volume
1, Volume
2
- Santa
Clara County Parks Links:
- SF
Gate 9/24/14: "Take
a trip back in time at Almaden Quicksilver County Park"
- Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for Calcine Roads Remediation
Project March 2015
- San
Jose Mercury News 3/12/15: "Almaden
Quicksilver Park: Then and Now in Pictures"
- An
episode of Open Road on NBC Bay Area (KNTV) featured the County
Parks' Park for Life Challenge. It featured contestants at
the Casa Grande and Uvas Canyon. Ron Horii's pictures are shown
starting at 5:40.
- Guadalupe
River Watershed Mercury TMDL, May 2016 TMDL Implementation Update
- On February 6, 2017, C-Span interviewed
Luke Bailey and Kitty Monahan for a story about mining
in San Jose. It was part of their 2017 Local Content Vehicles
tour of San Jose, featuring the history and literary life of the
community.
- The Santa Clara County Newsbeat has an online
article and video on the County Parks' PixInParks Challenge,
which includes the Wood Road Trail at Almaden Quicksilver. (Still
pictures were provided by Ron Horii.)
- The March
3, 2022 issue of Almaden Times Weekly
has an article about NAQCPA celebrating 39 years as an organization.
Current President Tere Johnson is on the cover. He wrote
the article, which talks about NAQCPA's history,
accomplishments,
and hopes for the future.
- The April
15, 2022 issue of Almaden Times Weekly
has an article about NAQCPA past president Kitty Monahan receiving The
Preservation Lifetime Achievement Award from the Santa Clara County
Preservation Alliance (SCCPA) on at the Preservation
Awards Night on May 21. Here are pictures
from that event.
Pictures
and
Special Reports

View
of Almaden Reservoir from the Hidalgo Cemetery Trail
Below are webpages, slideshows, and photo albums of
Almaden Quicksilver County Park by Ron Horii. Note that the Facebook
albums may require signing into Facebook.
- Powerpoint
presentation (18 MB) created by Ron Horii, showing activities
in
all the Santa Clara County Parks.
- Almaden
Quicksilver County Park Van Tour 11/17/01
- Facebook: Wood Road Trail Dedication, Almaden Quicksilver, 4/17/04
- Facebook: Wood Road Trail Inaugural Hike Pt.1, Almaden Quicksilver, 4/17/04
- Facebook: Wood Road Trail Inaugural Hike Pt.2, Almaden Quicksilver, 4/17/04
- Pictures from Mike Boulland's and
Art Boudreault's
book
signing at the Casa Grande on 7/12/06.
- Self-running
slideshows (Windows
only):
- Los
Alamitos Creek/Guadalupe River Trail
- Ron
Horii's Outdoor Photography Gallery (includes Almaden
Quicksilver)
- Pictures
from the Los Alamitos
Creek Watershed Cleanup
5/19/07: Page
1: Preparation, Page
2: Cleanup 1, Page
3: Cleanup 2, Page
4: BBQ Lunch.
- Pictures of
wildflowers and park views, Spring 2008:
- Geocaching
Class, Wood Road Trail, June 14, 2008
- Ghost
Tour, Santa Teresa and Almaden, 10/25/09
- Geocaching
Class, Wood Road Trail, Jan. 17, 2009
- Pictures
from the Healthy Trails Hike, Wood Road Trail, Almaden Quicksilver,
3/28/09
- Kiwanis
Ghost Tour of Santa Teresa Park and New Almaden,
10/17/09
- Geocaching
Class, Wood Road Trail, Jan. 16, 2010
- Almaden
Quicksilver HDR
Pictures 2/27/10
- Clean-up
of
Los Alamitos and Guadalupe Creek Watersheds,
New Almaden to Guadalupe Dam 9/25/10
- In
September, 2011, Ron Horii had
a display
of
park pictures at the Santa Teresa Library.
- New
Almaden and Randol Trails (Facebook Album), 12/28/11
- Hike
on the New Almaden, Buena Vista, Randol, Capehorn Pass, and Hacienda
Trails 1/27/12
Note: everything from here down is a Facebook album unless otherwise
noted.
- The
Virl O. Norton Trail, the Easy Part, Almaden Quicksilver, 12/8/12
- Hike
on the Senador, New Almaden, Mine Hill Trails, 12/1/13
- Post
New Year's Hike, Almaden Quicksilver, 1/3/14
- Wood
Road Trail Hike, 2/14/15
- Almaden
Quicksilver National River Cleanup Day, 5/16/15
- 9/11
Service Day at the Casa Grande, Almaden Quicksilver, 9/11/15
- Pierce
Ranch and McAbee Road Entrance to Almaden Quicksilver, 10/25/15
- Pierce
Ridge Tour, 11/3/15
- Quicksilver Holiday
Boutique 12/5/15
- Hacienda
Bell Tower Construction, Almaden Quicksilver County Park (9/20/14 to
1/20/16)
- Anza
Expedition Hike, Almaden Quicksilver, 3/26/16
- Almaden
Quicksilver North Spring Hike, 4/6/16
- V-O-Cal
Trail Day, Almaden Quicksilver, 5/21/16
- Play
Like a Miner, Almaden Quicksilver, 6/18/16
- Living
History Day at the Casa Grande, 7/2/16
- Stone-Wasserman
Breakfast, Casa Grande 8/27/16
- New
Almaden Day Jump-In Parade, 9/10/16
- New
Almaden Day Carnival, 9/10/16
- Quicksilver
Senador Mine Site Restoration, 11/5/16
-
Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver 10/8/16 (webpage) (Facebook
album version)
- Almaden
Quicksilver Holiday Boutique 11/19/16
- Lichen
Hike at Almaden Quicksilver, 1/28/17
- Almaden
Quicksilver Photo Gallery
- Living
History Day, Casa Grande, 3/11/17
- New
Almaden Trail, Almaden Quicksilver, 4/25/17
- Play
Like a Miner, Casa Grande, 6/24/17
- Almaden
Quicksilver Calcine Roads Project, 8/7-8/17
- Volunteer
Recognition BBQ, Casa Grande, 8/12/17
- New
Almaden Ghost Tour, 10/29/17
- Living
History Day, Casa Grande, Almaden Quicksilver, 11/18/17
- Almaden
Quicksilver: Norton to Hacienda Trails, 1/7/18
- Views
of Rancho San Vicente from Almaden Quicksilver, 1/7/18
- Almaden
Quicksilver Plant Hike, 1/14/18
- Almaden
Quicksilver Calcine Roads Project 1/21/18
- Living
History Day, Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, 2/11/18
- Almaden
Quicksilver, Northside Flowers and Views, 3/8/18
- Almaden
Quicksilver Hike: New Almaden to Hacienda, 4/8/18
- Almaden
Quicksilver Flowers and Plants, 4/8/18
- Living
History Day, Casa Grande, 5/6/18
- Play Like a Miner 7/21/18, see here for pictures
of the event, volunteers
and staff, and geology
exhibit
- Almaden
Quicksilver County Park Views, 10/30/18
- Quicksilver
Outdoor Museum and Views, 11/13/18
- Post-Rain
Hike on the New Almaden Trail, 3/12/19
- Almaden
Quicksilver Hike: Deep Gulch to English Camp 3/14/19
- Late
Spring Flowers & Views, Almaden Quicksilver Pt. 1, 5/30/19
- Late
Spring Flowers & Views, Almaden Quicksilver Pt. 2, 6/2/19
- Almaden
Quicksilver Hike: Mine Hill-Hacienda-Capehorn, 6/20/19
- Casa
Grande Fumigation, 7/9/19
- Almaden
Reservoir, Alamitos Rd. Fire, Twin Creeks, 7/9/19
- Backyard
Birding Basics, Almaden Quicksilver 7/21/19
- Play
Like a Miner Part 1, Outside Activities 8/3/19
- Play
Like a Miner Part 2, Casa Grande & Blacksmith Shop 8/3/19
- Wood
Road Hike, Almaden Quicksilver, 8/30/19
- Almaden
Quicksilver History Hike, 9/29/19
- Almaden
Quicksilver History Hike, 10/26/19
- Almaden
