East Bay Yesterday Deep in Canyon, part 1: “Paradise with a dash of chaos”
Mar 20, 2019
Vicki Saputo grew up in Canyon, a quaint village with deep family roots. She shares captivating tales of Canyon's transformation from a bustling Gold Rush logging hub to a haven for hippies. With memories of self-sufficient lifestyles and vibrant community bonds, Vicki discusses the chaos of newcomers and devastating fires that shaped local dynamics. She also highlights personal stories of childbirth in a resource-limited environment and the nostalgic echoes of education and growth in the area, painting a vivid picture of this unique community.
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Clashes With Authorities In The 60s
- The county crackdown during the hippie era brought building inspectors, sheriffs, and dog catchers searching for violations.
- Residents responded with barricades, nails in the road, rooftop lookouts, and armed defenders protecting the school.
Self-Reliance And DIY Living
- Longtime residents describe Canyon as a self-reliant village with no utilities where neighbors must help each other.
- Vicki and Esperanza recount improvisations like motorcycle-powered lighting and living without streetlights or septic hookups.
Portal To A Wild Pocket Near Oakland
- Canyon feels like a portal to a different world with no streetlights, sidewalks, or city noise.
- Its redwood groves and narrow roads create a strong sense of isolation despite being only miles from Oakland.