Snow. Check. Lights. Check. Music. Check.It must be time for the Sedalia’s Winterfest!

By Carole Williams

For our community celebration on Saturday, December 9, from 11 am to 2 pm, many of the Sedalia merchants will have treats in store for visitors.

Begin at the Sedalia Museum and Gardens Open House. Enjoy home-baked cookies, music and hot cider. Judy Penley will play the pump organ. Singers and other musicians are welcome. Dee Rapata and her son Sam will have crafts for children—simple ones for small children and more complicated for older ones. Experienced Winterfest participants will find their favorites—lemon bars and fudge. Kelli Fallbach and Barbara Machann’s private collections of gnomes will be on display. Don’t forget the Museum’s collection of books when you are shopping for gifts.

One special event is the Children’s Christmas

Market, where Sedalia children can buy gifts for their parents or siblings for $1 a gift. Volunteers offer free giftwrapping. This year the shopping will take place at Rocky Mountain Red and White, the new building across the street from Deby Williams’ Farmers Insurance office. There’s a rumor Santa Claus will make an appearance during the event.

It’s time now to scour your closets and cupboards for scarves, jewelry, ties, knickknacks, and other items the children can buy. Deliver donations to Deby Williams’ office. Cash donations and donations of gift bags and wrap are welcome.

Daisy’s Front Porch will give a gift to each person who stops by, and offer holiday munchies. Once again, Lance Peterson will supply taxi service

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CALL FOR SEDALIA GROWERS by Nena Robbins

Eager for spring to come and excited to share and look at seed catalogs together, the Sedalia Growers will meet from 10 to 12 on Saturday, January 13, 2018 in the Fire House Training Room. At the first meeting of the new year, we will choose the seeds for Sedalia Museum’s annual plant sale in late May. The Growers will bring lists of their favorite and best producers in Sedalia gardens over the past few years. If you would like to grow some reliable heirloom tomatoes and peppers, or possibly some experimental varieties of vegetables, flowers or herbs. Will you join us?

The Sedalia Growers began in 2016 as an “off-shoot “(a little garden humor) of Sedalia’s Museum. The group includes local gardeners interested in participating in a gardening group, elementary school gardeners, Master Gardeners, and others who joined us last year just to grow plants for the sale.

Beyond growing plants for the sale, the Growers have enjoyed socializing , researching and sharing knowledge about dirt (soil preparation and amendments), varmints (animal and pest control), favorite tools,

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Volume 7 Issue 4 December 2017

The Sedalia View is published quarterly by the volunteers of the Sedalia Museum and Gardens.Deadline for the March 2018 issue is February 15.

Send articles ideas, or ?? to sedaliamuseum@gmail.comPost Office Box 394, Sedalia, CO 80135

Page 2 Sedalia View

garden bed designs, growing styles, companion planting, seed saving, and green house pros and cons. We have shared our garden harvests, toured each others’ gardens, and traded seeds and plants. We have introduced one another to our own treasured recipes and flower and vegetable varieties. Some Growers entered the Sedalia Pumpkin Contest (Sheri took second), helped at the plant sale and at the Tomato Tasting. We have had a busy two years!

The Growers became involved in the Museum’s plant sale because it has provided an increasing share of the Museum’s financial support over the past 5 years, but only a couple of people provided plants. Last January, local sponsors donated funds to

provide all necessary supplies for the 2017 growing season: seeds, containers, and soil. Fifteen growers produced about 2000 plants! That May sale earned enough to help sustain the Museum for another year. There is enough money in the Growers’ fund to buy all the supplies for 2018 as well.

We invite everyone interested to become part of our community of Sedalia Growers. Come to our January meeting, or contact us at Sedaliamuseum@gmail.com. Our meetings are on the second Saturday of each month from 10-12. We welcome anyone who would like to grow with us.

Growers continued from page 1

Fishing 2017 By Cherry Ellis

Dan Gould, owner of Jarre Mart, says 2017 has probably been one of the best years for fishing since the Hayman Fire in 2002. The South Platte has returned to its pre-fire conditions. Gradually mud, silt and debris from the fire and floods have washed away, leaving the river clear. During the summer, Denver’s Water Board did a great job of controlling water flow, which made the fishing even better. A good supply of insects also helped create a habitat for healthy fish. Fishing was so good, the number of guides multiplied, so the stream became crowded, especially on weekends.

