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This November 17th tour was definitely more of a destination tour, as most of us met down in San Jose. The “unofficial” tour started at Bob Edwards’ house, where Bob, Mark Edwards and his mom Sue (who traveled down from the Sacramento area just to ride with her son!), and the McKenzies headed out to Rancho, collecting David Allen and his 57 Chevy along the way. Chuck Christensen met us at Rancho- driving solo on this tour.Before I go any further, a HUGE thanks to Bob Meneely, who, despite not going on this tour, was “Bobby-on-the Spot” when we developed carburetor problems on our week-old Model A. He made two trips from his home to Rancho and loaned us a spare carburetor. Just another of the reasons we love this club!The rest of the group was waiting for us when we arrived at Winchester Mystery House. Allan & Lucy Greenberg, Ivan Jorgensen, Peder & Maria Jorgensen, Ed & Karen Archer, Dan & Nikkie Gulko, Steve Gulko and Troed Johnson had all parked in the area that the Winchester staff had set aside for us- thanks to the careful planning of Gary Bausch.Our first tour was of the mansion itself. Our tour guide, Steven, was extremely well rehearsed and polite. Everyone who had been there before had their favorite rooms, and this tour never disappoints. The only thing more mysterious than the house is the legend that is Sarah Winchester herself.Our second tour started only minutes after the first one ended. The “Behind the Scenes” tour is only 3 months old, so we had no idea what to expect. The fact that we had to wear hardhats made it exceptionally intriguing. We did see many things we hadn’t seen before, and learn a lot about the self-sustaining nature of the estate. Our tour guide, Joanna, maintained her composure throughout the tour, despite the fact that some members of our group were increasingly unruly.After what seemed like miles of walking (which actually was miles of walking!), some of our group headed for home, while the rest of us headed for Harry’s Hofbrau for a late lunch and yet another round of stories and tall tales.Thanks to all who participated!Barbara McKenzie |
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