History Happy Hour: The Rest of the Story, More Stories from the Santa Cruz Mountains

History Happy Hour

Friday, July 11, 2025

5:30 pm-7:30 pm

At the Carriage House

Jay Topping Returns: The Rest of the Story

Back by popular demand, historian Jay Topping returns to continue his captivating look into the rich and colorful history of the Santa Cruz Mountains. In Part 2 of his presentation, Jay introduces us to the remarkable pioneers who shaped mountain life—farmers, school founders, toll road operators, and healers.

One unforgettable figure is Susan Schulteis, known as the “Dr. Quinn” of the mountains. She rode horseback for miles to deliver babies, care for the sick, and was the first to tend to the legendary Mountain Charlie after his infamous attack.

Join us for an evening of fascinating stories, family legacies, and the spirited individuals who helped the mountain communities grow and thrive.

Grab a drink, sit back, and get ready to dive into more amazing mountain lore!Jay Topping has had a lifelong passion for history and is an active member of the Scotts Valley Historical Society, where he serves as both lead historian and board member.

He presents history lectures for the Santa Cruz Library system and various local organizations, including the Moose Lodge, ECV Clampers, Elks Club, and historical societies. His engaging talks and slide presentations cover a diverse range of regional history topics, from Santa’s Village and Alfred Hitchcock to the Lost World/Tree Circus, Mountain Charley, and Hiram Scott—the namesake of Scotts Valley.

Currently, he is writing a book on the life of Hiram Scott. Dedicated to preserving and sharing local history, he collects and studies archival materials for public education. He also oversees a history booth at the annual Scotts Valley Art & Wine Festival. While California history is his greatest passion, he is especially devoted to the rich past of Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties.