Born in Winnemucca in 1917, Paul Sawyer moved to Elko as a young child His career was spent in the auto sales and leasing business. After retiring, Paul worked for several years with the Humboldt Highroad and the Bureau of Land Management to mark the California Trail and the Hastings Cutoff and other trails in the area. With his growing interest in the trails, Paul worked collaboratively with Dale Porter to conceive, promote, and fundraise for the National California Trail Interpretive Center west of Elko. Their efforts included visiting many similar centers, making local regional and national contacts with legislators, and gaining political support at all levels. The Center is located at the junction of the South Fork of the Humboldt and the main Humboldt River at Paul’s suggestion. Paul and Dale are honored by a Founder’s Plaque inside the Trail Center.