On March 19, 2008 the Sonoma City Council appointed Mr. George McKale as the first City Historian for the City of Sonoma.
In response to the question “Why do you wish to serve as volunteer City Historian?”, Mr. McKale responded “My wife and I moved to Sonoma about twelve years ago. We fell in love with the historic character of the City. We didn’t know it at the time that what really makes Sonoma special is the character of the community - the people who live here. Sonomans stand out among other Sonoma county cities and towns. History and archaeology are not merely elements of my 9 to 5 job. My work is my passion and I would like to share my passion by serving and contributing to the character of the City of Sonoma.”
McKale’s qualifications include a Bachelors Degree in Anthropology from San Jose State and a Masters Degree in Cultural Resources Management from Sonoma State. He is a practicing archaeologist and is currently employed by an environmental consulting firm. McKale conducts prehistoric and historical cultural resources studies throughout California which include archaeological excavation, historical research, and preparation of Environmental Impact Reports. His work also includes the mediation of concerns between developers, Native Americans, local historical societies, preservation, and other special interest groups.
McKale and his wife, Tory, have resided in Sonoma since 1996 and have four sons