A History Presentation: "Yes...We Took the Money!"

Local historians and long time Eastern Sierra residents David & Gayle Woodruff, lead you on a 55‑minute journey through one of the West’s most dramatic chapters, as the residents of the Owens Valley rally behind two charismatic brothers who rise to lead a proud community’s stand against powerful outside forces seeking to claim its water. What begins as a story of unity and defiance slowly twists into something darker, as ambition, pressure, and human frailty steer those same leaders toward choices that will shake the valley to its core. Part frontier epic, part cautionary tale, this program invites the audience to witness how hope can harden into conflict—and how a community’s greatest champions can become the architects of its deepest wound.

This event will take place on Sunday, May 31, 2026 from 1:00pm-2:15pm at Minden Mill Distilling. It’s free to attend, provided you have reserved a ticket. Spots are very limited, so reserve your ticket early. Tickets will become available starting May 12.  You can find out more and get tickets to this and other events by going to Minden Mill’s official website and selecting “Book an Experience.”