July 25, 2005 Looking Back is a regular feature of the Modoc County Record, a weekly newspaper, published in Alturas, CA. The following is transcribed from the June 14, 2005 issue. Looking Back 96 Years Ago – 1909 THE CELEBRATION in Alturas was not as enthusiastic as the management had planned. The weather was damp and chilly, which threw a damper on the spirits of the people. The parade through Main Street was pretty, and was preceded by the Modoc County band, discoursing patriotic airs. The Liberty car was beautifully decorated with the national colors while the rows of little girls, representing the States of the Union, presented a charming sight. There was little drinking to excess and the conduct of all was orderly and excellent. In the evening there was a ball at which the young folks enjoyed themselves until “jokin day” came peeping over the mountain tops. 86 Years Ago – 1918 THE ASSEMBLAGE of Indians from various places began July 3. The Klamath, Bidwell, Surprise Valley, Dixie, Redding, Honey Lake Valley, Big Valley, and Nevada, Alturas and Canby Indians were well represented, numbering about 400 men, women, and children. Tables were set and supplied by Likely Indians to their guests. Nearly 20 marriages were performed. The picnic grounds were located on the land of Jack Williams, the chief counselor When I was boy, into my teens, we used to have large gatherings of Indians at the Indian Village in Alturas, during the 4th of July Celebrations. There was much drinking, Indian stick gambling, day and night, with colnstant drumming and big bonfires going. At least one participant, usually, would die from a fight,or drinking straight wood alcohol, or passing out; then exposure did the dastardly deed. I loved going to the village and hanging around the fringes watching the whole show. Sometimes an Indian that I worked with would take me to the circle where the gambling was going on so that I could learn their game. Those were exciting times. Hope to see you all again next week. Ron Morgan .