#leapday

Since Leap Day only comes around every few years, why not celebrate by picking up a book that recounts this and other holidays from the viewpoint of California miners? “Leaves from an Argonaut’s Notebook: A Collection of Holiday and other Stories Illustrative of the Brighter Side of Mining Life in Pioneer Days” is a historic book from the Gold Rush, that was brushed off and reprinted for modern audiences to enjoy. The tales go through all of the seasons, and tell stories of the holidays that often prove to be markers of times passed as much as they are celebrations. While much of the literature from that era was a bit morose, this book by Judge T.E. Jones is an uplifting take on some of the darker days from our state’s past.