Month: October 2023

Cultural Mojave

The Mojave Desert, located in the southwestern United States, is not only a vast expanse of arid land and rugged beauty but also a region rich in cultural heritage. The Cultural Mojave is a term that encompasses the diverse traditions, art forms, and history of the indigenous peoples and settlers who have called this desert home for centuries.

One of the most prominent aspects of the Cultural Mojave is the Native American heritage. The Mojave people, also known as the Pipa Aha Macav, have inhabited the region for thousands of years and have a deep connection to the land. Their traditional way of life, which includes hunting, gathering, and agriculture, reflects their strong bond with nature. Through their storytelling, music, and art, the Mojave people preserve and pass down their cultural traditions from generation to generation.

Artistic expression plays a significant role in the Cultural Mojave. The desert landscape, with its stark beauty and unique features, has inspired numerous artists over the years. From painters capturing the vibrant colors of the desert sunsets to photographers capturing the vastness of the dunes, the art of the Cultural Mojave reflects the awe-inspiring nature of the region.

Another important aspect of the Cultural Mojave is the history of exploration and settlement. The desert has long been a crossroads for travelers, from Native American trade routes to the westward migration of pioneers during the 19th century. The stories of these intrepid explorers and settlers are woven into the region’s fabric, adding depth and complexity to its cultural identity.

In recent years, the Cultural Mojave has gained attention as a center for alternative and sustainable living. The desert’s remote location and vast open spaces have attracted individuals and communities seeking a simpler and more environmentally conscious way of life. From off-grid living to eco-friendly architecture, the Cultural Mojave is a hub for innovative ideas and practices that promote harmony with the natural world.

It is the spirit of the human spirit that constitutes the Cultural Mojave. It is a place where ancient traditions merge with modern innovations, creating an extraordinary and vibrant cultural tapestry. Whether it’s exploring ancient petroglyphs, attending traditional ceremonies, or simply marveling at the breathtaking landscape, the Cultural Mojave offers a multitude of experiences that celebrate the rich heritage of this extraordinary desert region.

Ecotones Defined

Ecotone is a term used in ecology to describe a transitional zone between two different ecosystems. It is an area where two distinct ecological communities meet and interact, creating a unique and diverse habitat. Ecotones are characterized by a blend of species and environmental conditions from both adjacent ecosystems, resulting in a rich array of biodiversity.

Ecotones can be found in various natural settings, such as where a forest meets a grassland, a river merges with a lake, or a shoreline transitions into a marsh. These transitional zones often display a gradient of species composition, with certain species being more abundant or specialized at specific points along the ecotone.

The dynamics of an ecotone are influenced by the physical and biological processes occurring in both adjacent ecosystems. Factors such as climate, topography, soil type, and water availability can shape the structure and function of the ecotone. As a result, ecotones can exhibit unique microclimates, hydrological patterns, and nutrient cycling dynamics that differ from the surrounding ecosystems.

Ecotones play an essential role in supporting biodiversity and promoting ecological resilience. They serve as corridors or stepping stones for species migration, allowing for gene flow and enhancing genetic diversity. Ecotones also provide habitat for specialized species that are adapted to the unique conditions found within the transitional zone.

Furthermore, ecotones contribute to ecosystem services by providing valuable resources and ecological functions. They can regulate water flow, filter pollutants, and stabilize soil, thus helping to mitigate the impacts of human activities on surrounding ecosystems. Ecotones also offer recreational and educational opportunities, allowing people to appreciate the beauty and ecological significance of these transitional areas.

In conclusion, ecotones are dynamic and complex zones that bridge the gap between two distinct ecosystems. They are characterized by a unique blend of species and environmental conditions, creating a diverse and valuable habitat. Understanding and conserving ecotones is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, promoting ecological resilience, and ensuring the sustainability of our natural environment.

Shoshone, California

https://digital-desert.com/shoshone-ca/

Shoshone, California, is a small unincorporated community in Inyo County, California. Nestled in the southern part of the state, Shoshone is situated in the Mojave Desert near the eastern border of Death Valley National Park. The town was founded in 1910 and has a rich history tied to mining and agriculture.

