Based on the cover photo of the John W. Robinson book, Sierra Madre’s Old Mount Wilson Trail, our scarecrows represent two couples out for a weekend hike circa 1908.

In the early 1900s the public would often be seen hiking orriding mules and horses up the trail dressed in their fashions of the time. Women would have their long dresses and long skirts and blouses on, along with their fancy hats and the popular boater hats of the time – worn by both men and women. The men would be seen in their two or three piece suits, perhaps taking their coats off at times, and wore hats of the period. Everyone wore a hat!

Beginning is 1907 they could ride the Red Car into Sierra Madre, disembarking a few blocks from the start of the trail (our current intersection of Mount Wilson Trail and East Mira Monte). From there they could walk to the stables where Mount Wilson Trail Park/Turtle Park is now, and rent a horse or mule to ride up the trail. Some women rode western style and some rode side saddle. Most of the visitors simply hiked the trail.

Doug’s Lunch Stand was on the West side of the intersection, and what is now known as Richardson House was in place at its current location, on the East side. Hikers could check parcels at the lunch stand, and get refreshments and food before or after their hike. Some purchased items to take on their hike to have a picnic in the mountains.

Vote by noon on 10/21 in person at Creative Arts Group, or on