History

Here's How

Know of a link that's Russian River related and should be listed on this page?

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We're especially interested in stories, photos, maps, records, and the like.

 

Russian River Historical Society

A non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting and presenting the history of this wonderful area.

History of the Russian Settlement at Fort Ross, California

For the small group of California natives, that cool, overcast day in March 1812 was a forerunner of massive change. They stood there in astonishment as a large sailing ship came to anchor in the little cove beneath their quiet bluff top settlement. For the next few days, they continued to watch as some twenty-five Russians and eighty Alaskans came ashore, set up a temporary camp, and began building houses and a sturdy wooden stockade - the colony and fortification of Ross.

The Russian River Watershed Council Library

A detailed history of the Russian River and it's uses.

Brief History of the Russian River Wine Industry

Russian River Valley is a region rich in history. Grape growing and winemaking are integral to the story of the land and its past. The valley is named for the first non-natives to settle in Sonoma County. The Russians, who settled along the Sonoma coast at historic Fort Ross from 1812 to 1841, left a significant impact on the area.

Maps

This watershed map was delivered to over 900 Sonoma County classrooms in the spring of 2006. The map is two-sided, with a perspective view of the Russian River basin and planned view of sub-watersheds of the lower Russian River.