One of the main attractions in Shoshone is the Shoshone Museum, which showcases the town’s history and the surrounding area. The museum exhibits Native American heritage, mining operations, and early pioneers. Visitors can learn about the Mojave Desert’s wildlife, geology, and plant life.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Death Valley National Park, which is just a short drive away from Shoshone. This vast national park offers a variety of recreational activities like hiking, camping, and birdwatching. With its striking landscapes, including dunes, salt flats, and rugged mountains, Death Valley is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Shoshone is a peaceful and quiet community that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its charming small-town atmosphere, visitors can experience a slower pace of life and reconnect with nature. The town has a few accommodations, including a motel and camping facilities, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Shoshone, California, has something to offer. Its unique location near Death Valley National Park and rich history make it a destination worth visiting. So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure to Shoshone, where you can immerse yourself in the desert’s beauty and tranquility.

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Death Photography

Today, we look at Post-Mortem Photography through a different lens. – w.feller

The practice of death photography in the late 19th century holds a significant place in the history of photography. During this era, capturing post-mortem portraits of deceased loved ones became a common and accepted practice. Death photography, also known as mourning or post-mortem photography, served as a way for families to remember and mourn their departed relatives.

In the 1800s, death was an ever-present aspect of life. Illnesses such as tuberculosis, typhoid fever, and smallpox were prevalent, and mortality rates were high, especially among children. In this context, death photography emerged as a way to preserve the memory of the deceased and create a lasting visual memento.

The process of death photography involved carefully arranging the deceased in lifelike poses, often with family members or close friends surrounding them. The intent was to capture a sense of peace and serenity, presenting the dead as if they were merely sleeping. The use of props, such as books or toys, was used to enhance the illusion of life further.

The technical limitations of photography required long exposure times; the deceased was the most suitable subject for portrait photography, as they could remain still for long, extended periods. As a result, death photography became an integral part of the photographic practices of the time.

Families cherished these photographs, often displayed prominently in homes or carried as keepsakes. They provided a tangible connection to the deceased, allowing grieving individuals to feel closer to their loved ones even after they died. Death photography also played a role in the mourning process, providing a visual representation of the deceased’s final moments and facilitating the grieving process.

The popularity of death photography began to decline in the late 19th century with the introduction of post-mortem embalming techniques and the increasing availability of faster photographic processes. As society’s attitudes towards death and mourning evolved, death photography gradually fell out of favor.

While it may seem strange or macabre to modern sensibilities, it is essential to understand the historical and cultural context in which it existed. Death photography in the 1800s served as a way for people to cope with loss and pay tribute to their departed loved ones, reflecting the customs and beliefs of the time.

Death photography in the 1800s was a significant practice that allowed families to remember and grieve for their deceased relatives. These photographs provided a tangible connection to the departed and played a crucial role in the mourning process. Although the practice has declined over time, it remains an important part of the history of photography. It offers insights into the cultural attitudes towards death and loss during the 19th century.

Leadfield – Summary

https://mojavedesert.net/mining-history/leadfield/index.html

Leadfield, located in Titus Canyon, was promoted by a man who could have sold ice to an Eskimo. He blasted some tunnels and liberally salted them with lead ore and drew up some enticing maps of the area, which lured Eastern promoters into investing money.

The true story of Leadfield is somewhat different from the usual tale of a stock swindle and a dying town.

During the early days of the Bullfrog boom, W. H. Seaman and Curtis Durnford staked nine lead and copper claims in Titus Canyon and came into Rhyolite with ore samples that assayed as high as $40 to the ton. The Death Valley Consolidated Mining Company was incorporated and immediately began a development and promotional campaign.

The Death Valley Consolidated Mining Company ceased operations in 1906 after realizing that the long and arduous trip between its mine and Rhyolite made the shipment of its ore absolutely unprofitable.

