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The sun-lit tree-tops and grassy picnic area belie the presence of un-holy pagan rituals that occur during the night. The un-dead sleep in the day, leaving the park to picnickers, hikers, and brightly bedecked dirt-bikers.

Alum Rock Park was designated a park in 1872 (oldest park in Cal-eye-for-nee-ay by cracky) but its history goes back juuuust a bit further. Indians lived in the area for thousands of years before the Spanish and Murkins showed up to make the park "official." The Indians called the area Shesue or Shestuc or Shistuc. The early Spanish name for Penetencia Creek, which carved out the canyon in the area of the park, was Aguague - which translates to "place where cattle hang out to drink and discuss the days business."

In the late 19th century, the park was called The Reservation, but quickly changed to Alum Rock Park. I suspect it was about this time that problems with albinos began to surface.

Located in this area is the Alum Rock Cabin. I saunter over to take a closer look.

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