Prospector Antoine Etienne and the Flora of Etienne Creek

Washington Native Plant Society Wenatchee Valley Chapter Presents: Prospector Antoine Etienne and the Flora of Etienne Creek

This is a zoom event.

Program Description

In 1860, a black prospector named Antoine Etienne mined for gold in Peshastin Creek and the creek that now bears his name.  Reports claim that he found $1,100 worth of gold, which would be worth over $100,000 today.  Who was Antoine Etienne?  In this presentation we will explore what we know about this fascinating Washington pioneer, and trace his travels from Oregon City, to the Wenatchee Valley and Entiat, and then to Prosser.  We will also look at the area’s mining history and how Etienne Creek was renamed in 2009.  And of course we will learn about the flora!  In 2010, Julia Bent and WNPS Fellow Don Knoke compiled a plant list which is now up to 210 species, and as you will hear, there is still lots to discover.  Etienne Creek was the destination for two chapter field trips last year.  Don Schaechtel will walk us through the mining history and flora of this local gem.

Presenter Bio

Don Schaechtel lives in Leavenworth and is a past president of both the Washington Native Plant Society and the Wenatchee Valley chapter of the WNPS.  Last year, Don took an interest in the life of pioneer Antoine Etienne.  He discovered a fascinating story, which he will share with us.

You can register in advance for this presentation here:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mjMdijduS2G7-xkw7iFkpQ