Quicksilver Fall 2019 BioBlitz, 11/16/19
- Victorian
Holiday Living History Day, Casa Grande, 12/15/19
- Chinese
Lunar New Year Living History Day, Casa Grande, 2/8/20
- Almaden
Quicksilver Northside Hike, Flowers and Views, 2/11/20
- Almaden
Quicksilver North Side on a Warm Day, 2/22/21
- Almaden
Quicksilver Wildflowers on Poppy Day, 4/6/21
- Almaden
Quicksilver BioBlitz, 4/11/21
- Hicks
Road Wildflower Hotspot, 5/20/21
- Almaden
Quicksilver Early Summer Flowers and Views, 6/7/21
- Ghost
Tour of New Almaden, 10/30/21
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver Pre-BioBlitz Survey, 11/14/21
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver Hike, Part 2, 11/14/21
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver Winter BioBlitz, 12/5/21
- Facebook: Almaden Quicksilver
North, Wildflowers and Views, 2/15/22
- Facebook: New Almaden Trail
Wildflowers, 2/19/22
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver History Hike, 2/26/22
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver BioBlitz, 3/19/22
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver, Wildflowers and Trail Maintenance, 4/15/22
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver Wildflowers and Views, 5/15/22
- Facebook:
Almaden Quicksilver Northside Wildflowers and Views, 5/27/22
- Facebook: Play Like a Miner, Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, 7/9/22
- Facebook: Almaden Quicksilver Treefall Accident Investigation, 9/17/22
- Facebook: Almaden Quicksilver History Hike, Wood Road Trail, 10/23/22
2022
Almaden Quicksilver events

Living History
Day, Casa
Grande, 2/14/15, left to right: Mike Boulland, Mary Moran, Elaine Hill,
Bridgett Orcutt, Doug Bergtholdt
See here for the County Parks' Latest
Play Here Guide.
See
here
for past
events at Almaden Quicksilver and other parks.
- 2022
- Fri.
Jan 21, 10am - 1pm: Almaden Quicksilver Beautification Day. Do you wish
to give back to your County Parks? Here's an opportunity to volunteer
at Almaden Quicksilver County Park and get in your weekend workout.
Join a Park Ranger in brushing the sides of the Yellow Kid trail to
keep the trail wide and accessible. Tools will be provided, but be sure
to bring sturdy hiking boots, as you will be hiking to the work area.
Bring a refillable water bottle, work gloves, and dress in layers for
working in the cold. SIGN
UP
- Sat.
Jan 22, 9am-12pm: Quicksilver History Hike. Explore what remains of the
once-bustling mining operations in the hills above New Almaden. This
moderate, 4-mile hike in Almaden Quicksilver County Park leaves from
the Wood Road parking lot off Hicks Road in San Jose. Dress in layers
with sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and bring plenty of drinking
water. No pre-registration is necessary.
- Sat.
Feb 5, 9am - 12pm: Trail Watch Volunteer Training. Do you love hiking,
biking, or horseback riding in Santa Clara County Parks? As a Trail
Watch volunteer, you could serve to keep our parks friendly, welcoming,
and safe. Attend the virtual Trail Watch Academy training via Zoom to
join our team of volunteers. Questions? Email
volunteer@park.sccgov.org. SIGN
UP
- Sat. Feb
26, 9am-12pm: Quicksilver History Hike. See Jan 22.
- Sat. March 26th, Sat. June 25, Sun. July 24, Sun.
