California Historical Landmarks in Madera County facts for kids
Madera County in California is home to many interesting places, including special spots called California Historical Landmarks. These landmarks are important because they help us remember and learn about the past. One of the most unique and important landmarks in Madera County is the Wassama Round House.
Contents
Wassama Round House: A Special Place
The Wassama Round House is a very important historical site located near Oakhurst in Madera County, California. It's not just an old building; it's a living piece of history for the Yosemite Miwok people. This special place helps keep their traditions and culture alive.
What is a Round House?
A round house is a traditional building used by many Native American tribes, especially in California. It's usually a large, circular building with a central fire pit. For the Miwok people, the round house was a community center. It was used for important ceremonies, meetings, dances, and teaching younger generations about their heritage. The Wassama Round House is still used for these purposes today, making it a very active and meaningful landmark.
History of Wassama Round House
The Wassama Round House has a long and rich history. The original round house at this site was built many years ago by the Miwok people. Over time, it was rebuilt several times, always keeping its traditional design and purpose. The current structure was built in the 1980s, carefully following the ancient methods and designs. This shows how dedicated the Miwok people are to preserving their culture and traditions.
Why Wassama is a Landmark
The Wassama Round House was officially recognized as California Historical Landmark number 1001-b. This means it's considered a very important part of California's history. It's one of the few places where you can see and learn about the continuing traditions of Native American communities. The park around the round house, called Wassama Round House State Historic Park, helps protect this special site and allows visitors to learn about its significance.
Visiting Wassama Round House State Historic Park
If you visit Wassama Round House State Historic Park, you can learn a lot about the Miwok culture. The park often hosts events and educational programs. These programs teach about the history, traditions, and daily life of the Miwok people. It's a great way to understand how Native American cultures have shaped California's past and continue to thrive today. Remember to be respectful when visiting, as it is a sacred and important place for the Miwok community.
| Image | Landmark name | Location | City or town | Summary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
1001 | Wassama Round House | Wassama Round House State Historic Park 37°22′28″N 119°43′19″W / 37.374444°N 119.721944°W |
Oakhurst |
