During this workshop, we'll explore the history of sheep on the Rancho and learn more about dyeing and spinning wool from the experts! Artist Carly Lake will teach about wool dyeing using native plant dyes. She'll cover the history of natural dyes in relation to wool and demonstrate the wool dyeing process from start to finish. Each participant will then get to dye their own samples of fleece and yarn. The Greater Los Angeles Spinning Guild (GLASG) will provide a demonstration of various wool spinning instruments and show the process of turning wool into yarn. You'll even get an opportunity to spin wool yourself! In this program, you'll walk away with more information about sheep and their fleece along with various dyed fibers and a sample of your own handspun yarn. All supplies are included in the registration fee. We hope you join us!

Space is limited. Recommended for families with children 7 years and older.

Join us for our next lecture of the 2024 season: Grand Estates to Intimate Retreats: The Artistry of California Landscape Architect Florence Yoch.

This lecture will focus on the life and legacy of California landscape designer Florence Yoch (1890 - 1972). A trailblazer, she heavily influenced and shaped landscapes of Southern California, from grand residential estates to elaborate Hollywood movie sets to small intimate gardens. In total, her impressive career spanned over 50 years with her partner, Lucille Council (1898 – 1964). Yoch has a direct connection to Rancho Los Alamitos as Florence Bixby commissioned her to create the Geranium Walk. This elegant belvedere walk is available to enjoy today when visiting the Rancho.

In this talk, Rancho staff will share the Bixby family connection with Yoch and share images of unique archival material. Then, Erin Chase, Associate Curator of Architecture and Photography from The Huntington will talk about her career and highlight a variety of Yoch’s projects with a focus on the collection materials there within her archive. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Florence Yoch’s illustrious career and her lasting impact on Southern California.

Our RLA Lecture Series will be held every other month on the fourth Thursday of that month: February, April, June, August, and October. Doors will open at 5:30 pm and the lecture will start at 6 pm. Details are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please sign up for our mailing list here.