Guest opinion
Simi needs docents
By Judy Pepiot Simi Valley Historical Society

I live in Simi Valley and I'm proud of it!

Although I've lived here since 1968, my appreciation of our community has never been as great as it is today. That's primarily because I understand it better, due to my volunteer involvement, both in civic programs and historical preservation.

When I was asked to join the Simi Valley Historical Society board, I remember musing about my numerous other "jobs" and the fact that I have never been a real history buff.

Enjoying traditions and feeling connected by historical roots is definitely on my priority list however. Enlarging my circle of friends never hurts either.

So, here I am after several years on the board, with many more friends and also a more profound love of my city.

The Robert P. Strathearn Historical Park and Museum is our city's reservoir of historical information.

It recently has been the hub of much ado, including the culmination of years of renovation on our city's oldest house of worship, which also served as a place for any gathering that brought people together.

The old church helped create a sense of community in the early 1900s, and it still does, along with all the other historical structures, landmarks and artifacts we have within our sixacre park.

Henry James is quoted as saying, "It takes an endless amount of history to make even a little tradition."

Oscar Wilde said, "He to whom the present is the only thing that is present, knows nothing of the age in which he lives."

I'll buy both of these statements and add this one: A true sense of pride in one's community can best be instilled through learning and understanding its history.

It's this pride in one's past that will eventually lead residents to become more involved in shaping their community's quality of life.

So, here's the thing: We need more people involved. Here are some of the areas that need volunteers at Strathearn Park:

Docents are our life's blood. Our docents don't just lead tours; they can help with preservation of artifacts, including historical clothing, landscape maintenance, office duties and special projects/events.

Just four evening classes will get you started, and work schedules are flexible. The next docent training session will take place June 19, 21, 26 and 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the park. Call Karla Hubbell for details at (818) 388-3301.

Mechanical restoration of equipment is needed on engines, cars, farm machinery, woodworking and electrical systems. Richard Johnson heads this work group; call him to see if your expertise can help on periodic projects, (805) 520-7433.

The docents and other volunteers at Strathearn Park invite you to join us in pursuing the purpose of the Simi Valley Historical Society, which, simply put, is to provide and maintain a sanctuary for the preservation of our local history.

One last quote, from James A. Garfield- "Things don't turn up in this world until somebody turns them up." I hope this "citizen journalism" turns up something of interest to you.

For additional information, visit www.simihistory.com or call the Visitor Center at (805) 526-6453.

Judy Pepiot is vice president of the Simi Valley Historical Society.