Thirteen inquisitive members of the Villages Study Groups Club recently took flight on another memorable excursion. Tucked away between Morgan Hill and Gilroy is a destination that truly soars above expectations — the Wings of History Air Museum.
From the moment the visit began, it was clear this was no ordinary museum tour. With so much to discover, the group split into two teams, each guided by enthusiastic and highly knowledgeable docents who transformed history into vivid storytelling.
One of the most captivating stops was the Restoration Shop, where vintage aircraft are lovingly brought back to life. Here, history is not simply displayed — it is rebuilt, repaired, and sometimes even returned to the skies. Equally fascinating was the Ole Fahlin Memorial Propeller Shop, a rare and remarkable facility that stands as the only FAA-authorized repair station west of the Mississippi dedicated to restoring wooden propellers.
Inside the hangars, members found themselves surrounded by an extraordinary collection of aircraft and aviation treasures. A standout was the model of the Wright brothers’ pioneering flyer, commemorating that world-changing day — December 17, 1903 — when powered flight first became reality. That maiden journey lasted just 59 seconds, yet it forever altered human history. Even more astonishing is the realization that a mere twelve years later, higher aircraft had already become part of World War I.
Following that there was the first solo non-stop trans Atlantic flight from NY to Paris in 33.5 hours piloted by Charles Lindbergh in 1927..
The visit was a powerful reminder of how quickly imagination became innovation, and innovation became history.
For anyone who has not yet discovered this local gem, consider this your boarding call. Let your own “flights of fancy” take wing at the Wings of History Air Museum — where the Golden Age of Flight is waiting to inspire.
Ikebana with the Study Groups Club
Japanese American Museum of San Jose – A Meaningful Visit
Today, the Villages Study Groups Club enjoyed a fascinating and deeply moving visit to the Japanese American Museum of San Jose. Twenty members took part. Although a few who had signed up were unable to attend at the last minute, our group was warmly welcomed—so warmly, in fact, that the museum opened its doors to us an hour before regular hours and then locked the doors for an entire hour just for our group of 20.
We were divided into two smaller groups, each led by a knowledgeable docent. The museum is thoughtfully organized to reflect what San Jose’s Japantown looked like before the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Exhibits included antique farm equipment, a Model T car, a tomato delivery truck, and many artifacts from daily life and commerce.
Our docents shared stories of the many agricultural innovations introduced by Japanese farmers, and we visited a replica of a room in the internment camp barracks. The small space was unheated, no running water, and very little privacy. An audio played the sounds that those interred constantly heard. There, a second docent, Shirley—herself once interned and now living in The Villages—spoke powerfully about her experience and the hardships endured. A large map showed all the internment sites across the United States, offering a sobering reminder of this chapter in history.
MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION BBQ
Study Groups Club Serves Up Summer Fun
On Thursday, July 29th, the Study Groups Club rolled out the welcome mat — or rather, the festive red-and-white tablecloths — for its annual Membership Appreciation Picnic at Gazebo Park. And what a day it was!
With 110 members signed up, the park buzzed with cheerful conversation and laughter. Folks were greeted with a name tag and a bag of chips — a friendly start to a laid-back afternoon. The smell of good old-fashioned BBQ filled the air, thanks to Famous Dave’s, who served up ribs, chicken, coleslaw, baked beans, and their legendary cornbread. The verdict? Delicious!
The Cadillac Jack Band kept toes tapping and spirits high, playing tunes that were just too good to sit still for. Before long, groups of members were up dancing and enjoying every minute of it.
While our many Study Groups usually meet in smaller circles, the picnic was a chance for everyone to come together — old friends catching up, new friendships blooming, and laughter shared all around. The feedback? Nothing but praise. One happy guest even said, “I’ve been to a lot of BBQs, and this one was the best!”
It was a heartwarming day of food, music, and fellowship — a true celebration of the vibrant community that makes the Study Groups Club so special.
HAKONE GARDENS
Local Tours Group Finds Serenity at Hakone Gardens
On Thursday, July 31, nineteen members of the Local Tours Study Group enjoyed a an enchanting visit to Hakone Gardens, a true hidden gem nestled in the hills of Saratoga.
This beautifully preserved site, recognized as one of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s premier locations, is one of the oldest Japanese-style estates and gardens in the Western Hemisphere. With over 100 years of history behind it, Hakone offers a rare blend of art, architecture, and natural beauty — and it did not disappoint.
The group was treated to a guided tour by one of Hakone’s knowledgeable docents, who led us through serene pathways, traditional structures, and lush landscaping that seemed to whisper stories of the past. From the koi ponds to the bamboo garden, every detail was a feast for the senses. The docent shared fascinating insights into the garden’s origins, development, and cultural significance, making the experience both peaceful and meaningful.
Though we didn’t have time to see the entire estate, the tranquility and elegance of Hakone left a lasting impression. Many of us are already planning to return — perhaps next time to take in more of the scenery and maybe even enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.
It was a lovely outing filled with discovery, connection, and quiet beauty — a perfect way to spend a summer day.
Tortoise Ranch Recap:
he Villages Local Tours Study Group went to the Tortoise Ranch in Campbell, CA, on Friday October 18th. On a regular street, behind a regular house there is a hidden treasure… greeting us was a plethora of tortoises and an amazing collection of lawn art. The group heard an informative talk about tortoises from the owner, Terry. He told us about the 3 different species of tortoises that live there. Did you know that you can tell the difference between a male and a female just by looking at the length of their tails and the shape of their undersides? (A male has a longer tail and a convex abdomen). We were told that the tortoises have distinct personalities, and one (Georgiana) was particularly fond of the ownerTerry and followed him around like a puppy. The collection of tortoises at the ranch grew from purchases, donations from zoos and from abandoned tortoise pets. Having a tortoise is quite a commitment because of their exceptionally long lives. We were able to feed these gentle giants lettuce, celery and carrots (with tongs) and even ride on their sturdy backs. The visit was an unmitigated delight for the group!!
The Local Trips Study Group visited to the Computer History Museum located at 1401 North Shoreline Boulevard in Mountain View.on August 29th.
The private docent took the group through the museum pointing out the salient features of how the computer world has changed over time.
The group discovered the interesting, and sometimes strange, stories behind unique artifacts and become acquainted with the pioneers who created our digital world
This contemporary museum presented stories and exhibits related to Silicon Valley and the Information Age. It explored the Tech Revolution and its impact on our society.
The Villages Study Groups Club has just completed a 5 sessions Study Group on “Learning more about your iPhone”. The class was designed to help iPhone owners get a better understanding of the many basic functions available on their phone. The classes were taught by an experienced iPhone user and teacher, along with two experienced helpers. Many club members have asked for a repeat class so this study group will be offered again in January. Please remember
Silicon Valley Advanced Water Purification Center March 2024