Pioneers' and Homesteaders' Impressions
of their pioneer experiences, values, and what they did to build our community. 

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Go HERE for Homesteader Page.

When Tule Lake was drained and diverted into canals, lakes and storage reservoirs near the turn of the century, people came to settle the land.  Many of the following are audio clips taken of the settlers while making the video 'Homesteading in a Promised Land', a 100-year story of homesteading in the Tulelake Basin.  These are original versions of their personal feelings when they were denied use of their irrigation water in 2001 by their own government. (for more about Homesteading in a Promised Land video, click HERE)

In 1947 - 1949, WWII veterans moved to Tulelake  to live on the homestead given to him by the U.S.  Gov't for their service in WWII.  They fought  to defend our country, and spent the rest of their  lives raising food for America.

Velma Robison tells how they felt the day their irrigation water was shut off in 2001.

Velma and Fred Robison, 1947, when they won their homestead.

photo by Anders Tomlinson, of Fred and Velma Robison in 2001.  Velma holds Reclamation ERA magazine of 1947.

Paul and Gertrude Christy photo by Anders Tomlinson

The late Paul Christy tells about his homesteading experience: "Democracy" Paul's early years homesteading, and building a community. Paul tells his feelings about 2001

Staunton sons, 3rd generation farmers Photo by Anders Tomlinson

John Staunton, 2nd generation farmer,  shares his love of his family, community and his country. John Staunton tells how he felt about what happened in 2001.

: John Staunton photo by Anders Tomlinson