August 28 9:00 am - 12:00pm. Quicksilver History Hike. Join an Almaden Quicksilver Park Interpreter to
explore what remains of the once-bustling mining operations in the
hills above New Almaden. This moderate 3-4 mile hike leaves from the
Wood Road parking lot of Almaden Quicksilver County Park and is offered
once a month. Registration for the hike opens on the 1st of the month
that the hike is offered. Space is limited. For more information call
408-918-7700. Advanced
registration required.
- Wed. March 30, 6:00 pm-7:00 pm .The Stupendous Women of the Santa Clara Valley.
Throughout its history, many incredible women have lived in the Santa
Clara Valley. A look back at the valley in the 19th and early 20th
centuries offers the chance to examine the lives of a few of the women
who stood out from everyone else. Questions? Email
Rob.McDonnell@prk.sccgov.org. Sign
up here.
- Sun. April 24, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm,
Earth Day Event. Help beautify the grounds of the historic Casa Grande.
Contact Info: Volunteer Program Office (408) 918-4930. Address: 21350
Almaden Rd. San Jose 95120. Meet in the main parking lot of Casa Grande
(home of the Quicksilver Mining Museum). See
here for more Earth Day events and to sign up.
- Sun. April 24, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Quicksilver History Hike. See March 26. Advanced
registration required.
- Sat.
May 21, 9am - 12 pm. National River Cleanup Day, multiple locations.
National River Cleanup is a national day of action to protect our
rivers, watersheds, and wildlife from trash and debris. Since its
inception in 1991, American Rivers have engaged more than 1.3 million
volunteers who have participated in thousands of cleanups across the
country, covering more than 261,000 miles of waterways and removing
more than 32.5 million pounds of litter and debris. More
information and sign ups.
- Sat. July 9, 9 am - 3 pm. Play Like a Miner. Imagine
a day in the life of a mercury miner and other 19th
century residents of New Almaden at this fun family event, featuring
games, crafts, rocks, and mining-era activities for all ages.
Questions? Email jaclyn.caldwell@prk.sccgov.org.
- Sun. September 11 and Sun. October 9, 9 am - 12 pm. Weeding Party at Almaden
Quicksilver, Hacienda Entrance, 21785 Almaden Road, San Jose. Join park
rangers in managing the forest health of Almaden Quicksilver Park. Work
will involve directed vegetation treatments including removal of
excessive brush and targeted invasive species. Bring layered clothing,
work gloves (if you have them), sun protection, and a water bottle.
Additional work gloves, water, and snacks will be provided. Best for
adults and youth age 14 and up. Volunteers may need to hike up the
trail to the treatment area(s). Contact info: Brian Christensen (408)
438-1458. See here to sign up.
- Sat.
October 8. Pioneer Day, 11:00 am, Casa Grande, Almaden Quicksilver
Mining Museum. Come meet our new NAQCPA Board, hear from local
community leaders and listen to live music from the fabulous
StarGeezers. We will serve a tasty empanada lunch around 12:00 and will
pay tribute to Kitty Monahan and other dear NAQCPA friends who have
passed in the last couple years.
.
2019-2022
Events at Other Parks

From the Rancho
San Vicente
Hike, 3/28/15
These events are mostly at neighboring
parks, like Santa Teresa, Calero, and Hellyer.
See
here for Santa
Clara Open Space Authority events.
See
here
for past
events at Almaden Quicksilver and other parks.
- 2022
- Sat,
Jan 15, 2 - 3pm: Hatch A Dream. January is the best time for seeing
nests! We will explore nest specimens, attempt our own nest weaving,
and take a mindful stroll of discovery. Meet at Anderson Lake Visitor
Center, 19245 Malaguerra Ave., Morgan Hill. Email
janet.shriner@prk.sccgov.org for more information.
