Interpretive Outreach Programs

2021-22 School Year Update

We will be pausing our Interpretive Outreach Programs during the 2021-22 school year as we continue to address safety concerns connected with COVID-19.

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To stay up to date on future Interpretive Outreach Program offerings, add your contact information to the interest list.

Interpretive Outreach Program Virtual Living History Fieldtrip Header

Video Series

Because we LOVE bringing “history to life”, we have created a series of educational videos sharing Life on the Olivas Adobe Rancho. We hope you enjoy the videos as much as we enjoyed creating them.

Episode 1 - Introduction to the Olivas Family

Interpreter Tom explains when Don Raymundo & Dona Teodora Olivas received a land grant from the Mexican government and started building the present-day two-story Olivas Adobe known in 1847 as the Rancho San Miguel.

Episode 2 - Corn Grinding

Interpreter Leonor demonstrates one of the important chores at the rancho, grinding large kernels of corn into masa for tortilla making!

Episode 3 - Making Tortillas

Interpreter Susie explains how tortillas were the essential food item for the Olivas family and the workers on the rancho.

Episode 4 - Downstairs House Tour

Interpreter Susie leads us through the rooms on the first floor of the adobe house. See furnishings, artifacts, and unique instruments used during the 1800’s.

Episode 5 - Upstairs House Tour

Join interpreter Leonor as she walks through the bedrooms on the second story of the Adobe.

Episode 6 - Rancho Tools

Interpreter Tom describes the many tools used on a working cattle rancho.

Episode 7 - Making Adobe Bricks

Check out the adobe mud-pit and learn about the process of making your own adobe bricks with interpreter Tom.

Episode 8 - Conclusion

Join the interpreters in the Olivas Adobe courtyard and learn how the Rancho Period finally came to an end due to numerous dramatic weather incidents.