SAVE KELSEYVILLE

Citizens for Healing is an outlier group of Lake County residents who filed an application to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names (BGN) in Reston, Virginia. They are proposing to change the name of Kelseyville to Konocti. This application was submitted without any input from the residents of Kelseyville. The BGN will ultimately decide on the proposed name change. We are asking the BOS to support the Kelseyville resident's desire to keep their name.

 

The proposed name change is based on the unjust actions toward the Native Americans of this valley by Andrew Kelsey and his business partner, Charles Stone, who lived here from 1847 to 1849. Andrew Kelsey and Charles Stone were killed by local Native Americans in 1849.

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The history of the Native Americans, who were the first stewards of this area 10,000 years ago, is appreciated and respected. Their story is essential to the history and culture of this region. This period is a significant part of the history of Kelseyville, and it is acknowledged.

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In 1854, new settlers, moving westward, came into this valley. The new settlers were mainly farmers, but there were also merchants, blacksmiths, teachers, and pastors. These families came from areas such as Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Missouri. They blended to make up the tapestry of this evolving town. They were the new faces of this community and created an honorable town.

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Kelseyville became the official designation by the U.S. Postal Service in 1882, more than 30 years following the death of Andrew Kelsey. No conclusive evidence demonstrates that Kelseyville was named to honor any specific individual, just as the community does not honor any particular individual today. Instead, the name Kelseyville represents the community's collective identity and diverse heritage as it now stands. It embodies the residents shared history, reflecting their connection to the town and its development.

 

Kelsey is a common name, both as a given name and a surname, and it's essential to recognize that it carries no derogatory connotations. Many places nationwide, including communities, roadways, and

creeks, bear the name Kelsey.

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Opposing the name change does not mean we ignore the events that transpired on this land before our time. Instead, it reflects a belief that changing the name is not the right approach and will only deepen the division this initiative has caused. Names often evolve from complex histories, and while some may find specific names offensive due to their associations, it is crucial to recognize that erasing names doesn't erase history. Engaging in meaningful dialogue about the past and its implications can lead to better understanding and healing. Rather than focusing on renaming, we should prioritize education, community engagement, and finding ways to honor all perspectives constructively.

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Kelseyville is a diverse, rural town of different ethnicities. Throughout the last century, It has thrived because of its residents, who have worked diligently to make it a respected and inclusive town. The leaders of this town have worked tirelessly to build the brand of Kelseyville. The Kelseyville community is open to anyone who wishes to have a seat at the table. It works hard to make Lake County a better place for everyone.

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There is great pride in the town of Kelseyville. The Kelseyville Business Association presents five significant festivals each year: Bacon Fest on Father's Day; Dia de la Independencia, honoring the Kelseyville Hispanic families; the Kelseyville Pear Festival, honoring the agricultural heritage of Kelseyville; the Farm to Fork Dinner on Main Street, celebrating the food of Lake County; and Christmas in the Country, celebrating the joy of the season with the Light Parade. Additionally, we host lively street dances on Main Street throughout the summer. Kelseyville draws tens of thousands of visitors all year.

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Kelseyville, 95451, is home to more than 10,000 residents. If the name is changed, there will be no winners. This initiative is divisive, creating irreparable harm and financial hardship for the businesses, the school district, the fire department, the townspeople, and the Lake County government. Additionally, there is no clear plan for those who would bear the financial responsibility, further highlighting the inadequacy of the proposal.

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Kelseyville is situated at the base of Mount Konocti, a powerful and beautiful mountain. The Native Americans of this valley value it as sacred land that belongs to the whole County of Lake. Changing Kelseyville's name to Konocti would create confusion and a burden on the historic school district in the community of Lower Lake, which is called Konocti Unified School District.

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Kelseyville's rich history spanning over a century is a testament to the power of a diverse population working together. Join us in asking the BOS to uphold the clear policies set forth by the BGN. These policies are designed to respect community consensus and preserve existing names with established local usage. Let's continue to honor our shared history and identity by keeping our town's name intact.