In 1924, three prospectors staked out numerous claims on some lead deposits in Titus Canyon. A local promoter named John Salsberry purchased twelve claims from the three prospectors and formed the Western Lead Mines Company.

The young camp was entering the boom stage, and by January 30th, half a dozen mining companies were in operation. The stock of Western Lead Mines Company soared to $1.57 per share.

Eastern California, and especially Inyo County, was long overdue for a mining boom. With the backing of a successful and skilled promoter, Leadfield seemed assured of obtaining the necessary financial support to take it from a prospecting boom camp into a producing mine town.

The Inyo Independent greeted Julian with a glowing description of his character and abilities, but a different endorsement would be printed in later years.

The boom was now on in earnest, with the Western Lead Company employing 140 men and the Titus Canyon Road being completed. The Western Lead Mine produced 8% to 30% lead and seven ounces of silver per ton.

The California State Corporation Commission was not so impressed with the company and raised the righteous indignation of local folk. The local attitude was well summed up by the Owens Valley Herald: “The Commission is using its every endeavor to try and prejudice the people against this latest promotion of Julian’s.”

The paper pointed out that Julian was not trying to swindle anyone and that he had publicly invited any reputable mining engineer worldwide to visit the Leadfield District. The paper concluded that the future of Leadfield seemed very bright.

Julian was not the only promoter singing the praises of the Leadfield District, for numerous other companies were also trying to cash in on the boom. The Western Lead Mines Company, Julian’s pet, led the pack, with one of its tunnels six hundred feet inside the mountain.

The town of Leadfield was trying to keep pace with the boom and announced that a large hotel would soon be built. On March 15th, the first of Julian’s promotional excursions pulled into Beatty, and 340 passengers were served a sumptuous outdoor feast by the proprietor of the local Ole’s Inn.

Lieutenant-Governor Gover of Nevada gave the keynote speech, and Julian gave a speech praising Julian for overcoming the numerous obstacles that modern governmental bureaucracies put in a man’s path. The trip was a big success, and Western Lead stock advanced 25 on the San Francisco market the next day.

Western Lead stock had soared to $3.30 a share by the end of March, and several ore-buying and smelting concerns sent representatives to the district to discuss reduction and smelting rates.

Leadfield continued to develop in the months following the great train excursion. New mining companies opened for business, and the Tonopah & Tidewater Railroad replied that definite plans for a railroad spur into Leadfield had not been made as the present business does not warrant its construction.

The townsite of Leadfield was officially surveyed on April 30th, and the town’s plat was submitted to Inyo County officials for approval. The town was platted on land donated by the Western Lead Company.

The State of California was breathing hard upon Julian’s neck, and the Corporation Commission hauled a brokerage company into court for selling Western Lead stock without a state permit. Expert witnesses testified that the Western Lead Mine was a quite legitimate proposition.

The continued investigations by the state of California hurt the sales of Western Lead stock, and another factor began to take a toll. Julian’s credibility began to shrink, and the company never recovered from the panic that set in.

Julian bought into the New Roads Mining Company, which gave him control of the two largest mines of Leadfield and announced plans to construct a large milling plant at Leadfield.

As summer approached, the Leadfield boom showed no signs of peaking. The California Corporation Commission ordered that sales of Julian’s personal stock in the Western Lead Mines must immediately cease on the Los Angeles stock exchange due to evidence introduced at a hearing.

Despite the heavy blow to Julian’s financial fortunes, developments at Leadfield proceeded, and the Mining Journal printed a long, detailed report on the Leadfield District in July, which helped to restore public confidence.

The mines agreed with the independent experts and continued to work, and the Boundary Cone Mining Company ordered a new 25-horsepower hoist and headframe and increased its workforce to twelve miners.

In late July, the Western Lead Mining Company brought a $350,000 damage suit against the Los Angeles Times and the California Corporation Commission. Still, the suit was quickly thrown out of court for insufficient cause. In August, a new mining company, the Pacific Lead Mines No. 2, was incorporated.

