Carolyn Green
Less than 15 minutes down the road from Oakmont lies a magical place, featuring shady redwood groves, creeks and a seasonal lake, expansive views, vineyards, meadows, 29 miles of meandering trails and historic buildings, including the Pig Palace, Winery Ruins, Wolf House, Cottage and House of Happy Walls – all within Jack London State Historic Park (JLSHP) in Glen Ellen.
Not surprisingly, Oakmont has a long association with the park, where many regularly visit, hike and volunteer. Indeed, more than 30 Oakmonters regularly volunteer at the park. Take Bern Lefson, who is one of the most active. The retired aerospace manager and 13-year Oakmont resident has been volunteering at for almost as long and is the Park’s 2018 Star Volunteer of the Year. Known affectionately as the Keystone Volunteer, Lefson’s record tells the story – more than 2,700 hours driving visitors on carts, leading private tours and serving as council chair.
Lefson has his reasons for pitching in. “I find Jack London (and his wife Charmian) fascinating – farmers, sailors and world travelers, oyster pirates, raconteurs and, oh yes, world-famous authors,” he said. “I enjoy meeting people from all over the world who have also been enchanted by stories by and about the Londons and sharing the stories that make Jack and Charmian come alive. My favorite park location is the Wolf House – a magical place rich in beauty and history.”
Though JLSHP is a state park, it receives little state funding, mostly through in-kind services. The park has been in the news since a lawsuit was filed against the State Parks for alleged inadequate environmental review, forcing the relocation of Transcendence Theater Company’s popular summer performances since 2023 and resulting in a revenue loss of almost $100,000 a year, according to Susan St. Marie, director of Program and Volunteer Management.
St. Marie says the park has had to become very creative in uncovering new funding sources. She says there are many ways Oakmonters can help, including visiting ($10 day park pass), becoming a member via a tax-deductible donation (a $59 membership includes an annual park pass); booking an event at the park or scheduling a special tour or sponsoring a bench or picnic table.
The Park’s major annual fundraiser gala, “Yesterday’s Tomorrow,” will be held on Saturday, September 21. Tickets are available on the park’s website at jacklondonpark.com.
“The park has so much to offer everyone, and we encourage regular visits to see what’s new, especially in the House of Happy Walls’ world-class museum, which was completely renovated in 2018 entirely with private funding.” said St. Marie. “In 2023, we had more than 80,000 visitors. Oakmonters have always been a significant portion of our visitor and volunteer community, and we invite the local community to visit often. It’s always a ‘wow experience.’”