California State University, Bakersfield (Historical Research Center)

The Walter W. Stiern Library’s Historical Research Center at California State University, Bakersfield will develop an exhibit of images and ephemera about Basque sheepherders in the Central Valley region of California, and their arborglyphs, or story-telling art carved into trees. For over a hundred years, Basque immigrants arrived to work in isolated conditions in the western deserts and the Sierra Nevada high country, and were known for their skills at moving and watching over vast sheep herds. A team of student volunteers, university faculty, and staff will develop the exhibit floor plan, collect photographs and ephemera primarily through the local Basque Club, and develop 3D models of selected arborglyphs. The multi-media exhibit will provide learning opportunities for community members in the Bakersfield metro area and the surrounding San Joaquin Valley.