July 21, 2015

William Bihler's Ranch House

July 21, 2015/ Stephanie Bastianon

"The following is a student created blog regarding the history of the Petaluma Watershed. This blog is part of a series from students at Casa Grande participating in the Watershed Classroom with educators Paula Biancalana and Jolene Thinnes."

This is a recent photo of William Bihler’s ranch house. Around 1859 Bihler purchased 8,000 acres in Lakeville, making him the first person in Petaluma to build a ranch house. He built his home along a river, and because his home was along the river he was able to transport and receive goods. He also dynamited Tolay Lake so he could raise potatoes, corn and later grapes.

By Danah Hassoun

Watershed Classroom

Watershed Classroom supports the implementation of exceptionally engaging curriculum about the Petaluma River and Watershed to educate youth in Petaluma about their place in our environment, how their decisions and actions affect their environment and inspire youth to conserve and celebrate the Petaluma Watershed.