'Evening on the Conejo' historical reenactment at Stagecoach Inn expected to sell out
By Nancy Needham nancy@theacorn.com

A MOMENT OF REFLECTION-Chuck Macune, left, and Tom Maxwell engage in conversation at Stagecoach Inn. Back in the old days, people would sit down in rocking chairs and discuss the day's events. Stagecoach Inn will soon reenact what life was like in Conejo Valley, circa 1876.

Organizers of the Conejo Valley Historical Society's 17th annual production of "An Evening on the Conejo" expect the event to be sold out again this year.

Those who wish to go back in time 130 years ago will experience an historical reenactment of a time in Conejo Valley when the land was inhabited by only a few ranchers. There was, however, a little hotel where stagecoaches once stopped.

For two weekends beginning Fri., Sept. 29, 110 local volunteers will become settlers who lived here in 1876 as Stagecoach Museum at 51 S. Ventu Park Road, Newbury Park, becomes what was once the Grand Union Hotel.

"The money 'An Evening on the Conejo' makes helps to keep our museum's doors open," said director Sandra Hildebrandt.

The theatrical production has been so well researched it can actually be used as a history lesson for those who like to study without books. The staged living history includes a lamplight evening stroll up and down stairs and along uneven trails.

"It's as we imagine it must have been like so many years ago," said event chairperson Elizabeth Reimal.

The script is a compilation of historical data from census, research, donated artifacts and reference materials that have provided insight into what the Conejo Valley was like more than a century ago.

"The result is a magical time with each performance," Reimal said.

Shadows fall across the grounds and costumed cast members have historical names; soft lights appear in the old hotel windows; laughter, children and music fill the air as banjos, fiddles, pianos and other old-time instruments play, Reimal said.

Along the way, vignettes of people participating in daily activities of the period will be presented. Scenes include family gatherings in the Newbury House, the adobe hut and inside the hotel. Guests may peek into the upstairs window of a bride preparing for her wedding day.

Listening in is also allowed. Other settings will include a land deal being negotiated and some poker playing in the saloon.

Dancers will perform at a barn dance as "Turkey in the Straw" is played on period-type instruments. Children in the little red schoolhouse will be learning about Tom Sawyer, and shepherds will line the trail.

At the conclusion, peach crisp with cream will be served in a formal dining hall and on the patio.

Tours are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays, Sept. 29 and 30 and Oct. 6 and 7 beginning at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $22 per guest, or $19 per guest for groups of five or more. Children age 8 and older are welcome.

Though the event already has an polished look, organizers are always seeking to improve it. Authentic costuming pieces, storage space, volunteer support, cast members and musicians are still needed. To help out, please call (805) 498-9441.

For tickets or more information, call (805) 523-1123 or visit www.stagecoachmuseum.org.