Welcome to Buckthorn Publishing

Trails and Tales of Cajon Pass and Route 66Buckthorn Publishing was born from a love of the local history of Route 66 and the area of Cajon Pass - the gateway between the east and Southern California.

John and Sandy Hockaday had a keen interest in this history and collaborated in collecting histories of this region. Meeting with some of the original pioneers and their children, these 1st hand accounts are incorporated with material from extensive research and original photos to form the most interesting and unique perceptions of the colorful history that has shaped Southern California.

Sandy has gone on to join the pioneers, but John continues to bring his unique, original American style to the new publications.


John's new book: Just Something I Did Once

It has taken John over 80 years to write this book. A book full of John's unque experiences growing up along part of Route 66, in a time that spans from the 1930's to present day and full of history, interesting people, and places of high interest.

The book is now available and more information can be found on the Just Something I Did Once book page.