A community without knowledge of its history is like a man without knowledge of his soul. Catherine Morison Rehart's captivating vignettes extend to all of us an invitation to learn something of California's Central Valley history.

It is here in Rehart's near near-magical journey through time that we are privileged to view the sacrifices and successes, the toils and triumphs of those who preceded us, each contributing his or her measure to the legacy of this extraordinary place.

In Legends & Legacies, a five volume series, Rehart sojourns at the wellspring of local history, chronicling with warmth and affection the intriguing, exciting, humorous, and poignant stories of the vibrant, colorful Valley inhabitants who created the legends and bestowed the legacies on those of us who now roam the same cherished ground.