This winter you will be able to fish in relative peace. Visit the Mart for supplies before heading up Hwy 67. Get leaders, nippers, strike lures, and most important, hand-tied flies. For winter fishing, Dan recommends: K F Emerger, which is a new one this year for winter fishing (tiny black fly with a little pink); Chocolate Thunder, Dan’s own creation that has been picked up by others who tie flies (gold with white antron); and Roho (small black and red with white antron).

To increase your catch, Dan advises that you should definitely fish for the hungry ones. Which are the hungry ones? The fish darting in and out of feeding lanes; they’re looking for food. Fish lying in the slack water are resting and aren’t feeding. Even if you catch only one or two fish in a day, you will be outside enjoying the beauty and solitude. A bad day of fishing is way better than sitting on the couch watching the Broncos this season.

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Sedalia-style, a tractor and hay wagon to help shoppers get from one end of town to the other.Drop by Bowser Bubbles on the 9th to schedule a time to get your dog’s nails trimmed for half price.Don’t forget to stop at the Sedalia Bakery for a free cookie, and to pick up those special holiday pies

like mincemeat or sour cream raisin, or maybe a peppermint cake? Top it off with a free cup of coffee from O’Brien’s Café.

Hungry for something more? Buckskin’s Saloon will have a half-size “pony burger” and fries from 11 to 2 for five dollars.

Shopping for men is always a challenge—but not in Sedalia. Jarre Market offers gifts for the fisherman or woman in your life. Ask Dan how to outsmart a trout.

If fish aren’t his thing, stop in at the knife store, the coin store, or Rampart Firearms for other masculine gift ideas. Castlegate knife store next to Bud’s a has a large selection of collectible knives, as well as survival and outdoor gear. They offer a 10% discount on purchases over $100. Swing around the corner for Alexander’s General Store with its homemade goodies and antiques. Enter Alexander’s drawing for a pint of local honey and a loaf of homemade bread. Coins and Collectibles across the street invites you to stop in and see their selection.

By now you’ll be hungry. Grab a burger at Bud’s Bar, and register for a $20 gift certificate. Next door, PieZano’s Pizza is giving a free slice of pizza from 11 am to 2 pm. Continue on up to Bill Hunt’s computer store, Computek, for a chance to win a 32 gb USB drive.

Finish your day with a complimentary cup of hot homemade soup at Gabriel’s Restaurant and Tuscan Bar from noon to 2 pm. Happy hour drink specials will be offered as well.

Sedalia may be tiny, but its Winterfest celebration is a great way to give the holiday season a huge kick-off.

Winterfest continued from page 1

Food and Poetryby Cherry Ellis

Thirty varieties of tomatoes (down from 50 last year) were brought to the Tomato Tasting on September 9th. Everyone complained of late ripening and critter challenges, but we appreciated the taste of summer even if it was delayed. Bob Snyder of Louviers introduced us to a reliable, tasty variety he’s been growing from saved seed for 4 years, and Douggie Young brought her Sungolds from 7,000’ feet. Jeff from Littleton shared a special hybrid being developed in Florida; and a few new ones might become favorites—Atomic Blacks, Black Beauties, Hillbillies. Homemade jellies, pickles, and salsas tempted tasters to think about next year’s garden. Remember those flavors this winter!

Tomato Haiku by Ella Oatman, Phyllida Porter, Nena Robbins and Douggie Young delighted the crowd. Sprinkled throughout this issue of the View, you’ll find little tomato tidbits like these:

You say “to-may-to”I say “to-mah-to” – Who cares?They’re all delicious. --DY

Vegetable or fruit?Botanists say the latter.Taste buds say it’s veg. --DY

BLT – my fave!Bacon, fry. Lettuce, wash. But…Can’t slice Sun Golds – sad. --DY

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Honoring Dale Erickson by Patty McDonough, Mike McNairy, and Terry Thompson

For many years I have wanted to honor Dale Erickson for his many contributions to our community.

I have known Dale through his activities with Indian Park School House Association (IPSHA ) for at least 25 years. He has had a hand in every major project or activity. He has whacked weeds and tended our pioneer cemetery.

In addition, Dale has been a leader in such projects as Adopt a Highway litter control, the Annual Valentine’s Dinner, the Sedalia Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. He has done everything from washing dishes to leading one parade after another! He’s spent many hours teaching people flag etiquette.

Dale’s energy is always appreciated, and his unique style and humor are treasured. He always adds his quiet, personal touch to our events and he inspires us all. As Dale says, he does “pretty well for a youngster!”