During September and October, drilling and tunneling continued in Leadfield’s mines, but in late October, two events took place that spelled the end of Leadfield. The main tunnel of the Western Lead Mine finally penetrated the ledge but found almost nothing.

At almost the same time, the California Corporation Commission dealt Julian another blow when it halted stock sales in the Julian Merger Mines, Inc. Julian’s empire fell apart. The other mines slowly closed, one after the other, and Leadfield became a ghost town in a matter of months.

The failure of a mining district led to a flurry of lawsuits. In February of 1927, the Western Lead Company removed its heavy machinery and the pipeline to a mine that the company owned in Arizona.

Julian went on to organize the Julian Oil and Royalties Company and was indicted for fraud, but jumped bail and committed suicide.

Leadfield was a ghost town created by C. C. Julian. Still, the existence of lead ore in the district had been known as far back as the Bullfrog boom days of 1905, and the California Corporation Commission allowed companies other than Julian’s to sell their stock.

Julian did not start the Leadfield boom and had plenty of help in supporting the boom once it had started. The citizens of Inyo County, California, and Nye County, Nevada, also supported the mines.

The collapse of Julian’s financial structure came at the worst possible time for Leadfield. Although it seems doubtful that Leadfield had enough ore to support more than a small mining company or two, indications are that without the sudden panic of the fall of 1926, that mine or two could have survived.

The Titus Canyon Road, an engineering marvel, was built by Julian and cost an estimated $60,000 to build. Without Julian, the road would not have been finished, and today presents one of the most spectacular routes in Death Valley National Park.

Ecosystems of Death Valley

https://digital-desert.com/death-valley-ecosystems/

Death Valley, located in California, is home to a unique and diverse range of ecosystems. Despite its harsh and extreme conditions, this national park supports a surprising variety of plant and animal life. The following are some of the key ecosystems found within Death Valley.

1. Desert Scrub: The dominant ecosystem in Death Valley is the desert scrub, characterized by sparse vegetation and rocky landscapes. Plants such as creosote bushes, desert holly, and Joshua trees have adapted to survive in arid conditions. These plants have deep root systems and waxy leaves to conserve water.

2. Salt Flats: Death Valley is famous for its vast salt flats, known as playas. These white, barren expanses are created by water evaporation, leaving behind mineral deposits. Certain organisms, such as salt-tolerant algae and brine flies, can survive in this environment despite harsh conditions.

3. Badlands: Death Valley’s rugged badlands are formed by erosion, resulting in unique formations of clay-rich soil and sedimentary rocks. The lack of vegetation allows intricate geological formations. These areas are home to reptiles, rodents, and insects that have adapted to extreme temperatures and water scarcity.

4. Oasis: Death Valley surprises visitors with small oases. These are areas where underground water reaches the surface, creating a lush and vibrant habitat. Palm, cottonwood, and various bird species can be found in these isolated pockets of life.

5. Mountains: Death Valley is surrounded by mountain ranges, which provide a contrasting ecosystem to the desert below. These higher elevations offer cooler temperatures and more precipitation, allowing for the growth of coniferous forests. Pinyon pines, junipers, and bristlecone pines thrive in the mountains, providing shelter for various wildlife.

6. Springs and Waterways: Death Valley is home to several natural springs and waterways despite the desert environment. These water sources attract diverse animals, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and reptiles. The presence of water also supports vegetation growth, such as willows and cattails.

Each of these ecosystems within Death Valley contributes to the region’s overall biodiversity and ecological balance. The park’s extreme conditions have fostered the development of unique adaptations among its plant and animal inhabitants. Exploring these diverse ecosystems is a captivating experience that highlights the resilience of life in the face of adversity.

Zyzzyx Road

Zyzzyx Road (/ˈzɪzɪks/ ZIZ-iks[2]), also called Zyzzyx Rd., is a 2006 American thriller film written, produced and directed by John Penney and starring Katherine Heigl, Leo Grillo, and Tom Sizemore.

