March 5, 2020 -The Society for the Preservation of West Calaveras History (SPWCH) has presented Gary Gordon with its 2020 Richard Taylor Pioneer Award. Honoring individuals who have contributed to the preservation of local history, this year’s award recognizes Gordon for his “constant support of the education of the public about local history and of the efforts of the SPWCH.” The Angels Camp resident, through his stewardship of Lockeford’s Harmony Grove church and cemetery, helped memorialize Burson founders Daniel and Martha Burson, and has provided numerous forums for the public to learn about west Calaveras history. Gordon was presented with the award’s traditional elements--a framed certificate and a ceremonial railroad spike. Previous Pioneer Award honorees have been Tom Duke, Mervyn Kirk, David Earl Evans Jr., Shannon Van Zant, Judith Marvin, Nick Baptista and Vip Hale, Mary Jane Genochio, and Terry Beaudoin. (Photo by Melinda Gardner.)