RSB Books

Richard Schwartz Writer, Historian

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"Richard Schwartz is a treasure to California archaeology. Although a construction contractor by day, his passion is the history and prehistory of the state. Through his contracting work for clients on private parcels, hiking and walking with his dogs, and his patient review of early newspapers, he has identified and visited more archaeological sites in the Bay Area than has any professional archaeologist. He remains the primary point-of-contact for professionals needing to know and understand the site types and settlement patterns of the East Bay.
 
The Circle of Stones exemplifies Schwartz’s patient and detailed historical research. The book is simultaneously a detective story and an example of the scholarly thought process that researchers use when investigating the past. The circle, itself, is a fascinating site and Schwartz’s investigation goes a long way in advancing our understanding of its history and use.

Schwartz, for decades, has exemplified non-destructive avocational archaeology and history and should be a role model and inspiration for others interested in pursuing citizen science."

Christopher D. Dore, Ph.D., RPA

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"Richard Schwartz leaves no stone unturned in his detailed investigation of
the enigmatic "circle of stones" excavated some years ago by
archaeologists prior to the construction of the Stampede Reservoir in
Sierra County, California.  His comprehensive analysis of relevant
historic documents, ethnographic accounts, and archaeological sources
eliminates a number of possible scenarios about the origins of  the stone
feature.  Richard makes a compelling argument of who built the circle of stones and why, but better you find out the facts after the journey of discovery presented in his book.  His publication is an important
contribution to the history of this intriguing region of California."

Professor Kent Lightfoot, PhD., Archaeology House Head,
UC Berkeley

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Dr. Albert Elsasser, Anthropology Department Head at UC Berkeley and Director of the Lowe Museum said, "It seems to me that Schwartz has covered all the known bases in regard to the origin of the Sierran rock structure commonly called a "stone circle." Dr. Elsasser agreed with the conclusion reached by Schwartz after extensive research, interviews, and site study. The book takes the reader on an archeological mystery journey. Who built the circle and why? Schwartz covers all the possibilities from early California settlers of European descent, African American mountain men explorers, Chinese American stone masons building circular cattle corals, the emmigrants on the California Trail, the US Military after the Mexican-American War, and the many possible uses by Native Americans of the area- house, ceremonial circle, dance circle, and animal hunting corral. The Circle of Stones takes the reader on the same methodical journey of exploration and discovery Schwartz made in his study and eventual unraveling of the mystery of who built this mountain stone circle and why. In the interim, much fascinating history from all periods is learned."

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ISBN: 978-1-55567-586-8

While all printings of The Circle of Stones have sold out,
email Richard to see if he might have a copy available for you.