As chair for the 2007 Colony Days Committee I welcome one and all to this unique celebration of the founding of a unique community. The brainchild of mega-entreprenuer E.G. Lewis, Atascadero CA is the result of nearly a century of organic community evolution. It is an amalgamation of rolling hills studded with majestic oaks and other mesmerizing flora; historic buildings; quaint lake park and zoo; dynamic enclaves of artists, musicians and writers; and fiery politics, all surrounded by the most colorful visitor vistas and finest wineries in the state. Atascadero is the hub, the very center of California's Central Coast. I invite you to taste the distinctive flavor of Atascadero's history, citizens and activities during the all-too-brief annual celebration we call Colony Days.
S.W. Martin
Chairman, 2007 Colony Days Committee
Tent City
Step into a time machine! Come visit this unique re-creation of Atascadero's beginnings as a community. Founded by E. G. Lewis in 1913, Camp Atascadero was a community of canvas tents designed to house folks coming from all over the United States and beyond during the years 1914-1916. Our slice of tent city life features local actors, tent exhibits, and artisans who re-create that interesting time. For a background story on Atascadero Colony Days recreation of Tent City Click Here
Background
Atascadero founder E. G. Lewis' city of tents, in 1915, called Camp Atascadero came to life alongside the creek downtown following the parade in October of 2003. The magic happened thanks to 90 students from Suzanne Culver's drama classes at the Atascadero Fine Arts Academy, and Atascadero High School. They became children and families who lived in tent city. The Atascadero Land Office was brought to life by Peabody and Plum realtors. Greg Malik and Jeanne Phillips played E. G. Lewis and his wife, Mabel. The tents came from our founding tent buyers, Peabody and Plum, Tom O'Malley, and Tom and Joan Jordan. Shortly after, Video Palace, Don Idler, Pam and Lonnie Gordon, Valerie Godfrey, Jack Licari, and Gene Humphrey became the remaining tent buyers for our very first year.
Other experiences available that year was using a two-man saw and watching how horseshoes and other iron implements were made. Folks could play horseshoes, dominoes, and cards with cast members. Strolling musicians brought the strains of 1915 music to the ears of modern visitors.
Come and chat with many interesting people in and out of canvas tents near the banks of Atascadero Creek .
Our mission is to re-create Atascadero's 1915 period for the education and enjoyment of the community and its visitors.
You've created a wonderful AUTHENTIC tradition which will continue to grow. Over the years it will continue to celebrate the fascinating origins of Atascadero and enlighten generations of new residents of the unique history of the town. - Sincerely,Dick Mason
Be a part of Tent City and
Colony Days in 2007
Click Here to Learn How!
Colony Days Parade 10 AM Saturday
