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Gold Panning Adventures

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Oh, Susanna
Don’t you cry for me
I’m going to California
With my washpan on my knee.

The rivers around Auburn, California still show the evidence of the gold deposits . Tiny glints of the shiny metal shine in the pebbles. My Dad was determined to find a way to experience this piece of California history. Many refrains of “My Darling Clementine” could be heard on the way up the mountain countryside to try our hand at treasure hunting.

Learning the rules of gold panning

There were just a few basic steps to be learned  in beginning to look for gold.

  • put soil through sieve to remove large rocks
  • spin soil in large bucket to pour off large rocks
  • hand off to someone who has a gold pan.

Watching an expert was the ideal way to learn, a youtube videos make this possible from anywhere. We met with some very enthusiastic gold panners at a local supply shop, and they taught us the technique with an in-store demo.

for the little ones who wanted to help, there were several tasks they could do.  Everyone felt included no matter their age. Once their attention spans had faded they were more than happy to dig with shovels in the sand and splash in the knee deep river.

An ideal large family activity

The pictures portray an idealistic slice of the morning. The only doses of reality to be found was the presence of extra large California spiders in the rocks, and the awareness of the need to watch for rattlesnakes (a new one for us great plains folks). I would bring a small chair or stool along next time to be more comfortable. Stooping and lifting the rocks from the riverbed could use some ergonomic improvements. The heat of the sun was relieved by the chilly mountain water available. This was clear and fun for the youngest to play in. At the end of the day, everyone was fatigued but not cranky. The activity allowed even the youngest some independence in running around, so they were not as frustrated as when normally carried along on a big kid activity.


I suppose the biggest question is-did we find any? Yes-a lot! Mostly souvenir specks, but enough that we might have started a brand new hobby.

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And Other Movies for Homeschoolers and Large Families

Homeschool family life is unique, and most ‘family’ movies don’t come close to capturing the complex dynamics inside the walls of a homeschool home. However, movies that feature families with unusual hobbies, a wide age span between children, or a large number of children can come close. We set very high standards when ushering new movies into our personal hall of fame, and several qualities must be present to make the mark:

  • Use honesty in showing the chaos that comes with the size of the family without exaggeration. The remake of Cheaper by the Dozen is an example of everything a large family isn’t 
  • Demonstrate the strength of the bonds formed in large families
  • portrays the challenges in a large family without destroying the charms that come in return

My sister Maria wanted me to watch this little known Disney musical for a year and a half (it’s one of her all-time favorite movies).  The plot was interesting – each family plays an instrument and together forms a band. They are set on performing at a high profile political convention, but must maintain civility while between family members belonging to opposite parties, creating a very unpredictable storyline. (Well, except for the classic young love story that enfolds. That was delightfully predictable.)

The movie was respectful to viewers of all political leanings, and an age appropriate introduction to respect and good sportsmanship. It  also was an introduction to the workings of the electoral college, (and the difference between delegate votes and the popular vote).

 This movie scored a lot of bonus points with my family since it has a entire song devoted to our home state. (What? South Dakota in the spotlight? This never happens.) Like most Disney productions, is not entirely historically accurate. It actually sparked an interest in the not well known presidencies of Grover Cleveland and Benjamin Harrison. The production was innocent and appropriate for any age group, though it didn’t hold the attention of the youngest members of the family.

More Large Family and Homeschool Movies

our other favorite large family movies include

  • The Waltons (Early seasons)
  • Cheaper By the Dozen (1950 version, the new one is terrible)
  • Sound of Music (Classic large family movie)
  • Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (seven homesteading brothers)
  • Soul Surfer (homeschooled main character, strong faith message)
  • Nim’s Island (homeschooled main character)

Any other movies of particular interest to large families or homeschoolers?