YOUNGSTERS WORK A WATER PUMP DURING A RECENT LIVING HISTORY DAY IN CATHEY’S VALLEY. On Saturday, May 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cathey’s Valley Community Park residents can see kids of all ages playing old time games like anti-anti-over and dancing around a real May pole where everyone may join in. They can try washing clothes with a washboard, pumping water from an old well and making butter to eat with homemade bread and jam. They’ll learn to pull boots off with a boot jack and enjoy lots more fun activities from days gone by.

Blacksmiths will heat up their forges and hammer redhot iron into beautiful and useful items in the Gold Rush era blacksmith shop. Visitors will hear the huge wood and leather bellows roar as it blows air to the fire, making the coal burn hotter. Visitors interested in learning this craft may join the California Blacksmiths’ Association and attend working meetings in Mariposa.

Parents can join in the games and shop for foothill treasures at the rummage sale to benefit the Little Schoolhouse and Cathey’s Valley Elementary School. They will find furniture, kitchen wares, a bike, sets of dishes and much more. There’s even be a free table for priceless items.

Participants can buy popcorn balls and other snacks. The Little Schoolhouse, built in 1879, saved and restored by many from the Cathey’s Valley and Mariposa communities, will be open for visiting. There is no charge for the games and history participation.