Sonoma’s Last Pioneer
by Tom Whitworth
published in partnership with Sonoma Valley Historical Society
Published November 2005
ISBN: 978-0-9771655-0-6
$24.95; Softcover; 240 pages; 11×8
$35.00; Hardcover; 240 pages; 11×8
[Shipping included to U.S. addresses; no shipping to foreign addresses at this time.]
An illustrated memoir of Robert H. Cannard, one of Sonoma Valley’s most colorful and flamboyant residents — one who has taught its horticultural students, funded and run its business associations and institutions, helped build its wine industry, served in elected and appointed offices, and acted as informal watchdog to the excesses of people not as dedicated as he to guardianship of the natural resources inherited by all.
Bob made generous contributions to the celebration of its cultural heritage — and invented some of it himself. His heroes were the rugged pioneers who pushed westward a century before he journeyed west from Pennsylvania with his family. Since his arrival in Sonoma Valley, he fought against different kinds of odds to emulate their spirit.
A limited number of specially printed hardcover copies are available. Brown cloth over boards, with gilt titles, and dust jacket imprinted with the same ISBN as the paperback.
In 2007, Sonoma’s Last Pioneer was awarded the Editor’s Award for Historical Scholarship by the Sonoma County Historical Society.
“As diverse and complex as Bob Cannard’s life itself… All who want to know more about Sonoma will find intriguing tidbits and local lore here.” — Sonoma Index-Tribune, 11/18/2005
“Robert H. Cannard: Sonoma’s Last Pioneer, a memoir replete with Sonoma history, family stories, recipes, chapters on Vallejo, winemaking, and trees, to say nothing of opinions galore.” — Readers’ Books, Sonoma, Calif., 11/2005