Capay Valley

Rumsey Hall, having generously served Capay Valley since 1903, needs a little help from its friends to prosper for another century. Armed with two-thirds of the needed funds, a devoted group of Rumsey citizens has finished the studies, hired architects and a carpenter, got approved plans, and started the first stage of a three-month renovation last week. "We've come a long way, " says Robert Becker, president of the Rumsey Improvement Association that owns the Hall, "having put together almost $50,000. But we're still $15,000 short to complete the basic structure and be ready for winter winds and storms." Known for its remarkable original 1910 murals, Rumsey Hall has Yolo County Historic Designation and is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings. "Because the structure is compromised," Becker explains, "it's amazing there hasn't been more damage. We redid the foundation last year, and now the biggest change in 100 years is finally underway. The added space is important but even more so we need to buttress the considerable lean that threatens the entire Hall. Our building directors, Cliff Cain and Bob Bramlett, have done a magnificent job over countless hours." A town of 50, Rumsey was helped by two Rural Block grants totaling $20,000, the result of helpful work by Yolo County's Planning and Public Works Department. With the end in sight, this is the first time the Association has gone public seeking contributions. Because the Association became a 501(C)3 non-profit corporation in 1995, all donations are tax deductible. "We certainly hope those who have enjoyed the Hall and the Capay Valley," says Becker, "will come forward, large and small, to support the historic centerpiece to our community, well worth all of our efforts. We've done the planning and organized the labor; all we need is a bit of money and we're home free. Rumsey is in rural northwest Yolo county, the last stop on the Almond Festival every February in the Capay Valley. Anyone who's enjoyed an Almond Festival - or a lecture, concert, political forum or meeting in Rumsey - has experienced the Hall.