- Jan
15 - 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Weekend of Service. "Everybody can
be great, because everybody can serve" Martin Luther King, Jr. In honor
of the holiday, we celebrate the civil rights leader's life and legacy
as a national day of service, encouraging all Americans to volunteer to
improve their communities. Santa Clara County Parks will be hosting
beautification events throughout the weekend at different county park
locations where volunteers can join park staff to plant, weed and pick
up litter. VOLUNTEER
SITES
- Beginning
Sat, Jan 15: Alivso Weeding Parties. Santa Clara County Parks is
partnering with San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory for multiple habitat
restoration events at Alviso Marina County Park, beginning Saturday,
January 15. We need volunteers to help pull weeds, plant new native
plants, and spread mulch to help restore this coastal habitat. SIGN
UP
- Sun,
Jan 16, 5:30 - 6:30pm: Full Moon Explorers. Join Park Interpreter
Katrina to explore the moon and the night sky on a dusk-to-dark walk at
historic Bernal Ranch. Share your traditions that involve the moon, get
to know the lunar phases, and navigate through the ranch using only the
light from the night sky. Families are welcome. Best for ages 8+.
- Wed,
1/26, 2/2, & 2/9, 6 - 7:15pm: Neighborhood Naturalists. Curious
about the natural world in your own neighborhood? This educational
program for adults introduces participants to the natural history of
Santa Clara County. Each week will bring expert guest speakers who
cover local geology, native plants, and common wildlife, as well as
"homework" activities including neighborhood walks, stargazing, and
nature journaling. Email luke.bailey@prk.sccgov.org for more
information
- Sat,
Feb 5, 9am - 12pm: Trail Watch Volunteer Training. Do you love hiking,
biking, or horseback riding in Santa Clara County Parks? As a Trail
Watch volunteer, you could serve to keep our parks friendly, welcoming,
and safe. Attend the virtual Trail Watch Academy training via Zoom to
join our team of volunteers. Questions? Email
volunteer@park.sccgov.org. SIGN
UP
- Fri,
March 4, 9:30am - 12pm: Bernal Ranch
Chicken Coop Cleaning. Chicken-loving
volunteers are needed to help revamp the chicken display coop at the
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch of Santa Teresa County Park. Join park staff
to help prepare the coop for a future flock of resident hens. Sign up
to help scoop out old shavings, rake out and pack down the run, and
assist with general repairs.
- Sun,
March 13, 6 - 7pm. Family Twilight Oaks Stroll. Take a walk in the
early-evening light and explore
the wonderful oak woodlands along the new trail at historic Bernal
Ranch. Learn about the value of this protected habitat and look for
signs of native wildlife as the daylight fades toward darkness. Be sure
to dress in layers and bring a flashlight for this family-friendly
activity. For more information, email katrina.semene@prk.sccgov.org.
Space is limited.
- Wednesday, March 30, 6:00 pm-7:00 pm .The Stupendous Women of the Santa Clara Valley.
Throughout its history, many incredible women have lived in the Santa
Clara Valley. A look back at the valley in the 19th and early 20th
centuries offers the chance to examine the lives of a few of the women
who stood out from everyone else. Questions? Email
Rob.McDonnell@prk.sccgov.org. Sign
up here.
- Fri.
April 22, 5-6 pm. Walk In The Woods Field Notes In Nature. Have you
ever wondered how new discoveries are made? We can often learn about
the world around us through careful observation and note taking. Join
Park Interpreter Rob in the Santa Teresa County Park grasslands and oak
woodlands for an Earth Day late afternoon nature walk where you can
learn some techniques for field notes, drawing, and nature journaling.
The trail will be unpaved and have slight grades. Be prepared with
comfortable walking shoes. Email rob.mcdonnell@prk.sccgov.org for more
information. Registrations required. Sign
up here.
- Sat.
April 23, 6 - 7pm. Family Twilight Oaks
Stroll. See March 13. Registrations required. Sign
up here.
- Sun.
April 24 9am-12pm. Earth Day Cleanup Event at the Bernal Ranch. Help do
weeding and cleanup around the ranch house and nearby paths. Address:
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch 372 Manila Dr San Jose, CA 95119. Contact
Info: Volunteer Program Office (408) 918-4930.Park in the
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch Parking Lot. There will also be street
parking available. Sign
up here.
- Sat.
