Imagine a project that motivated children and adults to work together to build something amazing in their community for all to see. A great example of this kind of project is the Rubel Castle, a historical landmark located in Glendora, CA, that also happens to be one of the first major recycling projects in the United States.
Huell Howser episode featuring the Rubel Castle in Glendora, CA.
I came across an episode about the Rubel Castle that was produced by well known travel host Huell Howser in 1990. In the show Huell talked to the owner of the castle, Michael Clarke Rubel, who explained how the castle was built. Rubel and his friends started building the castle in 1959 and took 25 years to complete it. A number of his friends were college graduates who helped with the engineering of the structure which is still stable to this day and has withstood earthquakes. The castle includes draw bridges, towers and cannons, and has an amazing exterior and interior design featuring stacked rocks and cement. Much of the material was recycled material provided by local residents.
Rubel noted the neighborhood children played a big role in contributing to the construction of the castle. In fact, the project was so popular that parents would often drop there kids off for the day and even supply food and materials. He shared old photos of teenagers working on site and carrying heavy materials such as stones and wood planks.
Building the Rubel Castle offered incentive for everyone involved. Rubel received free labor to build his castle, the kids got to do interesting hands on work, and parents got their kids out of their hair. Not to mention the project was quite a feat. The castle still stands today and is managed by the Glendora Historical Society. Travelers from near and far visit the amazing historical landmark.
What a fantastic collaboration that resulted in something stunning for everyone to enjoy. How can we see more projects like this in communities?
Tours of the Rubel Castle are available for groups and individuals. For more information about visiting the Rubel Castle, click here.
Lauren Ell is an American blogger born and raised in Southern California and is currently based in Sweden. She discusses Epilepsy, Politics and Fun. Professionally Ell is an Online Marketing Consultant and Virtual Assistant. She is also founder and president of Republican Atheists. Connect with Lauren on Facebook and Twitter.