Elk Grove Fundraiser to Save City History

ELK GROVE — A community fundraiser is underway to highlight and preserve the rich history of Elk Grove as the city embarks on significant developments, including a new zoo and thousands of new homes. Local resident Jim Entrican is at the forefront of efforts to safeguard the town's historical legacy, lamenting the loss of older buildings. The initiative is centered around Heritage Park, which features a blacksmith shop, a pioneer home, and an outhouse, showcasing the area’s historical significance. The project includes the construction of a barn designed to house a collection of historic carriages and wagons, as well as serve as a venue for community events. Laurajean Lawrence, another Elk Grove resident, emphasized the importance of understanding and learning from history, stating, "People need to learn their history, and they need to learn from their history." The barn will be constructed using old redwood beams from a decommissioned bridge along Franklin Boulevard, with a polished wood interior and a rough-cut exterior. As Elk Grove's population is projected to reach 300,000 in the next two decades, the preservation of its history becomes increasingly vital. Entrican noted the importance of maintaining historical artifacts for future generations, asserting that the community's heritage should be preserved for those who will come after. Heritage Park offers free tours on the first Saturday of each month and by appointment, inviting residents and visitors to connect with the town's past.