Peter Lebeck Chapter #1866

Our bronze plaque is set on a beveled concrete pedestal and features a sculpted likeness of Bob Powers's head. The original carving was rendered in clay by one of Bob's friends, local artist Joan Grant; and was fired by artisan Michael Batelann. The finished piece was then cast in bronze and polished by current PXL Historian Charles Topping.

The monument stands as a joint erection by Peter Lebeck -- E Clampus Vitus, Chapter 1866; the Havilah Centennial Group, and the Kern River Valley Historical Society; all of which shared in the cost and actual labor needed to complete the project. Don "Sawdust" Johnson was the Humbug responsible for this erection and saw it to completion during his 2007 administration.

About Bob Powers

Bob Powers passed on to the Golden Hills in 2002, but is remembered as a major contributor to the memory of "The Kern," having written nine histories concerning the communities surrounding Lake Isabella and parts of the Mojave Desert. These books remain important reference works for anyone interested in the American Period of development in the Kern Valley Region and the Mojave. Descriptions of these titles can be accessed by clicking on our Fall 2007 doin's archive link below.

Bob Powers was a family man and active member of his community until his passing. His life's work included that of forest ranger, cattleman, and curator of the Kern Valley Museum, which continues to house many of Bob's contributions. He was also known for his generosity towards children; hosting the local 5th grade students on yearly field trips into the high country.

To the spirited and selfless contributions of such a man, the Brothers of PXL have only one thing to add beyond our dedication: For a life so well lived, we wish him peace, and raise to the heavens a solid shout of "Satisfactory!"

The weather on the morning of the dedication was sunny and pleasant, and easily allowed the more than two hundred people gathered to honor Bob Powers their best opportunity to appreciate the moment. The ceremony was hosted by Bob Woods, former lawyer, current board member of the historical society, and minister of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Kernville. Wes Kutzner spoke on behalf of the Havilah Centennial Group, addressing the history of the Kern Valley gold rush days and how Bob Powers's books provide the insight necessary to its understanding. Wes was PXL Humbug in 2001.

CharlesTopping spoke for Peter Lebeck, explaining the origins of the Clampers during the 19th Century mining days and how the Bob Powers volumes are used by modern Clampers as important reference works in researching potential monument sites in the greater Kern and Mojave Desert regions. Ron Bolyard, as president of the Kern River Valley Historical Society, spoke about Powers's contributions to the Kern River Valley Museum and the importance of Bob's writings to the many visitors interested in family history and western lore.

Lastly came the unveiling itself. Marge Powers was the celebrated honoree and spoke about her life with Bob. Marge – wife, friend, companion, and now widow – unveiled the memorial to her late husband. It was a moving and most satisfactory moment, and we were proud to be a part of it.

The unveiling was followed by a reception that included a chance to meet Marge and to enjoy a complimentary lunch and tour of the museum. Again, a most satisfactory celebration!