by Molly Eide Marquez
Nestled within the majestic Sequoia National Park lies Mineral King, a valley brimming with natural beauty and rich historical significance. At the heart of efforts to preserve this hidden gem stands the Mineral King Preservation Society (MKPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding its unique heritage. Founded in 1986 amidst concerns over potential development, the society has since become a committed guardian of Mineral King’s cultural and environmental legacy.
An Historic Journey
In the 1960s, the looming prospect of a Walt Disney ski resort threatened to alter Mineral King irreversibly. Fearing the loss of its cherished cabins and pristine landscapes, local residents rallied to establish the Mineral King Preservation Society (MKPS). Their goal: to secure a place for Mineral King on the National Register of Historic Places. Despite debates that continue to this day about the merits of the Disney project, the society achieved a significant milestone in October 2003 when Mineral King was successfully listed on the registry, ensuring the protection of its historic cabins.
Honeymoon Cabin
A Continuing Legacy
The society’s mission goes beyond preservation; it seeks to celebrate and share the stories woven into Mineral King’s fabric. Under the leadership of Lisa Monteiro, who assumed the role of Executive Director in 2019, MKPS has embarked on an ambitious path of growth and community engagement. Lisa, with a background rooted in museums and a deep passion for history, has spearheaded initiatives to expand the society’s reach and impact.
Said Lisa, “I just love history. My background is in libraries, but I sort of fell in love with the historical side of things. I like fundraising and think it’s great to be passionate about something. It’s really just a fantastic job. I absolutely adore it. The Board is incredible. It’s a dream job.”
Engaging the Community
Central to MKPS’s efforts are its diverse programs and events designed to educate and inspire. From hosting educational lectures and workshops to organizing unique fundraising events like the upcoming outdoor piano concert featuring In a Landscape’s own Hunter Noack and his renowned traveling piano, the society ensures there’s always something exciting on the calendar. This innovative event allows attendees to enjoy music amidst Mineral King’s stunning vistas, all while supporting the society’s conservation efforts.
Embracing Technology
Looking towards the future, MKPS is committed to making its rich collection more accessible through digitization initiatives. By bringing historical artifacts and oral histories online, the society not only preserves these treasures but also invites a global audience to explore Mineral King’s captivating history from anywhere in the world.
Get Involved
For those captivated by Mineral King’s allure and the society’s mission, opportunities abound to contribute. Whether through volunteering to catalog artifacts, assisting with digital archives, or simply attending one of their engaging events, everyone can play a part in safeguarding this natural and historical treasure. More on the exciting work being done through the Society can be found on their YouTube page: youtube.com/@mineralkingpreservationsoc4692
Hymn Cabin
Support MKPS
Supporting MKPS is easy and impactful. Donations can be made online or by mail, ensuring that the society can continue its vital work in preserving and celebrating Mineral King for generations to come. Additionally, visitors can explore MKPS’s online gift shop, where every purchase contributes directly to their conservation efforts.
Discover More
To delve deeper into the captivating stories of Mineral King and stay updated on upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, visit mineralking.org. Connect with the society on Facebook and Instagram at @MineralKingPreservationSociety for regular updates and glimpses into the vibrant community dedicated to preserving this natural wonder.
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