192 



CALIFORNIA. 



The Indians have several rancherias around New Helvetia. Their 

 lodges are all somewhat like low haycocks, being composed of a 

 framework of sticks, thatched with the bulrush. In these there was 

 no excavation, neither were they covered with earth ; these dwellings 

 were at the time deserted by the Indians, who were found encamped 

 about half a mile nearer the river, with but a few boughs and mats to 

 shelter them. The latter are manufactured after the manner that has 

 been described as used by the Indians of Oregon. 



At the rancheria, the men are generally found engaged in various 

 games of chance, similar to those before described; it is not believed, 

 however, that they carry their gambling propensities to such an 

 extent as to stake their liberty. On the women, all the drudgery 

 seems to be thrown. They were seen engaged in weaving water- 

 tight baskets : these are very neatly made, of sufficient capacity to 

 hold a bushel, and in these it is said they contrive to boil water and 

 cook their food. 



In the preparation of the acorn-bread all assist. The acorns are 

 gathei'ed in very large quantities, piled in heaps, and spread in the sun 

 to dry. Both men and women are to be seen employed shelling, 

 pounding, and baking them into bread: the pounding is performed upon 

 a plank that has been hollowed out, with a stone pestle. To reduce the 

 large quantity to a fine powder, requires great labour. This employ- 

 ment presents a busy scene, though the want of cleanliness, I may 

 almost say pig-like filthiness with which it is performed, excites 

 disgust. 



INDIANS rOUNDINC ACORNS. 



Around New Helvetia, although but a few days had elapsed since. 



