Free Blacksmith Shop Demonstration and Access Adventure & Carriage Rides at Rush Ranch

The public is invited to experience the old west at the historic Rush Ranch on Suisun Marsh Saturday, August 18, from 10 am to 1 pm. Volunteer blacksmith Virgil Sellers will demonstrate traditional blacksmithing tools and equipment in the historic shop. There is no charge or reservation required for this interactive program offered by the Rush Ranch Education Council. At the same time, the public can also explore the ranch in a horse drawn carriage specially equipped for persons with limited mobility thanks to Michael Muir and Access Adventure. The wagon, drawn by an impressive team of gentle giant draft horses, is equipped with a wheelchair lift. Donations for this exceptional service for the mobility impaired are always appreciated. Able bodied riders are also welcome. Both volunteer groups, Rush Ranch Education Council and Access Adventure, are partners of the Solano Land Trust, a nonprofit organization whose mission is the preservation of agricultural lands, open space, and resources through the acquisition of land and conservation easements, education and land management. Volunteers who can help with education and conservation programs can call Volunteer Coordinator Teri Engbring at 707-432-0150, ext 200. The 2,070 acre Rush Ranch open space offers vast open spaces, stunning views, tranquility, history and wildlife viewing. Rush Ranch supports more than 200 species of plants, 15 mammal species and 123 bird species. Three self-guided trails lead through grasslands, provide spectacular views and take you along the edges of the Suisun Marsh. Visit the Kit House, a 1930s Sears and Roebuck mail-order house now used as a museum and visitor center. The blacksmith shop demonstration and Access Adventure Carriage rides at Rush Ranch will be held on the third Saturday of every month (except July) from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Rush Ranch Education Council also provides a popular Native American school program at the ranch, special exhibits and other events throughout the year. Rush Ranch is open Tuesday-Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Suisun Hill Trail across from the ranch entrance gate is open from dawn to dusk every day. A shaded picnic area, washing water and pit toilets are available next to the restored 18th century historic barn. Dogs, privately owned horses and bicycles are not allowed on Rush Ranch trails (dogs are allowed on Suisun Hill Trail only). No collecting of flora or fauna is permitted. Directions to Rush Ranch: From Highway 12 in Suisun City, head south on Grizzly Island Road for about two miles. The entrance gate is on the right.