Unveiling the Legacy of the "Native Daughters of the Golden West"

In the historic town of Jackson, California, a pivotal moment in history unfolded at Pioneer Hall on September 11, 1886. It was here that Lilly O. Reichling, a trailblazing woman with a vision, called together approximately 20 like-minded women, marking the birth of an enduring legacy, the Native Daughters of the Golden West (NDGW).

A Historic Gathering at Pioneer Hall

Grizzly Flat: A Glimpse into its Judicial and Civic History

December 17, 2023

The Devastating El Dorado Fire of September 19, 1923

December 11, 2023

The echoes of that inaugural meeting at 113 Main St., Jackson, still resonate through time. Pioneer Hall, where this gathering transpired, stands today as a California Historical Landmark—a testament to the significance of the events that unfolded within its walls.

Ursula: The Founding Parlor

The NDGW emerged during a time of immense change in California, where the rapid influx of settlers and the allure of newfound wealth defined an era. Under the leadership of Tina L. Kane, who served as the first President, the group coined their meeting space a “Parlor.” The founding group aptly named Ursula, (2) set the stage for a movement that would shape the course of California’s cultural preservation. Comprised solely of women born in the state, founded in 1886, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the Golden State’s heritage, leaving an indelible mark through its commitment to historical conservation and community engagement.

Expanding Horizons: From Ursula to Seventeen Parlors

From March to June 1887, the NDGW rapidly expanded its influence. Seventeen additional Parlors were organized, including the notable Marguerite Parlor No. 12 in El Dorado County. Meeting at the Placerville Masonic Hall, this Parlor convened on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month (1), becoming a hub for like-minded women passionate about preserving California’s heritage.

Enduring Principles

The founding principles of the NDGW, rooted in love and devotion, continue to guide the organization today. “Love of Home, Devotion to the Flag of our Country, Veneration of the Pioneers of California, and an Abiding Faith in the Existence of God” are the pillars upon which the NDGW was built, and they remain steadfast in their commitment to these values.

Mission: Preserving History, Enriching Lives

As one of the oldest associations of diverse California-born leaders, the NDGW’s mission is clear—to preserve California’s history and enhance the quality of life through active participation in education and community service. The organization’s love for California is palpable, as they tirelessly promote the study of the state’s romantic history and pay homage to the Pioneer Fathers and Mothers who laid the foundation for the great state we know today. At the core of the NDGW’s mission is the preservation of historical landmarks and artifacts. Through a network of parlors spread across the state, members actively engage in the restoration and maintenance of sites that echo with the whispers of California’s past. From adobe structures to gold rush-era cabins, these dedicated women are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring that the stories engraved in the state’s foundation are not lost to time.

Community Impact

The NDGW’s influence extends beyond historical endeavors. Actively involved in community service, the organization lends a helping hand to charitable causes and community development projects. This commitment to service underscores the belief that preserving history goes hand-in-hand with building a vibrant future.

Native Daughters’ float at the Hangtown Christmas Parade

Educational Initiatives

Beyond preservation, the NDGW places a strong emphasis on education. Scholarships, awards, and educational programs are integral components of their commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of California’s diverse history. By supporting academic endeavors, the organization seeks to inspire the next generation to become stewards of the state’s cultural legacy.

In the fast-paced rhythm of the modern world, the Native Daughters of the Golden West stand as guardians of California’s past, ensuring that the essence of its history is not lost but embraced, celebrated, and passed down to future generations.

(1) "Grizzly Bear" VOL. XLVI. Published November 1929. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA. 309-15 WILCOX BLDG., 2D AND SPRING.
(2) Ursula is a feminine given name in several languages. The name is derived from a diminutive of the Latin ursa, which means "bear".

Source: Grizzly Bear