Oh, the sounds you will hear

When my kids were little, one of our favorite adventures was to spend an afternoon exploring Folsom. We'd either wander through the shops along Sutter Street or we'd go to the zoo and then ride the little train in the park. We even visited the Prison Gift Shop and Museum a couple of times, although I probably found it more interesting than they did.After all, I grew up in Los Angeles where the history has been paved over. So, it's a never-ending source of delight to explore historic buildings and sites throughout the foothills.Not only that, Los Angeles' primary sounds are sirens and cars whooshing down the freeways. If you want to hear something different, you go to the beach and listen to the ocean.Living in the foothills, I've delighted in all types of sounds - listening to owls, mourning doves and even trains.I've also discovered some sounds that are unique to Folsom. Since the newspaper office is across the street from City Hall, I can hear the chimes on the clock every day. And, when it's running, I can hear the whistle on the train in the park.However, I've learned there's one sound that has been a mainstay in Folsom for more than 100 years.According to Lt. Bob Trujillo, the prison whistle has traditionally alerted prison staff and Folsom residents of the noon hour. Then there's a steam-sounding whistle, which is activated between 4:30 and 4:45 p.m. every day. Lt.Trujillo explained this whistle, which is blown twice, alerts staff it is time to conduct a count of the inmates."This same whistle is blown three times to notify staff of an emergency and to start locking all inmates in their cells immediately," he continued. "This is a prelude to an emergency count based on a possible escape."If the escape is verified, a red light near the Prison Road and Natoma Street is activated to warn residents. If you're interested in some unique history, check out the Retired Correctional Peace Officers Museum just outside the front gate of the historic Folsom Prison.The museum is open daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $2 for adults and children over 12.This museum, a non-profit charitable organization, is run entirely by volunteers.According to director Jim Brown, the museum is dedicated to prison staff, who have died from cancer. Proceeds are donated to the American Cancer Society.Brown indicated he is looking for eager, flexible and outgoing people to staff the museum on Saturdays. Responsibilities include greeting visitors, collecting admission, answering phones and handling gift shop sales. Training will be provided.If you're interested, call Brown at 985-2561, extension 4589 or 799-2440.Best of all, you'd be able to hear those prison whistles.