Pioneer Day in Smartsville is this Saturday and the locals invite everyone to come enjoy the festival and learn the rich gold rush history of Smartsville and the nearby towns. Brian Bisnett says something else not to miss during your visit is a tour of the former Church of the Immaculate Conception that still stands today.
click to listen to Brian Bisnett

Pioneer Day started out as a way to get people to come to Smartsville to see the work they have done on the church and to demonstrate what the area was like and why the church was such an important part of the community. This year they will also have music, great food and activities for the kids to make it really family friendly and educational. There were 8 claims working up and down the Valley in the 1800’s, Two of those gold mines, which are now private property will be open for tours and living history stories of what went on there.

click to listen to Brian Bisnett

There is a charge for the tours but all other events are free. All the proceeds raised will go towards the Church restoration. To get to Smartsville go west on Highway 20 past Penn Valley and past Mooney Flat Road. Bisnett says the next right hand turn will be Smartsville Road.

click to listen to brian Bisnett
Pioneer Day is Saturday April 30th from 9 am to 4 pm.

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