Relive the Olden Days at Rush Ranch

By Natalie DuMont

Special to Dixon Patch

All are invited to Get the Rush this Saturday, Aug. 18 at Rush Ranch, just outside Suisun City. Get the Rush is a series of free and fun activities for all ages and all mobility levels.

It takes place on the third Saturday of every month. This month’s Get the Rush is extra special because Virgil Sellers and his blacksmith team will refurbish a 150-year-old wagon wheel the old fashioned way!   

Arrive by 10 a.m. to travel back in time. You’ll witness Virgil and his team repairing the wooden wagon wheel, heating a metal rim in a wooden fire to expand it, and then fitting the rim on the wheel, just the same way folks would have done it in the 1800s. See the forge in the center of the ranch and the myriad of traditional blacksmithing tools and equipment on display. Take part in an interactive demonstration with a smithy, and you may even get the opportunity to make your own iron nail or other keepsake!

Rush Ranch is owned and operated by Solano Land Trust. This month’s Get the Rush activities are made possible by the volunteers of the Rush Ranch Educational Council and Access Adventure.  Timing and activities vary month to month.  Check www.solanolandtrust.org for details.

Who: Virgil Sellers and his blacksmith team, volunteers of the Rush Ranch Educational Council

What:  Historic refurbishing of a 150-year old wagon wheel during this month’s Get the Rush

Where: Rush Ranch, 3521 Grizzly Island Road, Suisun, CA 94585.

When:  Saturday, Aug. 18, starting at 10 a.m.

Why:  Travel back in time and have fun with your entire family!

Cost:  Free!