April 30, 9:30 am - 10:30 am. Nature Exploration at Vasona! Join a Park
Interpreter to explore Vasona Lake County Park and discover how
movement shapes this park. Guided walk will be 1 mile long on a flat,
paved walkway and will meet at the fishing pier. All ages welcome.
Space is limited. Advanced
registration required. Questions? Email
jaclyn.caldwell@prk.sccgov.org.
- Sat,
May 21, 9am - 12 pm. National River Cleanup Day, multiple locations.
National River Cleanup is a national day of action to protect our
rivers, watersheds, and wildlife from trash and debris. Since its
inception in 1991, American Rivers have engaged more than 1.3 million
volunteers who have participated in thousands of cleanups across the
country, covering more than 261,000 miles of waterways and removing
more than 32.5 million pounds of litter and debris. More
information and sign ups.
- Sat. May 21, 7-9 pm. Preservation Awards Night.
History San Jose
Park. $15 General Admission, Under 18 Free. In recognition of this
year’s National Preservation Month, the newly formed Santa Clara County
Preservation Alliance will host a Preservation Awards Night to bring
the public and local preservation groups together for a celebratory
event. NAQCPA President Kitty Monahan and NAQCPA member Bruce Bartlett
will be
honored at this event. See here for
more information and to purchase tickets.
- Sat.
June 19, 9-10 am. Mindful Walking in Nature. Santa Teresa Park. Relish
the joy of being in the moment and fully aware of your body and mind.
Learn how to be mindful and minimize your wandering thoughts while
walking through nature. Meet at the picnic benches near the
Bernal Ranch House with water, comfortable shoes and layers.
Recommended for ages 18 and up.(408) 335-9208. Register
here.
- Sat,
July 30, 5-8 pm. La Fuente. Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, Santa Teresa
Park. Celebrate the families of the past, present, and future at
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch and their relationship to the Santa Teresa
Spring. Evening festivities include music, stories, crafts, and games
for all ages. No registration required, just come on by between 5pm and
8pm! Questions? Please email rob.mcdonnell@prk.sccgov.org.
- Sat.
August 20. 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Coyote Creek Habitat Day. Anderson Lake
County Park. Join us for a family friendly day of activities, games,
and wildlife connected with Coyote Creek. Learn about the people and
animals who have made their homes along this waterway - both a long
time ago and today. Event will be held at the Anderson Visitor Center
located at 19245 Malaguerra Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037. No registration
required, just come on by between 10am and 1pm!Questions? Email michelle.armijo@prk.sccgov.org.
- Sun. August 21, 6:30 pm -7:30 pm. Family Twilight Stroll.
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, 372 Manila Dr, San Jose. Free Guided Nature
Walk. Take your family out on a free guided nature walk in the
late-afternoon light and explore an Oak Woodland ecosystem along the
historic trails around Bernal Ranch. Learn about the value of this
protected land for both animals and the people of the Santa Clara
Valley. Recommended for groups of all ages. Space is limited! Reserve a spot. Questions? Email Katrina.Semene@prk.sccgov.org.
- Fri. September 2, 8:30 pm - 10:30 p. Summer Movie
Night. Hellyer County Park. Enjoy the last movie night of the summer.
We'll have a Movie Night (TBA) here at Hellyer County Park. Bring a
blanket or low-back lawn chairs and enjoy an evening under the stars.
Note: Dogs are not allowed on movie nights. Parking is $6 per vehicle
and the show starts after sundown.
- Sat.
September 3, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Calero Reservoir Weeding Party.
Looking to volunteer? Help us maintain Calero County Park and
Reservoir! Volunteers will use non-powered tools to pull weeds/ cut and
pile Coyote Brush between the Calero Reservoir Parking Lot and
shoreline. It can be hard work, but very rewarding to help keep the
Park we all use safe and clear. Bring sturdy gloves, closed toe shoes
(boots if possible), and your can-do attitudes! Prepare for the
weather by wearing sunscreen, light moisture wicking
clothing and a hat.
- Sat.