Others who volunteer with Dale have even more praise to add. Sedalia’s Fire Chief Terry Thompson says, “Dale Erickson has helped West Douglas Fire for as long as I can remember. Dale has been involved in the fire department’s Association, has

helped with the Nativity scene, Pancake Breakfast and weed mowing. We have all seen Dale carry Old Glory in parades. He carries it with great pride, and he should because he is a proud Veteran. I thank Dale, and I hope you do also!”

Mike McNairy writes about volunteering with Dale at the Castle Rock American Legion.

Dale was one of the founding members almost 30 years ago and is now one of the few people from that original group still with the Post. He is our Seargant-At-Arms, the person responsible for organizing meetings, presentations and special events, and organizing and equipping the Honor Guard.

Dale works tirelessly to support to the American Legion’s 4 Pillars: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth. He was recognized for more than 1000 hours of community service in direct support of honoring deceased veterans at Logan National Cemetery (although it’s probably closer to 3,000 hours).

Dale has gone to numerous elementary schools sharing his extensive knowledge of flag etiquette, military history, and his experience in the military. In the past, he has manned an information booth at the local library on National MIA/POW day explaining the significance of the day and those still missing from the Vietnam War.

He has marched in the Douglas County Fair Parade carrying the 14 pound M-1 rifle the whole route. He also marches in the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Sedalia and Veteran’s Day Parade in Denver, and directs the actions of the Honor Guard at the Memorial Day services in Castle Rock and Sedalia. He helps put up the flags on Wilcox and take them down after Veteran’s Day. You can see Dale at the Starlighting ceremony in November and the Band Concert at the Library in July. He directs our Four Chaplains Service every February.

When he’s not supporting Legion functions, you’ll find Dale out in the Community helping other veterans, his church and anyone else who needs his support. Dale is an essential member of the American Legion and our community.

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Rachelle And Colton Wilkinson and Harper Elder watch the official weigh-in by John Pope.

Sedalia’s History with Pumpkinsby Bobbie Elder\

Sometime in the 1970’s, Stan Thompson (Terry and Kim Thompson-Sullivan’s dad) grew a big garden behind their house on Platte Avenue. One year, he sent away for some special pumpkin seeds and grew a big one. Picture this: three little Elgard kids (Katy, Hillary and Brian) sitting in one giant pumpkin! And Sedalia’s Pumpkin Contest began.

My dad, Robert “No Mercy” Campbell, was the original judge. He would take a group of guys on field trips to check the progress of the pumpkins to make sure everything was on the up and up. No “ringers” grown elsewhere could be brought to the contest. Then, after the first frost, contestants would park in front of Bud’s—stopping traffic on Manhart—for the weigh-in. One photo shows the Ettingers’ El Camino with two giant pumpkins crowded in the back. The one weighing 159 pounds

won the prize for that year--$160.

The contest has continued right up to 2017. This year in the alley next to Bud’s, 50+ observers milled around eyeing the hefty pumpkins, much bigger than last year’s.

The officialweights of 2017’s Pumpkin Contest as announced by Judge John Pope were:

Colton Wilkinson 1 poundHarper Elder 3 poundsRachelle Wilkinson 16 pounds

Renee Sweet (Boston Marrow squash/ pumpkin)18.5 pounds Carole Williams (Dill Giant) 38 poundsChet Hier 45 poundsGaro Chalian 160 poundsSheri Folsom 178 poundsand Reigning Champion Billy Moore 235.5 pounds!

Second place winner, Sheri Folsom, treated all connected to the contest to drinks and the contestants to burgers at Bud’s. She requested an “honorary position on the Official Sedalia Pumpkin Growers’ Council” that meets regularly at Bud’s. The Council members—Guy Elder, Chet, Billy, Jeff, Garo, and others—are considering the request.

Billy’s pumpkin and the official scale traveled to Sedalia Elementary the next week, where students got to guess the winner’s weight. Autumn Snow won the gift card for 4 burgers at Bud’s. Carole’s pumpkin became a dozen loaves of pumpkin bread, and Sheri’s super-secret variety is going to provide seeds for next year’s contest. Billy’s, too.

Brook Elder and Therman Thompson.with scary pumpkin.

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Indian Park School Houseby Jeff Schippel

If you travel nine miles west from Sedalia on Hwy 67, you might have noticed the Indian Park School House, a small white frame building on the right. It was a functioning school from 1884 to 1959. After that, it sat idle for many years until, in the mid 1970s, a group of local women formed the Indian Park School House Association (IPSHA) and purchased the building from Douglas County Schools. Their mission was to preserve history, maintain and restore the building so it could be a gathering place and a center of community activity.