The film gained notoriety from its gross ticket sales of only $30 on its opening run, due to its intentionally limited release at a single cinema;[1] it is the lowest-grossing film in U.S. history in terms of box office sales.[3] It also was the film that grossed the lowest opening box office sales, until The Worst Movie Ever! (2011), which ended up with just $11 during its premiere.[4][5]

Plot synopsis[edit]

Grant, a philandering accountant, goes to Las Vegas on a business trip and encounters a seductress, Marissa, and her jealous ex-boyfriend Joey. Grant and Marissa incapacitate Joey, believing they have killed him, and decide to bury him along the eponymous Zyzzyx Road, a rural road off Interstate 15 in California’s Mojave Desert. After digging a grave, they return to find Joey missing from the trunk of Grant’s car. Grant chases Joey through the desert with a shovel, and when he finds him hidden in an abandoned mine, he tells Joey a secret about Marissa.

Cast[edit]

  • Leo Grillo as Grant, an accountant who begins an affair with Marissa
  • Katherine Heigl as Marissa, Grant’s lover and Joey’s ex-girlfriend. John Penney gambled on Heigl’s rising success in Grey’s Anatomy to boost sales. Thora Birch was initially offered the role, but she turned it down.[1]
  • Tom Sizemore as Joey, Marissa’s jealous ex-boyfriend. Grillo “was drawn to his acting chops, and Sizemore’s past actually made him more convincing as a tough-guy villain.” Several actors, including Jason Lee, turned down the role before Sizemore was cast.[1]
  • Yorlin Madera as Truck Driver Bob
  • Nancy Linari (voice) as Brenda

Production[edit]

Principal photography was in the summer of 2005 and lasted 18 days, plus an additional two days for pickup scenes. The film was shot entirely on location in the Mojave Desert, in and around local mines.[6] Sizemore and longtime friend Peter Walton, who worked as Sizemore’s assistant, were arrested during the film’s production for repeatedly failing drug tests while on probation. Sizemore was allowed to resume filming his scenes.[1]

Release and box office gross[edit]

From February 25 to March 2, 2006, Zyzzyx Road was shown once a day, at noon, at the Highland Park Village Theater in Dallas, Texas,[7] in one auditorium rented by the producers for $1,000.[1] The limited release was deliberate: Grillo was uninterested in releasing the film domestically until it underwent foreign distribution, but the film needed to fulfill the U.S. release obligation required by the Screen Actors Guild for low-budget films[1][8] (those with budgets less than $2.5 million that are not for the direct-to-video market).[9]

The strategy had the side effect of making it, at the time, the lowest-grossing film in history; it earned just $30 at the box office, from six patrons paying $5 each for admission.[3] Unofficially, its opening weekend netted $20, with the $10 difference due to Grillo personally refunding two tickets purchased by Sheila Moore, the film’s makeup artist, who saw the film with a friend.[1]

The similarly-named film Zzyzx has mistakenly been cited as the lowest-grossing of all time instead, due to the two films’ similar titles and release in the same month.[10]

Home media[edit]

Zyzzyx Road was released on DVD in 23 countries, including Bulgaria, Indonesia, and Portugal. By the end of 2006, it had earned around $368,000.[1] In the summer of 2012, six years after its original release, GoDigital released the film domestically in digital format because of its better performance internationally. It was released on DVD in North America in September 2010.

References[edit]