September 3, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Hellyer Weeding Parties. If you are
looking to get outside and connect with new people right in your
backyard, this is the opportunity for you! California native plants
play an important role in the health of our parks. To help them thrive,
we have to work together to remove non-native and invasive plants.
This event is in partnership with Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful. Sign
up here. - Sat.
September 3, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. Monthly Trail Days. Villa Montalvo.
Help our Trail Crew staff maintain the more than 350 miles of trails in
our Santa Clara County Parks trail system. Work will include some
brushing and pruning, but will mostly focus on tread work to help
reduce erosion. Tools and gloves will be provided. Bring a water
bottle, snacks, and gloves if you have them. Wear long sleeves and long
pants, and bring a hat. 2022 Locations: August & September:
Villa Montalvo. Please also note that trail work can be physically
challenging and so you should come prepared to work up a sweat! Minimum
age: 14. Sign
up here.
- Sat.
September 3, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm. Grant House Tour. Joseph D. Grant
County Park. Take
a guided tour of the historic Grant Ranch House.
- Sat. Sept. 10, 11 am. New Almaden Day Jump-In Parade and celebration at the New Almaden Community Center.
- Sat.
September 17, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. California Coastal Cleanup Day.
Various Santa Clara County Parks. Join millions of Americans on Coastal
Cleanup Day to remove litter in our waterways. Litter found around the
County Parks and streets eventually ends up in our local creeks and
rivers which flows out to the San Francisco Bay. You can make a
difference not only in your community but for the whole Bay Area. No
special skills are required for this event, but we ask you bring a
water bottle, sunscreen, and a mask (for when social distancing is not
possible), and wear close-toed shoes. Work gloves and pick up sticks
are provided but you are welcome to bring your own.
- Thu.
September 22, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm. Visitor Center Host
Training. Address: Anderson Lake Visitor Center 19245 Malaguerra Ave
Morgan Hill, CA 95037. This training is for new and returning Visitor
Center Host volunteers looking to learn skills in formal and informal
interpretation. Visitor Center Hosts are required to complete this
training in addition to specialized on-site training and orientation at
their assigned park. Visitor Center Hosts provide visitor assistance in
the park Visitor Center or Museum; answer questions; provide park
information; interpret the natural and cultural history of the park;
and help with the care and upkeep of the visitor center/museum
facility. Great for those who like interacting with people, sharing
their knowledge, learning, and being indoors!After attending the
training, park staff will work with you to find placement at a specific
park. Contact Info: Volunteer Program (408) 918-4930. Please bring
a mask, water bottle, and dress in layers. See here for more information.
- Sat.
October 1, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. Fall Festival. Martial Cottle Park. Come
celebrate our valley's rich agricultural history! The Fall Festival
will have local arts, crafts and foods, kids activities, agricultural
workshops, animal presentations, historical autos, antique farm
equipment, live music, food trucks, exhibitors, entertainment, pumpkin
patch - and More! Join us on October 1, 2022 from 9 am to 2 pm. Free
Admission! $6 Parking Fee - Parking is limited.
- Sat.
October 8, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. Day on the Bay. Alviso Marina County
Park. This year's event will include a resource fair and showcase the
beautiful Alviso Marina, along with several family-friendly and
recreation activities. This special event is a wonderful opportunity to
share information, services, and resources with the local community. We
are excited to bring this event back last year after a hiatus due to
the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, Day on the Bay has drawn more than
10,000 people to enjoy activities, and celebrate the rich diversity and
abundance of our community's cultural expression. The Mercury News
reports that it is the most attended event in the historic waterfront
town of Alviso. Many thanks to the support of the County of Santa
Clara, the Office of Supervisor Otto Lee, and our sponsors who will
provide this event to the community for FREE.
Copyright © New
Almaden Quicksilver
County Park
Association
For more
information about the organization and activities, send us an email
at naqcpa.newalmaden@gmail.com.
For questions about the website, contact our webmaster,
Ron Horii.
Updated 12/2522.
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