MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – April’s Fireside Chat at Gibson Museum will feature local historian Gene Paleno.

A resident of Witter Springs for almost 50 years, Paleno has collected local history and now shares it in his newly release book, “Lake County History: A Mystical Adventure in Time.”

He will sign copies of the 450-page tome for interested attendees.

The chat will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 30. The museum closes at 5 p.m.

Now nearing his 90th birthday, Paleno has developed a wry, humorous look at the world he lives in that always delights his audiences.

He had earlier written 15 novels and books of fiction and nonfiction. Of this most recent work he said, “History can be too strange or too ridiculous to be ignored.”

Paleno also will appear at the second anniversary celebration of the Gibson Museum & Cultural Center on May 14.

That event is themed “A Look at Life in the 1860s” and will be headlined by two authentically portrayed skirmishes by the American Civil War Association, as well as fashions, food and music of the period.

Paleno will delve into his book about the Civil War to offer information about the surprising depth of Californians’ participation in that war.

There is no charge for the April 30 fireside chat, although donations are welcomed as Gibson is entirely funded by voluntary contributions.

Seating is limited and reservations are advised.

The Gibson Museum is located at 21267 Calistoga St. (Highway 29) in Middletown, directly opposite the community center. Call 707-809-8009 or write This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.