017 - Mission Dolores

Step into the vibrant world of Bret Harte (1836 – 1902), an iconic American author and poet celebrated for his vivid portrayals of pioneering life in California. After moving to California in 1853, Harte embraced various roles—miner, teacher, messenger, and journalist—before settling in the charming coastal town of Union (now Arcata). This bustling hub served as a key provisioning center for the mining camps of the interior. In 1868, he took the helm as editor of The Overland Monthly, a literary magazine that captured the adventurous spirit of the era. It was here that his renowned story, The Luck of Roaring Camp, debuted in the magazines second issue, catapulting Harte to national acclaim. This collection features Luck... alongside other captivating tales, including the iconic The Outcasts of Poker Flat, which has inspired several film adaptations. Join us as we explore these timeless sketches that reflect the heart and soul of Californias early days.