Ron Kley is a geologist, historian, and former Maine State Museum staffer who served for two decades as the head of the Research and Collections Division, starting in 1968. During his tenure, he helped build the state’s geological collections and was present during the famous 1972 “Big Find” of gem tourmaline at the Dunton Mine in Newry. A resident of East Winthrop since 1968, his career has included teaching geology at various universities and extensive lecturing across the U.S. and internationally. His current historical research focuses on tracing the Mainers who joined the California Gold Rush.

Presentation Description

Drawing upon a decade of research, Kley will share the story of the 53-member Kennebec Trading and Mining Company’s 167-day voyage around Cape Horn aboard the ship Obed Mitchell. The presentation highlights the local connection to Caroline Barnard, a young ‘rushette’ from the Bridgton area who was the only member known to have kept a diary of the journey. Discover how this era of rapid expansion fueled the ingenuity of Rufus Porter, who promoted his ambitious ‘Aerial Locomotive’ airship to transport gold rush prospectors.