  1. ^ Jump up to:a b c d e f g h i j Brunner, Rob (February 16, 2007). “The Strange and Twisted Tale of…The Movie That Grossed $30.00”. Entertainment Weekly. pp. 46–49.
  2. ^ “ZYZZYX Road Movie Trailer”. YouTube. April 1, 2008. Retrieved January 23, 2023.
  3. ^ Jump up to:a b “Zyzzyx Road (2006)”. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved January 2, 2007.
  4. ^ Matt Singer (August 26, 2011). “The Worst Movie EVER!” lives up to its name with epically bad grosses”. IFC. Archived from the original on July 1, 2015. Retrieved September 28, 2011.
  5. ^ “Zyzzyx Road is bested by The Worst Movie Ever!”. Archived from the original on September 26, 2011.
  6. ^ “Leo Grillo Interview”. Katherine Heigl Online. June 10, 2006. Archived from the original on January 21, 2007. Retrieved January 2, 2007 – via kheigl.com.
  7. ^ Strowbridge, C.S. (February 24, 2006). “Little Films Hoping to be Big Fish in Limited Release Pond”. The Numbers News. Nash Information Services, LLC. Retrieved January 2, 2007.
  8. ^ Hayes, Dade (January 4, 2007). “‘Zyzzyx’ earns lowest all-time box office”. Variety.
  9. ^ Ressner, Jeffrey (February 23, 2007). “The New Ishtar”. Time. Archived from the original on February 25, 2007. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
  10. ^ Faraci, Devin (January 10, 2007). “Crisis on infinite Zyzzyx roads”. Chud.com.

Mono Lake

https://digital-desert.com/mono-lake

Mono Lake, located near Lee Vining, is a unique and fascinating natural wonder in California. This saline soda lake is known for its mesmerizing tufa towers and limestone formations that rise from its surface. These towers, created over thousands of years by interacting freshwater springs and alkaline lake water, create a surreal and otherworldly landscape.

The lake itself covers an area of about 70 square miles and is an important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. It is particularly famous for its abundant birdlife, including migratory birds such as Wilson’s phalarope and California gull. The lake’s brine shrimp and alkali flies attract many migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Visitors to Mono Lake can explore its beauty and learn about its unique ecosystem through various activities. One of the most popular activities is a scenic drive along the Mono Lake Scenic Area, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. Visitors can stop at several viewpoints and interpretive signs to learn about the lake’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history.

Guided tours are available for those looking to get a closer look at the Tufa Towers. These tours provide an opportunity to walk among the tufa formations and learn about their formation and significance. It is important to note that climbing on the tufa is strictly prohibited to preserve their delicate nature.

In addition to the lake itself, the town of Lee Vining offers a range of amenities for visitors. There are several lodging options, restaurants, and shops where visitors can relax and refuel after a day of exploring Mono Lake. The town also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions, such as Yosemite National Park and the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains.

Overall, visiting Mono Lake and Lee Vining is necessary for nature lovers and those seeking a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Whether you are interested in the lake’s geological wonders, its diverse birdlife, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings, Mono Lake offers something for everyone. So, you can plan your visit and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this extraordinary destination.

China Ranch

https://digital-desert.com/china-ranch/

China Ranch is a small oasis nestled near the vast expanse of Death Valley in California. Located just a few miles from the eastern entrance of the national park, it offers a unique and picturesque destination for visitors to explore.

The ranch is renowned for its date farm, which spans over 1,200 acres and produces delicious dates. Dating back to the late 1800s, the farm has operated for several generations and continues to thrive today. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about dates’ history, cultivation, processing, and even sample delectable products.

In addition to the date farm, China Ranch boasts scenic hiking trails that wind through stunning landscapes, such as narrow canyons and towering cliffs. The trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and provide opportunities to spot unique plant and animal species adapted to the harsh environment.

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, China Ranch offers cozy accommodations in the form of rustic cottages and a charming bed and breakfast. Visitors can relax in the tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by lush gardens and the soothing sounds of nature.

One of the highlights of a visit to China Ranch is exploring the Amargosa River, a rare water source in the arid region. The river meanders through the ranch, providing a refreshing respite from the desert heat. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbanks or birdwatching.

China Ranch is not only a place of natural beauty but also a cultural treasure. The ranch is steeped in history, with remnants of its past visible in the form of old buildings and artifacts. It offers a glimpse into the lives of the early settlers who sought refuge in this secluded oasis.

In conclusion, China Ranch in Death Valley is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its stunning landscapes, delicious dates, and rich history make it a destination worth exploring.