The building is on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Colorado and Douglas County historic registers. The Colorado State Historic Fund has been instrumental in the funding of its restoration. Some of the work done includes restoration of the foundation, the roof, the interior and windows, and installation of a retaining wall. There’s still more to be done, but it’s one step at a time.

IPSHA is also involved in the community. Since 1989 the Schoolhouse has participated in the “Adopt a Highway” program. We have trash pickup twice a year, and periodically as needed. We host neighborhood gatherings and open up the School House for special occasions. We also offer up the building for home schoolers. We support the community in any way possible. We hold craft sales, have a presence in community parades, and host community picnics so neighbors can get together and meet each other. We hold fund raisers like our annual Valentine’s Day Dinner at Sprucewood. We’ve even done some melodramas (and there’s been some whispering of having another). We maintain a small pioneer cemetery behind the building and have had the honor of being able to reinter a pioneer woman’s remains that were found during construction in Castle Pines.

We value any and all support. If you want to know more, be sure to visit our Facebook page and like us. You can follow us there, or you can be added to our E-mail list. Send your request to JeffSchippel@aol.com and I’ll add your name.

Christ-centered,Grace-filled, Bible-based.

Annual Christmas Eve Service 5:00 to 6:00 PM, Dec. 24th

You’re warmly invited– just come as you are!Sunday School 9:00 AM / Worship 10 AM

(Located 4 blocks west of the Firehouse)4371 Platte Ave – right in Sedalia

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word Was with God, and the Word was God. …

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.”

John 1:1, 14 KJV

Plumcreekchapel.org / 720-981-8029Pastor Jon Schrag

Better than good wineRobust and so flavorfulAll in one package. --EO

So Juicy and redSavory and deliciousTaste of all your heart. --EO

A tropical plantFruit grown and eaten world wideHeirloom tomatoes. --NR

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Are You Civically Engaged in Sedalia?

By Cherry Ellis

In January 2018, the Phillip S. Miller Great Books group begins a new series of readings in the Civically Engaged Reader. The selection has more than 40 thought-provoking readings in literature, philosophy and religion, with authors as diverse as Aristotle and Maya Angelou. You are invited to examine what it means to be a citizen or a civically engaged person, who understands his culture and government. View the selections at the Great Books website: The Civically Engaged Reader. Join the discussions the first Monday of each month from 7 to 8:30 pm at the PS Miller Library in Castle Rock.

Or, you could help start a new Great Books group in Sedalia to discuss the same readings. The Library will sponsor our group and provide a discount for our books. The greatest difficulty is finding a monthly meeting time during the day. For the first meeting, let’s get together on Saturday, January 6 at 1 pm. We will try to find a weekday that would work for a diverse group of people; or we may decide Saturdays are preferable. At the first meeting we will read the Declaration of Independence so you can see how Great Books discussions work.

If you are interested in being part of Sedalia’s Great Books discussions, please contact me at

cherryellis5@yahoo.com or at sedaliamuseum@gmail.com for the meeting location.

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit #14Sedalia, CO

Sedalia ViewBox 394Sedalia , CO 80135

Friends of our CommunitySedalia, CO 80135

Printing by Alternative Press

Sedalia Community CalendarRegular Meetings:Mondays - 9:00 a.m. Gentle Yoga at the Sedalia Fire Station. Free to all.Fourth Friday of each month- 10a.m. Jan-Oct (9AM in summer) Community and Museum meeting at Sedalia Fire station.Second Tuesday of the month- 7p.m. Dining for Women, Indian Creek Clubhouse. Contact Betty Purkey-Huck, bphck2@gmail.com or 303-688-4983First Friday of the month-First Friday Club, Check Facebook under Sedalia for location.

Special Events:※Winterfest Dec 9 11am-2pm. Community wide event and museum Winter Open House.※Plum Creek Chapel’s Annual Christmas Eve Service is from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, Dec. 24th at 4371 Platte Ave. in Sedalia. All are welcome!※Great Books first Sedalia meeting: Saturday January 6, 2018. Location TBD. Email Cherry at sedaliamuseum@gmail.com※Sedalia Growers Saturday, January 13, 2018 10 to 12 in the Fire House Training Room

Long Ago in Sedaliafrom the Bertha Manhart notebooks

December 31,1915 “The Christmas Tree on Christmas Eve for the children who were firm believers in old Kris Kringle.He did not fail to appearon that cold crisp night to distribute to his good little boys and girls their rewards for the year’s behavior. It was a happy milestone aded to their, as yet, short lives”