Preserving and interpreting the cultural resources of the San Dieguito River Valley are part of the mission of the San Dieguito River Park. A notable example is the Sikes Adobe Historic Farmhouse.
Another example is “The Painted Rocks”, described below.
The Painted Rocks is a book produced by the San Dieguito River Park which was out of print for a number of years, but was recently reprinted, thanks to a grant from the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians, and the assistance of Diana Lindsay at Sunbelt Publications.
The book is an excellent resource for teachers and school age children who will learn about the Kumeyaay who lived in this area and expressed themselves through their rock art. The story unfolds as a young girl and her family who live in Rancho Bernardo begin to understand the rich history of the area and learn to become good stewards, helping to protect the heritage in her own backyard.
Until now, little has been published about the Kumeyaay, a Native American people who have lived in southern San Diego County since well before the first Europeans visited the area.
This beautifully illustrated book is written to provide children and adults alike with insight into the traditional Kumeyaay way of life. Local anthropological interpreter and experienced archaeologist, Ruth Alter, is the book’s author. Ms. Alter chose a modern setting in which to introduce the reader to the Kumeyaay culture in order to reinforce the understanding that Native Americans are not just people who lived here long ago, but that modern-day Native Americans continue to teach and practice the beliefs and values of their ancestors.
You may purchase the book for $12.95 at local bookstores, or by contacting Sunbelt Publications, or you may order it online on this website, at our Online Store.
