Discussion ?focuses on London Ranch history

Jack London State Historic Park will host a talk about the history of Jack London Ranch after the writers death from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 25 in the Winery Ruins at the park.

When London died in 1916, the responsibility of caring for the ranch fell on his widow, Charmian London, and his step-sister and ranch superintendent, Eliza London Shepard. When Charmian died in 1955, Eliza’s son, Irving Shepard, inherited the vast Jack London Ranch having taken over his mother’s position before she died in 1939.

The history of the Jack London Ranch period after London’s death is not well known. This presentation of the ranch’s history is a first-of-its-kind event and will cover the period from the mid 1930s until 1977.

Hear first-hand accounts from Shepard family descendants and others who had direct contact with the ranch and knew Charmian London, Eliza London Shepard, Irving and Mildred Shepard, and the Shepard children. A question-and-answer period will follow the presentation.

More information on this event at jacklondonpark.com.

Tickets are $10 and are available in advance at the Museum store, online at jacklondonpark.com or by calling 938-5216. The talk is free to park volunteers. There is also an additional $10 per car parking fee collected at the entrance kiosk. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact the office at 938-5216.

Jack London State Historic Park is located at 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen.