User:Asiaticus/sandbox

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Sandboxes open.

NOTES[edit]

  • 1 meter = 3.28084 feet
  • 1 foot = 0.3048 meters

Hello, Asiaticus/sandbox, and welcome to Wikipedia! Thank you for your contributions. I hope you like the place and decide to stay. Here are a few good links for newcomers:

I hope you enjoy editing here and being a Wikipedian! Please sign your name on talk pages using four tildes (~~~~); this will automatically produce your name and the date. If you need help, check out Wikipedia:Questions, ask me on my talk page, or place {{helpme}} on your talk page and someone will show up shortly to answer your questions.

Referencing advice[edit]

Hi Asiaticus, your contributions to military history is valuable and highly regarded. I think you probably may do with some help with referencing. Instead of using bullet points for each tag for citation e.g. *. You can actually use common citation templates such as {{Cite book}}, {{Cite news}}, {{Cite journal}} and {{cite web}}.

{{cite news |title= |author= |url= |newspaper= |date= |accessdate=22 March 2012}}

{{cite book |title= |last= |first= |authorlink= |coauthors= |year= |publisher= |location= |isbn= |page= |pages= |url= |accessdate=}}

{{cite journal |last1= |first1= |last2= |first2= |year= |title= |journal= |volume= |issue= |pages= |publisher= |doi= |url= |accessdate= }}

{{cite web |url= |title= |author= |date= |work= |publisher= |accessdate=March 21, 2012}}

hope this helps you with your referencing of future military history articles. --Visik (Chinwag Podium) 02:00, 23 March 2012 (UTC)

References[edit]


Ranchos of California[edit]

California Historical Newspapers[edit]

The Benicia Gazette (weekly, 1851-1852)[edit]

  • California Gazette: (Benicia, Calif.) (weekly, 1851-1852)
    • Alternative Titles:
      • California State Gazette Mar. 22, 1851
      • The Benicia Gazette
    • Place of publication: Benicia, Calif.
    • Geographic coverage: Benicia, Solano, California
    • Publisher: St. Clair, Pinkham & Co.
    • Dates of publication: 1851-1852
    • Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (Mar. 22, 1851 - Feb. 21, 1852 - ? 1852
    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Language: English

The San Francisco Herald (daily, 1851-1860)[edit]

Daily Evening Bulletin, (Oct. 8, 1855 - May 18, 1895) San Francisco[edit]

Title: Daily evening bulletin.
Other Titles: Daily bulletin and alta California, Evening bulletin
Created / Published: San Francisco [Calif.] : C.O. Gerberding & Co., 1855-
Notes:
- Daily (except Sun.)
- Vol. 1, no. 1 (Oct. 8, 1855)-v. 80, no. 36 (May 18, 1895).
- "Daily" appears in title ornament.
- Extra issue for May 18, 1861 published as: Daily bulletin and alta California.
- Also issued on microfilm from the University of California, Berkeley.
- Also issued online.
- Bulletin (San Francisco, Calif. : 1895) (DLC)sn 85040229 (OCoLC)11683273
Library of Congress Control Number: sn84025973
Description: Daily (except Sun.) Vol. 1, no. 1 (Oct. 8, 1855)-v. 80, no. 36 (May 18, 1895).
"Daily" appears in title ornament. Extra issue for May 18, 1861 published as: Daily bulletin and
alta California. Also issued on microfilm from the University of California, Berkeley. Also issued : online. Bulletin (San Francisco, Calif. : 1895) (DLC)sn 85040229 (OCoLC)11683273

The daily bee (Sacramento, Calif.) 1857-1890[edit]

Title: The daily bee. : (Sacramento [Calif.]) 1857-1890
Alternative Titles: Bee
Place of publication: Sacramento [Calif.]
Geographic coverage: Sacramento, Sacramento, California
Publisher: Tobey, Church, & Co.
Dates of publication: 1857-1890
Description:Vol. 1, no. 1 (Feb. 3, 1857)-v. 67, no. 10682 (Jan. 4, 1890).
Frequency: Daily (except Sun.)
Language: English
Notes: "Daily" appears in title ornament, Jan. 3, 1870-Jan. 4, 1890. Also available on microfilm from Bay Microfilm Inc.
Publishers: L.P. Davis & Co., <1864-1869>; James McClatchy & Co., <1876>.
Preceding Titles: Daily California American. (Sacramento [Calif.) 1856-1857]
Succeeding Titles: The Evening bee. [volume (Sacramento, Cal.) 1890-1908]
Related Titles: The Semi-weekly bee. (Sacramento [Calif.) 186?-1???], The Weekly bee. ([Sacramento, Calif.) 1877-1899]


Stockton times. (Stockton, Calif.) 1850-1850[edit]

Title: Stockton times. : (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-1850
Place of publication: Stockton [Calif.]
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California | View more titles from this: City County, State
Publisher: Henry Hayton Radcliffe, M.D. and John White
Dates of publication: 1850-1850
Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (Mar. 16, 1850)-v. 1, no. 9 (May 11, 1850).
Frequency: Weekly
Language: English
Notes: Available on microfilm from Bancroft Library Photographic Service, University of California, Berkeley.
Succeeding Titles: Stockton times and Tualumne City intelligencer. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-1850

Stockton times and Tualumne City intelligencer. (Stockton, Calif.) 1850-1850[edit]

Title: Stockton times and Tualumne City intelligencer.: (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-1850
Alternative Titles: Stockton times, Stockton times and Tuolumne City intelligencer
Place of publication: Stockton [Calif.]
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California ; Tuolumne City
Publisher:: Henry Hayton Radcliffe & John White
Dates of publication: 1850-1850
Description: Vol. 1, no. 10 (May 18, 1850)-v. 1, no. 42 (Dec. 28, 1850).
Frequency: Weekly
Language: English
Notes:
Available on microfilm from Bancroft Library Photographic Service, University of California, Berkeley.
Preceding Titles: Stockton times. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-1850
Succeeding Titles: Stockton times. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1851-1851

Stockton times. (Stockton, Calif.) 1851-1851[edit]

Title: Stockton times. : (Stockton [Calif.]) 1851-1851
Place of publication: Stockton [Calif.]
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California
Publisher: H.H. Radcliffe and John White
Dates of publication: 1851-1851
Description: Vol. 1, no. 43 (Jan. 1, 1851)-v. 2, no. 34 (Apr. 26, 1851).
Frequency: Semiweekly
Language: English
Notes: Available on microfilm from Bancroft Library Photographic Service, University of California, Berkeley.
Preceding Titles: Stockton times and Tuolumne City intelligencer. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-1850
Succeeding Titles: San Joaquin Republican. (Stockton, Calif.) 1851-1854

San Joaquin Republican. (Stockton, Calif.) 1851-1854[edit]

Place of publication: Stockton, Calif.
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California
Publisher: George Kerr
Dates of publication: 1851-1854
Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (May 14, 1851)-v. 4, no. 67 (Mar. 22, 1854).
Frequency: Daily (except Sunday) Dec. 29, 1853-Mar. 22, 1854
Notes: Also issued on microfilm from the University of California, Berkeley, Bancroft Library.
Editors: John White, 1851-1854; A.C. Bradford, 1854.
Publishers: George Kerr, 1851-1853; George Kerr & Co., 1853-1854; Mansfield, Patrick & Co., 1854; H.C. Patrick & Co., 1854.
Steamer ed.: San Joaquin Republican (Stockton, Calif. 1852), <1852-1853>
Preceding Titles: Stockton times. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1851-1851
Succeeding Titles: Daily San Joaquin Republican. [volume] (Stockton, Calif.) 1854-1873
Related Titles: San Joaquin Republican. (Stockton, Calif.) 18??-1???
Related Titles: Weekly San Joaquin republican. (Stockton, Calif.) 1854-1863; Weekly San Joaquin Republican. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1869-1???

Daily San Joaquin Republican. (volume) (Stockton, Calif.) 1854-1873[edit]

Title: Daily San Joaquin Republican. (volume) : (Stockton, Calif.) 1854-1873
Alternative Titles: San Joaquin daily Republican; San Joaquin Republican July 19-Dec. 25, 1854
Place of publication: Stockton, Calif.
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California
Publisher: Mansfield, Patrick & Co.
Dates of publication: 1854-1873
Description: Vol. 4, no. 68 (Mar. 22 [i.e. 23], 1854)-v. 14, no. 4049 (Feb. 1, 1873).
Frequency: Daily (except Monday) Dec. 27, 1854-1873
Language: English
Notes: Also issued on microfilm from the University of California, Berkeley, Bancroft Library.
Democratic. Cf. Kemble, E.C. Hist. of Cailf. newspapers, 1846-1858.
Editors: A.C. Bradford, 1854-1855; E.R. Campbell; A.C. Baine; A.J. De Prefontaine; A.C. Russell; F.L. Sargent, <1858>.
Issues for Nov. 23-Dec. 3, 1869 called v. 1, no. 1-v.1, no. 10. Issues for Dec. 4, 1869- called New ser. v. 1, no. 11- and Old ser. v. 12, no. 3061-
Not published: 1863-Nov. 22? 1869. Cf. Newspapers in microform: U.S., 1948-1972.
Old ser. numbering is irregular.
Publishers: H.C. Patrick & Co., 1854-1855; J.M. Conley & Co., 1855-1857; Conley & Patrick, 1857-<1859>.
Sometimes published as: San Joaquin daily Republican. Cf. Newspapers in microform: U.S., 1948-1972.
Weekly eds.: Weekly San Joaquin Republican, <1855-1862>, and: Weekly San Joaquin Republican (Stockton, Calif. 1869), 1869-<1871>.
Preceding Titles: San Joaquin Republican. (Stockton, Calif.) 1851-1854
Related Titles: Weekly San Joaquin republican. (Stockton, Calif.) 1854-1863; Weekly San Joaquin Republican. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1869-1871

The Stockton journal. Stockton (Calif.) 1850-1854[edit]

Title: The Stockton journal. : (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-185?
Place of publication: Stockton [Calif.]
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California
Publisher: J.S. Robb
Dates of publication: 1850-185?
Description: Began June 19, 1850; ceased June 6, 1854?
Frequency: Semiweekly
Language: English
Notes:
Description based on: Vol. 1, no. 20 (Aug. 24, 1850).
Editors: John S. Robb, 1851-1852; Robert Wilson, 1852-1854; T.C. Osborn, 1854.
Publishers: Bartlett & Robb, 1850-1851; John S. Robb & Co., 1851; Tabor & Jackson, 1851-1852; John F. Tabor, 1852-1854; Knight & Owens, 1854.
Steamer ed.: Stockton journal (Stockton, Calif. : Steamer ed.), 1851-<1852>.
Succeeding Titles: Stockton daily Argus. (Stockton, Calif.) 185?-186?
Related Titles: Stockton journal. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1851-18??

Stockton daily Argus, (Stockton, Calif.) 1854-1862[edit]

Title: Stockton daily Argus. : (Stockton, Calif.) 185?-186?
Place of publication: Stockton, Calif.
Geographic coverage: Stockton, San Joaquin, California | View more titles from this: City County, State
Publisher: Wm. Biven
Dates of publication: 1854-1862
Description: Began with June 7, 1854 issue; ceased in Sept. 1862.
Frequency: Daily (except Sun.)
Language: English
Notes:
Description based on: Vol. 2, no. 175 (Dec. 8, 1855).
Editors: A.G. States, A.C. Russell, <1854>; William Biven, <1855-1858>
Master negatives are available for duplication from:
Publishers: Biven & Crabb, 1854-1855; William Biven, 1855-<1858>
Whig, <1854>; American, <1855>; Democratic, <1858>. Cf. Kemble, E.C. Hist. of Calif. newspapers, 1846-1858.
Preceding Titles: The Stockton journal. (Stockton [Calif.]) 1850-1854

Sonora Herald(Sonora, Calif.) 1850-1857[edit]

Place of publication: Sonora, Calif.
Geographic coverage: Sonora, Tuolumne, California
Publisher: J. White & J.G. Marvin
Dates of publication: 1850-1???
Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (July 4, 1850)-
Frequency: Weekly
Language: English, Spanish
Notes:
Editors: John White, John G. Marvin, <1850> In English and Spanish.
Independent, 1850-1853; Democratic, 1853-1855; American, 1855-1856. Cf. Kemble, E.C. Hist. of Calif. newspapers, 1846-1858.
Publishers: White & Marvin, 1850; Marvin & Reynolds, 1850; Marvin & Haley, 1850; Marvin & Gunn, 1850; Christman & Gunn, <1850>; L.C. Gunn, <1851>-1852; W. Murray & J. O'Sullivan, 1852-1853; Walter Murray, 1853; L.C. Gunn, 1853-1854; Murray & O'Sullivan, 1854; James O'Sullivan, 1854-1855; E.A. Rockwell, 1855-1856; O'Sullivan & Kearney, 1856-<1857>
Suspended briefly in 1850. Cf. Kemble, E.C. Hist. of Calif. newspapers, 1846-1858.

Calaveras Chronicle, (Mokelumne Hill, Calif.), 1851-1857[edit]

Title: Calaveras chronicle. : (Mokelumne Hill [Calif.]) 1851-18??
Place of publication: Mokelumne Hill [Calif.]
Geographic coverage: Mokelumne Hill, Calaveras, California
Publisher: Hamilton, Ayers & Co.
Dates of publication: 1851-18??
Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (Oct. 18, 1851)-
Frequency: Weekly
Language: English
Notes:
Editors: H.A. De Courcey, 1851-1852; H. Hamilton, 1852-1855; George L. Shuler, <1855-1857>; J. O'Meara, J.N. Bingay, 1857; John Shannon, <1857>.
Publishers: Hamilton, Ayers & Co., <1852>; John Shannon, <1857>

Columbia Gazette, Columbia, Tuolumne County, Calif. (1852-1855)[edit]

Place of publication: Columbia, Tuolumne County, Calif.
Geographic coverage: Columbia, Tuolumne, California
Publisher: Thos. A. Falconer
Dates of publication: 1852-1855
Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (Oct. 23, 1852)-v. 3, no. 52 (Nov. 3, 1855).
Frequency: Weekly
Language: English
Notes:
Editors: Thos. A. Falconer, 1853; John C. Duchow, <1853-1855>.
Issues for Nov. 12, 1853-Dec. 30, 1854 called also whole no. 53-whole no. 112.
Published joint issues with Columbia clipper: Clipper & gazette extra, July 11-15, 1854; Clipper & gazette, July 22, 1854.
Publishers: Thos. A. Falconer, 1853; Duchow & Lancey, 1853; J.C. & W.A. Duchow & P.M. Lancey, 1853-1855; Duchow & Steele, <1855>.
Suspended with July 8, 1854 issue; resumed with July 29, 1854 issue.

The Mariposa chronicle. (Mariposa, Cal.) 1854-1855[edit]

Place of publication: Mariposa, Cal. Geographic coverage: Mariposa, Mariposa, California Publisher: W.T. Whitacre & A.S. Gould Dates of publication: 1854-1855 Description: Vol. 1, no. 1 (Jan. 20, 1854)-v. 2, no. 7 (Mar. 2, 1855). Frequency: Weekly

California Online Historical Newspapers[edit]

Monterey, 1846-1848

Californian (Monterey, 1846-1848)[edit]

San Francisco, 1847-1891

California Star (San Francisco, 1847-1848)[edit]

California Star & Californian (1848)[edit]

Weekly Alta California (San Francisco, 1849)[edit]

Daily Alta California (San Francisco, 1849-1891)[edit]


Sacramento 1849-1899

Placer Times (Sacramento, 1849-1850)[edit]

Succeeding Titles:

Sacramento Transcript (Sacramento, 1850-1851)[edit]

Succeeding Titles:
Merged with:
  • Daily Alta California. (San Francisco, Calif.) 1850-1891

Sacramento Daily Union (Sacramento, 1851-1899)[edit]

Marysville, 1850-1876

Marysville Daily Herald (Marysville, 1850-1858)[edit]

Succeeding Titles:

  • Daily evening herald. [volume (Marysville, Yuba County, Calif.) 1853-1854]
  • Marysville daily herald. [volume] (Marysville, Yuba County, Calif.) 1854-1854
  • The Marysville herald. [volume] (Marysville, Ca.) 1854-1855
  • Marysville daily herald. [volume] (Marysville, Yuba County, Calif.) 1855-1857
  • Marysville herald. [volume (Marysville, Calif.) 1857-1858] Ceased with Jan. 3, 1858 issue.
  • Marysville daily news. (Marysville, Calif.) 1858-1858
  • Daily national Democrat. (Marysville, Calif.) 1858-1861 Editor: John R. Ridge, <1859>.
    • Seven months after the Marysville Herald ceased publication, the Daily National Democrat appeared. It was the last title to start publication during the 1850s, with John Rollin Ridge as its editor. In 1861 it merged with the Daily Appeal to become the Marysville Daily Appeal. The title continued under various names well into the 20th century. Vol. 1, no. 2 (Aug. 13, 1858) - -v. 7, no. 65 (Oct. 27, 1861).

Marysville Daily Appeal (Marysville, 1860-1876)[edit]

Preceding Titles:

Succeeding Titles:
  • The daily appeal. (Marysville, Calif.) 1905-1911

Los Angeles Star, 1851-1864, 1873-1921[edit]

USC Digital Library Los Angeles Star Collection, 1851-1864[edit]

Los Angeles Star (1851-1864)[edit]

Los Angeles Herald (1873-1921)[edit]

Succeeding Titles:

Santa Rosa, 1857-1916

Sonoma Democrat (Santa Rosa, 1857-1886)[edit]

Red Bluff, 1857-1922

Red Bluff Beacon (Red Bluff, 1857-1864)[edit]

Red Bluff Independent (Red Bluff, 1860-1874)[edit]

San Rafael, 1861-1922)

Marin County Tocsin (San Rafael, 1861-1918)[edit]

Marin Journal (San Rafael, 1861-1922)[edit]

Mariposa, 1861-1922

Mariposa Gazette (1861-1922)[edit]

Healdsburg, 1865-1886

Russian River Flag (Healdsburg, 1865-1886)[edit]

California Historical Books, Articles[edit]

"We sat upon the old bench, enjoying the warm sun and the same delightful atmosphere we breathed twenty-odd years ago, shutting our eyes to the sights of to-day, and looking back upon the memories — the men we saw when first we knew the Mission Dolores: El Señores Valencia, Noe, Guerrero, De Haro, Bernal and, Charley Brown, who came there in 1829; Messrs. Denniston and Nuttman, of Stevenson's Regiment, and Jack Powers, always well mounted, and dashing along to show the merits of his nag. Jack Powers! with black beard and flowing hair — his glittering, restless, omnivagant eye — the worst we ever looked upon in any living creature — a fascinating terror — sure index of the devil, time eventually proved him to be." MEN AND MEMORIES: pp.29-30

The Works of Hubert Howe Bancroft 1882-1890[edit]

The Works of Hubert Howe Bancroft document the history, civilizations, and cultures of the entire western territory of North America, from Alaska down to Mexico and Central America. After having collected nearly 16,000 books, manuscripts, and pamphlets concerning this area along the Pacific, the daunting task of compiling it all was begun. The end result is this 39-volume series, which after only eight years was completed in 1890. The volumes and their titles are listed below:
Volume 1: The Native Races, Vol. 1, Wild Tribes [1]
Volume 2: The Native Races, Vol. 2, Civilized Nations [2]
Volume 3: The Native Races, Vol. 3, Myths and Languages [3]
Volume 4: The Native Races, Vol. 4, Antiquities [4]
Volume 5: The Native Races, Vol. 5, Primitive History [5]
Volume 6: History of Central America, Vol. 1, 1501-1530 [6]
Volume 7: History of Central America, Vol. 2, 1530-1800 [7]
Volume 8: History of Central America, Vol. 3, 1801-1887[8]
Volume 9: History of Mexico, Vol. 1, 1516-1521 [9]
Volume 10: History of Mexico, Vol. 2, 1521-1600 [10]
Volume 11: History of Mexico, Vol. 3, 1600-1803 [11]
Volume 12: History of Mexico, Vol. 4, 1804-1824 [12]
Volume 13: History of Mexico, Vol. 5, 1824-1861 [13]
Volume 14: History of Mexico, Vol. 6, 1861-1887 [14]
Volume 15: History of the North Mexican States and Texas, Vol. 1, 1531-1800 [15]
Volume 16: History of the North Mexican States and Texas, Vol. 2, 1801-1889 [16]
Volume 17: History of Arizona and New Mexico- 1530-1888 [17]
Volume 18: History of California, Vol. 1, 1542-1800 [18]
Volume 19: History of California, Vol. 2 1801-1824 [19]
Volume 20: History of California, Vol. 3 1825-1840 [20]
Volume 21: History of California, Vol. 4 1840-1845 [21]
Volume 22: History of California, Vol. 5 1846-1848 [22]
Volume 23: History of California, Vol. 6 1848-1859 [23]
Volume 24: History of California, Vol. 7, 1860-1890 [24]
Volume 25: History of Nevada, Colorado, and Wyoming 1540-1888 [25]
Volume 26: History of Utah 1540-1886 [26]
Volume 27: History of the Northwest Coast, 1543-1800[27]
Volume 28: History of the Northwest Coast, Vol 2, 1800-1846 [28]
Volume 29: History of Oregon, Vol 1, 1834-1848 [29]
Volume 30: History of Oregon, Vol 2, 1848-1888 [30]
Volume 31: History of Washington, Idaho, and Montana- 1845-1889 [31]
Volume 32: History of British Columbia - 1792-1887 [32]
Volume 33: History of Alaska - 1730-1885 [33]
Volume 34: California Pastoral - 1769-1848 [34]
Volume 35: California Inter Pocula [35]
Volume 36: Popular Tribunals I [36]
Volume 37: Popular Tribunals II [37]
Volume 38: Essays and Misc. [38]
Volume 39: Literary Industries [39]

Pioneer Register and Index of California 1542—1848[edit]

The Historical Society of Southern California Quarterly 1884 - 1961[edit]

  • Annual publication of the Historical Society of Southern California Vol. 15, Part 1, Part 2 and 3, 1932

Hittell, Theodore Henry, History of California, 1897-1898[edit]

Boyd, James, Brown, John, editors; History of San Bernardino and Riverside counties with selected biography of actors and witnesses of the period of growth and achievement;: The Western Historical Association, Madison, Wis., 1922[edit]


misc. watch[edit]

disambiguation[edit]

Texas Hill - disambiguation[edit]

Arizona
California
Florida
New Mexico
New York
Utah
Vermont

Coyote Wash - disambiguation[edit]

Arizona
California
Colorado
New Mexico
Nevada
Utah

Myer Creek - disambiguation[edit]

Willow Wash - disambiguation[edit]

A stream or arroyo:

Rincon Valley - disambiguation[edit]

Mustang Peak - disambiguation[edit]

Dutch Mountain- disambiguation[edit]

clean up[edit]

Mariposita, California[edit]

Mariposita, California, was a small California Gold Rush mining camp, populated mostly by Mexican and French miners in the early 1850s.[113] It was located about 7 miles south of Mariposa, California along Mariposa Creek. [114] The site is still referred to as late as April 5, 1925, on pg. 10 in The Fresno Morning Republican.[115]


History

In the summer of 1852? there was an attempt to drive out the Mexican and French miners.[113] Mariposita was possibly destroyed in the anti-foreign miner violence of the time or abandoned due to the tax on those miners.[citation needed]. [116]

References == reflist}}


  • Delete. No post office. Confirmed that it does not appear in the GNIS. Trivial coverage in newspapers.com: [4], [5], [6]. As this location is not legally recognized it does not meet #1 of WP:GEOLAND. Gudde has a trivial mention that has text that is close to what is in the article. There is only trivial coverage, so it does not meet #2 of WP:GEOLAND. Cxbrx (talk) 22:04, 20 November 2020 (UTC)

=

Sierra County, New Mexico[edit]

Wilson, John P., Between the River and the Mountains: A History of Early Settlement in Sierra County, New Mexico, Report #40, John P. Wilson, Las Cruces, New Mexico, August 1985
The Origins of Sierra County:Political and Economic Roots by James B. Sullivan, pp,6-13, SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO HISTORICAL REVIEW, Doña Ana County Historical Society, Volume IX, No.1, Las Cruces, New Mexico January 2002
Dragoons in Apacheland: Anglo-Apache Relations in Southern New Mexico, 1846-1861 by William Kiser

Socorro County, New Mexico Ghost Towns[edit]

Socorro_County,_New_Mexico_Genealogy Sabinal and other ghost towns.

Socorro County Ghost towns[edit]

Ghost Towns - east of Rio Grande
Ghost Towns - west of Rio Grande
Alamillo Pueblo, Ref: “El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro; National Historic Trail: Comprehensive Management Plan,” 2004, Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service, Appendix E
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Council Rock, Area (Definitions), Elevation: 7,333 ft / 2,235 m, 34°10′02″N 107°24′34″W / 34.16722°N 107.40944°W / 34.16722; -107.40944
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Council Rock Ranch Locale, Elevation: 7,214 ft / 2,199 m, 34°09′58″N 107°24′46″W / 34.16611°N 107.41278°W / 34.16611; -107.41278
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Council Rock Arroyo, Stream, Elevation: 6,535 ft / 1,992 m, mouth

34°10′08″N 107°18′21″W / 34.16889°N 107.30583°W / 34.16889; -107.30583, source 34°10′13″N 107°27′08″W / 34.17028°N 107.45222°W / 34.17028; -107.45222

Citation: N.M. Office of Historic Preservation, supplied list of historic sites, *Elevation: 4623/1409, 34°06′05″N 106°53′47″W / 34.10139°N 106.89639°W / 34.10139; -106.89639

U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Sabinal Post Office (historical), Post Office 1866-1907, mail to Bernardo, Citation: Helbock, Richard W., Post Offices of New Mexico, Las Cruces, NM, 1981.*Elevation: 4793 f / 1461 m., 34°29′37″N 106°48′27″W / 34.49361°N 106.80750°W / 34.49361; -106.80750
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Sabinal Siding, Class: Locale, Elevation: 4767/1453.34°31′02″N 106°47′58″W / 34.51722°N 106.79944°W / 34.51722; -106.79944
  • Tajo, New Mexico originally El Tajo, between Bosquecito and La Parida on E. side of Rio Grande
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Tajo (historical) Populated Place Description: coord approx; at the confluence of the Rio Grande and the Arroyo del Tajo, 34°02′35″N 106°51′10″W / 34.04306°N 106.85278°W / 34.04306; -106.85278 *Elevation: 4652/14
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Arroyo del Tajo) Class: Valley , *Elevation: 4593/1400, m 34°02′26″N 106°51′52″W / 34.04056°N 106.86444°W / 34.04056; -106.86444, s 34°03′15″N 106°44′48″W / 34.05417°N 106.74667°W / 34.05417; -106.74667
Latitude: 33° 29' 24.3" (33.4901°) north, Longitude: 107° 3' 48.1" (107.0634°) west, Elevation: 4573 feet (1394 meters) [123]

South Mountains (Nevada/Utah)[edit]

Joaquin Murrieta[edit]

Sonora connections[edit]

Lit. Sources[edit]

John Rollin Ridge[edit]
    • Came to CA and mined for a short time on the Trinity River, Latta p.357
    • Newspaper career in CA: Wrote for Marysville National Democrat, San Francisco Herald and in Sacramento, The California American (Sacramento), the City Item and the Sacramento Bee. He was the first editor of The Sacramento Bee, then retired to Marysville and in 1858, edited the Marysville California Express.

Sources list[edit]

Hittell, Theodore Henry, History of California, Volume 3, N.J. Stone& Co., San Francisco, 1898 Book X, STATE GROWTH, Chapter IV, Joaquin Murrieta and his Banditti, pp.712-726][edit]
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CHAPTER IV.
JOAQUIN MURRIETA AND HIS BANDITTI.

ONE, and a very significant, effect of the foreign miners' tax law and the prejudices against foreigners, of which it was the evidence, was to deprive many of them of employment As a natural consequence, being thus rendered destitute of the means of purchasing food and clothing, they became desperate and were driven to theft, robbery and sometimes murder.1 For several years after the persecutions of this kind began, the otherwise waste regions of the upper San Joaquin valley, and particularly that portion of it west of Tulare Lake, were ranged over by gangs, amounting in the aggregate to several hundred, of Spanish-speaking vagabonds, whose ostensible occupation was running mustangs but whose real business was believed to be robbery and the protection of robbers. In October, 1855, on account of the great increase of crime and the consequent strengthening of the opinion that the criminals were the pretended mustang-runners, a company of rangers was organized on the Merced river and undertook to relieve that region of the marauders; and a fight was said to have taken place between them and a party of Mexicans having charge of a large band of horses and mules near the Chowchilla river, in which a number of the Mexicans were killed.2 There were many expeditions of this kind, sometimes in charge of sheriffs and sometimes without them, and not unfrequent bloody fights, until in the course of years the country was cleared of the bandits and it became safe to travel through it.

The famous brigand chief, Joaquin Murieta, and many of his bandit companions, who were second only to him in their bad

1.Wood's Sixteen Months at the Gold Diggings, 142. 2.San Joaquin Republican, November, 1855.

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eminence, were said to have been driven into their career of crime and blood by anti-foreigner persecution. Joaquin, according to the best but still to a great extent unreliable reports about him, was born in Sonora and came to California soon after the discovery of gold. He was said to have been mining on the Stanislaus river in the early spring of 1850, when he was driven off by an anti-foreigner mob, which treated him very roughly and abused his wife or mistress, whom he had brought with him from Mexico. He then proceeded to a spot on the Calaveras river and again commenced mining; but was again driven off by a mob. He then took up his residence at Murphy's Diggings in Calaveras county and became a monte-dealer. While so engaged, he had occasion to visit a half-brother, who lived not far distant, and borrowed a horse from him to ride back. The horse appeared to have been stolen; and, upon Joaquin's return, the owner, happening to see the animal, not only claimed it but called upon the crowd to help him punish the supposed thief. Joaquin protested that he had borrowed the animal and that his half-brother had honestly paid for it; but all the effect his remonstrances produced was simply to induce the mob to go after the half-brother also. A sort of lynch-law court was convened and trial held, at which defendants, however, were unable to bring forward any testimony except their own; and the result was that the half-brother was hung upon the nearest limb and Joaquin, being tied to the trunk of the same tree, was publicly flogged. Upon being released and told to leave the place, he swore vengeance upon those who had wronged him and the Americans in general.1

Though it is not at all probable, judging from Joaquin's subsequent career, that he was ever anything but a vicious and abandoned character, low, brutal and cruel, intrinsically and at heart a thief and cut-throat, it is not unlikely that the anti-foreigner persecution, from which he suffered, made him much worse than he would otherwise have been; and it is pretty certain that the same cause had much to do in rendering it possible for him to gather and keep together for so long a time so many men preferring brigandage with all its toils, privations and perils to easier

1 The Life and Adventures of Joaquin Murieta, &c., by John R. Ridge, San Francisco, 1871, 5-10.

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and securer life in the mines. However this may have been, highway robberies and murders became very frequent; and in the course of 1851 it was perfectly well known that a band of organized banditti was ranging the country, though it was not for some time known who was the leader of them. It was said that the first victims were persons, who had been parties to the lynching of Joaquin's half-brother and the flogging of himself; but no one for some time supposed that the young monte-dealer was the chief and governing spirit of the organization. Among the band was Manuel Garcia, better known as "Three-fingered Jack" from the fact of having lost a finger at the time of the Mexican war. He was said to have been the leader of the guerrilla party that in 1846 tortured, murdered and mutilated Cowie and Fowler near Santa Rosa. Another member of the combination was Reyes Feliz, said to be a brother of Joaquin's female companion; another a man called Claudio; a fourth Joaquin Valenzuela, and a fifth Pedro Gonzales. All these were more or less prominent; and several of them were at different times taken to be chief. Altogether the band numbered about fifty persons and was continually increasing. Joaquin, meanwhile, without being suspected, lived much about the towns and kept his subordinates posted about everything of interest to them that was going on. They were obliged from the nature of their occupation, which in addition to highway robbery was horse-stealing on a large scale, to travel from place to place; and Joaquin himself moved about a great deal. At one time in the summer of 1851 he was at San Josd and was said to have there murdered a deputy sheriff of Santa Clara county, who had rendered himself obnoxious by his persistent and determined efforts to arrest some of his band.1

From San Jose, Joaquin moved to what was known as the Sonorian Camp, a cluster of tents and canvas houses about three miles from Marysville; and in a very short time a number of very daring robberies and murders took place in that neighborhood. Seven men were murdered within three or four days. One of the most usual methods of assassination was to throw a lariat around the neck of an unsuspecting traveler, drag him

1 Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 10-15.

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into the chaparral by the side of the road and there dispatch him and rob the body. Suspicion was soon directed to the Sonorian Camp; and some attempts were made to fasten the crimes on individuals. But though these attempts were without success, Joaquin found it necessary to remove again; and on this occasion he led his band to the wild and rough but romantic and beautiful country to the west of Mount Shasta, where the chief object seems to have been to keep out of harm's way, occasionally cut a throat and once in a while descend into the Sacramento valley and steal horses. In the spring of 1852 the band, having collected some two or three hundred stolen animals, drove them down to a secluded and delightful little valley in the Coast Range of mountains opening by a narrow gorge into the plains west of Tulare Lake, about midway between the Tejon and Pacheco Pass. There it appears Joaquin divided most of his band, then consisting of about seventy members, into three parties and sent them out to commit depredations—one headed by Claudio, one by Garcia and one by Valenzuela. He himself, with Reyes Feliz and Pedro Gonzales and three females dressed in male attire and well-armed, went to Mokelumne Hill, where the women appeared in proper dress and attracted much attention by their quiet and modest deportment; while the men gambled and stole but more particularly devoted their time to the collection of information to aid in planning new robberies or protecting the band from trouble on account of old ones. By that time the name of Joaquin had begun to be connected with the numerous outrages committed in different parts of the country; and, though he was personally known to but very few persons, his villainous reputation spread far and wide; and he became a sort of terror in all exposed places. Meanwhile murders and robberies continued to multiply; and, notwithstanding various efforts that were made to put a stop to them, the criminals, partly because of their own abilities and partly because protected by certain of the old rancheros, managed for a time to escape arrest.1

After leaving Mokelumne Hill, Joaquin and his party returned to their secluded valley for a short time and then again took the

1 Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 15-19.

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road. One day on this expedition Joaquin overtook a young man, named Albert Ruddle, who was driving a wagon on the highway. Riding up he asked the loan of what change he had about him; and, upon Ruddle's refusal and effort to protect himself, Joaquin whipped out his bowie-knife, slashed him in the neck, cut his throat from ear to ear, threw the dead body on the ground, robbed it of about three hundred dollars and left it lying in the dust. This all took place in sight of his special party above mentioned and may have been intended as an object lesson. About that same time Captain Harry S. Love, deputy sheriff of Los Angeles county, a Texan who had served as a scout and express rider in the Mexican war and was experienced in all the hardships and dangers of border hostilities, headed a party to pursue the cut-throat and his band and tracked them by their murders and robberies to the rancho of San Luis Gonzaga in Mariposa county, where they were passing the night in a canvas house. Love and his party came up in the darkness; but, as they pressed in at the door, Joaquin and his male companions cut through the canvas at the rear and escaped, leaving the women. who however joined them in a day or two afterwards, while Love, having other engagements, gave up for the time any further pursuit. It appears that the robbers proceeded next to the Tejon; and it was said that they were there themselves robbed not only of their horses but also of their arms and even clothing by the Tejon Indians and had to travel for a day or two on foot and naked. It was even added that the captain of the Indians had them whipped as vagabonds and that Joaquin was so amused at the absurdity of the incident that he refused to take, or allow any of his party to take, revenge.1

But this story, as well as much else that was told about Joaquin, does not comport with what is known of the man and was doubtless only one of the many incredible reports that were invented and repeated by irresponsible scribblers for the purpose of investing Joaquin with a magnanimity of character that did not belong to him and thereby pandering to a vitiated taste in certain lower levels of the reading community.

The next place in which the outlaws committed depredations

1 Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 19–25.

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was Los Angeles county, where all the different parties came together, including Claudio who had just returned from driving a large number of the stolen horses into Sonora. While sojourning there, Pedro Gonzales appears to have operated to some extent in the neighborhood of the Camulos rancho, one of the places of refuge of the band, and fell into the hands of Captain Love, who had been on the watch. While Love was conducting him to Los Angeles, where he would undoubtedly have been hung, Joaquin, Claudio and a few others, hearing of the arrest, determined to overtake Love and release Gonzales and set off on their mission at once. By riding all night and with the utmost urgency, as their bloody spurs and the foam on their horses attested, they came in sight of Love and his prisoner just at daybreak. Gonzales, anticipating a rescue, looked back and waved his handkerchief, whereupon Love, comprehending at a glance the situation, drew his pistol, shot Gonzales through the heart and then, putting spurs to his own horse, was soon far beyond the reach of the pursuers. Not long after that, while Joaquin and Garcia or Three-fingered Jack were traveling at night near the mission of San Gabriel, they came across a couple of Chinamen, who were camping by the roadside. Three-fingered Jack woke them up and seems to have richly enjoyed the terror he caused in frightening them with his pistol. Upon examining their purses, which they were only too glad to relinquish, and finding that they contained not more than twenty or thirty dollars, the fiendish monster drew his knife and cut their throats. And not long after that and in the same neighborhood Joaquin and Garcia together waylaid and, after a desperate fight, killed General Bean, at that time a resident of San Gabriel, who had made himself very active in attempting to run down and capture the outlaws.1

From Los Angeles county the band moved to Calaveras county and was said to have thence crossed over the Sierra Nevada to the Mono Lake region and from there made its way around, by the way of Kern river, to the San Joaquin valley again. About this time it was learned that Reyes Feliz, Joaquin's so called brother-in-law, had been seized and hung at Los Angeles.

1 Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 25-30.

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Not long afterwards a desperate fight occurred near San Luis Obispo between the outlaws and a party of pursuers from Santa Barbara county, in which a number of persons on both sides were killed and among them Joaquin's lieutenant Claudio, though other accounts say that he was not killed until afterwards. The band then moved over again to Mariposa county and on the Merced river robbed a company of miners of fifteen thousand dollars. From there they went to Stockton, near which, in the slough leading to the San Joaquin river, they attacked a schooner, killed the crew and several miners who were passengers, and robbed their bodies of twenty thousand dollars. About the same time it appears to have been determined to move to Sonora in Mexico, whither a remittance of fifty thousand dollars was despatched under charge of Valenzuela and a drove of nearly a thousand stolen horses under charge of Garcia. The intention, according to report, was to collect the entire band, then over a hundred in number, and march them openly like a hostile army of marauders, relying upon their celerity of action to escape overhauling, except by such force for which their armed strength would be more than a match. Meanwhile robberies and murders continued in Calaveras and El Dorado counties; and on one occasion, when a member of his band was being examined for a capital offense before a justice of the peace, Joaquin coolly strode into court, pretended to be Samuel Harrington of San Jose, a man whom he had shortly before murdered, presented letters he had taken from Harrington's person in proof of his pretensions, and succeeded by his perjury in procuring the discharge of his minion.1

The early part of the year 1853 was full of dastardly and mysterious murders and robberies, all planned by Joaquin and all apparently intended as a finishing up of his career of crime in California. They took place now in one quarter and then in another, sometimes in different places at the same time. But they were principally in Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa counties. In January a desperate fight took place among the cliffs of Chaparral hill, about four miles southwest of San Andreas, between Joaquin with a number of his men and a party of citizens

1 Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 30-57.

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led by Deputy Sheriff Charles H. Ellas, in which one or two citizens were killed and three of the robbers killed or fatally wounded; and soon afterwards a vigilance committee hung a friend of the robbers and tore down and burned up several houses where they had been harbored. Not long after these events Joaquin and Garcia killed two men at the Phoenix Quartz Mill; when, finding Ellas and his party hot on their trail, they were obliged to skulk from cover to cover, but still kept up their practice of murder and robbery upon lone travelers or unarmed mining parties. Near Murphy's Diggings they killed and robbed two miners, who had just made fortunes and were on their way home, and threw their bodies in a prospector's hole. And a little further on they robbed a camp of six Chinamen, on which occasion Garcia got the trembling Mongolians together; stood them up in a row before him; tied their queues to one another, and then, drawing his immense blacksmith-made bowie-knife, commenced slowly and deliberately cutting their throats one after another and enjoying their frantic shrieks. He had previously remarked that he loved to smell the blood of Chinamen— and, besides, it was such easy work to kill them; it was a kind of luxury to cut their throats.1

By this time the whole country was alarmed. Numerous parties began to organize for the purpose of hunting them out, as they would hunt out rattlesnakes. But curiously, though the name of Joaquin was in everybody's mouth, very few persons knew him or could point him out And therefore he often went into the towns and even talked with citizens about himself, without their having any idea with whom they were talking. Among other citizens greatly interested in, and very desirous for, the capture and punishment of the outlaws and the security of life and property in the country, was Caleb Dorsey, a prominent lawyer and sawmill proprietor of Sawmill Flat in Tuolumne county. Hearing one day that Joaquin was at a Mexican fandango at a little place called Martinez in the neighborhood, he and a friend went there. All the Mexicans, however, denied that Joaquin was present and affirmed that he was many miles distant. Dorsey fell into conversation with a very ordinary

1 Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 39, 57-68,

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looking man, apparently a Mexican, whom he found there, upon the subject of Joaquin's whereabouts. The man remarked that it would be very foolish to attempt to arrest the brigand, as he would certainly never allow himself to be taken alive. Dorsey replied that it did not matter much how he was taken, whether alive or dead; for all that the Americans wanted was to put an end to him and that they were bound to have him at any rate. But no information could be gained as to where Joaquin was; and Dorsey and his friend returned home. Upon further information, and to their great disappointment and disgust, they learned that the man with whom Dorsey had been talking about Joaquin was Joaquin himself!

Very soon after the above mentioned conversation, and probably in consequence of what Dorsey had said about the feeling of the Americans towards Joaquin, an attempt was made to kill off a portion at least of the people of Sawmill Flat by poisoning a spring, which furnished them with water; but fortunately, on account of the extreme diffusion of the drug used, the villainous project failed. It became known, however, that Dorsey and a friend of his, named Ira McCrea, who kept a store at the Flat and was equally obnoxious to the robbers, together with a few others, had been marked out by Joaquin and their death resolved on. So certain was this, according to general understanding, that several of the marked men moved away, though Dorsey and McCrea continued at their ordinary occupations and were only more careful to be always on the alert and always ready for an attack. In the midst of the excitement, it was reported one day that McCrea's store was to be robbed that night; and on the strength of the report a messenger was despatched to Columbia for help. In response to the summons, a military company of that place, under command of Colonel Thomas N. Casneau, hastily collected, burnished up their arms, decorated their hats with feathers and, taking along a little brass cannon used for firing salutes and good only for making a noise, which they discharged every hundred yards, marched to Sawmill Flat. It is doubtful whether any attack upon McCrea's store was in fact ever contemplated; but, whether so or not, none was made. The military, however, had to be provided for; and, as they were very

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hungry and especially thirsty after their march, they made such a raid upon eatables and drinkables as to completely clean out the entire supply; and, according to common talk, it was ever afterwards a question whether it would not have been cheaper to have been robbed by Joaquin's men than it was to be protected by Casneau's.

Not very long subsequently Dorsey, while attending to law business in Sonora, was appointed by the court to defend a prisoner under arrest for horse stealing. Upon investigation the attorney found that his client was one of Joaquin's band and one of those who had been specially commissioned to kill Dorsey. On further investigation it appeared that the man had on several occasions since the Sawmill Flat incidents met Dorsey in out-ofthe-way places and would have killed him, if he had known who he was. All this he was willing to admit But now, he said, circumstances were different He had been unlucky and was in trouble. But, if Mr. Dorsey would defend him and so manage matters as to free him, he promised that Mr. Dorsey should in future receive no harm from the robbers and that Joaquin would ratify the agreement Dorsey consented and succeeded by extra effort in having the accused discharged; and from that time he considered himself safe. On several later occasions he met some of the robbers and once or twice befriended them; and they on their side appear to have kept their engagement. On one special occasion, after the robbers had informed him of their intention of leaving the country and proceeding to Mexico and promised him the present of a splendid horse and trappings for favors received, he suddenly and unexpectedly on a lonely road met Joaquin himself magnificently mounted. Both upon the first impulse drew their pistols; but the next moment Joaquin, recognizing Dorsey, lifted his hand and crying out, "We keep our word: you are safe, sir!" passed on; and from that time forward, it was Dorsey's opinion that he had thus seen the "splendid horse and trappings" promised him and that he would have received them if it had not been for circumstances which prevented the gift as well as the contemplated march of the robbers to Mexico.1 

 It would be impossible, on account of the numerous contra-
1 History of Tuolumne County, 207-216. 46 Vol. in.

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dictory as well as apocryphal accounts of the doings of Joaquin and his band, to affirm with certainty as to many of the murders and robberies attributed to him. It is certain, however, that he was for several years at the head of a desperate band of villains and that, though he did not hesitate to rob and murder Americans and fight officers of the law and others who went on the hunt for him, he and his band did not disdain but rather enjoyed depredating on the Chinese and other helpless persons who were most exposed to their cowardly and despicable attacks So great were his misdeeds and so extensive the terror produced that the legislature of the state of 1853 was obliged to take notice of them. Among other propositions before that body was one to offer a reward of five thousand dollars for the arrest of Joaquin "dead or alive;" but J. M. Covarrubias of the committee on military affairs, to whom the matter was referred, presented a report to the effect that to set a price upon the head of an individual, who had not been examined or convicted, was to proceed upon the assumption of his guilt—implying that such was not exactly the correct mode of procedure of a great state. He further said that it would require superhuman power to do all that had been attributed to Joaquin and to be in all the different places at the times stated. Besides, the offer of so large a reward might stimulate cupidity and so magnify fancied resemblances that a dozen heads, similar in some respects to that of Joaquin, might be presented for identification. It would not be difficult to fraudulently palm off the head of another person for that of Joaquin, just as it had been easy to mistake Burdue for Stuart. And still further, he added, it was to be remembered that one of the supposed names of Joaquin the robber was Joaquin Carrillo and there were several respectable citizens in the state of that name. This report, which was presented on April 14, prevented the proposition of a reward.1 But not long afterwards, the legislature passed an act authorizing Captain Harry S. Love to raise a company of mounted rangers, not to exceed twenty men, and muster them into the service of the state for three months unless sooner discharged by the governor, for the purpose of capturing the party or gang of robbers commanded

1 Assembly Journal, 1853, 414.

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by the five Joaquins, whose names were Joaquin Murieta, Joaquin Ocomorenia, Joaquin Valenzuela, Joaquin Botellier and Joaquin Carrillo; from which it appeared that even at that time it was not known for certain who the head of the brigands was or what was his real name. This act was approved by the governor on May 17, 1853. 1

In accordance with this act, which provided that the men should be paid one hundred and fifty dollars a month each, Love immediately organized his company of rangers and at once took the field. Among his men were several noted for desperate conflicts—one being Walter H. Harvey, the slayer of Major Savage of Yosemite fame, and another Philip T. Herbert, afterwards a congressman from California, who distinguished himself by shooting down a waiter in one of the hotels at Washington. Others of this company, though not so noted, were more reliaable. They all, upon taking the field, started directly on the tracks of the robbers and followed them, branching in some places and coming together in others, to the plains of the San Joaquin valley west of Tulare Lake. They there on Sunday morning, July 25, 1853, suddenly came upon a party of men, evidently Mexicans, sitting around a fire, with their horses some little distance off—all but one who had his horse by him. Love, who with a few others was in advance of his company, addressing one of the Mexicans, asked where they were going and received an answer that they were going to Los Angeles; when the man with the horse spoke up and said, if any more questions were to be asked, to address him as he was the leader of the party. Love replied that he would address whom he pleased. The man advanced a few steps towards where his saddle lay on the ground, when Love ordered him to stop. He walked on without heeding the order, when Love drew his revolver and said that, if he did not stop on the instant, he would blow his brains out; whereupon the man, grating his teeth, turned around and, seeing that Love was in earnest, stepped back and again laid his hand upon his horse's mane. As a matter of fact this man, who was armed at the time with only a bowie-knife and whose object in going towards his saddle was to get his pistols,

1 Stats. 1853, 194.

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was Joaquin Murieta, though Love did not know him; and one of his companions was Garcia or Three-fingered Jack. Joaquin and his party, being unknown to Love, might possibly have managed to get away; but at that moment William Wallace Byrnes of Love's company, who knew Joaquin and whom Joaquin knew, rode up; and the moment Joaquin's eyes fell upon him he called out to his men to make their escape. On the instant Garcia bounded off, and a number of the rangers followed, firing at him as he ran. Attention being thus diverted, Joaquin sprang upon his horse and without saddle or bridle made a dash for a rough and rocky ravine not far distant. A dozen shots followed; but they only added speed to Joaquin's horse, which coming to the ravine plunged down a bank some ten or twelve feet high and fell violently, throwing his rider. Both however recovered their feet and Joaquin, again mounting, was again flying as if on the wings of the wind. One of the rangers followed so close that his horse also made the plunge and the tumble; but before he could recover himself Joaquin was far ahead. Another of the rangers, however, taking a deliberate aim with his rifle at the horse, sent a ball through its body; and with a sudden gush of blood from mouth and nostrils it fell dead. Joaquin, jumping to his feet, attempted to run; but he was soon overtaken by several of the rangers and was shot several times, as was said, by Byrnes. When the third ball struck him, he turned around and, facing his pursuers, said, “Don’t shoot any more: the work is done!” He stood for a few moments and then, slowly sinking upon his right arm, expired. Garcia, meanwhile, was running with desperation in another direction, pursued by Love and other rangers. He is said to have run nearly five miles before he fell, pierced with nine balls. He leaped over the sandy ground like a chased wild beast, while the horses of his pursuers frequently stumbled. When nearly overtaken he would wheel and, with glaring eyes, discharge his revolver; but, though usually a good marksman, his shots went wide of their mark. Love, who had hit him twice before in the long chase, finally shot him through the head; and the desperado fell with his pistol in his hand, which he had emptied of

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every load except one. Two others of the robbers were killed and two taken prisoners, while two or three escaped. A number of horses were recovered, six elegant Mexican saddles and bridles, a number of pistols and spurs and five or six broadcloth cloaks. No money or gold-dust was found; but it was supposed that considerable had been thrown away. Of the two prisoners, one escaped from his captors near the San Joaquin river and drowned himself; the other was taken to the Mariposa county jail, where he was one night seized by a mob and hanged; and the report at the time was that he was hanged not by citizens but by Mexicans who were afraid of his disclosures. Whatever may have been the truth as to this report, it was certain that Joaquin's band was completely broken up; and, in addition to the ordinary prejudices against all foreigners, it was especially dangerous to be suspected of having been one of or in any way connected with Joaquin's banditti.

Such, as near as can be ascertained, seem to have been the main facts about Joaquin. It was supposed at the time of his death, as soon proved to be the case, that there would be much doubt thrown upon the subject as to whether the right man had been secured. To make as sure as was possible under the circumstances, his head was cut off and carried to the nearest place where alcohol could be procured, and there placed in a jar of that liquid. Garcia's head and three-fingered hand were also cut off with the intention of preserving them; but the head, mutilated by Love's pistol-ball, would not keep and had to be otherwise disposed of; and only the hand was preserved. Joaquin's head, in its jar of alcohol, was afterwards exhibited in various places and among others in San Francisco at the "saloon of John King, Sansome street," accompanied by several affidavits of identification, one of them by Father Dominic Elaine. Notwithstanding various stories that the real Joaquin was never taken and the uncertainty thrown upon the subject by the remarkable act of the legislature of 1853, which spoke of "five Joaquins," there can be little or no reasonable doubt that the man killed was the right one or that the right man was killed. He at least gave no further trouble. And subsequently the governor of the state paid to

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Captain Love a reward of one thousand dollars, which he had offered for the capture of the bandit; and the legislature of 1854 by an act, approved May 15, 1854, gave an additional sum of five thousand dollars.1

1.Ridge's Life of Joaquin Murieta, 68-81; Stats. 1854, 170; San Francisco Morning Call of April 3, 1892.

Sources
  • Ridge, John Rollin, Introduction by Joseph Jackson, 1955, The Life and Adventures of Joaquin Murieta, The Celebrated California Bandit, University of Oklahoma Press, 159 pages
  • Jackson, Joseph H., 1949, Bad Company, Bison Books, 346 pages.
  • Hobsbawm, Eric, 1969, Bandits, Harcourt Brace, 128 pages. *
  • Nadeau, Remi, 1974, The Real Joaquin Murieta, California's Gold Rush Bandit: Truth vs. Myth, Crest Publishers, 1974
  • Latta, Frank, 1980, "Joaquin Murrieta and His Horse Gang", Bear State Books, 1980, 685 pages.
  • Rego, Nilda, 12/22/1991 & 12/29/1991, Contra Costa Times. One of the best retelling of the sympathic version of Joaquin's life is found here. The columns relied heavily on and personal "histories" of some of our local pioneer families.
  • Secrest, William B., 1994, Lawmen & Desperadoes: 1850-1900, The Arthur H. Clark Company, 343 pages.
  • Varley, James F., 1995, The Legend of Joaquin Murrieta, California's Gold Rush Bandit, Big Lost River Press, 218 pages.
  • Boessenecker, John, 1999, Gold Dust and Gunsmoke, John Wiley & Sons, 367 pages.
  • Secrest, William B., 2005, The Man from the Rio Grande, A Biography of Harry Love, leader of the California Rangers who tracked down Joaquin Murrieta, The Arthur H. Clark Company, 303 pages.

Joaquin Murrieta: Literary Fiction or Historical Fact?, By William Mero, Copyright © 2018, Contra Costa County Historical Society, all rights reserved.[edit]

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 77, 31 July 1850, P.2, COL.2 Latest from Stockton.[edit]

Latest from Stockton.

The Stockton Journal of the 27th has reached us. It speaks rather harshly of the conduct of some of their dignitaries. The court has granted Stockton corporate powers, and the Journal congratulates the citizens that the place is about to emerge from its "chrysolis state into a full winged city with all the honors, dignities, privileges &c, thereunto belonging," and hopes that in less than two weeks it will have the pleasure of congratulating his Honor the Mayor and the city Fathers, whoever they may be. The Journal states that although the Georgina was thirteen hours in performing the trip between Stockton and Sacramento, still that hereafter it can be performed in ten easily. It proposes that the Georgina should be placed on the route between Sacramento City and Stockton, as it deems that Stockton would he much benefited should this be done. At a mass meeting of the citizens holden at the Hotel de Mexico on Sunday evening July 26th, 1850, J. H. T. Chapman was called to the chair and E. W. Colt was chosen Secretary. At the meeting the following report of a nominating committee was unanimously adopted: For Mayor, Capt. D. S. Terry. For Council, John W. O'Neil, James Warner. E. B. Bateman, M.F. Sparrow. J. J. Holliday, Dr. J. W. Reins, Julius H. Pratt. The Commitee recommend that the other officers be left to the electors at the time of election. The election is to be held on the 1st day of next mouth, at which time a mayor, a recorder, seven councilmen, one city marshal, an assessor and a treasurer. Will be elected.

We slip the following items from the Journal:
SHOT.—J. G. Marshall, formerly an auctioneer in this city, was shot, in Sonora. a few days since, by Mr. McElroy, and is not expected to survive. The affray which led to this fatal conclusion, commenced in sport, but notwithstanding the efforts of friends to prevent it, led to deadly strife between the parties.
CIRCUS.—Mr. Foley the enterprising manager of our Circus, gives a farewell performance on next Saturday evening, previous to his departure for Sacramento city. Turn out, gentlemen and give Foley a bumper—he is deserving of it. His continued efforts to afford our citizens amusement, entitle him to the regard of every lover of fun and humor. Joe Downey, like a glass of good champagne, & bubbling with new jokes, and he wants to let them off to a crowd.
ROBBERY.—On Monday, 29th inst, a dariing robbery was committed at Curtis' Creek by a negro. He stole from under the head of another negro while the latter was sleeping, a box of gold dust. Both he and the man who abetted him in the act have been arrested. We understand that they will be brought before no court of justice, but be tried by a jury appointed by the miners themselves, and punished as under the old regime. We have just been informed that an American was murdered on Monday at the Mormon Gulch, and another fatally wounded by five Mexicans, who are under arrest. The object was to commit a robbery.—[Stock. Times of Saturday

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 182, 31 July 1850 p.2, col.4, SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE[edit]

SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE

Doings about Sonoma — Later intelligence from Sonoma brings information of the recent holding of a Mass Meeting there, by American citizens, at which it was resolved that all foreigners should leave the Southern Mines, within fifteen days, except those who could give Americans as security for their peaceable character and honesty; and those giving such security, were further bound to deliver up their arms into the hands of the authorities, and resume possession of them at any future period by special permit. A large number of Mexicans have left the mines, and numbers are preparing to depart. We heard of one Mexican trader who employed fifty of his countrymen as an escort to conduct himself and his money to old Sonora. He gave as his reason for recruiting this force, that he knew there was a strong band of guerillas in the mines who had recently arrived here for the purposes of murder and robbery. The determined attitude assumed by the Americans in this district, will soon rid the country of the desperate band of assassins who have been spreading terror throughout this whole region. A few nights since a physician and his companion were attacked in their tent near Sonora, by two Mexicans, who attempted to cut the throats of the Americans. Both of the latter were wounded, but neither fatally. An alarm was given by one of them, and the two assassins were pursued and captured. Of course their trial, condemnation, and execution will be summary ; no doubt the whole business of their existence has ere this been brought to a conclusion.

FROM THE MINES. — Murphy's Diggings. — We have received the most favorable report of the receipts in the above named placer. A company of seven men have taken out, in one spot, in the above-named location, in Iess than seven weeks, $15,000 in gold dust. This is their nett proceeds, clear of expenses. They have bored the earth in their hole, which is now for-ty-six feet deep, a distance of thirty feet further to sound for rock, but have not touched it at that depth. It is their intention to dig to the rock, if it continues to yield as heretofore, if which there is little doubt. Another company of six took out, in the same diggings, last week, forty-two pounds of dust. The company is working fifty-four feet beneath the surface. We hear the Sacramentonians boast now and then of a ten or twenty pound lump ; but such small pebhies are bagged unnoticed in this district. At Murphy's a miner has in his possession a lump weighing ninety-three pounds, of which it has been ascertained at least one half is pure gold. Two thousand four hundred "holes" are registered at Murphy's as preemption claims. Those not present at the first of August to answer to their names in the matter of preemptions, will forfeit their claims. .

Mercedes.—We hear it reported in town that a lucky hombre, on the head waters of the Mercedes, has extracted a lump weighing eighty-three pounds, nearly all pure gold. Big lumps of gold in this district are actually becoming a common commodity.

San Antonio.— At this point, which was deserted last winter, five men have been taking out, on an average, seven ounces each for the past eleven days. The report is favorable from ail the mining region south; and the yield is undoubtedly greater than at any previous season. If the troubles which agitate our district were only at an end, which we feel assured they soon will be, the San Joaquin district would rapidly distance any other section of the State. — Stockton Jour.


Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 184, 2 August 1850 p.2.col.5 Labor upon the Tuolumne.[edit]

Labor upon the Tuolumne.

We have received the following communication from Stockton relative to the condition of affairs upon the Tuolumne River, and the condition of the "cut off's " and mining prospects generally, at the present time. It will be seen that labor is in great demand there, and the writer urges strongly upon persons out of employment here to repair to that district, holding out the inducement of constant employment and good wages. TUOLUMNE RIVER, July 19, 1850. Gentlemen --- Permit me through the medium of your paper to announce to the public the following facts ; That the Tuolumne River is almost wholly monopolized by companies formed for the purpose of turning the river at low water by daming and mining in its bed : that the canals and side dams upon almost all the bars and places expected to be turned this summer, have been com„pleted and we are only awaiting the falling of the waters, that we may put on the main dams. Judging from last years experience the river must fall so as to permit us to go on with our operations in two weeks at farthest but it will be impossible for the owners of the shares in the several dams to work out their Interests without assistance. At least five thousand men can find employment at good wages on the river from the 15th of August until the commencement of the rainy season. It has been represented to me that San Francisco and Stockton are literally crowded with persons, who, lately arrived, and out of employment, are dispirited and dlsgusted by the rumors of different kinds from the mines, such as sickness starvation, murder, robbery, etc., and are actually afraid to venture further, but prefer remaining in your city, a„ tax upon the people. Now to all such I would beg leave to say, that there is not in the world, a more healthy spot than the banks of the Tuolumne. The situation is high --- the air pure, and the country beautiful ; the water is perhaps the purest in the world, and up to this time (although the thermometer ranges from 106° to 110°,) is as cold as snow. Provisions are plenty, and can be had with or without money. True, there have been some murders perpetrated, and some robberies committed ; but the accounts you receive are greatly exaggerated, and should receive little or no credence. As a further inducement to those seeking employment I would add, that it is the intention of almost ail upon the river to return to the United States next fall, should they be successful in their operations, and the river not being worked out, they will have a fine opportunity of purchasing shares at a reduced price, thereby securing a fine field for the next summer's operations, free from the labor or expense to which we were subjected last winter. Yours, etc. . GEORGE HENRY.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 80, 3 August 1850 p.2,col.5 Late and Very Important from Sonora.[edit]

Late and Very Important from Sonora.

We have not yet received the "Sonora Herald" of the 27th, but by means of the "San Francisco Herald," we are enabled to obtain the following interesting extracts from the Sonora Herald, in relation to the present serious condition of affairs at the extreme South.

"The most intense excitement [says that paper] still prevails among the population of the mountains, and God only knows in what it will end. Our county and township divisions are so large; we have so many ravines and fastnesses in the hills and mountains around us; so many bad men of all climes in our midst, and so great security for the criminal, that it is not surprising the better class of citizens have found it necessary to organise in each camp or diggings local police for the protection of property and life, and by acclamation adopt and carry out resolutions more effective and speedy than our criminal code provides for. It is not proposed to reject the laws which our recent legislature has furnished, but to supply deficiences in that law, to substitute something more effective at this juncture of affairs, and we wish with all our power to assist in directing the action of the people, that nothing unbecoming American citizens be done. A solemn—deeply solemn responsibility rests with the leaders of this movement. May they wisely use the power with which the people have invested them!"

On Sunday a meeting was held in the Plaza of Sonora, and was addressed by M. Van Buren, M. Cave, and others. The resolution adopted on that occasion, we have already given.

On the same day mass meetings were also held in other parts of the county, to consider the state of the country, and to advise as to what had better be done. At the Mormon Gulch, the following was the string of resolutions:

1st. That for the safety of the lives and property of the citizens of this portion of the county, notice shall be given immediately ordering all Mexicans and South Americans to remove from Township No. 2, in one week from this date.

2d. That it shall be the duty of Captain F. Borringer to have the necessary notices served on such persons as come under the above resolution.

3rd. That one and all of us will lend all necessary aid and assistance in our power to carry the notices to be served generally through Township No. 2.

4th. That we are ready and willing, whenever any plan of co-operation with other Townships or Counties shall organise, to join them for the purpose of clearing said Mexicans and South Americans out of the county or counties, and to such a distance therefrom as may hereafter be determined upon, and we do heartily solicit a union throughout the whole Mining Distriot.

Another Robbery.—A gentleman residing at Sonora, had a bag, containing seventeen and a half ounces in gold dust, stolen from under his pillow, in the night, at the El Dorado in this town. It has become a well ascertained fact, that one of the plans of the guerillas is as follows. A Mexican enters a tent upon which he has some design, and engages the owner in conversation. Some minutes afterwards, another enters as if to purchase merchandise; a third follows, then a fourth, and so on. The attack is made when the victim is not on his guard. This ruse has been practised in many instances. Hundreds of Mexicans, Chilians, and others passed through Sonora from various points eastward, on their return home. There are men, women and children. The heart of every feeling man was touched at the sight. It is expected that every camp in the neighborhood will be deserted shortly. In many instances the wealthy portion of the foreign population is becoming alarmed, and all are in haste to sell their property. One wealthy Mexican has left the country with $100,000. Nearly two hundred foreigners called at the office of the Sonora Herald on Monday; for copies of the resolutions passed at the mass meeting; and they betrayed great anxiety on the subject. The feeling is universal amongst the Spanish portion of the population that the Americans wish to drive them away from the country altogether. We fear that the money-making merry old times of Sonora are gone forever!

Another Meeting in Sonora.—On Tuesday evening, the 23d ult. another meeting was held in the public square of .Sonora,— Richard C. Berry, Esq., was called to the chair, and M. Robert L. Murphy appointed secretary. The resolutions of the mass meeting of the 21st inst., were explained by Major Elkins, Messrs. Theall, Shepherd and Brown were appointed Selectmen of the Camp of Sonora. Messrs. Elkins, Shepherd, Van Buren, Murphy and Collins addressed the meeting. The following resolutions were unanimously adopted:

Resolved, 1st, That the selectmen shall proceed immediately, without any delay, to carry out the spirit of the mass maeting held on Saturday, 21st inst. Resolved, 2d, That the Selectmen shall have power to raise such force as may be necessary, in their opinion, to carry out the measures adopted in the resolutions of the mass meeting of the 21st instant, and that such persons as may be so employed, shall be recompensed for their services by those who do no participate in such labor, and that the selectmen shall procure such funds by subscription of the citizens of Sonora and its vicinity. Resolved, 3d. That the proceedings of of this meeting be published in the Sonora Herald.

Robery at Curtis's.—On Monday the 22d, a daring robbery was committed at Curtis's by a negro. He stole from under the head of another negro, while the latter was asleep, a bag of gold dust. Both he and the man who abetted him in the act have been arrested. We understand that they will be brought before no court of justice, but be tried by a jury of the people, and punished according to the old regime.

Murder at the Mormcn Gulch.—An American was murdered on Monday at the Mormon Gulch, and another fatally wounded, by five Mexicans, who are under arrest. Their object was to commit a robbory.

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 188, 7 August 1850, p.2, col.5 SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE.[edit]

SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE.

Trade was never so depressed throughout the Southern mines as at present. The frequent robberies and outrages committed have cast a gloom over business prospects which even the daily increasing success of most of the Diggings is incapable of removing. The tax law is undoubtedly driving hundreds from the mines, while it has incited the desperate men of so large a foreign population to deeds of plunder and revenge. Stockton, one of the first cities of California, prosperous and thriving under ail the circumstances which attended her early growth, has become of late infected by lawless and dangerous characters, who patrol the streets at midnight loaded down with implements of assassination and outrage. There is a better day fast approaching for this beautiful city on the San Joaquin, we are gratified in believing. The order loving and the resolute of her good citizens are arising in their might. They have triumphed in the recent election of city officers, under the charter extended over them, by appointing sound and intelligent men to control the destinies of their municipality, in the face of opposition of a most violent character. The ballot-box was redeemed from the midst of contending parties, assembled, and fast assuming the boisterousness of a mob. The following gentlemen were declared elected.

Mayor — Samuel Pardy 481
Recorder — C. M. Leak 464
City Attorney— H. A. Croff 650
Treasurer — G. D. Brush 345
Assessor— C. Edmondson 389
Marshal— T. S. Lubbock 366
We shall have more to say the subject of the foreign disturbances in the Southern Mines to-morrow. We extract from the Saturday's number of the Stockton Times accounts of outrages in that section of the country.
Murder and Robbery of $2000.— A most horrid outrage was perpetrated on Saturday night, at Wood's Ferry, San Joaquin River. The ferry was in the charge of two men of the names of Watts, an American, and Boye, an Englishman; both the parties will be well remembered in Stockton, from their good and industrious conduct last winter It appears that they had hired six Mexicans to make " adobes, " which they had been engaged in several days ; upon Saturday Evening the Mexicans requested that some money might be paid them, this was acceeded on the part of Boyce and Watts. It is presumed the request was made in order that the place where the money was kept might be seen by the Mexicans. On Sunday morning, the tent was found deserted. Boyce's bed was covered with blood, and the pillow besmeared with the brains of the murdered man. A watch and chain lying beneath the pillow was completely divided, from which circumstance it is supposed that the murder had been committed by a sharp hatchet, which had severed the skull of the deceased, pillow, and watch. The ground between the river and the tent was marked with traces of blood, and showed clearly that the bodies of the murdered men had been dragged to the water's edge, and then thrown into the stream. From the fact that the ferryboat remained upon the west side of tho river, it is evident that the assassins have taken the route to San Jose across the mountain range of the coast. It has been ascertained that Boyce and Watts had $2,000 in their possession on behalf of the owners of the owners of the ferry, also five valuable horses, and it is exceedingly probable that they had, judging from their steady conduct a considerable sum of their own, the whole property has fallen into the hands of the marauders. Several parties, we understand, are in pursuit of the miscreants, and hopes are entertained that they may be overtaken prior to their reaching the coast range.

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 200, 19 August 1850, p.2 col.1 The Alta and the Sonora Difficulties. [edit]

The Alta and the Sonora Difficulties.
As some of the friends of this paper in the city press of San Francisco have exhibited to a certain degree an impertinent curiousity to witness the result of opinions advanced by us concerning the recent very patriotic rebellion in the Southern mines, we have thought proper to place before them and our readers the following editorial on the subject, which is extracted from the last number of the Stockton Times. This paper was the first established in the San Joaquin District, and the views of its talented editor are generally respected and seldom disputed. A few days since we took occasion to remind the public of the readiness to desist from precipitate and mischevious action, displayed all at once by the inhabitants of the disaffected district. The cause of the unnatural excitement had been properly placed before the public mind In those parts, and like true Americans, the spirit so inimical to foreign labor in the mines disappeared almost instantly. We had intended to drop further discussion of the subject, and leave the taunts of our cotemporaries to recoil upon them. The course of the Alta in all matters involving the feelings and interests of citizens of our State, is too widely and perfectly understood to cause us to suffer at the hands of hasty disorganists; and having acted our part in good faith, and with conscientious motives, we prefer to retire from debate when it ceases to develop servicable truths or be of common utility:
The Alta California and the Sonorian Troubles. — On the subject of the recent attempted ejectment of the foreign population, in particular the Mexican portion of it, the Alta California has spoken out. We emphatically assure our cotemporaries that their view is the correct one, and they will be supported in it by every respectable observer of the times in this district. Every merchant and trader is diametrically opposed to the recent movement, and each, heart and soul condemn, the narrow minded, narrow souled views of the anti-foreigner party. It appears to us that the most singular ignorance of the state of public opinion in these parts exists at San Francisco, The most widespread sympathy exists in favor of the Mexican, who in ninety-nine cases out of the hundred, is a friend and excellent customer, and we are sorry tn observe that some of our cotemporaries in the most savage and unseemly manner have attempted to fling obloquy and disgrace upon so-called "greasers" and others, when our nation has thrown over them the flag of protection in the most solemn manner. In no country in Christendom would this be tolerated except in California. Shame! Shame! to spit on a man because he was born under a warmer sun than shone upon our birth.
The Mexican is of the utmost service in the Southern mines. We ask those who have had actual experience in mining operations in this country, whether the American, with all his impatience of control, his impetuous temperament, his ambitions, yearning, will ever be content to deny himself the pleasures of civilized life in the States, and for the sake of from four to eight dollars per day, be content to develop the resources of the dry diggings of the country. We say emphatically—No! We have learned from experience that he will not do it. Now, however happily, the Mexican is milder in spirit, more contented to endure, more willing to suffer, more weak spirited, if you please. This, then, in the man who should develop the resources of the dry diggings, give stability to the credit of the State, and add to the monetary circulation and commercial wealth of the country. Therefore do we applaud the spirit evinced by the Alta, and most heartily condemn the narrow minded views of those who call us "recreants."
But it appears that more "recreants" have betrayed themselves. The Southern mail also brought us the following copy of resolutions, adopted at a meeting of miners, which we are requested to publish. We question whether our countrymen fully understand the danger to which they subjected themselves by assuming such a position as the one from which their resolutions emanate. It is a woeful reflection that these may bring down upon them the thunders of an indignant—daily newspaper. We can promise them, however, that our citizens pay for indignation which sometimes profiteth not, and that they have a marvellous way of believing as much as they are pleased to, of an editor's sincerity in these suspicious times.
At a meeting of the Miners of Rodgers Bar, Tuolumne River, California, held on the 9th day of August, 1850, Mr. Ramsey was chosen Chairman, and Mr. A. Alford, Secretary. The chairman stated the object of the meeting to be, to take into consideration the most feasible plan of allaying the public excitement, and providing for the general safety. E. Burke, Esq. offered the following Resolutions which were unanimously adopted:
Whereas, the great excitement prevailing in the public mind, growing out of the numerous cases of robbery and murder which have recently been committed in this community, has been taken advantage of by many persons of desperate character, who under the pretext of redressing public wrongs and providing for their own safety, have been guilty of the most flagitious conduct towards the Mexican portion of the population.
Many persons of Spanish origin, against whom there had not been a word of complaint, have been murdered by these ruffians. Others have been robbed of their horses, mules, arms, and even money, by these persons, while acting as they pretended under the authority of law. And as the natural consequence of this course of conduct on the part of these Americans is to irritate, and make enemies of the civil and well disposed of the Mexicans, Therefore,
Resolved, That the citizens of this Bar will discountenance any act of violence committed against peaceable persons of any race living or traveling in this community, and will use every means in their power to bring all men guilty of offences against such persons, to speedy punishment.
Resolved, That we will suffer no person who may be associated with these American guerrillas, to remain on this Bar.
Resolved, That the Alta California, San Francisco, and Stockton Times be requested to publish these proceedings.
Robert Ramsey, Chairman. A. Alford, Secretary.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 95, 21 August 1850 p.1,col.6 Tuolumne City[edit]

Tuolumne City.—A gentleman who has just returned from the above named place, gives the following particulars of a frustrated attempt at robbery: Four suspicious looking men, were seen prowling about Tuolumne city, always about dusk, or after, for some three or four nights, and had excited considerable suspicion. On approaching the house of Mr. Thos. McGuire, three different times one night last week, he finally hailed them, and remarked that if they did not answer, and tell their business, he would fire. No answer being returned, he fired at the nearest man, who was stauding close to a tree. The man staggered as though he would fall, when his two companions ran up and he was borne off. The next day two Sonorans were killed, about eight miles from Tuolumne city. Justice G. Swasey proceeded to the spot, held an inquest, and they were buried. Verdict, "Death by violence, persons unknown." Since the above occurrence, although the inhabitants of the town have searched the bottoms and fastnesses in the vicinity, they have been unable to discover any clue to their lurking place. Mr. Montgomery, (firm of Scott & M.,) from the Merced river, thinks, from the description of the marauders, they were the same who robbed his tent of $7000 some time since.—[Stockton Journal.

Encouraging.—We find the following item of news in the leading article of the Stockton Journal of Aug. 14th: "The troubles which have of late existed among the mountains, and which have been colored, magnified, and distorted, by every blundering letter writer, and wisely descanted upon by several respectable old grannies in San Francisco, have ceased."

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 96, 22 August 1850, p.2,col.5, A Chapter of Horribles from the South[edit]

A Chapter of Horribles from the South.—We sincerely regret that it becomes our duty as faithful chroniclers of passing events, to give to the public the following sad items of intelligence. When we reflect upon the quiet and harmony which, as a general thing, pervades the northern placeres, we cannot but hope that a more orderly and safe state of affairs will soon exist in the southern diggings. The Sonora Herald of the 10th inst., has just reached us. From it we learn that the commercial interests of the county have been suffering under the effect of the late disturbances at the rate of $10,000 a day. The editor calls on his fellow-citizens to act, to quiet the alarm amongst the populace, and to use their power lightly. Gen. Besancon has issued a notice that he is authorized to receive $20 from each foreign miner for the privilege of laboring in the mines until the last day of December next. The Herald comes loaded with the following items:

On Monday last our Express rider, Mr. Avery, and Mr. Cressy, of Stockton, were attacked between Angel's and Murphy's. Mr. Cressy, unfortunately, was unarmed, and Mr. Avery had but one indifferent pistol in his possession. The circumstances were as follows: Mr. Avery, in a lonely part of the road, saw two negroes and a South American, each behind a tree, with rifles pointed at him. Immediately he rode up to one of the negroes and threatened to shoot him. The negro prayed him not to do this, as he was only hunting antelopes. Mr. Avery passed on, but ere he was three yards distant, a ball whizzed by him close to his ear. Seeing two other rifles yet undischarged, the two gentlemen put spurs to their horses and escaped.

On Friday evening last, two Americans near Don Pedro's Bar, were attacked while asleep, by three Mexicans and severely wounded. One of them less injured than the other, sprang out of bed and clenched an axe, and rushed out of his tent for the purpose of self defense, and his companion followed him, but the robbers had disappeared. The men attacked made the best of their way to Don Pedro's Bar, bare-footed, over the sharp rocks, and arrived there with lacerated feet. The people at Jacksonville raised and armed a posse and repaired to the place of the attack, but were unable to discover the Mexicans who attempted the murder. Six Mexicans had been at work on Friday at the place, but on the evening of this day three of the number pretended to go away, and it is probable that they returned in the evening for the purpose of murder and robbery, but were foiled in their attempts. On Saturday the three remaining Mexicans were examined as to the occurrence, but no facts were elicited. The midnight assassins are still at large.

A correspondent at Sullivan's Creek writes as follows: On the night of the 6th inst., three Mexicans or Chilians entered the store of two Americans, about one o'clock, and attempted to crush out their brains with massive stones, weighing from thirty to forty pounds each. Fortunately, however, only one took effect, which mangled the mouth, chin, and severely bruised the left shoulder of one of them, leaving him senseless. The other awoke from the noise, gave an alarm, which caused them to retreat without accomplishing their object. The wound of the one is severe, though pronounced by Dr. Fletcher not to be mortal. When will these outrages cease?

A few days since, an American who claimed to be a tax collector, called on a Mexican who had about 40 peons at work in the mines, and demanded that he should pay their taxes. The collector called two or three times, and at length was met by the Mexican, who was armed and refused to pay on the ground that he and his men were about leaving this country: and they did leave the same afternoon. This man then proceeded to Don Pedro's Bar, where he recruited a force of five Americans and went in pursuit, overtaking the Mexicans the next morning, near Dr. Trensill's ranch on the Toulumne, where a battle ensued, in which two Mexicans were killed and left on the ground, and three others badly wounded. The Americans were not injured. One of their horses was shot in the mouth. We are apprehensive that this collector is an imposter as the authorities here disclaim having any collector in that part of the county.

We learn that a party of Americans on the Stanislaus, under pretext of carrying out the resolutions which have been lately passed by the people in the various diggings, have gone out and not only demanded the arms of the Mexican but his gold dust also. Shame—shame—we cry eternal shame on these miscreants. We will not call things by their wrong names, but pronounce these acts foul wrongs and robberies. Americans, look to it, for the honor of your glorious country! Seize these men as traitors to you and your country, and punish them as they deserve. If you find them in the act, treat them as you would treat villians. Our readers will have learned from an advertisement published in last week's paper, that the owners of bars on the Stanislaus have entered into an arrangement to keep all interlopers off their claims. It appears that several companies have been notified by men who have never put in a spade to turn the river that they should, when the work is finished, reap a portion of the harvest. Morally such conduct, in our estimation, would be theft. To us it appears that the man is just as vile who would steal our purse as rob us in this manner of the fair proceeds of our labor and capital.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 97, 23 August 1850 p.3, col.1 Another Murder[edit]

Another Murder.—Information has been received by the authorities of Monterey, of the murder of two Yagtuies Indians, near the ranch of Pacheco, which was perpetrated in a canon, on the night of Sunday last. The object was robbery, as the Indians were returning from the placer with a large quantity of gold. An investigation is about being held at Monterey, but as yet there is no clue to the murderers.—[News.

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 223, 11 September 1850 p.2,col.5, SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE[edit]

SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE

From the Sonora Herald, 1st inst.] A rich silver mine has been discovered near Carson's, by Dr. Brown. The vein is a foot in width, and is supposed to extend over a distance of 10 miles. We have a specimen in our possession which contains 80 per cent. of silver.

Robbery. — A few days ago Judge Marvin and Sheriff Work were stopped on the banks of the Stanislaus by a Mexican who informed them that an American had broken into a caral and driven off a mule, his property. The Mexican attempted to stop him, when the American attacked him with a knife and stabbed him in the arm. The two gentlemen started in pursuit of the scoundrel, but their horses giving out, they were compelled to give it up.

Horrible Murder. — Mr. Geo. Work, our active sheriff, has just informed us of another horrible murder which was committed near Waters's ranch, on the Merced, on Tuesday last. On the evening of that day the bodies of Major Baldwin and his companion were found in a horribly mutilated state, their skulls having been completely smashed with rocks. It appears that the companion of the Major must have attempted to fight his way out with a sabre, his body being found some distance from the Major's, and the drawn sabre, covered with blood, lying by his side. No clue has yet been obtained for the discovery of the murderers.

Fatal Affray at Hawkin's Bar. — On the afternoon of the 27th ult., S. R. Elmendoff, while in an intoxicated state, went to the tent of J. W. Seamen while the latter was absent, and commenced a gross abuse of his wife. In a day or two afterwards he returned and begged the lady's pardon — the husband being still absent. In a day or two he returned, and when informed of the acts of Elmendoff, stated that he must hereafter keep away from his premises or he would shoot him. A few days afterwards Elmendoff entered the house and was immediately shot down, receiving two balls from a revolver, and expiring in a few minutes. Seamen then gave himself up to the authorities, and entered bail for his appearance at court. Mr. Elmendoff, when sober, was much respected and esteemed by all who knew him.

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 234, 22 September 1850 P.2,COL.4, From the Southern Mines. All Robberies not committed by Mexicans.[edit]

From the Southern Mines.
....
All Robberies not committed by Mexicans. — The tent on Dry Creek, on the road leading from Stockton to Indian Ranch Ferry, was invaded a few nights since with the evident intent of robbery, if not murder.— The owners of the tent, about 12 o'clock at night, while sleeping on a hay stack in the vicinity of the tent, were awakened by the barking of dogs, and upon reconnoitering discovered five or six men creeping up cautiously towards their tent, with evident evil design. They were armed with guns, and upon examining the tent and finding no person within, and being foiled in their attempt at finding money, they regaled themselves with liquors and other things suited to their appetites, after which they decamped. It would be well for all good citizens to watch the movements of persons among them unknown lest they harbor in their midst those capable of committing the blackest crimes. — Ib.[Sonora Herald]

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 238, 26 September 1850, p.2,col.3 From the Southern Mines. Robbery in Sonora.[edit]

From the Southern Mines.

....

Robbery in Sonora. — Three Mexicans entered the store of Don Jacinto Barretto, on the evening of Sunday week, and while one engaged the proprietor at the counter, the other two ran off with his money box. One man had been arrested as an accomplice.

Indian Outrage. — A German was shot in the back and also in the left arm by two Indians on the night of Thursday, 19th inst. He was sleeping under a tree about two miles from Sonora when attacked. His wounds are not dangerous.

....

The Sonora Herald, from which the above items have been compiled, says in reference to mining:

☞ We regret that many of the damming companies on the Stanislaus and Tuolumne rivers are becoming discouraged and giving up their claims after bestowing so much time and labor upon them. We hear of several claims being entirely abandoned.

Salmon are said to be very abundant in the Tuolumne.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 131, 2 October 1850, p.2, col.4, Attempted Murder and Robbery.[edit]

Attempted Murder and Robbery.

On Sunday night last, a German came to the Twelve Mile House, on the Auburn road, and put up for the night. The next morning, he left, taking the road towards this city. Shortly after he left, another man passed the same house, having with him a mule and some baggage, who was also travelling towards this city. It appears that he overtook the German after travelling three or four miles, when they both came on together. After they had continued in company a short time, the German drew a pistol and shot his companion in the back of the head. The pistol was loaded with buck shot, which took effect in several places, and completely stunned the man, causing him to fall to the ground, as if dead. The German then commenced rifling the baggage. Before he had finished, a team hove in sight, and he fled. The teamster came up, found the wounded man, and then returned to the Twelve Mile House, where he gave the alarm. Several men immediately started in pursuit of the assassin, but they did not succeed in finding him. He was seen afterwards, however, on the way to this city. The wounded man has been brought to town, and we understand is like to recover. He had but a small amount of money with him when assassinated, which the German did not find before he was frightened away.

Degeneracy.—The events of the day prove quite clearly that there is a degeneracy among the people. A year ago a miner could have left his bag of dust exposed to full view and absent himself a week—his tools might have remained unmolested in any ravine for months—and his goods and chattels, bed and bedding, might have remained along the highway for an indefinite period, without being subject to the secreting of any one. Now, however, it requires the utmost diligence to keep the "dust" from being stolen; the cabin of the miner is requently entered, examined, and articles thieved; the implements of his trade are not secure out of sight; and indeed a perfect relaxation of morals seems to have taken place. We have been informed of several cases where men who had been engaged in throwing up dirt in dry diggings, awaiting the rainy season, have had their thrown up earth completely riddled of every discernible particle of the oro. This is certainly a speedy way of acquiring means, but most reprehensible, and is a matter of exceeding regret, as it is a sad reflection on the honesty of mankind.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 1, Number 132, 3 October 1850, p.2,col.2 Attempted Murder and Robbery.[edit]

Attempted Murder and Robbery.

The statement relative to the attempted robbery and murder which we published yesterday, contained several inaccuracies, as we are informed by a gentleman familiar with the circumstances of the case.

It appears that on Monday last, between ten and eleven o'clock, a miner who was on his road to to this city, with a mule packed, stopped to rest himself under the shade of a tree, about half a mile beyond the "Letup and Jingle House," on the Auburn road. A German was under the tree, with whom he entered into conversation. As he rose to leave, the German drew a pistol loaded with buckshot and fired it, striking him in the neck, and carrying away the largest part of his left ear. The miner left his horse and ran for the public house, where he made known the attack. A company of men, among whom was Mr. S. F. A. Shonnard, of this city, started immediately in pursuit, following him as far as Norris' Ranch—the robber being a little in advance on the opposite side of the river. Mr. S. crossed the river, but owing to the difficulty in getting over, the fellow eluded the vigilance of those in pursuit. He was followed to the city, but Mr. S. has not been able to discover him, although he has been seen.

The miner came on to this city, and is not dangerously wounded. He had some $4,000 on his person at the time the attack was made.

It will be seen, when the above account is compared with the one we published yesterday,that there are two ways of telling a story. Both accounts, however, are in exact accordance with the information given us by individuals who thought themselves right. As the last account is most explicit, we believe it correct.


Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 249, 7 October 1850 p.2,col.4 SACRAMENTO INTELLIGENCE[edit]

SACRAMENTO INTELLIGENCE

Murders, — A gentleman just down from Marysville informs tin that two bodies were found near the town of Linda, on Wednesday. The throata were cut. and they hnd been thrown over the bank. Appearauces indicated that the deed had been committed while they were encamped, and it is likely money was tho object of the murderers, as nothing valuable was left on their persons. From the clothing, it is supposed that one only was an American. — The faces were ao disfigured, that no chance for recognition remained.

It was reported that three persons had been murdered, also, at Yuba City; but the stage left too soon to ascertain the truth of the rumor.

A man, just in the suburbs of Marysville, was stopped a day or two since, and pistols were fired upon him; he escaped, however, without injury. The frequent occurrence of these high handed attempts at robbery and murder evince the existance of a degree of desperation most lamentable to realize, and we fear that circumstances do not portend any mitigation of its prevalence. — Ib [Placer Times, Oct. 5, 1850]

Daily Alta California, Volume 1, Number 275, 3 November 1850, p.2, col.4, SAN JOAQUIN INTELLIGENCE. Robbery in Stockton[edit]

Robbery in Stockton.— In Stockton if possible, more than elsewhere, there seems to be a regular band of organized robbers, who make it their business to ascertain who has money, where he keeps it, and then to obtain it at any risk or sacrifice of life. A gentleman whom we know well, informed us yesterday, that he came down from the mines in company with another, who had $600 in dust on his person, that this miner went into a drinking shop in Stockton after dark last Tuesday night, and drank, and when got into the street was attacked by two men, knocked down, and while stunned, thrown into the slough. The cold water restored him to consciousness, and he swam ashore to the opposite side, where he remained all night. He had been robbed of every dime he possessed.

Murphy's New Diggings.— This placer has disappointed many persons who have spent their whole summer in waiting for the water so far to dry up in the creek and leach out of the flat as to enable them to sink their holes. We have been informed that very few of the claims have paid. A large portion of them could not be sunk sufficiently deep to obtain the deposits at the bottom. After a little distance springs would burst up with great force.

By the first of last May some six hundred claims had been recorded on the Alcalde's book, and in the anticipation of a great summer's work there over forty stores and selling houses had been erected. This place is about 70 miles from Stockton, among the mountains to the north of the Stanislaus river, 8 miles from Angel's camp, 6 from Carson's Creek, 9 from San Antonio, and 10 from the Stanislaus river.

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 9, 18 December 1850, MURDER AND ARSON AT SAN JOSE.[edit]

MURDER AND ARSON AT SAN JOSE. -- We are indebted to the indefatigable Mr. Hackett, of Berford & Co.'s Express, for the interesting items of news from San Jose, furnished below:

-- On Sunday night last, at Digby Smith's Ranche, were found the bodies of three murdered men, two of them proving on investigation, to be Digby Smith and partner, each pierced with two balls, and the third, a stranger, having his head split open. The house was burned down, and it is yet unknown if robbery was also committed. It is surmised that the stranger was one of the attacking party, and lost his life in the struggle that ensued. Mr. Smith was from Burlington, N. J., and was the cultivator of an extensive farm about two miles this side of San Jose. The store of Baker & Co. was robbed last week during the middle of the day, while the clerks were at dinner. We are not informed of the amount abstracted.

It cannot fail tn be noticed that there are many most desperate characters in the country, who, failing to realize their expectations in the mines by honest labor, are determined to grasp the earnings of other men at all hazards. It has been observed that at one period most of these outrages were committed at the North, about Coloma and that region; then they became frequent at Sacramento, were known here, and now they have passed to the southward. It cannot be doubted that there is in this country more than one systematic gang of villains, whose actions thus far can only be traced by the bloody stains they have left after them, and whose extirpation is only to be effected by a better organization of police throughout the country than we yet possess.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 2, Number 49, 20 December 1850, p.2,col.5, Murder and Arson at San Jose.[edit]

Murder and Arson at San Jose.—We extract the following account of a wholesale murder committed at San Jose, from the correspondence of the Pacific News, San Jose, Dec. 17. Editors of the Pacific News:

It becomes my painful duty to inform you of a most horrible murder, or series of murders, committed in this valley on Sunday evening last, on the person of Bigley Smith, Esq., formerly rof New Brunswick, N.J., Dr. Zarinsky, a Pole, and a young Englishman in the employ of Dr. Smith, whose name I could not learn, and was from Sydney, N. S. W. What the circumstances were attending this wholesale massacre, can never be fully known, as the building in which it was committed, the residence of Dr. Smith; situated on the Guadalupe, about three miles from the Pueblo, was fired and consumed, with all its contents, saving portions of the mutilated remains of the murdered victims. This is the most horrible tragedy ever committed in the country; and every effort will be made on the part of our citizens to ascertain and ferret out the perpetrators. On the same evening the store of Baker & Co., near the Madison House, was entered by burglars, and relieved of a portion of its contents to the amount of $300.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 2, Number 50, 21 December 1850, p.2,col.4, The Horrible Murder at San Jose.[edit]

The Horrible Murder at San Jose.

No. 2 of the California State Journal is before us. We gave in our last the news that a most revolting murder had been committed; the following contains additional intelligence extracted from the Journal:

Horrible Murder and Arson.—On Sunday evening last, our citizens were alarmed by the information that Messrs. Bester & Smith's house, about two or three miles from this city, on Los Gatos Creek, was burnt, and some two or three persons had perished in the flames. Early the next morning a number of our citizens, ourselves among the number, started for the scene of disaster. On arriving there, we found the building entirely consumed, and in one corner, and near where the door of the building was, lay the blackened and charred remains of three persons, who had been in full health less than twenty-four hours previously. The Coroner was sent for, but had not arrived at the time we left. In the meantime we made an examination of the premises, and the position of the bodies, and we were satisfied that murder and not accident, as was generally supposed by those present, had done the work of death. In one corner of the room lay a body, supposed to be that of Mr. Digby B. Smith, with the legs and arms nearly burnt off, the entire abdomen destroyed and the top part of the skull appeared to have been crushed, and was lost. In a parallel line with this body lay another, supposed to be Mr. Wood, the cook, with the legs and arms similarly burnt, and the entire skull wanting. Between these two bodies lay the blade of a sheath dirk about six inches in length. Nearer to the door, just below the body last referred to, lay another, since recognised to be Mr. E. G. Barber's. The skull was also broken as by the blow of an axe. At the feet of this body lay an open jack-knife, the blade of which had the appearance of being corroded with blood.

The following are the facts, as nearly as we have been able to gather the particulars. About 7 o'clock on Sunday evening, the family of Mr. Hamilton, who resides near Mr. Bester's house, heard the explosion of gunpowder, and in a few moments afterwards their attention was attracted by a light of the burning house. They immediately hurried to the scene, but the outside of the building was entirely consumed, and the victims, beyond the reach of help. A Coroner's inquest has been held upon the bodies, and an examination of them proved conclusively that murder had been committed. No clue to the murderers has been discovered. The design was evidently the murder of Mr. Bester; but he had left the house late in the afternoon of the murder. We had the pleasure of a visit from him yesterday. He has taken measures to have the bodies decently interred, and the funeral services are to be performed at the new Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Mr. Brayton.

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 13, 22 December 1850 p.2, col.3, SAN JOSE INTELLIGENCE. Another Murder! The Sand Hills Murder.[edit]

SAN JOSE INTELLIGENCE. [From the State Journal] ....

Another Murder!. — from the same paper of yesterday we gain the following particulars of the murder which we mentioned in our last issue:

On Wednesday evening a Californian, whose same we are unable to learn, came to San Jose, and purchased a number of articles of clothing. He started for his home some three miles from this city, and when near the rancho belonging to Mr. Kell, within a short distance, of the scene of last Sunday's tragedy, was assailed and literally cut to pieces. A number of our citizens started on Thuriday morning to arrest the assassins, if possible. A court under the jurisdiction of Judge Lynch, personated by W. Claude Jones, Esq. was organized on the spot, and a suspected Mexican threatened with a cravat made of a riata, without he told who the murderers were. He revealed the name of two or three persons, among whom was his own father, as being concerned in the murder. Efforts are now being made to arrest those implicated.

A public meeting is talked of for the purpose of organizing a mounted band of volunteers to scour the valley and mountains, and drive the assassins from our vicinity or exterminate them.

The Sand Hills Murder. — The State Journal contains the following particulars of the murder of Mr. Harrington on the 5th inst. It proves conclusively what has seemed apparent for some time past, that organized bands of robbers exist in a state of complete banditti discipline among us.

We are indebted to Wm. D. Harrington, Esq., for the particulars of the murder of his nephew on the night of Dec. 5th. The name of the murdered man, Wm Dudly Harrington, Jr., son of Thomas Harrington, residing at Independence, Mo. Mr. Harrington states that about noon of the day previous to the night on which the murder and robbery were committed, three men one of which was the leader of the band of robbers, went to Dr Marsh's house and inquired for stray horses. They spent the afternoon in pleasant conversation, and left the bouse about 3 o'clock. They returned about 8 o'clock, some 14 or 2O in number, surrounded the house, and detached a party to surround the tent of Mr. Harrington, which was occupied by Mr. Mortimer Wilson and Mr. Seaburn Abernethy. The noise of the approaching party attracted the attention of the inmates of the tent. Three guns were then immediately fired into it. Mr. Harrington stepped to the door, and the other two gentlemen escaped from the back part of tbe tent, in the hope of reacbing the house. They discovered, however, that it was surrounded by horsemen. At this moment Mr. Harrington was seen by his companions to emerge from the tent, pursued by two horsemen. He was shot in the shoulder by them, pierced with eight lance wouuds, and is supposed to have died instantly. He was found dead next morning, lying upon his face. At the same instant that the firing upon the tent commenced, the doors of Mr. Marsh's house were broken in, the inmates knocked down and bound, and the house rifled of money, watches and guns. The leader of the band or robbers, in his conversation on the afternoon before the murder, stated that he was a native of the Argentine Republic, that he had traveled to Europe, and had resided for some time in Mexico He speaks Spanish fluently, and French and English imperfectly. He is a young man of short stature, very fair complexion, and black eyes and hair. His manners are pleasing, and his appearance rather prepossessing. Look out for him.

During the whole affair, the robbers, who appeared to be Mexican, with faces blackened, and who stated that they were 120 in number, obeyed implicitly every command of their 1eader, who was not disguised. A statement of the whole affair has been put in the hands of Governor Burnett, and it is to hoped that he will adopt such measures as will secure the arrest of the villains and give that protection to our farming population which, their isolated situations from our cities requires in this emergency.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 2, Number 74, 21 January 1851, p.2, col.5, A Mexican Hung[edit]

A Mexican Hung.—The Alta contains a letter which states that a Mexican named Pablo, aged about forty years, who was found guilty of the murder of an American, was hung at Aqua Frio, on the 7th inst. There were about 500 Americans and 200 foreigners present at the execution.

Daily Alta California, May 3, 1852, p.2, col.3, SOUTHERN MINES; Another Shocking Murder.(Ruddle killing)[edit]

Another Shocking Murder. We are indebted to Mr. J. T. Belt, of Belt's Ferry, on the Merced, for a letter dated "On the Plains, April 29," received through Todd's Express, giving an account of a brutal murder committed in broad daylight, on the Mariposa road, between the Merced and Tuolumne rivers. A young man named Allen B. Ruddle, who was driving a wagon to Stockton, for supplies, was found dead on the road, on Monday last, having been shot through the head and breast, he had about four hundred dollars in his possession when he left home, of which he was robbed. The deceased leaves an aged father, mother, brothers and sisters to mourn his untimely end. The murder was committed about live miles from the Tuolumne. The deceased lived on the Merced, and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. He was shot three several times, through the head, body amd arms. The team was found alone in the road, by some travelers and next day the body was discovered, about 150 yards from the road. There is good reason for supposing that the murder was perpetrated by Spaniards — Stockton Journal.

Sacramento Daily Union, May 6, 1852, p.3,col.1; FROM THE INTERIOR;(Ruddle killing)][edit]

FROM THE INTERIOR
Stockton. The San Joaquin Republican of Wednesday through Gregory's Express is received. A correspondent of that paper writing from Mariposa, under date of the 28th ult., says that Mr. Ruddle, a citizen of that place was murdered near the Merced river. He started for Stockton on Monday last to purchase goods; had on his person some five hundred dollars, and was attacked, it is believed, near Forbes' Ranch, on Dry Creek, by two Mexicans. The poor fellow was both lassoed and shot. Shortly afterwards a posse was raised who followed the scoundrels to the mouth of the Merced, and there three Mexicans on horseback were seen to cross the river, they appeared to be much hurried and their horses much fatigued. Mr. Watters, of the ranch, supplied the pursuers with fresh horses, and it is hoped, ere this, they have over-taken the cold blooded wretches. Mr. Ruddle was respected by all who knew him as a gentleman and a good citizen. Such a loss is to be lamented at all times and places, more so in California. He leaves father, mother, brothers and sisters, on the Merced river, to mourn his loss.
Two Mexicans were found mangled in a most shocking manner near Aqua Frio. They were found with their throats cut, and their bodies riddled with balls.
A new road has been constructed from Carson's Hill, through Malone's, via Robinson's Ferry, to Sonoma, and the Tuolmnne county region.

...

Land.— The waters have fallen sufficiently to permit the cultivation of the numerous tule ranches on the borders of the river and slough. The flood has had a salutary effect in re-invigorating the soil; and although the farmers were driven from their locations for a considerable time, the rapidity with which vegetation springs up will amply repay them for their loss of time. They expect to raise three crops of some vegetables before the next winter sets in.— Republican.
Also reprinted in the San Francisco Herald, May 7, 1852, San Joaquin Republican, May 15, 1852.

Ward, Samuel, ed. Carvel Collins, Sam Ward in the gold rush, Stanford Univ. Press, Stanford, 1949, pp.168-169[edit]

An abridged version of Incidents on the "River of Grace," pub. serially in Porter's Spirit of the Times, betwen Jan. 22 and April 23, 1861, under the name Midas, Jr., which the editor has identified as a pseud. of Samuel Ward.
Sam Ward was working at Belts trading post at Belts Ferry on the Merced River at the time of the Ruddle murder. On the day of the murder he was riding up the Stockton road toward the Tuolomne River when he encountered the wheel ruts of a wagon turned off towards the river.
"Shortly after striking the main road, about four miles beyond Snelling's, I noticed the track of a wagon, which had been abruptly turned off from the highway into the grass on the left towards the river. There were also marks of horses' hoofs in the turf, which grew into a hillock some twenty feet high on the right, its summit not more than thirty yards from the roadside. It struck me as a capital spot for an ambuscade, and I intuitively loosened the revolver in my belt, and kept "my eyes skinned" until I again reached level ground.
"...a rider dashed up to the house and announced the startling news that a teamster had been shot upon the road that afternoon, robbed of six hundred dollars in gold dust, and his wagon driven into a clump of brushwood two miles from the road and there left with his corpse in it. Commending the people of the house to be on the alert, he spurred his horse towards Dickenson's Ferry, to give the "hue and cry" and ascertain whether any suspicious characters had crossed it that day.
"I instantly bethought me of the unusual wheel and horse prints I had noticed beneath the ambush where I had instinctively made ready for an attack, and argued that the crime could hardly have been perpetrated more than an hour previous to my passing. A murder in broad daylight sends an electric thrill through all who dwell far or near, and it was not without emotion that I remounted and continued my journey.
"I quickened my pace so as to reach Dickenson's before dark, and was overtaken at the crossing by two horsemen, armed to the teeth, who were in pursuit of the murderers. From them I learned on the ferry boat that the victim was a son of one of the proprietors in our vicinity, a Snelling or Montgomery [it was Ruddle] — I forget which — a fine young man, who was on his way to purchase a load of goods at Stockton, and also that the deed had been done by not less than two assassins."5
5. This murder was on April 28, 1852.

169

"At Dickenson's I found quite a crowd discussing the murder, and proffering the usual variety of speculations as to its perpetrators. The theory which I had formed on the way shed a new light upon the catastrophe by fastening the suspicions of the assemblage upon the two caballeros, one of whom was so skillful a shot. I further surmised that they were in pursuit of higher game, viz., the bags of gold which they could not have failed to perceive in my friend Woods' wagon when they assisted in extricating it from the mire; that they had either missed him by an error of calculation, or had concluded that the party carried too many guns for them, and transferred their rapacity to the unfortunate teamster who must have come up not long after the express wagon had passed the fatal spot. If this supposition were true, the brigands must have made their escape by Waters' Ferry at the junction of the Merced with the San Joaquin, that being the only outlet into the lower country.

170

William Perkins, Three Years in California: William Perkins' Journal of Life at Sonora, 1849-1852, University of California; 1st Edition edition, maps 8 b&w illustrations, (1964), pp.326,n.7,327-328[edit]

William Perkins experienced an encounter with Mexican bandits who had murdered and robbed a teamster the road from Sonora to Stockton on April 4, 1852, 21 days before the Ruddle murder occured in a similar fashion.

William Perkins described his return from San Francisco to Stockton, aboard the steamer "Sophie" on the evening of Saturday April 3, 1852. Arriving before he awoke on Sunday morning, April 4, he was delayed a day getting his goods shipped to his place of business in Sonora. [138]

326
"..., I took a place in the Stage Coach the next morning [April 5], and on account of the heavy roads we were all day getting to the river, besides being upset once.
Here we found that another murder had been perpetrated in broad daylight on the public road the day before, and within hail almost of the populous ferry establishment. Two teamsters were on their way down, an old man and a young. About a mile from the ferry is a stretch of low land bordered on either side by hills. At the entrance near the river is a little roadside inn. Here the old man stopped for a few minutes to light his pipe, and the other went on with his team. Two or three hundred yards off, his companion found him lying in the middle of the road weltering in his blood. He had been shot and rifled within hail of his comrade and sight of the house, in the daytime. The old man returned at once to the ferry. He says that they were followed by three Mexicans on horseback, whom he minutely described, and he had no doubt that these three men committed the crime, as on entering the little valley he lost sight of them, and did not again see them.
" This is the most open barefaced murder we have had for some time to chronicle, and is an evidence that there are some bold villans about, and peoples lives are again becoming insecure. For some time back there have been stories rife of a certain "Joaquin," a valiant Mexican, who, for many injuries received from the Americans, has vowed a bloody revenge, and has formed a band of brigands who scour the country and assassinate white men whenever they can do so with impunity. This Joaquin is already a celebrated character, and many stories that would do honor to Dick Turpin, are told of him by the spanish races, and some of them, marvelous enough. Whether they be true or false, the fact is that many people have misteriously disappeared, and four murders committed on the Stockton road within a couple of weeks."[7]
[7] The bandit who Perkins calls Joaquin will be immediately identified with Joaquin Murrieta,... There appear to have been a number of bandit leaders known as Joaquin during the period after the Foreign Miners Tax brought anti-foreigner agitation to a climax, and folklore cherished by the writers of thrillers (commencing with John Rollin Ridge, "Yellow Bird," and his Life and Adventures of Joaquin Murieta, the Celebrated California Bandit, first published in San Francisco in 1854) has then lumped together in a composite biography. A Mexican was killed in 1853, declared to be the outlaw. His decapitated head was exhibited throughout California as that of Joaquin Murrieta, but questions remain.
327
" It was too late for the stage to proceed that night, so I borrowed a horse from friend Dent, crossed the ferry and pushed on for home. The sun was setting as I reached to opposite bank. The horse I rode was a large powerful good brute, but so fat that it was with difficulty that I got him to gallop. I had barely traveled a couple of miles, and it was still light, when just in front of me I saw the very three men so accurately described by the old teamster, and said by him to have been the murderers of his companion. I am not ashamed to say that my heart jumped to my throat. The men were coming towards me and too close to give me time to escape if they intended attacking me; there was no help for it. I drew the pommel of my revolver to the front, grasped it with my right hand and cocked it in its pouch; with my other hand I pulled my horse out of the road and let him fall into a walk. All these actions proved to to the men that I was prepared. They also pulled up their horses as we approached each other at a walk, they keeping to the road. I put on as fierce and careless a look as possible, looking full at them as they passed me and turning well around in my saddle to keep them in view. They did not salute, as Mexicans almost invariably do on the road, if peaceably inclined.
" The minuteness of the description given by the old man left no doubt as to the identity of these men with those who followed the teamsters, and who had assuredly murdered the young man, and I found myself in the presence, if not the power of these men, the night closing in, and far from any habitation. I acknowledge to having felt very uncomfortable, and as I walked my horse past them, not venturing to increase his speed for fear of giving confidence to the Mexicans, and slowly increased the distance between us, I expected every moment to hear the report of a pistol and the whiz of a ball.
328
" As soon as I had got to a respectable distance, I dug the spurs into my fat horse's side, and got him into a gallop with a thankful and lightened heart; but during my four hour's ride that night, my imagination was continually suggesting the sudden apparition of the three Mexicans from the bushes on either side of the road.
" That these men were brigands there is no doubt. Two days before they were on the opposite side of the river; so they could not be travelers; there are no Mexican encampments in this vicinity, and on meeting me they did not leave the road, nor did they salute me, something extraordinary, and enough of itself to prove the bad intentions and character of the men. I probably owed my safety to two causes. Mexicans are proverbially cowards (although there are of course exceptions), and do not like the idea of attacking a man evidently prepared for them, even should the odds be greatly in their favor. These fellows had not the slightest doubt that my hand was on a good revolver, and they know by experience the skill of the white man generally, in its use; and like the North American Indian they will seldom attempt a crime where there may be some risk attending it. They are the Thugs of America.
" Another cause of my safety was the fact of my being on my way up, and consequently not supposed to be in the possession of much cash; not that it requires much inducement for a Mexican to murder; he is always ready for that; but it requires the incentive of plunder to induce him to run any risk. By eleven o'clock I was safely housed in Sonora, and very grateful for what I must always consider a Providential escape."

San Joaquin Republican, May 15, 1852[edit]

The Indians are quiet, but the white horse thieves and Mexicans are occasionally practicing to keep their "hands in." There is a body of Mexicans down the river about thirty miles, in a very secret camp, almost invisible, who have a large number of tame animals - report says nearly a hundred. They number between twenty and thirty, and no doubt their scouts are out continually. And that is the grand depot of stolen animals in all this section of country. It is also supposed that the two Mexicans who shot young Riddle, a week ago, have taken refuge in this camp; there are about thirty men, in different parties, in pursuit of the murderers, and they will not escape apprehension, as they are known.


Los Angeles Star, June 12,1852[edit]

"Jose Zapatero, another cheif, has since taken a number of horses from some Sonoreans which were pursued to the Tejon, and delivered them over to the authorities."
The Evening Star Nov. 9, 1851 speaks of Jose Zapatero, one of the principal captains of the Tulare Indians (Yokut).-- Hayes' Collection, Vol. '59, p. 118; Scrapbooks, Bancroft Library] from C. Hart Merriam papers relating to work with California Indians, 1850-1974. (bulk 1898-1938) by Merriam, Clinton Hart, 1855-1942; Heizer, Robert Fleming, 1915-1979; Catalogue of the C. Hart Merriam collection of data concerning California tribes and other American Indians; Online Archive of California; Publication date: 1898 accessed February 10, 2020.


Los Angeles Star, June 19,1852, Prisoner Shot[edit]

from Seecrest, The Man from the Rio Grande, p.97-98,98 n.1-2

On June 18, 1852, Love and his partner appeared before Justice of the Peace Joseph S. Mallard at Los Angeles. In a prepared affidavit they stated they were in the area "for the purpose of apprehending a couple of Sonorans who were charged with having committed murders and robberies in Mariposa County and for whom a large reward had been offered." They had tracked two of the gang to a San Buenaventura roadhouse and, after a brief exchange of gunshots, had captured one of the suspects - thought to be Pedro Gonzales, a Murrieta gang member. The two possemen began the trek back to Los Angeles, herding their captive on foot while they rode. The Los Angeles Star reported what happened next as given in the affidavit:
"The prisoner, being on foot, complained of fatigue and made several ineffectual attempts to escape. When about 8 miles this side of the river he complained of thirst and pointing to a ravine near at hand, told his conductor that there was plenty of water a little way up. Accordingly, Mr. Lull [Love] dismounted and proceeded with the man til they came to a small clump of bushes, when the prisoner darted forward into them and would have made his escape - Mr. L's botas and spurs preventing him from giving chase - but the latter, in endeavoring to knock him down with his pistol, accidently [sic] discharged it and shot him through the head, killing him instantly."1
They had undoubtedly brought the dead prisoner into town, and after calling on the local officers, they, they prepared for the long trip back to Mariposa. Love was gone when the Star corrected the name a few days later. "Mr. Love," commented the paper, "was one of the most fearless of Gen. Tayor's express at the time of the Mexican War, in which capacity he rendered great services."2 ...
---
1. Under the heading "Prisoner Shot", the Los Angeles Star, June 19, 1852, reported Love and his partner made a statement to Justice of the Peace Joseph S Mallard regarding the killing of Pedro Gonzales.
2. Love's name was corrected in the Star, June 26, 1852.

Ridge, pp. 34-41[edit]

Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 345, 15 December 1852, p.2, col.2 Later from the South. --- Execution of Reyes Feliz. --- Discovery of another Murder. --- Conviction of the Murderer. --- One hundred horses stolen.[edit]

Later from the South. --- Execution of Reyes Feliz. --- Discovery of another Murder. --- Conviction of the Murderer. --- One hundred horses stolen.

The steamer Sea Bird, Capt. Hillard, arrived here ay morning at 11 A. M., after a passage of four daya from San Diego. She brings thirty passengers, a list of whom, together with their memoranda, will be found in another column.

We have received a copy of the Los Angeles Star of Dec. 4th, being one week later. The news shows that Los Angeles county has been infested with a gang of robbers and murderers for a long time past, and have succeeded in eluding detection until the present time. Some discoveries have been made as to the murder of Gen. Bean, and the crime is fixed upon one Cipriano Sandoral, who has fled.

Reyes Feliz, who was arrested upon the charge of being a party to the assassination of Gen. Bean, was executed by the people of Los Angeles on Tuesday, the 27th ult., at 12 M. It was not proved that he was concerned in causing the death of Gen. Bean, but he acknowledged to being a robber and a murderer. The following is the confession which he made :

My name is Reyes Feliz, am 15 or 16 years old, was born at the Real de Bayareca, State of Sonora. I did not know General Bean. I don't know who killed him. Here, in Los Angeles, I heard some gentlemen, whose names I do not know, say, that Murrieta's woman had said that Joaquin Murrieta had killed him. I live at San Gabriel. It is true that I asked Piliguije for a dagger, and I told him that I was going to gamble with two Americans, and that in case I should lose, that I would take the money from them; I don't know what my intentions were in that act. I do not own but one murder; the man I killed was called Anselmo Marias. I killed him with a shot at the camp of Sonora; it is a year since I committed this crime — because I had a dispute with Anselmo. He was going to kill an American, a night previous, who was a "padrino" of mine. I belonged to the company of Joaquin Murieta and the late Pedro, who was killed by Americans in the "cuesta del conejo." I was not then with Pedro; I was then ill in the Tulares of the effects from bites of a bear. We robbed, Joaquin Murieta, the late Pedro, and myself. In Avisimba, "orilla de la Sierra," (foot of the mountains,) in front of the Pueblo of San Jose, we robbed 20 horses, which we brought to the "Tejon." There the Indians took some of them from us; others, the owner took, who went in pursuit of us. I don't know his name, he was a Mexican. [139]I have not robbed any more. I did not kill any body else. I know nothing more about the death of Gen. Bean.

After the confession was made known, a public meeting was held, and the deceased unanimously condemned to death. He was carefully guarded, and next day taken to Prospect Hill and executed. Just before he was launched into eternity, he addressed a few words to the assembly, saying that his punishment was justly merited, and advising them never to put faith in woman. Ho persisted to the last in knowing nothing of the death of Gen. Bean.

The woman Ana, who was arrested and placed in charge of Dr. Osburn, upon the supposition of knowing something of the death of Gen. Bean, was cited up before the Investigating Committee and uniformly told the same story. Her statement regarding Cipriano Sandoval is believed to be true. The following is her evidence on the subject:

My name is Ana Benites, twenty-two years old, born in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Reside in Los Angeles. Did not know Gen. Bean. Heard him mentioned. Know who killed him. Know from the mouth of the person the manner in which he was killed. Cipriano (don't know his other name) told me that he had killed him. Know Cipriano; cannot mistake him on seeing him. I saw him when I came from San Gabriel to Los Angeles, where he overtook me and Joaquin Murieta, which was the time when he told me that he had killed Bean. There was a performance of the maromas the night Gen. Bean was killed; I was present with Joaquin Murieta. I left the moromas with him, returned to my house and went immediately to bed. All the people of the house went to sleep. Extinguished the lights. Rico, Rico's wife, and family, also a certain Sancedo and his woman — the name of the latter I do not know — were in the house; some of them slept in the house and others slept outside. Me, Joaquin, Juanito Rico, and a young lad whom I do not know, slept in the "Ramadita." After I laid down and before I went to sleep, heard no noise nor voices that attracted attention. At a later part cf the night, I heard shots, and during the three shots heard voices; could not, however, distinguish whether they were Americans or Mexicans. A short moment afterwards I heard more shots, the voice of Gen. Bean, who arrived crying, "Rico! Rico! Rico!" I then sat up and saw Bean, who came dragging a cloak. Senora Jesus opened the door, and Juanito Rico was already holding him in his arms, and said, "Mother, it is General Bean." The shots were fired in the direction between the house cf Rico and Pena. First, three were fired; then a single shot, which was fired when the General came crying out towards the house.

I told Joaquin Murieta to go in search of a doctor, but in the first place an alcalde, in order that they might see what had takes place. The moment Joaquin left, a man by the name of Cipriano approached, and ran bsck. I asked B. who had killed him, whether it was an American? He answered. No. Sonoran? No. Californian? Yes, sir — in English, in an affirmative manner. I again asked him — A Califorian? to which he pave a negative nod with his head. Then Donna Jesus came, took me by the shoulders, and said to me: " You meddle in things that you have not to care about There is also Christoval wounded, asking for a confessor." Then different persons arrived, also the doctor and the alcalde. This took place on the night of a Sunday. The next day Murieta and myself came to Los Angeles, and after having passed the little ditches, close to the Mission, Cipriano overtook us, and spoke to Murieta. He said: "Hombre, I confide or charge you with the secret of what I have done. There is no danger here; and request and charge your woman to act the same as yourself, in order that among the Americans they may not get anything out of her against us." Cipriano came very much excited. Wore a serape on his shoulders and a six-shooter in his waistband. Then I asked Joaqain: "Is that the one that killed Bean?" " Yes," he said. "And why?" "Because the General was very much intoxicated, dragging the Indian woman; and she is with a sister of Christoval. And so I earnestly charge you with the secret. If by chance they should call call on you as a witness, say that you do not know. They shall not get any thing out of you; neither shall they harm you. Moreover, if I learn that you say the least thing, I shall be your worst knue. If you should even put yourself into the guts of the Yankees, I shall take you out. They shall not take from you what I shall do to you."

The woman Ana subsequently stated that Benito Lopez, one of the prisoners, and a member of Solomon Pico's band, acting generally as a messenger to bring provisions, &c. She stated Lopez came to her house in Los Angeles on his arrival from above, bringing with him a roan mare, a black mule and a rifle, all of which he told her he had taken from two Americans. She also accused him of having stolen some handkerchiefs in town a week or two ago, for which he was severely flogged; and of telling her he intended to rob some three or four Americans that same night.

Upon this declaration of the woman, a more rigid examination was had of Lopez. He made several contradictory statements, but finally wound up with the following:

I told Sandoval that they might let them all go, that I (Lopez) would be responsible for them. On the road from the mines I met with an Indian and an Indian woman. The Indian told me that he belonged to the Comanche tribe, that he had stolen a mule, a mare, a rifle and a pistol from two Americans whom he had killed and that the woman had killed another man in Coloma. I killed the Indian and the woman. It is about twelve days since— the bodies may still be found. I joined them in San Antonio. The mule is a horse mule of black color and the mare a roan. The Indian's name was Sosa. Took the rifle and the pistol from the Indians after I had killed them - left the bodies on this side the Cahuenga Ranch, on the plain, three or four thousand paces from the gulch. I had suspicion of them both. First killed the Indian. The woman perceived it and seized a knife. I then killed her. I killed them with a club. They told me they had killed the Americans in the camp of Coloma, in the mines. I left the rifle at Ana's house, in charge of a Sonoranian, who was to take it for me to the Mission. The pistol was taken from me at the hotel, and they kept it. The Indian was dark complexioned, the woman whitish, but spoke neither English nor Spanish. The Indian had on a shirt, pantaloons and boots. They had only a saddletree to ride on. There is a blind man here by whom I can prove that I did not come from Comula, but from the mines. I knew that Ana belonged to the gang of robbers, because she herself told me that she was the woman of Joaquin. She told me that Joaquin had gone to the Tulares to sell about 30 horses that he had stolen, and that be would be back in about 20 days. Another man was with Ana when I went to her house. He was a tail, thin, white complexioned man, had pantaloons, a jacket and a white hat. I went to her house twice; once in the morning, and once early at night.

The prisoner offered to substantiate what he had said by pointing out the bodies of the murdered persons. He was taken at his word, and the citizens proceeded to the place designated. Two skeletons were found, as he had described, at a place about 18 miles from the city, on the Santa Barbara road, near a ranch called the Encina. Various articles of men's and women's clothing were lying scattered about, also a saddletree and a canvas bag were found near the bodies. The clothing evidently belonged to Americans whom they had killed. The bones of the murdered persons were buried, and the articles of clothing and the club brought to town. It has since been ascertained that the two murdered persons were an Indian named Sosa, and a mulatto woman named Mary, the property of a Mr. Thompson, in the northern part of the State. The prisoner was convicted by a jury of the people, and has probably been executed ere this.

On the night of Tuesday, the 25th ult, the entire stock of horses belonging to Messrs. White & Courtney, consisting of about one hundred head, together with some few owned by emigrants who have recently arrived in the country, were stolen from San Gabriel. At first the robbery was supposed to have been committed by Indians but from present indications it seems more probable that the same band of outlaws who have so long infested this county, and a part of whom, there is every reason to believe, are now in the hands of the people, are the guilty ones in this instance. Four or five men have started on their track, prepared to follow them even to the mines, if they have gone in that direction. Now while so many of these scamps, are known to be in this vicinity, our farmer, and ranchero, cannot be to careful of their stock.

Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 205, 5 August 1853, p.2,col.2, SAN JOAQUIN NEWS, Joaquin's Band[edit]

SAN JOAQUIN NEWS.
...
Joaquin's Band -— By the correspondence of the San Joaquin Republican we learn that Capt. Love arrived in Mariposa on Sunday with the head of Joaqain and a hand of one of his band, reserved in spirits, furnished by the surgeons of Fort Miller. Four of the bandits were slain in the fight, several others were severely wounded, and none of the Rangers were wounded. They bring one prisoner; another escaped and was drowned in the San Joaquin.

Marysville Daily Herald, Volume IV, Number 4, 11 August 1853, p.2, col.1[edit]

FROM MARIPOSA.—Steels' Express has furnished us with the following further particulars of the capture of Joaquin. Joaquin was taken by surprise, being unarmed and just coming into camp, leading his horse. As soon as he got sight of the Rangers, he jumped on his horse and fled, but was not quick enough. The hand brought in by the Rangers is the maimed hand of Three-fingered Jack. A glass jar is to be procured to put the head and hand in, when the people of Stockton can have a sight at them.

•--●--•-----

JOAQUIN NOT DEAD.—It appears from the following they have got a Joaquin of their own down in Los Angeles. The Star says:—"Joaquin is in the neighborhood of San Fernando, with twentyfive men, all armed with revolvers, double-barrelled guns, swords and lances. The robbers have visited several ranchos in that vicinity. We give this on the very best authority, to wit: Don Andres Pico."—S. F. Herald.

Marysville Daily Herald, Volume IV, Number 5, 12 August 1853, p.2, col.5[edit]

JOAQUIN, THE BEHEADED.— The Joaquin whose head has been taken off, is now said to be Joaquin Valancuela. As there are some half a dozen Joaquins, there is no certainty we have the right one until the whole gang is captured. Joaquin Carillo is said to be the most desperate of the name, and as news of his whereabouts has been received, his head will probably be coming in next.

Marysville Daily Herald, Volume IV, Number 5, 12 August 1853, p.2, col.5[edit]

•--●--•-----

CONFESSION OF DAWSON THE ROBBER. —The man Dawson, who was concerned in the Mormon Island robbery, and who is supposed by some to have been the real Joaquin, made an important confession before his death. Amongst other things he said "that be was principal in the robbery alluded to, and believed he was the greatest rascal the world ever saw."

•--●--•-----

Marysville Daily Herald, Volume IV, Number 13, 22 August 1853, p.2, col.2[edit]

•--●--•-----

MANSLAUGHTER.—At San Andreas Camp, in San Joaquin County, says the Sacramento Union, a Mexican who has greatly aided the Americans in detecting horse thieves. received caution that he was to be assassinated. While playing cards on the same afternoon the assassin entered the room, with his hand on his pistol. This was instantly perceived by the Mexican, who instantly dropped his cards, saying, "I cannot play any more", and went into another room. Procuring a long knife he went directly up to the bandit challenged him with his intention, and before he could use his pistol plunged his knife through and through him. The Mexican then stripped his victim and taking his things with him, went and delivered himself up to Judge Talliaferro, who, on hearing satisfactory evidence to substantiate the above, discharged him. -----•--●--•-----

Marysville Daily Herald, Volume IV, Number 24, 3 September 1853, p.2,col.5[edit]

•--●--•-----

It has been ascertained that the Americans from San Diego, who were missed near Encinadas, some five months since, were murdered by Mexicans near that place, and robbed of $5,000. Desperadoes abound in that vicinity, who cross to the American side of the line, commit their depredations, and return. It is proposed to raise a party of Californians, take San Tomas, their rendezvous, and hang the miscreants. --------------

Five Joaquins Gang[edit]

Three Fingered Jack (California Outlaw)[edit]

Monterey Californian, Sept. 12, 1846
:"About the time the foregoing proclamation was issued two young men, Mr. T. Cowie and Mr. Fowler, who lived in the neighborhood, started to go the Bodega; on their way they were discovered by a small party of Californians, under command of one Padilla, and taken prisoners;—they were kept as prisoners for one day and a half, and then tied to trees and cut to pieces in the most brutal manner, a Californian, known as four fingered Jack, has been since captured, and gives the following account of that horrible scene: The party after keeping the prisoners a day or two, tied them to trees, then stoned them, one of them had his jaw broken, a riata (rope) was made fast to the broken bone and the jaw dragged out, they were then cut up, a small piece at a time, and the pieces thrown at them, or crammed in their throats and they were eventually despatched by cutting out their bowels. Fortunately for humanity, those cold blooded savage murders were soon put to an end, by the very active measures which were taken by the garrison at Sonoma, having heard nothing of the arrival of Cowie and Fowler at their place of destination, suspected that they had been taken, and probably killed, and hearing that three others were prisoners in Padilla's camp, Capt. Ford, (then 1st Lieut.) headed a party of 22 men, officers included, and took the road for the enemy's camp, which had, by this time, been reinforced by Capt. Joaquin dela Torre, with 70 men, it was reported that their head quarters was at Santa Roza plains, to which point Ford proceeded, finding they had left, followed them in the direction of San Raphel, and after traveling all night making about 60 miles in 16 hours, came up with the enemy 12 miles from San Raphel, where they had stopped to get breakfast. The enemy occupied a position at a house on the edge of the plains, about 60 yards from a small grove of brushwood. Capt. Ford having several prisoners, left four men to guard them, and with the remainder, advanced at full charge upon the enemy, as soon as he got them in motion he fell back into the brushwood, directed his party to tie their horses and take such positions as would cut off the spaniards, but by no means fire until they would get a man, which order was so well obeyed, that out of 20 or 25 shots fired by the Americans, eleven took effect, eight of the enemy were killed, two wounded, and one horse shot through the neck. One party of the Californians led by a sergeant, whose name we have not been able to get, charged up handsomely, but the deadly fire of Ford's riflemen forced them to retire, with the loss of the sergeant and several of his men. The fall of the sergeant seemed to be the signal for retreat, the whole party retired to a high hill about a mile from the field of battle. Ford and his gallant followers, waited a short time, and finding that the enemy showed no disposition to return to the fight, released the prisoners, who had been taken by the enemy, and then went to a coral, where they found a large cavallada of horses, and exchanged their tired horses for fresh ones, and took the road for Sonoma. The Californians on this occasion, did not sustain the reputation they had previously gained; they were eighty six strong, while Capt. Ford had but eighteen men engaged. On the day following this engagement, Major Fremont having heard that Don Jose Castro was crossing the bay with 200 men marched immediately, and joined the garrison at Sonoma, on the 23rd of June. Several days were spent in active pursuit of the party under Capt. dela Torre, but they succeeded in crossing the Bay before they could be overtaken by Fremont. With the retreat of Dela Torre, ended all opposition on the North side of the Bay of San Francisco."

[140]

Leaders named by Latta[edit]

Other Named Gang Members (news and histories)[edit]

Jesus Feliz[edit]

Reyes Feliz (Five Joaquins Gang)[edit]

  • Los Angeles Star May June ?, 1852 Love / Gonzalez
  • Los Angeles Star Nov. 27, 1852
  • Los Angeles Star Dec. 4, 1852
  • Los Angeles Star 8 December 1852; p.3 col.1 Later from Southern California.
  • Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 345, 15 December 1852, p.2, col.2 Later from the South. --- Execution of Reyes Feliz. --- Discovery of another Murder. --- Conviction of the Murderer. --- One hundred horses stolen.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 4, Number 533, 8 December 1852, p.3 col.1 Later from Southern California.=[edit]

Later from Southern California.

By the steamer Sea Bird which arrived on Sunday morning from San Diego, we have later and important advices from Southern California. The U. S. Commissioners, Hon. Hiland Hall, and Messrs. Robert Greenhow and Geo. Fislier are among the passengers; also, Scnor Don Tomas, Captain of the Diguenos Indians. The U. S. sloop of war Portsmouth was at San Diego bound for Panama. The murder of Gen. Bean had created the greatest excitement — the Star of the 27th ult. says:

Ever since Gen. Bean's death, his friends, of whom he had many and true, have been unremitting in their exertions to ferret out the circumstances of his assassination. We stated in our last that a man had been arrested on suspicion. but it has since transpired that he had no connection with the affair. His examination, however, has led to the arrest of six persons, named Eleuterio, Cipriano Sandoval, Juan Rico, Jose Alvisu, Reyes, and ____ , some one of whom, there is every reason to believe, was guilty of the murder. These persons are supposed to belong to the gang of the noted Solomon Pico, the band referred to above. They were brought into town on Thursday and Friday, and taken charge of by a guard of citizens. Yesterday afternoon a public maeting was held at the Court House, at which J. O. Wheeler, Esq.,presided, and Don M. C. Rojo and Wm H. Rand acted as Secretaries. It was resolved by the citizens present that as the county jail was too insecure for the safe detention of the prisoners, they should be conducted to some suitable place, and there guarded until their connection with the murder of Gen. Bean could be ascertained, and Mr. D. W. Alexander was charged with and became responsible for their safe keeping, the citizens generally agreeing to assist.

A committee was then appointed, who were to take the whole matter under advisement, and report some plan to be pursued in its further investigation.

In the meantime, other persons are suspected, and strong efforts are being made to have them arrested. It is not improbable that these persons will be tried by a people's court, and the guilty ones punished as they deserve. There can certainly be no objection to this mode of procedure, when we hear our very court officers acknowledge that the law is utterly incapable of bringing them to justice.

If these proceedings should lead to the detection of Solomon Pico and any of his party, our citizens will be well repaid for their exertions, though no atonement can be made for the many travelers who have been the victims of these desperadoes between San Diego and Monterey. It is to be hoped, however, that passion will not get the better of justice and judgment, but let everything be conducted in a manner worthy of an American community.

The Alta states that the day of the sailing of the Sea Bird was the same as that fixed by the Vigilance Committee of Los Angeles for the execution of the parties mentioned above. Of seven arrested and tried three were found guilty and condemned to death. The others were turned over to the people, and from the evidence against them, in connection with the murder of Bean, it was thought that they also would be condemned.

Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 345, 15 December 1852, p.2, col.2 Later from the South. --- Execution of Reyes Feliz. --- Discovery of another Murder. --- Conviction of the Murderer. --- One hundred horses stolen.[edit]
Later from the South. --- Execution of Reyes Feliz. --- Discovery of another Murder. --- Conviction of the Murderer. --- One hundred horses stolen.

The steamer Sea Bird, Capt. Hillard, arrived here ay morning at 11 A. M., after a passage of four days from San Diego. She brings thirty passengers, a list of whom, together with their memoranda, will be found in another column.

We have received a copy of the Los Angeles Star of Dec. 4th, being one week later. The news shows that Los Angeles county has been infested with a gang of robbers and murderers for a long time past, and have succeeded in eluding detection until the present time. Some discoveries have been made as to the murder of Gen. Bean, and the crime is fixed upon one Cipriano Sandoral, who has fled.

Reyes Feliz, who was arrested upon the charge of being a party to the assassination of Gen. Bean, was executed by the people of Los Angeles on Tuesday, the 27th ult., at 12 M. It was not proved that he was concerned in causing the death of Gen. Bean, but he acknowledged to being a robber and a murderer. The following is the confession which he made :

"My name is Reyes Feliz, am 15 or 16 years old, was born at the Real de Bayareca, State of Sonora. I did not know General Bean. I don't know who killed him. Here, in Los Angeles, I heard some gentlemen, whose names I do not know, say, that Murrieta's woman had said that Joaquin Murrieta had killed him. I live at San Gabriel. It is true that I asked Piliguije for a dagger, and I told him that I was going to gamble with two Americans, and that in case I should lose, that I would take the money from them; I don't know what my intentions were in that act. I do not own but one murder; the man I killed was called Anselmo Marias. I killed him with a shot at the camp of Sonora; it is a year since I committed this crime — because I had a dispute with Anselmo. He was going to kill an American, a night previous, who was a "padrino" of mine. I belonged to the company of Joaquin Murieta and the late Pedro, who was killed by Americans in the "cuesta del conejo." I was not then with Pedro; I was then ill in the Tulares of the effects from bites of a bear. We robbed, Joaquin Murieta, the late Pedro, and myself. In Avisimba, "orilla de la Sierra," (foot of the mountains,) in front of the Pueblo of San Jose, we robbed 20 horses, which we brought to the "Tejon." There the Indians took some of them from us; others, the owner took, who went in pursuit of us. I don't know his name, he was a Mexican. I have not robbed any more. I did not kill any body else. I know nothing more about the death of Gen. Bean."

After the confession was made known, a public meeting was held, and the deceased unanimously condemned to death. He was carefully guarded, and next day taken to Prospect Hill and executed. Just before he was launched into eternity, he addressed a few words to the assembly, saying that his punishment was justly merited, and advising them never to put faith in woman. Ho persisted to the last in knowing nothing of the death of Gen. Bean.

Claudio Feliz[edit]

    • Secrest, William B., Man from the Rio Grande, A Biography of Harry Love leader of the California Rangers who tracked down Joaquin Murrieta, The Arthur H. Clark Company, Spokane Washinton, 2005. Feliz, Claudio (Claria Farlia), "Cloudy" (outlaw) : 51, 54, 56, 57, 58, 61, 75–79, 81–85, 107, 110, 129, 270, 291 
Confession of Teodor Basquez Link to Reyes Feliz, link to Joaquin Murrieta?[edit]
  • Iddings, Ray, Joaquin Murrieta, The True Story from News Reports of the Period, California Gazette, February 21, 1852, Confession of Teodor Basquez
"CONFESSION OF TEODOR BASQUEZ
"The name of the man executed at San Jose, for grand larceny, was Theodor Basquez, and not Valenquez, as before stated.
"The following is the culprit's
"CONFESSION:
"In the year 1851, I came from the city of Hermosillo, Sonora, to California; I arrived here on the 1st day of May; I pursued an upright and honorable course for the first year I remained in California. After the expiration of one year I entered into company with some persons by the name Francisco Daniel[1] and his brother Barnardo, and one Juan Jose --- all of Sonora. The same individuals invited me in their company to pass the winter with them; they told me that if I would join them, I should not be lacking anything necessary for my subsistence. They asked me to join them in stealing to which I consented. About fifteen days after joining them, the brothers went to St. John's Mission and returned with five mules, during their absence Juan Jose remained with me. In said time we injured no person. The brothers on their return sold the mules, and divided the money between us. Fifty dollars was given to me, fifty to Juan Jose, and the remainder, the brothers kept themselves. They then went on a robbing expedition to the rancho of Sr. Pacheco, but were driven away by the force of arms; they returned without anything and after their return, we separated. During the time I [was] with them they told me that they committed a robbery upon an American in the Pueblo of Los Angelos, to the amount seven thousand dollars and nine horses, which they brought with them. I also learned from Juan Jose that Bernardo, one of the brothers, murdered a Sonoran near the Positos in the Alizal, (near Livermore's Rancho,) and stole his property, leaving the body with four dollars under his head after he was dead. He then went to Stockton, where he found his brother and Juan Jose. He was asked by his brother whose bag he had tied behind his saddle, to which he made no reply; ultimately he informed Juan Jose, (which being made known to his brother) he became angry, and became angry, and reprimanded Bernardo, and separated from his company. Juan Jose told me that Francisco then stole two trunks of clothing, and went below to the Pueblo de los Angelos. About a month afterwards I joined in company with Juan Jose, and went to Stockton, Juan Jose stole a rosellio horse in that place from Luisa Quaresma, which he sold in Stockton for fourty dollars. We then came on horse as far as the San Joaquin, where Juan Jose stole a mule. We then came to the Pueblo de San Jose, and sold the mule near a blacksmith shop on First street, for fifty dollars; for said cause, I, the deponent, was taken prisoner and started for Stockton. At night I was unbound so that I might sleep, when I escaped and came back to San Jose, and remained in the city for a month. I then went to San Luis Obispo, and hired out to the recorder, an American, for three months and a half.
"After I left him I joined with Don Jose Castro as a vaquero, to drive cattle. On my arrival here, I fell sick, and remained in that condition about twenty days. After I got well, I hired out to Nolberto Martinez and was with him two month[s]. I left him and returned to San Jose, where I became acquainted with Ignacio Salsio, and became a confederate of his. We went to the plains and stole three animals -- a horse, a mare and a mule - with American brands on them, and left for Agua Frio, (near the Mariposa mines) and there sold them to a Sonoranian. They were afterward recovered by their owner. We were arrested, but by paying fifteen ounces of gold dust, we were set at liberty. We then returned to San Jose and separated. Five days afterwards, Macho Saliso came back to me with a Californian named San Lorenzo, who told me he lived in Santa Clara. The same person was imprisoned for cattle stealing. They brought with them one horse, one mule and one mare which we sold at the Embarcadero to an American, who gave us a gold breast pin and chain, and money to the amount of one hundred and fifty dollars. I received eleven dollars of the same. Lorenzo then went to Santa Barbara. We remained in San Jose. Ignacio and I went to the store of an American in Santa Clara and stole a coat and a serape. I was take prisoner, but Macho escaped. For said offense I received 25 lashes and was fined $15 dollars, which I paid. I was afterward informed by the interpreter that on the next day I was to receive 200 lashes. There was a man in prison with me named Sefarino. He told me that if my case was for 200 lashes, his punishment would certainly be death - that he would be hung for having stabbed a man with a knife. He then wished me to break jail with him. I asked him how it could be done. He told me he had a knife in his boot, and with it we misplaced the windows and escaped. Me sentence was 25 lashes and fifteen dollars fine.
"The following particulars are known on my last trial:
"During the time I was in prison under my last sentence, Claudio Feliz was taken prisoner and confined with me; he requested me to break jail with him; he informed me of great many bad deeds he committed in this country was at the Abra. He went to the house of an American, where there were three men; there were with him seven other men, robbers. After securing the three Americans, they robbed them of the amount of $1500, and set fire to the house with the Americans inside. I was informed of the murderers, but only recollect one of them by the name of Miguel Luches, a Sonoranian, who was murdered in San Francisco with a knife. He also told me that Solomon Pico was not in the affray. After this deed, they went to the farm of Dr. Marsh, and made an attack on the house; a trader made his escape from the house but was followed by some of the party, and before he could reach the water side he was murdered. The rest of the company entered the house and made fast Dr. Marsh and a woman, as also the cook; they then demanded their money. Dr. Marsh asked what number the robbers were; they answered him that they were one hundred and fifty in number; Dr. Marsh then said that they were enough to destroy California; they responded it was not his business, and demanded him to be quick and deliver their money; they stole $300 in money, a gold watch, and some other articles of gold, and came back to San Jose, leaving them still tied. In San Jose, Claudio separated from from their company and went to the mines and joined his brother Reyes Feliz, at the American Camp. At the Campo de Salvado they murdered a Sonoranian and robbed him of all the gold he had.[2] They then came to the Mariposas, and Reyes was taken prisoner at the Aguas Frias, and sentenced to be hung, but by the help of an American he made his escape in the night. Claudio and the American then went to the Tuolomne river; they arrived in a tent, where there was one man, an American, whom they murdered, and took from him $500. They then went to the Mariposas, when Reyes was taken prisoner; he was to be hung, but made his escape from the American Camp. He then joined his brother Reyes at Sacramento, and Joaquin Gurietta, Trinadad, Gabriel, Soliz, a Chilean, and the former American of the murder at the camp on the Tuolomne, and also Miquel Sasuelta, and others whose names I forgot, but made eleven in number. They all came in company towards San Jose -- stealing horses at the farm of Mr. Gee, an American; they completed the number of 45 mules and horses, and went to Stockton and bought 15 aparejos, and then went to Marysville, selling the anmimals along the route. After disposing of them, they went to the Campo Seco, Mokelumne Hill, where they lost all their money gambling at monte."
"During the time I was in prison there wasc a person came to see me. He took my measure, and and looked at my hands to see if it was cut, and my face to see if it was cut. He became satisfied that I was not the person he was looking for.-- Claudio told me afterwards that I was measured in a mistake, thinking I was his brother Reyes, because at the river Yuba, we murdered six American; the first American was a poor, unhappy fellow, whom murdered and robbed of 2 ounces; the second was traveling with his wagon, whom we killed and robbed of $500; and after we left the cart, we fell in with two American, who inquired of us for the one with the wagon; after sending them away we went back and asked for fire and asked for fire and murdered and took from them two ounces of gold and a watch, which was all they had; after finishing the murder of these men, we saw a company of ten Americans comming; we then ran away to the mountains, where we remained a whole day, and in the night we went to Marysville, and were nearly taken prisoners, but by killing an American we made our escape, by swimming the river Yuba with our horses -- followed by the Americans. At the Sacramento river we abandoned our horses, to secure our escape, as soon as we had passed the Sacramento, we went to a stable and stole seven horses. On the road we met a cart with provisions; we took what we wanted, and then destroyed a great portion. Farther on the road we fell in with another wagon, which had powder, of which we took and laid a train and blew up the wagon, together with what was in it; the owner was not present. We then went to the Calavaras, where we were attacked by the Americans; one of our party, Manuel Pena, a Sonoranian, was wounded, who we brought away with us on horseback. We then went to the camp of Sonora, but were driven off by the Americans. We then came to San Jose; we hovered about San Jose for the purpose of trying to murder the Marshal Mr. Whitman, as also Mr. Fremont; we killed a Sonoranian named Trinidad;* he threatened to deliver us to the authorites; there had been three American robbing with us, but at this time there was only one; the others had separated. Claudio, at the time he was cutting his irons off, said that it would be well to kill the Sheriff, which I Teodor would not consent to. I told him I would not take away the life of any one, but if in case I could make my escape I would. Claudio had a club and a pocket knife, he said he would stun him and afterwards cut his throat. Claudio also told me that a Californio called Chanate and Sefarino and joined the eleven. He also said that it was their party that attacked Anastacio Chabollo. There were five Californians and 7 Americans. The rest of their party - 19 men - surrounded the house of Antonio Chabollo for three nights in succession for the purpose of robbing, but were afraid. They then went in company to the Mariposas and robbed a tent. The Americans separated and came back to Pacheco's farm, and stole $7000. Claudio told me that as soon as he got clear I would hear of the murder of a Californian name Julian, the one that informed on him; he was determined to kill him. He told me that their party attacked a hotel belonging to Don George, at the Campo Seco, between Sonora and the Stanislaus, and stole an iron safe containing $14,000. They were overheard and followed. They threw the chest into a hole and made their escape. Next day they saw them carrying home the safe from the summit of an adjoining mountain; one of their companions was wounded in the robbery; they were 7 in number. During the time I was with Sefario, he told me that he had done many bad things in his life, and that he was still following the same career. He attacked a tent on this side of the San Joaquin: murdered an Indian, and robbed and burned the tent. He also advised me to go to San Francisco, steal horses and sell them there, when I escaped with him from prison, which I did not consent to. I told him that my intention was to return home as quick as possible. During my life I never took away the life of an individual, but did what lay in my power to prevent others from doing so. This is all I have to say -- the same having been read to me, I state conscientiously that it is the truth.
San Jose, Jan. 27, 1852
  • Trinidad was the man who was murdered at the United States Hotel about the middle of December last. The American spoken of as being connected in the robberies, is probably the man who was examined.
notes
1. Francisco Daniel, aka Pancho Daniel, later leader of the Flores Daniel Gang.
2. Campo de Salvado, later Chinese Camp, California37°52′13″N 120°25′13″W / 37.87028°N 120.42028°W / 37.87028; -120.42028
Chinese Camp[edit]

Chinese Camp, California


The first mining camp in this area was known as Camp Salvado, named for a group of Salvadorians working the placers. It was located on a flat at the top of Shawmut Grade, less than one mile east of present Chinese Camp. In 1849, some thirty-five Cantonese miners arrived at Camp Salvado and began prospecting. Where they came from is somewhat of a mystery; some say that a ship’s captain left his vessel in San Francisco Bay, bringing his entire crew with him to the mines; another version claims they were employed to search for gold by a group of English speculators. No matter where they came from, what they found when they arrived was gold. The claims were rich.
Rich claims attract miners. Within no time large numbers of white miners arrived at Camp Salvado, eventually pushing the Chinese out. Ironically, the American camp known as either Washingtonville or Camp Washington, located opposite of Rocky Hill from Camp Salvado, accepted the outcast Chinese miners without problems. Camp Washington proved to be a rich one and soon became home to a large number of celestial miners. After being driven away from other diggings, or having just arrived in the country, the Chinese miners gravitated here, feeling safe and comfortable among others of their nationality.
The lack of water in the area, needed for working the placers, may be one reason why the Chinese were able to establish a successful camp without much interference from the white miners. Being more patient and industrious than their American counterparts, the Chinese miners were willing to work harder and for less return than the white miners, often making good wages on claims abandoned by other miners. The mines in this vicinity were principally surface diggings, with the gold being diffused throughout the entire surface. Hilltops as well as gulches paid good wages. The problem was the gold-bearing dirt had to be hauled to a creek on the Sims Ranch, or still farther, to Six Bit Gulch in order to be washed. This was a lot of work. Eventually ditches and flumes were built across Montezuma Flat, bringing in water from Woods Creek and a new influx of miners to search for gold.
The camp continued to grow, and due to the large number of Chinese inhabitants, became known by such names as Chinee, Chinese Diggins, and Chinese Camp. When the post office was established on April 18 of 1854, the town became officially known as Chinese Camp. The only reminder of its earlier cognomen, Camp Washington, lies in the road Washington Street. The town’s location made Chinese Camp the center of transportation for a large area, several stage and freight lines made regular daily stops here on their way to other points. During the mid-1850’s, an estimated three to five thousand inhabitants lived in the area and the camp boasted several stores, hotels, joss houses, blacksmiths, a church, a bank, a Wells Fargo office, a Masonic Lodge, and the Sons of Temperance. Four of the famous Chinese "Six Companies" had their agents in town.
The placer mines of this area are credited with producing $2.5 million in gold.[141]

---

ap·a·re·jos Southwestern US A packsaddle made of a stuffed leather pad.
Jacksonville, California[edit]

Jacksonville, was a mining town on Woods Creek near its confluence with the Tuolumne River. It now a ghost town that lies beneith the Don Pedro Reservoir, in Tuolumne County, California.

37°50′56″N 120°22′44″W / 37.84889°N 120.37889°W / 37.84889; -120.37889 

Tuolumne County, California}}
California Gold Rush}}

Category:Mining communities of the California Gold Rush]]
Category:Populated places established in 1849]]
Category:1849 establishments in California]]
Category:Former settlements in Tuolumne County, California]]
Category:Former populated places in California by county|Tuolumne]]
Category:History of Tuolumne County, California]]

TuolumneCountyCA-geo-stub}}
Sacramento Transcript, Volume 2, Number 49, 20 December 1850, p.2,col.5, Murder and Arson at San Jose.[edit]

Murder and Arson at San Jose.—We extract the following account of a wholesale murder committed at San Jose, from the correspondence of the Pacific News, San Jose, Dec. 17. Editors of the Pacific News:

It becomes my painful duty to inform you of a most horrible murder, or series of murders, committed in this valley on Sunday evening last, on the person of Bigley Smith, Esq., formerly rof New Brunswick, N.J., Dr. Zarinsky, a Pole, and a young Englishman in the employ of Dr. Smith, whose name I could not learn, and was from Sydney, N. S. W. What the circumstances were attending this wholesale massacre, can never be fully known, as the building in which it was committed, the residence of Dr. Smith; situated on the Guadalupe, about three miles from the Pueblo, was fired and consumed, with all its contents, saving portions of the mutilated remains of the murdered victims. This is the most horrible tragedy ever committed in the country; and every effort will be made on the part of our citizens to ascertain and ferret out the perpetrators. On the same evening the store of Baker & Co., near the Madison House, was entered by burglars, and relieved of a portion of its contents to the amount of $300.

Sacramento Transcript, Volume 2, Number 50, 21 December 1850, p.2,col.4, The Horrible Murder at San Jose.[edit]

The Horrible Murder at San Jose.

No. 2 of the California State Journal is before us. We gave in our last the news that a most revolting murder had been committed; the following contains additional intelligence extracted from the Journal:

Horrible Murder and Arson.—On Sunday evening last, our citizens were alarmed by the information that Messrs. Bester & Smith's house, about two or three miles from this city, on Los Gatos Creek, was burnt, and some two or three persons had perished in the flames. Early the next morning a number of our citizens, ourselves among the number, started for the scene of disaster. On arriving there, we found the building entirely consumed, and in one corner, and near where the door of the building was, lay the blackened and charred remains of three persons, who had been in full health less than twenty-four hours previously. The Coroner was sent for, but had not arrived at the time we left. In the meantime we made an examination of the premises, and the position of the bodies, and we were satisfied that murder and not accident, as was generally supposed by those present, had done the work of death. In one corner of the room lay a body, supposed to be that of Mr. Digby B. Smith, with the legs and arms nearly burnt off, the entire abdomen destroyed and the top part of the skull appeared to have been crushed, and was lost. In a parallel line with this body lay another, supposed to be Mr. Wood, the cook, with the legs and arms similarly burnt, and the entire skull wanting. Between these two bodies lay the blade of a sheath dirk about six inches in length. Nearer to the door, just below the body last referred to, lay another, since recognised to be Mr. E. G. Barber's. The skull was also broken as by the blow of an axe. At the feet of this body lay an open jack-knife, the blade of which had the appearance of being corroded with blood.

The following are the facts, as nearly as we have been able to gather the particulars. About 7 o'clock on Sunday evening, the family of Mr. Hamilton, who resides near Mr. Bester's house, heard the explosion of gunpowder, and in a few moments afterwards their attention was attracted by a light of the burning house. They immediately hurried to the scene, but the outside of the building was entirely consumed, and the victims, beyond the reach of help. A Coroner's inquest has been held upon the bodies, and an examination of them proved conclusively that murder had been committed. No clue to the murderers has been discovered. The design was evidently the murder of Mr. Bester; but he had left the house late in the afternoon of the murder. We had the pleasure of a visit from him yesterday. He has taken measures to have the bodies decently interred, and the funeral services are to be performed at the new Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Mr. Brayton.

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 13, 22 December 1850 p.2, col.3, SAN JOSE INTELLIGENCE. Another Murder! The Sand Hills Murder.[edit]

SAN JOSE INTELLIGENCE.

....

Another Murder!. — from the .same paper of yesterday we gain the following particulars of the murder which we mentioned in our last issue:

On Wednesday evening a Californian, whose same we are unable to learn, came to San Jose, and purchased a number of articles of clothing. He started for his home some three miles from this city, and when near the rancho belonging to Mr. Kell, within a short distance, of the scene of last Sunday's tragedy, we assailed and literally cut to pieces. A number of our citizens started on Thuriday morning to arrest the assassins, if possible. A court under the jurisdiction of Judge Lynch, personated by W. Claude Jones, Esq. was organized on the spot, and a suspected Mexican threatened with a cravat made of a riata, without he told who the murderers were. He revealed the name of two or three persons, among whom was his own father, as being concerned in the murder. Efforts are now being made to arrest those implicated.

A public meeting is talked of for the purpose of organizing a mounted band of volunteers to scour the valley and mountains, and drive the assassins from our vicinity or exterminate them.

The Sand Hills Murder. — The State Journal contains the following particulars of the murder of Mr. Harrington on the 5th inst. It proves conclusively what has seemed apparent for some time past, that organized bands of robbers exist in a state of complete banditti discipline among us.

We are indebted to Wm. D. Harrington, Esq., for the particulars of the murder of his nephew on the night of Dec. 5th. The name of the murdered man, Wm Dudly Harrington, Jr., son of Thomas Harrington, residing at Independence, Mo. Mr. Harrington states that about noon of the day previous to the night on which the murder and robbery were committed, three men one of which was the leader of the band of robbers, went to Dr Marsh's house and inquired for stray horses. They spent the afternoon in pleasant conversation, and left the bouse about 3 o'clock. They returned about 8 o'clock, some 14 or 2O in number, surrounded the house, and detached a party to surround the tent of Mr. Harrington, which was occupied by Mr. Mortimer Wilson and Mr. Seaburn Abernethy. The noise of the approaching party attracted the attention of the inmates of the tent. Three guns were then immediately fired into it. Mr. Harrington stepped to the door, and the other two gentlemen escaped from the back part of tbe tent, in the hope of reacbing the house. They discovered, however, that it was surrounded by horsemen. At this moment Mr. Harrington was seen by his companions to emerge from the tent, pursued by two horsemen. He was shot in the shoulder by them, pierced with eight lance wouuds, and is supposed to have died instantly. He was found dead next morning, lying upon his face. At the same instant that the firing upon the tent commenced, the doors of Mr. Marsh's house were broken in, the inmates knocked down and bound, and the house rifled of money, watches and guns. The leader of the band or robbers, in his conversation on the afternoon before the murder, stated that he was a native of the Argentine Republic, that he had traveled to Europe, and had resided for some time in Mexico He speaks Spanish fluently, and French and English imperfectly. He is a young man of short stature, very fair complexion, and black eyes and hair. His manners are pleasing, and his appearance rather prepossessing. Look out for him.

During the whole affair, the robbers, who appeared to be Mexican, with faces blackened, and who stated that they were 120 in number, obeyed implicitly every command of their 1eader, who was not disguised. A statement of the whole affair has been put in the hands of Governor Burnett, and it is to hoped that he will adopt such measures as will secure the arrest of the villains and give that protection to our farming population which, their isolated situations from our cities requires in this emergency.


Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 244, 4 September 1852, p.2 col.3, San Joaquin News.[edit]

San Joaquin News.

We have seen a letter, addressed to a gentleman of Kentucky which states that at Yorktown Gulch, near Campo Seco, a lawless land of fifty Mexicans have started for the lower country in a plundering expedition. They have stolen about eighty animals in that part of the country, committed several robberies and two or three murders, and are now on the way to Los Angeles to join a party who are waiting for them at that place. They are headed by a Mexican named Cloudy who was in jail in Sonora last winter, and who is represented as one of the most desperate villians in the country. He had a brother named Reyes now in jail in Monterey, and it is said that Cloudy and his party have it in view to release him by force. This is the same party who a few days since stole Col. Douglass's animals, and four belonging to Mr A. B. Beaural. It is rumored that four men have been murdered and robbed at Camp Flores. It is feared that a serious difficulty between the Americans and Mexicans may yet arise.

Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 258, 18 September 1852, p.5, col.2 ,Santa Clara News.[edit]

Santa Clara News. .... A Villain Shot. — We learn that Claudio Feliz for a Iong time known to be at the head of a gang of desperate thieves, was shot dead by a Californian a few days since, at a fandango near the Mission of San Jose. This fellow broke jail from this city a few months since. He was charged with murder at the time he escaped.

Lang, Herbert O., A history of Tuolumne County, California : compiled from the most authentic records, B.F. Alley, San Francisco, 1882[edit]
  • pp.26-27

On the 1st of June the Foreign Miners' Tax of twenty dollars per month, went into effect, and its results upon the growth and prosperity surpassed even the most un- favorable predictions. Multitudes of foreigners — who, by the way, formed the majority of the settlers at Columbia —


HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 27

left immediately, and the tax, coupled with the scarcity of water for mining purposes, acted to almost extinouish the new place. Rapid as had been her rise, her decadence was more sudden. The only water in the camp was two "tom-heads," running from Matelot, or Sailor Gulch, so that few of the miners could prosecute their labors, and the yield of gold was very much curtailed. Grambling and saloon-keeping still held their own, and traveling musicians, a newly-found source of amusement, prospered beyond belief.


  • pp.28-36 Foriegn Miners Tax and effects on Sonora, Columbia and Martinez

In a like manner, Donna Martinez settled at the camp which bore her name. Her location was in the midst of very rich deposits, and the camp increased rapidly, soon containing over a thousand miners. Its downfall soon commenced, however, owing, in great part, to the Foreign Miners' Tax. This place was settled in May or June, 1350.

Effect of the Miners' Tax.

The Foreign Miners' Tax of twenty dollars per month went into operation on the 1st of June, 1850, by formal act of the Legislature. Its principal result was the almost immediate depopulation of certain camps, and the great injury of all. Sonora and Columbia suffered enormous losses, estimated, in the case of the former town, at four- fifths of the entire population; while the latter, whose growth had been so rapid, was reduced, through the Tax Iiaw and the scarcity of water, to a communitj' of only nine or ten persons. So it is credibly told. Of the se- ceding miners, some went to their homes in foreign lands, while others sought diggings in secluded places, where the


HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 29

obnoxious law would probably not be enforced. Otiiers there were who resisted the collection of the tax by the officers appointed to collect it. The impression got about in Columbia that the foreigners meditated forcible re- prisals on the Americans of that camp, resulting in a stam- pede from that town to Sonora of the whole American population, with the exception of Charles Bassett and a few others. A rumor having reached Sonora that Bassett was murdered, a band of armed men marched upon Columbia, headed by "Frenchy" Kochette, carrying the American flag. This statement is given upon the authority of Cap- tain Stoddart, who further adds that the only destruction effected by this warlike band was upon the liquors and eatables of the said Bassett, who was nearly eaten out of house and home by his zealous friends.

Walter Murray, who subsequently became editor of the Sonora Herald, related graphically his impressions of the scenes consequent upon the first attempt to enforce the tax, and as a vivid picture of affairs at that time, it may be well to give it place in this work. He says :

"It was a hot summer's day in June, when a man on horseback came tearing into the little encampment at Mor- mon Gulch, at full speed, evidently big with exciting in- telligence. The miners, who happened to be scattered in groups, talking over the events of the past week, eagerly rushed forward and gathered around the messenger, from whose broken exclamations they at length learned that there was something very like war approaching. It ap- peared that the Collector appointed by the State Grovern- ment to receive the Foreign Miners' Tax had arrived at the county seat and issued his notice, calling upon all foreign- ers to come forward and pay their first month's assessment of twenty dollars. The attempt to collect this exorbitant impost put the immense foreign population, with whom the


30 HISTOEY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY,

country was literally overrun, into a state of intense fer- ment. Meetings liad been held upon the subject, inflam- matory speeches had been made by Spanish and French orators, and at length it appeared that some great demon- stration had been made against the odious tax. The mes- senger averred that the county seat was in the hands of the excited foreign mob, numbering two or three thousand, all armed; that the safety of the place was menaced, and that the American citizens were fleeing from it. Furthermore, that the principal citizens had sent couriers to the sur- rounding camps asking for assistance.

"There had previously been so many rumors afloat of the expected insurrection of the Spanish- American pojDU- lation against the 'proprietors' of the country, and the 'boys' had in this way been kept in such a continual state of excitement, that the arrival of this intelligence operated at once like dropping a spark of fire in a tinder-box. Mes- sengers wei-e inimediately dispatched hither and thither, calling upon the miners to assemble within an hour, at a given spot, on the way to the county seat, and the 'Gulch' was in a moment alive with busy, bustling men, getting out their rifles and pistols and preparing for the expected con- flict.

"Being unarmed, and therefore forming no part of the expedition, I started, with a few others, ahead of the main body, which consisted of about one hundred and fifty men; but all were so eager to get on, that it was with the utmost difficulty we could keep the smallest distance in advance. "We met several persons on the way with later intelligence from the seat of war, but their accounts were all contra- dictory, some saying that the excitement was all over; others, that there was immediate need of our services. However, we pressed on, ^^termined not to stop short of the place for which we set out. On ariiving at a camp of


HISTORY or TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 31

Mexicans, one mile short of our destination, we were sur- prised to see its motley inhabitants very quietly seated in front of their brush hovels, playing monte and other games, as if nothing unusual had transpired. They, too, were none the less surprised to see the column of armed men advancing on them in close order — especially as they heard the general yell that was joined in by the American party as they advanced toward Sonora. Eeassured by this apparent calm, I hurried on to the town, reaching it five or ten minutes in advance of the party. All appeared quiet and peaceful as ever. * * * * j waited to see the little procession enter town. Soon it came along, headed by fife and drum — which, by this time, had been scared up — and, first and foremost, by the glorious stars and stripes, borne aloft and waved very gracefully to and fro by an inhabitant of the big city. Thus, with music sound- ing and banners waving, the little band marched through the whole length of town, vociferously cheered all the way by the American inhabitants, who turned out en masse to see them. On arriving at the other end of town, the word, 'Forward, by file left; march,' was given, when the fore- most man found himself headed off by a well-stocked bar, whereat each one, as he arrived, was 'liquored up.' They were then countermarched through town again, the same hospitality being extended at several places on the route, and were at length halted in front of the principal hotel where the Collector of Foreign Miners' Taxes made them a speech. After speaking for about ten minutes, he informed them they might rest that night and the morrow 'to busi- ness.' Accordingly, all was soon bustle and scurry at the big hotel; waiters went hurrying to and fro, and ail was busy preparation for a general meal. After an hour or bo, which seemed an age to the hungry miners, the long tables were loaded down with eatables, and the word given to


32 HISTOBT OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.

fall to; and fall to they did, in a manner only to be par- alleled in California and in the mines.

"After supper, the arms were all stored away in a build- ing temporarily devoted to the purpose of a guard-house. A watch was set during the night, with regular reliefs; patrols were organized, and the city speedily assumed the appearance of being under martial law.

"Many and various were the reports circulated on that eventful night. According to some, the town was to be attacked and set fire to at different points. Rumors of assassination and massacre were fearfully rife; but at length morning dawned, and the country was discovered to be safe. Breakfast was spread out for us at the same hospita- ble board, and then all were assembled on the main street, and divided into companies, headed each by its own cap- tain and lieutenant. A column of some three hundred armed men, in all, was thus formed, which, headed by the Collector and Sheriff of the count}-, commenced its march through the disaffected camps.

"Alas, as we marched along, what a scene of confusion and terror marked our way ! Mexicans, Chileiios, et id genus onine — men, women and children — were all packed up and moving, bag and baggage. Tents were being pulled down, houses and hovels gutted of their contents; mules, horses and burros were being hastily packed, while crowds upon crowds were already in full retreat. What could have been the object of onr assembly, except as a demonstration of power and determination, I know not; but if intended as an engine of terror, it certainly had its desired effect, for it could be seen painted upon every countenance and im- pelling every movement of the affrighted i)opulation. How- ever, on we marched, through this dire confusion, peace- fully pursuing our way, until we reached what was deemed to be the headquarters of malcontent— a camp containing


HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY, 33

some thousand Spanish Americans — about four miles from the county seat. Here we halted for the last time (liquored up, of course, for it was the month of June, and the roads were dry and dusty), and, after bein^ paraded through the main street, and held for an hour or more in readiness, awaiting the report of certain officials dispatched to inquire into the truth of a rumor that a foreign flag had been hoisted somewhere in the vicinity, were finally discharged. Every man then fired his rifle in the air, reloaded his piece, and started homeward, each on his own particular way. I, too, started for the ' Gulch,' and until I reached there never lost sight of the train of fugitives scattered along the roads in every direction. Some were going north, some south. The great body were probably bound for home; some by way of the sea, othei's by way of Los Angeles and the Great Desert. Others, again, were scattering them- selves over the country, to commence the career of blood- shed and cold-blooded atrocity which for months afterward stained the pages of California history . Even those who were bound for home often left behind them, along the way, bloody traces of their deep-set hatred to Americans, or, perhaps, their natural thirst for massacre and pillage." Even at this late day, it is not difficult to form accurate conclusions as to the causes and effects of the movements above portrayed. Undoubtedly, at that time much pardon- able excitement was occasioned, much bad feeling was en- gendered, and many causes for hostility and strife were given on either side. The weight of evidence does not ex- onerate the Americans in any particular from the charge of violent and premeditated wrong. On the other hand, the ignorant, priest-ridden foreign classes betrayed their nat- urally revengeful dispositions, in many instances commit- ting robbery and murder on innocent individuals in revenge for the acts of a whole community or State. When, how-


34 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.

ever, the evil effects of the tax were clearly seen, even the most pronounced of its former advocates became dubious about the wisdom of the measure; and those who only tol- erated it as a measure of political wisdom, finding it the precursor of serious evils, withdrew their tacit support. Efforts were finally made for a repeal of the obnoxious law; but sentiment being divided, no great headway was made, until, the foreigners of the several mining counties uniting, the obnoxious measure was repealed. <^revious to this, however, public sentiment suffered such a change in their behalf that a fund for testing the legality of the Act was created in Sonora, many merchants and others contributing to it. On the list we find the names of Joshua Holden, Theall, Perkins & Co., Charles F. Dodge & Co., G. S. Evans, and Charles Bruce, who donated for counsel fees, etc., on behalf of the foreigners, sums ranging from ten to one hundred and twenty-five dollars. This, it has been, observed, makes it clear that only those traders of Sonora who transacted business with the foreign element, and so profited by their presence, were in favor of a repeal; while the American miners, generally, were, for selfish reasons, in favor of the law as it stood.

Affairs are represented as remaining in a state of com- parative inaction until the foreign element began to return to and work in the mines; and by the next spring a large number of those who left had come back and resumed operations. But neither of the two principal camps ever recovered the entire bulk of their population.

Martinez, lying a short distance east of Columbia, was a distinctively Spanish camp, named, as has been already said, in honor of Dona Martinez. It had been discovered previously, and up to the time of her arrival had been known as the "New" or "Spanish" camp. The lady seems to have been influential and wealthy, as she brought with


HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 36

lier a large number of "peons" (Mexican servitors) and considerable money and jewelry. Apropos of the latter, the Mexicans attach great importance to the possession of jewelry. Indeed, the predominant characteristics of Mexi- can families are children, jewelry and dirt. Dona Martinez had veiy good success in her mining operations, having taken up a considerable tract of ground, on which her bondmen were set to work.

The population of the town from being at first ex- clusively Spanish speaking, began to contain a sprinkling of Americans, who crowded in, while the invariable result of the crowding out of the less energetic Mexicans and Chilenos followed. These tactics prevailed, as they always have where the grasping, combative Anglo-Saxon comes in contact with the more decent and mild men of Spanish descent. Dona Martinez, however, was left in peace, the infringing outsiders, with a rude, though not ineffective idea of gallantry, regarding her sex as entitled to the fullest protection.

  • pp. 39-47

... as early as the summer of 1850.


A Riot in Sonora.

The deep feeling of jealousy and distrust that had, through one cause and another, been daily increasing, with its attendant ills of threats and violence, culminated in July of this year in a series of extraordinary outrages, and the lynching of certain parties, and the attempted execu- tion of others. Nothing could exceed the state of excite- ment into which Sonora, and the Southern Mines in general, were thrown by certain events which took place near the county seat during the fortnight ending July 20. The circumstances which gave rise to such a condition of affairs were these: On the morning of Wednesday, July 10, four Americans arrived in Sonora, having in custody three Mexi- can Indians and a Mexican, named Pablo Martinez, Dio- nisio Ochoa, G-abino Jesus, and Ruiz Molina; and the re-


40 HISTOKY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.

port immediately became circulated that a liorrible murder, the third or fourth within a week, had been committed at Green Flat Diggings, about eight miles from town. Im- mediately the entire population of Sonora crowded in front of the house of Justice Barry, and demanded the particu- lars of the affair; and as some who possessed, or thought they possessed, the desired information, related the horri- ble details, the angry exclamations and flashing eyes of the mob told plainly of a deep determination to avenge the crime that their countrymen had suffered. The prisoners were arraigned before Justice Barry, and then commenced a scene of tumult and confusion then unparalleled. In the tumult the predominant cries were, "string them up!" "hang 'em!" "we'll have no mistake this time!" and a rope was produced and a knot tied in it, that there be no delay. The utmost efforts of the officers of the Court produced no impression on the crowd. George Work, the redoubtable Sheriff, a man of the steadiest courage and iron nerve, who never quailed in the discharge of his duty, was as one without influence on the reckless mob. Judge Marvin, As- sociate Justice of the Court of Sessions, addressed the people, but ineffectually. While these things were trans- piring in front of the house, Justice Barry was engaged in taking the deposition of the four Americans who brought in the prisoners. They testified that on the previous evening a Mexican boy had informed them that two Americans had been murdered at the Green Flat Diggings, but they took no notice of the report. In the morning, however, another Mexican called and corroborated the boy's statement. Witnesses immediately proceeded to the spot indicated, and found there the four prisoners, in the act of burning the tent and the bodies of two men. They were immediately taken into custody, and brought to So- nora. There also appeared in evidence the shovel and


HISTORY or TUOLUMNE COUlsTY. 41

pickax belonging to the prisoners. The defense set up by the prisoners was to the effect that it was a custom of their countrymen to burn the dead; that the bodies, having been dead several days, had become offensive through de- composition, and in order to remove the nuisance, they attempted to burn them. The prisoners, of whom the three Indians were described as uncouth, and the Mexican, on the contrary, of gentle and pleasing appearance, main- tained a calm and becoming demeanor that aroused the sympathies of some in the audience. By this time it was resolved by the authorities, as the best that could be done, to immediately impanel a jury and proceed with the trial. But Mr. McAlpin and others who were drawn upon the jury, refused to serve, and the case became still more per- plexing. While in consultation the officers had withdrawn, and the opportunity was taken by the people to elect a Judge from among themselves; and Peter Mehen was chosen pfor the office. A rope was then put around the neck of each of the supposed culprits, and they were led to a hill in the vicinity of the town, where the trial was commenced anew. A jury was impaneled, the trial concluded, and the prisoners sentenced to be hanged. The rope was passed over the liinb of a tree, and the Mexican, chosen as the first victim, was given a few moments in which to pray. He knelt down, prayed affectingiy, kissed the cross he had in his bosom, and with the gentlest resignation gave him- self into the hands of his executioners. Another moment, and Judges Marvin, Tuttle and Eadcliffe, together with William Ford, County Clerk, and others arrived, and by flinging themselves boldly into the crowd, succeeded in effecting a diversion that enabled the proper officers to regain possession of the prisoners, and contrary to expectation they succeeded in lodging them in jai].

The affairs above described occurred on Wednesday.


42 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.

The prisoners remained in the jail, without any indication of an attempt at mob law, until the following Monday, which was the day on which it had been anderstood their trial was to come off. On the morning of this day a mob of eighty men, armed with rides and shotguns, and march- ing in military style, and presenting a most imposing ap- pearance, arrived from Grreen Flat, intent on seeing justice done on the murderers of their neighbors. Besides this band, there poured in from Jamestown, Shaw's Flat, Co- lumbia, Woods' Creek, from mountain, gulch and ravine, hundreds of miners, armed with rifles, shotguns, revolvers, knives, lances, etc. All were highly excited, and would not submit to delay. They halted opposite the Court House, when Judge Tuttle appeared and addressed the throng, urging them to be moderate, and assuring them that justice would be done; if the men were found guilty they would surely meet their deserts, and if they were inno- cent they would surely be acquitted. He further urged them to respect the law and acquiesce in the verdict of the jury, whatever it might be. At the conclusion of this sound advice, some one proposed three cheers for the speaker, but the crowd silently marched away to their en- campment, first posting a guard over the jail.

Judge Creaner, of the District Court, was waited upon by a delegation who informed him in unmistakable terms ■iihat the trial must go on that day. The Judge, not in the least intimidated, warned them calmly that they were in conflict with the law, and announced that no dejaarture from the regular order of business would be suffered in his court.

In consequence of a rumor that the Mexican prisoners had colleagues in a camp several miles distant, Sheriff Work proceeded there with a posse of twenty men and arrested nearly the whole adult portion of the inhabitants.


HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 43

numberinij one hundred and ten men ; whom he brought to town and confined in a corral, under a strong guard.

During Monday evening several hundred men arrived in town, swelling the ranks of the mob to nearly or quite two thousand armed men. To oppose this force, of whom the greater part were bent on summarily executing the pre- sumed offenders, the county officers stood alone, But these were men who had the heart and nerve to do their duty in any situation. Judge Creaner's firmness has passed into a proverb; and than George Work no man was ever better qualified to act in times that try men's souls. The remain- der of the officers, notably William Ford, the Clerk, and Mr. S. A. Booker, the District Attorney, acted bravely.

When, in the order of business, the case of the four Mexicans was called and they were arraigned, a most excit- ing scene took place. When the plea of " not guilty " was heard, one of the guards, standing on a bench, dropped his gun, and the hammer, striking some object, exploded the weapon. Instantly numberless revolvers were drawn, bowie knives flashed forth and the tumult became inde- scribable. One man, in his haste to get out, accidentally fired his own gun and the terrific melee became tenfold fiercer. The struggle to quit the court-room became inde- scribably violent. Doors, windows, all means of egress were put in requisition. An alarm of fire added to the clamor and even the street was cleared instanter.

Some Mexicans, who were in the crowd, were deliberately fired at by different individuals. One announced that he fired "on general principles;" another said he thought they were trying to rescue the prisoners, so he fired pro- miscuously among them.

It is recorded that the examination was postponed.

During the following evening the army went on a spree of such magnitude that it was seriously feared that grave


44 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.

disturbances would result; but such was not the case, how- ever, and in the morning many of them left for their own camps, leaving Sonora in comparative quiet. The examina- tion of the accused men was resumed, when, there being no evidence against them, they were acquitted. So ended this curious case, which is given mostly to illustrate the peculiar feeling shared by most Americans against the Spanish- speaking population. It seems as if the whole proceedings were merely an outgrowth from the jealousy and distrust which the one race bore the other.

Although the law had been vindicated and the men, un- justly charged with murder, freed from confinement, there was still no abatement of the popular feeling of insecurity, and still fresh reports (mostly fabricated by interested parties) of murders said to have been committed, continued to pour in, and a public meeting was held to devise ways and means for a better protection of life and property. At this meeting, at which A. Elkins presided, Judge Tuttle and Joshua Holdeu, of Sonora; J. W. Van Beuschoten, of Wood's; T>. S. Dikeman, of Jacksonville; Capt. Runnells, of Sullivan's Diggings; W. C. Wade, of Mormon Gulch, and Capt. Stewart, of McLane's Ferry, were appointed a committee to make arrangements for holding a mass meet- ing of citizens for a consideration of the grave state of affairs. This meeting was called for Sunday, July 21, 1850, and was held in the plaza. The following resolu- tions were adopted:

" Whereas, The lives and property of the American citi- zens are now in danger from the hands of lawless marau- ders of every clime, class and creed under the canopy of heaven, and scarce a day passes but we hear of the com- mission of the most horrible murders and robberies ; and as we have now in our midst the peons of Mexico, the rene- gades of South America, and the convicts of the British Empire; therefore:


HISTORY OF TDOLUMNE COUNTY. 45

jResolved, first, That all foreigners in Tuolumne county (except those engaged in permanent business, and of re- spectable characters) be required to leave the limits of this county within fifteen days from date, unless they obtain a permit to remain from the authorities hereinafter named.

Resolved, second, That the authorities referred to be a committee of three, to be chosen or selected by the Ameri- can citizens of each camp or diggings.

Resolved, third, That all the good citizens of this county shall resolve themselves into a committee of the whole, to carry out the objects of this meeting.

Resolved, fourth, That the foreigners in this county be, and are hereby notified to turn over their firearms and deadly weapons to the select-men of each camp or diggings forthwith, (except such as may have a permit to hold the same;) such select-men shall give a receipt to such for- eigners for the same, and each and every good citizen shall have power to disarm all foreigners.

JResolved, fifth. That the select-men of each camp or diggings shall promptly carry out the duties assigned to them.

Resolved, sixth. That five hundred copies of these reso- lutions, in English and Spanish, be published and forth- with distributed throughout the county.

Resolved, seventh. That the select-men from each camp, or diggings, take up subscriptions to defray the necessary expense of such publication, and remit the money thus collected to the proprietors and publishers of the Sonora Herald."

The publication of these resolutions, together with the decided action taken by the people of other camps, had a good effect. There was at once a perceptible lull in the social atmosphere ; and the Herald, the mouth piece of the American faction, was moved to say:


46 HISTOET OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.

" The prompt action of the people in the late emergency has had the effect of teaching certain hombres a lesson that they will not soon forget. * * * It by no means has been proven that the laie guerilla acts were committed by Mexicans or South Americans alone. The outcasts of every nation under Heaven have combined to disturb us; and we think that now they have been effectually silenced. We pray the mining population to assist us in restoring public confidence, to return to the old regime, to silence the tongues of Sydney convicts and boisterous inebriates, who delight in tumult and " braggadocio," who palm them- selves off as American citizens, and stain a privilege whose honor every American citizen should guard with jealous care.

" Real estate is rising in value, and everything is looking up. The commercial interests of the country have been suffering at the rate of $10,000 per day, and our merchants' time lies idly on their hands. * * * Action, action! gentlemen. Fold not your hands, but quiet the alarm among the men on whose labor your future depends. The jealousies of sects and the rivalries of men of different countries are small matters at times like this. Let us beg the people to use their power mildly. To protect the good of what country soever, while they punish the evil disposed. Americans! greet kindly the stranger who asks your hospi- tality and protection. You may entertain angels unawares. The burden of the tax on foreign miners has been rendered less obnoxious. The following notice has been distributed throughout the county:

" Notice. — The Collector of Taxes for foreign miners an- nounces that he is now authorized by the government to receive $20 for the privilege of laboring in the mines until the last day of December next, and to issue a license for that


HISTORY of TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 47

period. He is instructed to protect all who comply with this requisition, and punish all others as violators of the law. The Collector's office is at the head of Washington street, Sonora. L, A. Besa>xon.

"Aug. 3, 1850.

"The effect that we long ago prognosticated has taken place. The miners are rejoiced, and in one or two in- stances there have been public manifestations of joy. Hundreds who had made preparations to leave the country have resolved to make Cahfornia their homes."

The improved state of affairs indicated in the above edi- torial, may be regarded as the beginning of a more healthy and settled condition, which took its rise from the ener- getic measures of the American population at the time when it seemed as if the foreign element were about to usurp the functions of government even, and by terrorism rule or ruin the country.


  • pp. 207-216
HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 206
...
Noted Robbers and Robberies.
No history of Tuolumne county would be complete without a reference to such noted robbers and highwaymen as
208 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.
Joaquin Murietta, Tom Bell and other celebrities, who have in times past graced this region by their presence. Neither Joaquin nor Bell performed most of their desperate exploits within the limits of this county, but the former's existence was pretty closely identified with affairs in these mines, and as such it is proper that some space should be reserved herein for his adventures.
Almost the only authentic data which relate to the life of this desperado are only to be gathered by word of mouth from those living residents of the Southern Mines who knew Joaquin and watched his career. Of these, probably Hon. Caleb Dorsey, of Sonora, is best qualified to supply facts relating thereto, as he was, through a remarkable chain of events, brought into close relations with the noted robber and his band. Time and romance have thrown such a glamour around the chief's exploits and adventures that almost no dependence can be placed upon the multitude of stories concerning them, which have gone the rounds of the press. Of all the mass of so-called recollections of the man who was at the time the terror of the mines, scarcely a thing has been said that does not partake of the grossest exaggeration. To begin with, the story of the outrage upon his wife by Americans, and Joaquin's consequent oath of undying hatred toward his enemies and all their race, is, most likely, untrue.*
Again, a great part of the affected chivalry and regard for their word, of Joaquin and his gang, is, as might be expected, a gross exaggeration, worthy of the minds of those who concoct ten-cent novels and New York Weekly stories. No doubt that Joaquin did evince on one or more occasions a decent respect for the laws of humanity and a regard for truth that was becoming, to say the least; but why, if a vulgar thief and jail-bird tells the truth once, as a relief to a long series of lies, and refrains from murder-
HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 209
ing a boy or an old woman when his hands are stained with man's blood, why should these not remarkable ircumstances be made to shed a halo about his memory when his rascally and unprovoked deeds should consign him to everlasting infamy? They deserve blame who regard Joaquin Murietta, or any other thief and murderer, in any other light than as a vulgar, despicable criminal, who took life because his own bad passions impelled him. That it is and has been the fashion to hold up to public applause and reverence the worst characters, the most reckless and culpable law-breakers, there is no doubt. And that the influence of one man's guilty career, when glossed over, and its moral perverted by the arts of the writer, is bad, deplorably bad, there is the evidence of prisons and reformatories to prove, filled to overflowing with humanity whose instincts and moral sense have been perverted by trashy works of fiction, whose object is to make interesting and attractive that which in its naked deformity is repulsive.
The definite and positive information which can now be gathered of Joaquin Murietta represents him to have been a resident of Martinez, near Saw Mill Flat, in the early part of 1852. Previous to this his history is not known in the least, unless it be so to his own countrymen, the Mexicans. At that time he had not commenced his career of open robbery, but was addicted to a more underhanded kind of thievery, that is to say, he was a monte dealer; and in company with a number of other scamps, engaged with him in the business of fleecing his fellow countrymen and such low trash of other nationalities whose tastes and ignorance led them into the sharpers' clutches. Graduating from this trivial occupation to the more exciting and probably more lucrative one of footpad, or in more magnificent language, highwayman, Joaquin and his band com-
210 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.
mitted several outrages in that neighborhood, and being tacitly supported by the entire Mexican population, then very large, he easily evaded arrest. The sympathies of his countrymen were with him throughout his infamous career, as too often they have been with thieves, robbers and brigands. For a time a state of affairs existed in Tuolumne County which has had no parallel in the United States since, unless it be the affair of the James boys, in the Mississippi Valley. The officers of the law were put in defiance, the authorities were powerless, and even a display of military force was insufficient to overawe the outlaws. More than once, even after a price was set upon his head, Joaquin entered the camps where people were in arms against him, and once was even said to have entered a saloon in Sonora, and leaping upon a table, to have proclaimed himself as the famous bandit; and then coolly springing down, to have passed out from the midst of his enemies, and escaped on horseback, unscathed. But whether this story, widely told and almost universally credited as it is, is true or not, is one of those things that, as Dundreary says, "No fellow can find out." Nor is it alone in being so. The history of Tuolumne County in its entirety, has had to be sifted from among stories which bear the stamp of exaggeration, or of entire untruth; or else like the above, are doubtful.
It is pleasant to return from delving in the maze of wild stories and improbable narrations, to the lucid, plain and logical account of Mr. Dorsey, concerning the cause and results of the somewhat noted " Battle of Saw Mill Flat;" and that the reader may share in the pleasure, the gentleman's own words are reproduced as far as possible. Mr. D. was engaged in the summer of 1853 in lumbering on the Flat, being a partner in the firm of Dorsey, Jacobs and Smith, owners of a saw-mill, one of the two then in existence there, the other one being the property of Messrs.
HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 211
Turner, Bennett and Stacy. Ira McCrae, a prominent man, kept a store on the Flat, and was a buyer of gold-dust, as a part of his mercantile affairs. For several days Messrs. Dorsey, McCrae and others had been meditating the capture of Joaquin, who still maintained his headquarters at Martinez, near by. Finally word was brought that the individual was at a fandango which was running. Without loss of time the before mentioned gentlemen proceeded to the house, and entering, ordered the music to cease. No resistance was made to their commands, but upon questioning the dancers, very one denied that the man was present, or that he had been there. "He was," they said, "most probably many miles away." Mr. Dorsey fell into conversation with an ordinary looking Mexican, upon the subject of Joaquin's whereabouts, and was informed with the most charming innocence that it was very foolish to attempt to arrest the brigand, as he would never be taken alive. To this the reply was made that it did not matter how he was taken, alive or dead, for the Americans were bound to have him in some shape or other; after which the seekers took their departure. No doubt the expedition were intensely surprised and a good deal discomfited when, on their return to the Flat, they were informed that the very man who held Mr. D. in conversation was Joaquin himself! Shortly after, an attempt was made to destroy the lives of many persons, by poisoning the waters of the spring which furnished a supply of water to a portion of the residents of Saw Mill, but this failed, owing to the extreme diffusion of the drug that was used. This incident, well attested as it is, will show clearly how much of magnanimity and generosity there was in the robbers. To poison unsuspecting men is not like the heroic soul that some have professed to believe Joaquin to be.
Immediately after this episode, it became known that Messrs. Dorsey, McRae and Turner had become marked by
212 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.
the outlaws, and that their death had been resolved upon. Such information could not fail to act upon the minds of any men; and one of the trio, Mr. Turner, did actually seek safety in another and less dangerous locality. The others, not daunted, remained at their customary occupations, but doubtless went "heeled" for any sudden emergency.
The next sensation came from the report that McRae's store was to be robbed on that very night. A messenger rode to Columbia in haste, and the military company of that place was collected, and it immediately set out for the scene of the expected hostilities. Revolvers and rifles had been cleaned and loaded, their hats decorated with patriotic feathers, and the little brass cannon, used for doing service on great days in firing salutes, was brought along. Firing the little two-inch cannon about once in every hundred yards, the command finally arrived at their destination, Col. Tom Cazneau in command. It was soon seen that this imposing force would be of no use, for no attack was made, nor was any seriously meditated. The military, however, gave a good example of their destructive powers by charging upon the eatables and the drinkables, completely cleaning out the small supply of both that was then held at the Flat, and rendering it ever since a doubtful question whether it wouldn't have been better to be robbed by Joaquin's men than to be protected by Cazneau's.
Thus far Mr. Dorsey had been recognized by the outlaws as a principal enemy, and so regarding him, it would have been almost certain death had he been surprised by them with the odds against him; but now occurred a series of incidents that transformed their enmity into toleration; and Mr. D.'s account of these runs as follows:
While prospecting for gold on the North Fork of the Stanislaus in company with several friends, it became necessary for Mr. D. to return suddenly to Sonora. Start-


HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 213
ing sufficiently early in the day, be would have got through to town on the same evening, had it not been that while crossing the hill above the South Fork, he became uncertain of his way, and fearing to descend the hill lest the ground become impassable, he dismounted and made preparations to camp at a spring near by. After getting comfortably fixed for the night, a gang of six Mexicans rode up and also made preparations to pass the night. After cooking supper, they called Mr. Dorsey to share their repast, which, being concluded, songs were sung before the party retired to rest. In the singing, as their suspicious visitor noticed, a certain one-eyed man took the lead. This observation, it will be seen, has an important bearing on what followed. Retiring to his own ground, Mr. Dorsey slept the sleep of the tired^ even in the midst of danger; for it was well known to him that he was regarded as an especial enemy by the Mexicans; but he had reason to hope that these people did not know him, even if they were of the outlaws, as he surmised. His intuitions were correct; for, when morning dawned, the Mexicans arose, prepared breakfast, and again invited their neighbor to partake with them, and this invitation, as the other, was accepted, as the guest did not think it prudent to decline. After doing justice to the viands, all were about to ride off, when the leader of the band, calling Mr. Dorsey aside, demanded sternly of him, under pain of death, that he give his word of honor not to divulge the fact that he had met them. Under the circumstances, it is no wonder that the gentleman did as requested. Subsequently he learned that his entertainers were indeed a portion of Joaquin's band, and their mission on that trip had been to steal horses.
This novel experience was followed by an equally novel one, but one in which the element of danger was lacking. A Mexican charged with stealing horses was incarcerated


214 HISTORY OF TUOLOMNE COUNTY.
in jail in Sonora. Demanding counsel, Mr. Dorsey was sent for by the attendants. Upon entering the jail, the prisoner proved to be no other than the one-eyed musician of the previous paragraph. He, perhaps even more surprised than Mr. Dorsey, explained the estimation in which the latter was held by his compatriots, and solemnly announced that if they had known him on the night of the meeting at South Fork, they would have shot him to strings. Now, however, the case was reversed; and Mr. Dorsey, while agreeing to defend the criminal and use his utmost exertions to free him, received in turn a promise that he should not in future receive harm from the outlaws.
This, the prisoner said he would prevail on Joaquin to sanction. The result was, that, while Mr. Dorsey lived unmolested by the bandits, the prisoner — through the representations made to the Grand Jury in regard to the situation of Messrs. Dorsey and McRae with reference to the gang, and their promise not to carry out their threats of vengeance — escaped indictment.
Later on, an affray occurred at Sawmill Flat, which resulted in the wounding of Claudio, Joaquin's lieutenant. It seems that a Mexican had been detected in stealing a pistol, and while Constable John Leary of Columbia was attempting to make his arrest, several Mexicans rushed to their companion's assistance, Joaquin himself took a hand in the fight, and, although shot at repeatedly, made his escape. Not so fortunate was Claudio. This person, who was a mere youth of eighteen or so, was very badly wounded. Lying upon the top of a hill up which his pursuers had to advance, he emptied his two six-shooters at them before they could reach the spot. Advancing with cocked pistol, the Constable was about to blow the youth's brains out, when Mr. Dorsey interfered, saving his life. Badly wounded, Claudio was borne to the hospital, there to re-
HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY. 215
main until his naturally strong constitution enabled him to recover from his dreadful injuries. While convalescent, he, in an interview with his preserver, corroborated what the one-eyed man had told concerning the oaths of vengeance taken by the band, but said that as the former culprit had got free, if they would undertake to secure his safety, he would see that those promises were carried out; at the same time promising Mr. Dorsey that the whole band should leave the county and go to Mexico, never to return.
When asked on what security these promises were to be fulfilled, he answered proudly: "Sir, you have the word of honor of a highwayman!" which was pretty lofty language, considering the speaker.
On sending for Joaquin to come in and sanction the treaty, that individual refused to honor Sonora by his presence, but assented to the arrangements which Claudio had made. And the Grand Jury proving facile, the young criminal escaped.
Once again it was Mr. Dorsey's fortune to come in contact with the gang. This was while on his way to a session of Court in Mariposa County, when he fell in with and took dinner with Claudio and other members, at Moccasin Creek, where he found them encamped by the roadside. Claudio then represented that they were on their way to Mexico, and he took occasion to renew his promise of the present of a splendid horse and trappings to his guest in return for the favors done him. Leaving the camping place, Mr. D. proceeded up a steep hill, and on the way met a horseman magnificently mounted, whom he soon recognized as the redoubtable Joaquin himself. Both drew their pistols, and a conflict seemed imminent, when the Mexican, holding up his hand, cried out: "We keep our word; you are safe, sir!" And, re-assured, the traveler passed on, having met the scourge of the mines for the last time. It was not
216 HISTORY OF TUOLUMNE COUNTY.
long after that the notorious brigand fell by the hand of Captain Harry Love; and his head, which was exhibited in Sonora, was inspected by Mr, Dorsey, who knew him so well in life, and who, to silence the doubt which has been expressed as to the certainty of Joaquin's death, says now, unqualifiedly, that it was the head of the man whom he knew as Joaquin. So that matter rests.
Lieutenant Claudio met a befitting fate upon the gallows, being hanged for horse-stealing, down in Los Angeles County. And if the grimness of the joke may be pardoned, Mr. Dorsey still expresses himself in doubt whether or not the horse which Claudio was trying to steal was not the "splendid animal with gorgeous trappings" that dashing young robber promised him while immured in jail in Sonora.

[This is filled with BS. Date of Summer of 1853 mentioned as date of Battle of Sawmill Flat, presumably a typo of 1852, as Joaquin was nowhere near there in 1853. Claudio was his own man not with Joaquin. If anything Joaquin has been thought to be with Claudio in 1851-52 by Seacrest, p.79.: because of Claudio's "confession" to a fellow prisoner Vasquez in San Jose jail, wherein he mentioned a Joaquin Gurietta being a confederate, along with brother Reyes, Trinadad, Gabriel, Solis. Also this says Claudio was hung in Los Angeles, when it was his brother Reyes. Claudio died in Monterey Co., shot by Justice of the Peace Henry Cocks, when he was found by Cocks posse at a hideout on the Salinas River.]

Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 300, 30 October 1852, p.8 col.2, Santa Clara News.[edit]
Santa Clara News.
We received a copy of the Santa Clara Register last evening. The office of that paper has been removed to tho city of San Jose, where the paper will hereafter be published.
At the recent term of the Court of Sessions in Santa Clara county, Ramon Moreno was convicted upon separate indictments of the crimes of grand larceny and assault with an intent to kill. Upon the first indictment he was found guilty and sentenced to be hung, and upon the second he was sentenced to three years imprisonment in the State prison. The court fixed Friday, the 26th day of November as the day for his execution. The prisoner is said to be a very low and depraved character.
Bernard Reynolds was arrested at Santa Cruz and brought to San Jose upon suspicion of being concerned in the murder at Hernandez's ranch on the 21st. He is now undergoing a legal examination. He formerly resided in San Jose, and is known to many citizens of that place.
Robbery. — On the morning of the 2lst instant, while a Mr. Johnson was traveling from Monterey to this city, he was stopped 22 miles hence by three Mexicans or Sonoranians, who robbed him of all the money in his possession, about twenty-live dollars. Mr. Johnson's description of these men and their arms, closely coincides with that given by Mr. Hernandez, of the persons who committed the murders at his house the previous night, and they are supposed to be a part of the same band. This valley is the highway between the mines and the Mexican territories, and we seem to be infested by a desperate set of Mexicans, disappointed in the search for gold, and returning to their own country-. Our citizens have held several meetings for the purpose of organization for protection against these bandits. The native California population are a peaceable and kind hearted people, and manifest every willingness to aid in ridding the country of this dangerous class of foreigners. — Register.
On the night of the 25th instant, three animals were stolen from the farm of Mr. Quivy, near San Jose. The thieves have not been arrested.
MURDER. — Two men were murdered between 7 and 8 o'clock on the evening of the 20th inst., at Jose Hernandez's Ranch, distant about 20 miles from this city, on the Santa Cruz road. They were supposed to be Americans, and stopped at the ranch to stay all night; suddenly the house was attacked by a band of banditti, which resulted in the death of two persons and the wounding of some of the ranchero's family. The Coroner's Inquest, held on the 21st inst., found (on the testimony of Jose Hernandez and others) that Thomas P. McCullen, and an unknown person supposed to be an American, came to their death from wounds inflicted "by a band of some eight or ten desperadoes, supposed to be Mexicans or Sonorians."


Tinkham, George Henry, History of Stanislaus County California : with biographical sketches of the leading men and women of the county who have been identified with its growth and development from the early days to the present, Los Angeles, Calif. : Historic Record Company, 1921[edit]
" Mr. Hammond is greatly interested in the history of California, and he is ever an interesting conversationalist, having lived in La Grange, the historic portion of Stanislaus County. Perhaps no portion of California has a more interesting history, as in the early days of the placer camps, every man was a law unto himself and justice was summarily meted out. Here was the scene of some of the exploits of that notorious bandit crew headed by Joaquin Murietta, and his henchman, Manuel Garcia, better known as Three Fingered Jack, whose daring raids have formed the back ground for many a picturesque tale of California's Argonaut days. La Grange has also been immortalized by Joaquin Miller in his verses and Bret Harte, has laid the scenes depicted in many of his stories in this region. In the latter fifties and early sixties, it was one of the important towns of this part of California, for then it was the county seat of Stanislaus County and the center of a very profitable placer gold mining district. In the early days it was called French Bar before its name was changed to La Grange.": 582 

La Vereda del Monte[edit]

36°18′55″N 120°27′11″W / 36.31528°N 120.45306°W / 36.31528; -120.45306,  ele. 3,520 feet / 1,073 meters

History: Named for Joaquin Murietta (1830-1853), an early California bandit who used this region as a rendevous. (US-T121) Description: 10 miles long. Bound on the northeast by Big Blue Hills and on the southwest by Portuguese Canyon, highest elevation 0.64 km (0.4 mi) east of Spanish Lake. (US-T121), w end 36°19′48″N 120°34′09″W / 36.33000°N 120.56917°W / 36.33000; -120.56917, e end 36°18′15″N 120°24′11″W / 36.30417°N 120.40306°W / 36.30417; -120.40306, Elevation: 4,701 feet / 1,433 meters

La Vereda Caballo[edit]

John "Red" Irving[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/John "Red" Irving

The Native Americans of Southern California, 1852. Family Tree Legends Records Collection (Online Database). Pearl Street Software, 2004-2005. pp. 40-41 For description of Juan Antonio's campaign against John Irving and his gang of San Francisco and Sydney outlaws, as well as the subsequent repercussions, see Beattie, Heritage of the Valley, 84-89; History of San Bernardino County (San Francisco, Wallace W. Elliott and Company, 1883), 77-79; Los Angeles Star, June 7, 1851, and November 20, 1851, Hayes, Scrapbooks, XXXVIII, Bancroft Library.


The Indians of southern California in 1852; the B.D. Wilson report and a selection of contemporary comment; San Marino, Calif., Huntington Library, 1952.[edit]

  • The report, prepared in 1852, was published serially in the Los Angeles star, July 18--September 19, 1868.

Bibliography: p. 153-154. Also available in digital form on the Library of Congress Web site. Gift of Lessing J. Rosenwald, 1943-1975.

29 --- 10 The Cahuillas have not had a head-chief, I believe, since the death of the one they called “Razon” (White). He died within two or three years past, at an advanced age. They gave him his name, as they told me, from his always acting so much like a white man, in staying at home and tending his fields and flocks, for he had both. When a young man, he went off to Sonora (under what circumstances, is not known), and returned a farmer—which is all the early history we have of him. He was always a quiet, good, industrious man, and rendered material service to the authorities, in arresting the half-civilized Indian outlaws who have sometimes fled with stolen horses to the mesquit wilds of his village. Cabezon, too, is a good old Indian chief, as also another named Juan Bautista.

Juan Antonio, however, has a more conspicuous figure among them, by a sort of iron energy which he often displays, and is better known to the whites. A passing comment upon some of his acts may not be out of place, as they touch the present subject.
In the summer of 1851, the local authorities deemed it expedient to conciliate him with a hundred dollars' worth of cloth, hats, and handkerchiefs—not beads—paid for out of the County Treasury. This present seems to have been the winding up of the following incident. A while before, he had killed eleven Americans, who were accused of robbing the aforesaid rancho of San Bernardino, where he then had his village. He claimed to be justified by an order of a Justice of the Peace, one of the proprietors of the rancho, whose house, it was alleged, the Americans were rifling at the time of the Indian attack.* A perfect uproar ensued in the county, and

--- 11

the Indians fled to the mountains, not, however, without offering battle to a company of fifty volunteers then stationed

30

near the scene, who were equally anxious to punish the massacre of their countrymen in this unauthorized manner. The exertions of their commanding officer, the late Major General J. H. Bean, restrained them (not without difficulty), and thus prevented a general war, which must have proved for a time disastrous to the settlements.
Note: For description of Juan Antonio's campaign against John Irving and his gang of San Francisco and Sydney outlaws, as well as the subsequent repercussions, see Beattie, Heritage of the Valley, 84-89; History of San Bernardino County (San Francisco, Wallace W. Elliott and Company, 1883), 77-79; Los Angeles Star, June 7, 1851, and November 20, 1851, Hayes, Scrapbooks, XXXVIII, Bancroft Library.
Such a precedent is too dangerous for repetition. Doubtless, the Indians thought they were only acting in obedience to the authorities, it having been the custom, in the Mexican times, to employ them in services of this kind; and, I have reason to believe, something like it has been done recently in killing two Sonoranians, undoubtedly horse thieves. The necessity for correcting their ideas on this subject, is evident. I mean, of course, that they ought never to be allowed to meddle with the punishment of whites for public offences.
Juan Antonio gained a less perilous celebrity, in the winter of 1851, for his successful strategem in capturing the Antonio Garra before mentioned, and putting an end to his conspiracy for the general massacre of the American inhabitants along the coast.* This gave rise to a treaty of peace.* Permit me to 12 observe that this document means something or nothing—in the latter case, is worse than idle. The Indians, in their own unsophisticated logic, have ascribed some effect to it. On the part of the State, it is at least a guarantee of their title to a very large territory.
Note Antonio Garrá, chief of the Cahuillas at Warner's Ranch, plotted a general Indian uprising which alarmed all southern California. San Diego mustered every able-bodied man in an emergency army, the Mormons at San Bernardino stockaded themselves, and Los Angeles put in the field a ranger company under Joshua H. Bean. It was Juan Antonio, however, who went down with twenty-five of his warriors and arrested Garrá. See Beattie, Heritage of the Valley, 184-89; Los Angeles Star, January 17, 1852, Hayes Scrapbooks, XXXVIII.
A treaty of peace, amity, and friendship, executed by General J. H. Bean, and reported in the Los Angeles Star, January 3, 1852.

Los Angeles Star, May 31, 1851, (As quoted in Scrapbook of Benjamin Hayes, Vol. 38, Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley.)[edit]

"Terrible Tragedy
"About two months since, a party of men, some 25 in number, arrived at the place and encamped a short distance from the city. They were under the command of Capt. John Irving said to be an old Texas Ranger. We do not suppose that many persons here were informed as to the objects of the company. Irving gave out that he was going to Sonora to fight the Indians. One member of the company, in endevoring to induce a citizen to join them , stated that they were going to Mexico to rob some of the specie conductas between the mines and Mazatlan. When here, they excited the terror of the citizens, and many offences [sic] were charged upon them. About ten days since they took their departure, moving in the direction of the Colorado, and probably not one of ten of our citizens supposed they should ever again hear of the party.
"On Sunday last, letters were received in town from Col. Magruder, at Chino, and Mayor Wilson, representing a state of things which seemed to indicate that actual war existed between Irving's men and the native Californians. It was said that Irving and his party were killing cattle, stealing horses, and conducting themselves in such a lawless manner as to render it necessary that they should be speedily checked.
"In the course of the forenoon a public meeting was held in the court house. Addresses were made by various citizens, and suggestions made as to a proper course of action. The prevailing opinion seemed to be that it was advisable that the men should be pursued and brought to justice. There was much excitement in the community and all our citizens were prompt in denouncing the marauders.
"The Sheriff summoned a posse, and on Monday morning proceeding to Chino where it was represented that forces were concentrating - The Sherriff was armed with a warrant, issued by Johnathan R. Scott, Esq., for the arrest of Irving's party on the charge of grand larceny.
"On Tuesday morning the Sheriff proceeded to Rubidoux's ranch, where they were informed that Irving had encamped. There on the previous night, Rubidoux says they treated him very civilly, and up to the time the Sheriff could obtain no authentic information of any serious depredations having been committed. From spies sent to Temescal, it was ascertained that a body of men, supposed to be Irving's men, had crossed over toward Lugo's on Tuesday morning, and the Sheriff, fearing they had gone there for no good purpose, deemed it advisable to follow them.
"The Sheriff had not proceeded far before he learned that Irving's party had been killed by the Apolitans, a tribe of Cowie [Cahuilla] Indians. The story seemed at first to be improbable, and gained but little credence. As they proceeded , however, it gathered confirmation, and at last was made certain by eye-witnesses. From various sources we have collected information concerning this tragic affair. The full particulars of every thing connected with the transaction, will probably never be ascertained , at least not until a judicial investigation has been held, and great caution is needed to guard against exaggerated statements. In the following account, we have aimed to give only such facts as are corroborated by men of veracity.
"It appears that Irving's party first went to Fillipe Lugo's and broke and entered the house. Whether or not they stole anything of value, is not certain. They ransacked the trunks and scattered the clothing about, and probably took away some articles of small value. Then they proceeded to Jose Maria Lugo's some six miles distant from Fillipe's. The people at the ranches fled at their approach, but it does not appear that they entered any houses except those of the Lugos. At Jose Maria Lugo's it is said that they stole various articles. It is the prevailing opinion that the object was to murder the two young Lugos. Various circumstances tend to strengthen this belief. Their animosity towards the Lugos was vary strong, and if they had fallen in with them, undoubtedly would have assassinated them.
"Irving had been heard to say that he would take the scalps of the young Lugos, and there can be little doubt that he was bent on murder as well as plunder.
"Not finding the Lugos at home, Irving left the premises, and struck into a road leading to the mountains. He must have supposed that he could gain the valley beyond, or he would never allowed himself to be surrounded in the manner he was.
"The Cowies, many of whom are domicillated at the Lugos, followed up Irving's party, and attacked them with bows and arrows and lances. Irving followed the road into a ravine, the steep banks of which prevented his egress, and here it was that the whole party was slain. Not one was left to tell the tale. The Indians first shot them down with arrows and then beat in their skulls with stones. Persons who have seen the dead bodies describe them as being mangled in a manner shocking to behold.
"Those who are known to be killed are John Irving, Frank Wilson, Perely, Jack Hitchcock, Charles Lavelle, and George Clarke. Besides these men, there were known to be ______, when he left here, Wm. O'Donnell, Peter (supposed to be the brother of O'Donnell) A Spencer, Ma_____, Bogel and three men Mac, Sam and Pat. It is possible that the three last named are included among the fore group, who [whose] Christian names are not given.
"Only one Indian was killed and two or three wounded, so far as can be ascertained. Some supposed that a larger number were killed, and that the Indians conceal their actual loss. We are inclined to believe that but one was killed. The Indian known to be killed was an alcalde of the Apolitans, and was cut off from the main body and shot, as is said by Irving.
"The Indians were headed by Ricardo, a native Californian, and one who has been in many affrays.
"The force of the Indians is variously stated. The most reliable accounts represent that they had from 300 to 400 men in the conflict. A portion of them were mounted.
"The Indians say that Irving, or the man who appeared to be the captain of the party, fought very bravely. He was mounted on a superb horse and was conspicuous throughout the engagement, encouraging his men, and charging into the very midst of his opponents. He was found with five arrow wounds in the region of the heart.
"It is supposed that Irving's men had about $5,000 with them, all of which fell into the hands of the Indians. They exhibit their booty freely to all who visit the rancheria.
"The bodies were found entirely naked, the Indians having stripped them of their clothes, which, together with the arms and horses they carried off to the rancheria, as spoils of war.
"It does indeed appear almost incredible that twelve well-armed men most of whom had seen service in Texas, and all of whom fought desperately, should have been conquered by Indians and all slain, while their antagonists sustained a loss of but one of their number. But it must be remembered that they fought at a great disadvantage. So long as they kept upon the plain, they could offer a resistance to their pursuers, with some show of success. But the moment they entered the cañada their doom was sealed. The Indians easily gained access to the hills above, and if Irving's party had consisted of twice or even thrice of twelve men, they must all have fallen an easy prey. Those who have viewed the scene of conflict are not at all surprised at the result.
"It seems probable that the Indians were impressed with the idea that they had authority to pursue these men. Years ago the authorities here gave to the chief of the Apolitans mission a direction to capture all theives who might infest their neighborhood, and it is stated that more recently this authority has been renewed by the Judge of one of our courts." (As quoted in Scrapbook of Benjamin Hayes, Vol. 38, Bankroft Library, University of California, Berkeley.)

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 176, 4 June 1851, p.2 ,col.3, Southern Intelligence.[edit]

Southern Intelligence
Excitemeent at Los Angeles. — A slip from the office of the Los Angeles Star, issued on the 26th ult., the day the Ohio left, furnishes us with the following information:
A company of men, numbering about forty, have been encamped near this city for some weeks past. They were commanded by Capt. Irving, a Texan, who proclaimed that he had been invited by the Governor of the State of Sonora, Mexico, to furnish aid to exterminate the Apaches. A number of depredations were committed while the company remained in this vicinity, and many people suppose that Irving's company is nothing more nor less than a band of robbers. Yesterday morning expresses reached this city from Col. Magruder, Capt. Lovell and from several rancheros, giving information that lrving's company were moving down the valley, stealing horses, killing cattle, and conducting themselves in a most outrageous manner. They had threatened to ravish the females, and men, women and children had left the ranches, and fled to Gen. Bean's camp for protection. A meeting was held yesterday and the people stirred up to put an end to these outrages. Gen. Bean came in From the Cajon last evening. He will take the command of such force as can be raised in this city and at Chino, together with his own company. The forces are congregating at Chino. Our citizens are now mustering, and we judge, from the spirit manifested, that few prisoners will be taken. The whole county is arming, and in the event of a failure to arrest these marauders, an express will be sent to Major Hensly, at the Colorado.


Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 185, 13 June 1851, p.2,col.4, From San Diego.[edit]

From San Diego.— We extract the only two items of news contained in the San Diego Herald, of the 5th inst., received yesterday:
Destruction of Irving's Party.— We are just in formed by a gentleman from Los Angeles, that Irving and his party, who were supposed to have committed several depredations about Los Angeles, and of whom the sheriff of that county was in pursuit, have been killed by the Indians in the neighborhood of "Cahoon Pass," near the Rancho del Chino. It is believed that their conduct at the Rancho of the Lugos, caused the attack on the part of these Rancho Indians.
It is supposed that there were eleven of the party besides Irving.


Los Angeles Star, June 7, 1851[edit]

Article quoted in the Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 189, 17 June 1851, p.2,col.4-5 Important from Los Angeles.
Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 189, 17 June 1851, p.2,col.4-5 Important from Los Angeles.[edit]
Important from Los Angeles
Decimation of Irving and his party — Arrival of Immigrants—Domestic Intelligence.
By the arrival of the steamship Goliah, yesterday, we are in possesion of late and interesting intelligence from Los Angeles, which we glean from the Star, of the 7th inst., and a letter from our correspondent, C ., which will be found below.
The particulars of the destruction of the marauding party of Capt. Irving, consisting of himself and ten men, by the Indians, will be found fully detailed. Subsequent to that date an inquest was held upon the bodies, and after hearing a great deal of testimony, the coroner's jury returned the following verdict:
That the said John Irving, as well as ten others mentioned, to wit: Odeneil, first name unknown, Hitchcock, first name unknown, George Bogoel, Frank Wilson and six other persons whose names are unknown, and all of whose bodies were found on the ground near to the body of the said John Irving, came to their deaths on or about the 27th day of May, 1851, by the following cause, to wit: That said deceased on said day had broke into and robbed the houses of Jose Maria Lugo and Jose Carmel Lugo, in consequence whereof they were pursued by a party of Indians of the Cahuilla nation, whose aid had been sought by the owners of said houses and of the stolen property, and the said deceased were killed by said Indians, alter being called upon to surrender themselves, and having refused to to surrender, to be dealt with according to law. We further find that the aid of said Indians was invoked on this occasion by Jose Carmel Lugo, as a citizen, for the protection of his own property; and that said Jose Carmel Lugo was a Justice of the Peace, and acted in the premises in that character. And we farther find that the death of said deceased is a justifiable homicide.
The following items of news we glean from the Star:
Apolitan. — This rancheria is the residence of Juan Antonio, and his tribe of Cahuilla Indians, who killed Irving; and his party on the 29th ult. It is situated on the rancho of San Bernardino. Juan Antonio has always been considered by the citizens of this county a well disposed and friendly chief. About eight years ago he was induced by the Mexican authorities of this couuty to settle at Apolitan to serve as a guard against the depredations of the horse stealing Indians, and land was furnished him by the owners of the rancho of San Bernardino. He has had written instructions from the Mexican authorities to kill Indian thieves and take away the stolen property. This authority was confirmed by Hon. Stephen C. Forster, acting as Alcalde of this District, and had been confirmed by all the previous local authorities. The appointment was that of a general of the Cahuillas. The Cahuillas are scattered in numerous rancherias along the mountains that bound this county. They number several thousand, and it is said that Juan Antonio can muster from twenty five hundred to three thousand warriors.
A day or two after the massacre of Irving's band, a Sonoraman went to Apolitan, and told Juan Antonio that two hundred men were on their way from Los Angeles with artillery, to take vengeance on the Indians. This alarmed them so much that they all fled to the mountains, and when the coroner went out he could not obtain an interview with Juan Antonio. The Indians fled in such haste that they lost two of their children, and for several days were unable to find them. Being assured that no harm would befall them, the Indians were subsequently induced to return to their rancherias.
The Mormons. — The statement that three hundred wagons from Deseret had arrived in this valley was an exaggeration. The actual number is one hundred and forty. There is an average of five persons to each wagon. They are not all Mormons, but a portion of them came across the plains in 1850, and wintered at Salt Lake. A large proportion of the Mormons will make this valley their permanent residence, and for this object negotiations are making for the purchase of a large tract of land stocked with cattle. Five families will go to the Sandwich Islands. A number will locate at San Diego, from which point the supplies for the Suit Lake settlement will be forwarded. P. P. Pratt is among the Mormons on their way to the Sandwich Islands. It is said that one hundred and fifty families have settled at Little Salt Lake, half way between San Diego and the Great Salt Lake.
From the Gila. — We are informed that the troops under Major Heintzelman have been returned from the post on the Gila, and are at present stationed near San Diego. The expense of maintaining the post on the Gila has undoubtedly been very great, but there seems to be an absolute necessity if some kind of protection on the frontier.
From Gen. Bean's camp at the Cajon Pass, we learn that all is quiet in that neighborhood. A scouting party under Capt. Brannan, a short time since, proceeded to beyond French's ranche, at the extreme of the Tulare valley. An Indian spy captured by the party was shot. Charles Norris has been elected Second Lieutenant, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Lieut Malcolm.
The Utahs. — Some of the immigrants recently arrived in the valley, report having met Walker, the Utah chief, with one hundred and fifty Carolina horses. He had twelve of his tribe with him. We may expect another visit from this noted horse thief, as soon as he has disposed of the plunder taken on his last visit.
Murder. — An Indian was brought into town last evening and lodged in jail, on the charge of murder committed near Chino. The deed was committed during a drunken quarrel, the person killed being also an Indian.
The Pah Utahs. — Elder Pratt says that his company was molested by large parties of this tribe on the Desert. Some of them have also made their appearance on the borders of our county; but all the valuable bands of horses except a few for indispensable use, have been sent into the interior, in consequence of the recent disturbances.
The Mails. — The mail arrangements in this part of the State have gone into operation, the mail for San Diego was dispatched on Wednesday morning, in charge of Mr. Noony, one of the contractors, and to Monterey on Thursday morning. We have only a semi- monthly mail communication either with San Francisco or the country below. It is presumed that if proper representations were made to the Post Office Department, a weekly mail would be made up at San Francisco for this point. If Maj Hobbie, the Assistant Post Master General, is now in San Francisco, and we trust our citizens will deem it expedient to address him upon the subject.
Sheep. — Some 3200 sheep from Durango and Chihuahua, arrived here yesterday. We learn from a reliable source, that about 17,000 are now on the road coming from the same quarter. Our informations leads us to believe that within a short time large flocks will reach here from New Mexico and Sonora. They are intended chiefly for above.
Los Angeles, June 3, 1851
The occurrences during the last month in this section of the state, have created serious apprehentions in the minds of of prominent citizens, that a political revolution will shortly take place in Lower California. The intelligence which I am about to communicate to you, is substantiated by the testimony of every respectable citizen of the southern portion of the State.
The condition of the country is alarming in the highest degree. It has for many months been held in complete subjection by bands of outlaws and highwaymen. These bands are composed generally of deserters from the United States army and other desperate adventurers, whose career commenced with the Mexican war, and who, after the treaty, came to this country ready for any deeds of robbery or blood. These bands had become the terror of the citizens of Los Angeles; they defied the laws: they robbed citizens in open day and with utter impunity; and finally, their chief, the noted John Irving, alias "Red Irving" formerly a Texan ranger, attempted to assassinate the Judge of the District Court in the public streets of the city. Such was the condition of things here, and the town, meantime, was in an entirely defenseless state. The command of Major General Bean was at this time encamped in the vicinity of Cajon Pass, sixty miles south of Los Angeles. I am not aware that a requisition was ever made upon General Bean by the civil authorities to protect the city. Though engaged in the most active and arduous duties, and though the exigencies of the public service demanded that Gen. Bean and his corps should be concentrated around Cajon, he would have promptly responded to such a requisition had it been made.
The band, headed by Irving, after remaining here two months, started en route, as is believed, for Mazatlan. Before their departure they had, in the most ingenious manner, conveyed intelligence to the authorities of such a nature as they believed would cause the removal of Gen. Bean's command from the Cajon Pass. They were successful in their designs, and Gen. Bean sent off the principal part of his command to intercept a party of Indians whom Irving had induced the authorities to believe were engaged in robbing certain ranches. The object of Irving in deceiving the authorities and causing the removal of Gen. Bean's troops was avowedly to murder a family near the Cajon Pass, known as the Lugo family. Immediately after the departure of Bean's corps, Irving started from this city with his command, numbering, as is supposed, forty men.
Shortly after his departure letters were received in town from Col. Magruder, at Chino, and Mayor Wilson of Los Angeles.
A meeting of the citizens was called, and it was determined to dispatch the sheriff, with a posse, to arrest Irving and his party, it being understood that the sheriff, on arriving at Cajon, should summon Gen. Bean's command to aid him in making the arrest. The sheriff started from the city with a large party of citizens, and on arriving at Cajon, was joined by Gen. Bean, with the remnant of hit command remaining there. They started together in pursuit of Irving. That person had on the previous day detached eleven men from the main body of his party, and ordered them to follow him in the direction of Lugo's. The main body meantime proceeded on their journey with the understanding that Irving and his detachment would rejoin them after dispatching the Lugo's. Irving arrived at the ranch, but the Lugo's having received notice of his intentions, had escaped, and were not to be found. Irving, doubtless exasperated at their departure, proceeded to plunder the ranch. He broke open trunks, forced doors, and destroyed and carried off various articles of value. He then, with his command, started to rejoin the main body. But he was not thus permitted to escape; he was doomed. The Indians attached to the rancherias in the vicinity, incited, I presume, by the Lugo's, gathered in formidable numbers, and started in pursuit of Irving. Some of the Indians were well mounted, and all it is supposed, were well armed with bows and arrows and lances. Irving and his men were armed to the teeth, they carried Colt's revolvers and bowie's; but they were doomed. They repeatedly fired upon the Indians in pursuit without, as is supposed, killing or wounding any one of them.
Irving had proceeded in this way ten miles from the ranch, the Indians still continuing in close pursuit. At this distance from the ranch, he came to two roads, nearly similar in appearance, one being the main road, and the other a bye-road leading into a Canada, or valley. Irving hesitated, faltered, and finally determined to take the bye-road, supposing, doubtless, that it would lead him safely through the mountains into a Canada on the opposite side. This error was fatal to him and his command. No sooner had he taken the bye-road leading into the cañada, than the Indians, numbering four or five hundred, closed upon him in the rear. Imagine the situation of that band of twelve men! In a mountain path just wide enough for two horsemen to ride abreast — on each side of these mountains ascending almost perpendicularly and so steep that horses could not scale them — behind them this body of Indians! Irving was deceived; the path or Canada did not lead to a valley on the opposite side; it led into a gulch in the mountains from which there was no egress except by the path he was pursuing. As he proceeded at the head of his command, his situation became more apparent to him at every step of his progress; he could not turn back, and he went forward. He went till his further progress was prevented by the mountains. The men saw the horrors of their position, and knew they must die; but with that dogged and indomitable resolution which seems to characterize the Anglo Saxon race, they refused, when called upon, to surrender. They preferred to die. The Indiana, scaling the mountains before and on either side of the doomed men, and blocking up the path behind them, then commenced the attack by launching their arrows and lances, and hurling down rocks upon their heads. The battle must have been short and desperate. Irving and his party are said to have fought like tigers at bay, himself and every one of bis men fought to the last, and every one of them was killed. The Indians assert that only one of their men, an Alcalde, was killed, and one wounded.
The news of the decimation of Irving and his men spread like lightning. Gen. Bean, with that portion of his command remaining at Cajon, accompanied by the sheriff of Los Angeles and his posse were on the road in pursuit of the robbers, when they were met by the returning courier with the news of the battle. It was not until the morning after that they arrived on the ground where the stripped and mangled bodies of the men were still lying. The names of Irving's men who were killed, as far as I have been able to collect them, were Frank Wilson, Perley, Jack Hitchcock, Charles Lavelle and George Clark, O'Dediel, John or Red Irving, as he was called familiarly by his chums.
The names of the others are not yet known. These men had with them, as is supposed about $500 in cash. (Some say not five dollars.) They were stripped of everything by the Indians, arms, money, clothing, every article was taken, and when Gen. Bean and his command arrived on the ground the buzzards were feeding on the bodies of the slain men.
In the meantime several hundred Indian warriors had been concentrated at the rancherias in the vicinty. They were in a highly excited state. Some of the men who had been killed were acquaintances in Gen. Bean's command, and the view of their bodies had tended to inflame the minds of the volunteers against the Indians. The excitement among the troops continued to increase after Gen. Bean returned to his camp with his command. The same state of feeling was exhibited by the Indians until finally a collision between them appeared inevitable. The volunteers were almost in a state of open mutiny, and had declared their intention of attacking the Indians, notwithstanding the most strict and positive orders had been given by the General that no man should leave the camp. The dreadful consequences of such a collision between the State volunteers and several tribes of Indians, able at any moment to bring more than three thousand men into the field, cannot be conceived; but the utter ruin and devastation o[f this section of the State must have followed such a strife.
Gen. Bean, with that sagacity which has always distinguished his character as a soldier, foresaw the consequences of such a collision with friendly Indians, and he saw that nothing but indomitable courage and firmness could avert it. He proved himself equal to the task. Parading his men, who were then in a state of open mutiny, he informed them that they would have to pass over his dead body before they left that ground for the purpose of commencing an attack upon the friendly Indians. Gen. Bean was at this moment unsupported by a single officer of his command, except Maj. Bird's Qr. Mast., (Maj. Fitzgerald, his Adjt. Gen., having returned to Chino,) and he was acting in violation of the wishes and feelings of an officer of the regular army, Lt. Smith, who was attached to his command. That officer did not stand by his superior. But Gen. Bean, with these odds against him, showed himself a soldier, General, and a good man. His men were under arms, and a large body of friendly Indians who lived near Gen. Bean's camp were drawn up directly in front of them. A word and that strife would have commenced. This was the position of affairs when Gen. Bean rode up in front of his men, and ordered them to lay down their arms; this order after some hesitation, was reluctantly obeyed, and the danger was for the moment averted. I trust that it has passed forever, and that the mutinous spirit thus nipped in the bud will never again show itself among thc men attached to his command.
I have referred to the consequences which must have inevitably followed a collision between the Volunteers and Indians. To Major General Bean then, and to his dauntless courage, is due the credit of averting this danger and sacrifice. As it is, more troops are needed here; more troops ought to be instantly ordered out and attached to his command. The public safety demands it. I learn that the 1st Regiment of Dragoons has been ordered to this place as a garrison. A coroner's jury has gone from this city to the scene of the battle between Irving and the Indians. I will communicate the result of their investigations and other important matters in a future letter.

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 189, 17 June 1851, p.2, col.1 Southern California. (Editorial)[edit]

Southern California.
Ever since California changed her national allegiance, the southern section of it, especially the Los Angeles Valley, has endured all manner of oppressions from wild Indians and dissolute white men with far less conscience and much greater capacity and taste for evil than the untaught savage. The Mexican rule ceased, almost no law existed, and as did the Jews at a particular time in their history, "every man did that which seemed right in his own eyes." This might have been an almost enviable condition, had the inhabitants remained as before, free from the additions which the authority of the new flag allowed to quarter among them. There was not much danger of any very exciting scenes ot disorder while the hospitable native Californian Dons possessed their ranches of princely acres, inhabited by the listless Indian, too superstitious and too indolent for enterprizes of extensive crime and daring. Before the war some of the ranches, occupied and cultivated by French and Americans, almost vied with the old Baronial estates of Europe in the number of their retainers as well as their wealth of flocks, herds and droves. But the results of the contest disorganized their households for such might have been termed their Indian laborers scattered them. and left the ranches uncultivated, and the stock exposed to the incursions of the Utah and other wild Indian tribes, and the no less unscrupulous inroads of professedly civilized men. The supremacy of the American arms imposed a new allegiance, but for a long time the ruling power afforded no protection in place of that which had existed previous to the war in the arms of the Indians and Californians, acting under the Mexican government. Although a few soldiers stationed at the Cajon Pass would have almost entirely protected that whole section against the incursions of the marauding Utahs and other Indian and white thieves who ate up in the mountains or sold at Great Salt Lake, the horses and mules which they stole in the valleys below, from some cause or apathy on the part of the American military authority, the utmost that was effected was a visit to the Pass by General Smith and other officers, and a few troops for a while stationed at Ranch del Chino in the centre of the valley, out of all possible reach of preventing theft or punishing it. :The rancheros have consequently been subjected to almost inevitable ruin. In a single night their horses and mules would be driven off and they left without even the means of pursuit. Some eleven months ago, one of them for the fourteenth time within three years, had his cavalada swept away. Added to these forays are the oppressions from the lawless and reckless scum of our own countrymen and others, which the gold fever and new order of things generally had brought into the country. The city of Los Angeles became the head quarters of a gang, execrable beyond anything which we have experienced here. In the winter of 1849-50 a band of desperadoes put all law at defiance, and commited whatever crimes suited their depraved appetites, with impunity. Over twenty men were killed there within four weeks. Since then the Morehead Expedition to the Colorado was in a great measure fitted out with mules and horses forcibly obtained and unpaid for. And finally bands of armed men roamed about the country, laying the different proprietors under such contributions as their needs, or caprice, or malignity dictated. But at last the spirit was aroused, and, like our own citizens, the people of Los Angeles found it necessary to take effective measures. But the poor despised Indians had preceded them, and become the avengers of crime. The account of this transaction as given in the Los Angeles Star, and in our columns, will give the public a new idea of those Indians. Indolent and listless as they usually are, they are dangerous when aroused. That the party which they destroyed deserved their fate, there can be no doubt. That the atrocities which have turned one of the most beautiful sections of the continent into a Pandemonium, have been allowed so long to continue is disgraceful to the American name. It was the duty of the American government to protect the people, according to the stipulations of the treaty, as well in accordance with policy, justice and humanity. Even the troops which might have been employed for this purpose were generally quartered near San Diego or at other places where there was no possible chance of their being of any service to anybody. It is to be hoped that the forces under Gen. Bean, the U. S. troops and the civil authorities will now act in concert and with energy, to put an end to the outrageous acts of the desperadoes who have ruled so long in that garden spot of California. The country is well worth the duty's performance, the people deserve it. A more hospitable class cannot be found on the continent than the native Californian of Spanish descent. That section of the state has been overshadowed by the golden dreams and realities of this, but its progress is no less sure and its future as promising, although its development has been and will be much more tardy.

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 189, 17 June 1851, p.2,col.4-5 Important from Los Angeles.[edit]

Important from Los Angeles
Decimation of Irving and his party — Arrival of Immigrants—Domestic Intelligence.
By the arrival of the steamship Goliah, yesterday, we are in possesion of late and interesting intelligence from Los Angeles, which we glean from the Star, of the 7th inst., and a letter from our correspondent, C ., which will be found below.
The particulars of the destruction of the marauding party of Capt. Irving, consisting of himself and ten men, by the Indians, will be found fully detailed. Subsequent to that date an inquest was held upon the bodies, and after hearing a great deal of testimony, the coroner's jury returned the following verdict:
That the said John Irving, as well as ten others mentioned, to wit: Odeneil, first name unknown, Hitchcock, first name unknown, George Bogoel, Frank Wilson and six other persons whose names are unknown, and all of whose bodies were found on the ground near to the body of the said John Irving, came to their deaths on or about the 27th day of May, 1851, by the following cause, to wit: That said deceased on said day had broke into and robbed the houses of Jose Maria Lugo and Jose Carmel Lugo, in consequence whereof they were pursued by a party of Indians of the Cahuilla nation, whose aid had been sought by the owners of said houses and of the stolen property, and the said deceased were killed by said Indians, alter being called upon to surrender themselves, and having refused to to surrender, to be dealt with according to law. We further find that the aid of said Indians was invoked on this occasion by Jose Carmel Lugo, as a citizen, for the protection of bis own property; and that said Jose Carmel Lugo was a Justice of the Peace, and acted in the premises in that character. And we farther find that the death of said deceased is a justifiable homicide.
The following items of news we glean from the Star:
Apolitan. — This rancheria is the residence of Juan Antonio, and his tribe of Cahuilla Indians, who killed Irving; and his party on the 29th ult. It is situated on the rancho of San Bernardino. Juan Antonio has always been considered by the citizens of this county a well disposed and friendly chief. About eight years ago he was induced by the Mexican authorities of this couuty to settle at Apolitan to serve as a guard against the depredations of the horse stealing Indians, and land was furnished him by the owners of the rancho of San Bernardino. He has had written instructions from the Mexican authorities to kill Indian thieves and take away the stolen property. This authority was confirmed by Hon. Stephen C. Forster, acting as Alcalde of this District, and had been confirmed by all the previous local authorities. The appointment was that of a general of the Cahuillas. The Cahuillas are scattered in numerous rancherias along the mountains that bound this county. They number several thousand, and it is said that Juan Antonio can muster from twenty five hundred to three thousand warriors.
A day or two after the massacre of Irving's band, a Sonoraman went to Apolitan, and told Juan Antonio that two hundred men were on their way from Los Angeles with artillery, to take vengeance on the Indians. This alarmed them so much that they all fled to the mountains, and when the coroner went out he could not obtain an interview with Juan Antonio. The Indians fled in such haste that they lost two of their children, and for several days were unable to find them. Being assured that no harm would befall them, the Indians were subsequently induced to return to their rancherias.
The Mormons. — The statement that three hundred wagons from Deseret had arrived in this valley was an exaggeration. The actual number is one hundred and forty. There is an average of five persons to each wagon. They are not all Mormons, but a portion of them came across the plains in 1850, and wintered at Salt Lake. A large proportion of the Mormons will make this valley their permanent residence, and for this object negotiations are making for the purchase of a large tract of land stocked with cattle. Five families will go to the Sandwich Islands. A number will locate at San Diego, from which point the supplies for the Suit Lake settlement will be forwarded. P. P. Pratt is among the Mormons on their way to the Sandwich Islands. It is said that one hundred and fifty families have settled at Little Salt Lake, half way between San Diego and the Great Salt Lake.
From the Gila. — We are informed that the troops under Major Heintzelman have been returned from the post on the Gila, and are at present stationed near San Diego. The expense of maintaining the post on the Gila has undoubtedly been very great, but there seems to be an absolute necessity if some kind of protection on the frontier.
From Gen. Bean's camp at the Cajon Pass, we learn that all is quiet in that neighborhood. A scouting party under Capt. Brannan, a short time since, proceeded to beyond French's ranche, at the extreme of the Tulare valley. An Indian spy captured by the party was shot. Charles Norris has been elected Second Lieutenant, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Lieut Malcolm.
The Utahs. — Some of the immigrants recently arrived in the valley, report having met Walker, the Utah chief, with one hundred and fifty Carolina horses. He had twelve of his tribe with him. We may expect another visit from this noted horse thief, as soon as he has disposed of the plunder taken on his last visit.
Murder. — An Indian was brought into town last evening and lodged in jail, on the charge of murder committed near Chino. The deed was committed during a drunken quarrel, the person killed being also an Indian.
The Pah Utahs. — Elder Pratt says that his company was molested by large parties of this tribe on the Desert. Some of them have also made their appearance on the borders of our county; but all the valuable bands of horses except a few for indispensable use, have been sent into the interior, in consequence of the recent disturbances.
The Mails. — The mail arrangements in this part of the State have gone into operation, the mail for San Diego was dispatched on Wednesday morning, in charge of Mr. Noony, one of the contractors, and to Monterey on Thursday morning. We have only a semi- monthly mail communication either with San Francisco or the country below. It is presumed that if proper representations were made to the Post Office Department, a weekly mail would be made up at San Francisco for this point. If Maj Hobbie, the Assistant Post Master General, is now in San Francisco, and we trust our citizens will deem it expedient to address him upon the subject.
Sheep. — Some 3200 sheep from Durango and Chihuahua, arrived here yesterday. We learn from a reliable source, that about 17,000 are now on the road coming from the same quarter. Our informations leads us to believe that within a short time large flocks will reach here from New Mexico and Sonora. They are intended chiefly for above.
Los Angeles, June 3, 1851
The occurrences during the last month in this section of the state, have created serious apprehentions in the minds of of prominent citizens, that a political revolution will shortly take place in Lower California. The intelligence which I am about to communicate to you, is substantiated by the testimony of every respectable citizen of the southern portion of the State.
The condition of the country is alarming in the highest degree. It has for many months been held in complete subjection by bands of outlaws and highwaymen. These bands are composed generally of deserters from the United States army and other desperate adventurers, whose career commenced with the Mexican war, and who, after the treaty, came to this country ready for any deeds of robbery or blood. These bands had become the terror of the citizens of Los Angeles; they defied the laws: they robbed citizens in open day and with utter impunity; and finally, their chief, the noted John Irving, alias "Red Irving" formerly a Texan ranger, attempted to assassinate the Judge of the District Court in the public streets of the city. Such was the condition of things here, and the town, meantime, was in an entirely defenseless state. The command of Major General Bean was at this time encamped in the vicinity of Cajon Pass, sixty miles south of Los Angeles. I am not aware that a requisition was ever made upon General Bean by the civil authorities to protect the city. Though engaged in the most active and arduous duties, and though the exigencies of the public service demanded that Gen. Bean and his corps should be concentrated around Cajon, he would have promptly responded to such a requisition had it been made.
The band, headed by Irving, after remaining here two months, started en route, as is believed, for Mazatlan. Before their departure they had, in the most ingenious manner, conveyed intelligence to the authorities of such a nature as they believed would cause the removal of Gen. Bean's command from the Cajon Pass. They were successful in their designs, and Gen. Bean sent off the principal part of his command to intercept a party of Indians whom Irving had induced the authorities to believe were engaged in robbing certain ranches. The object of Irving in deceiving the authorities and causing the removal of Gen. Bean's troops was avowedly to murder a family near the Cajon Pass, known as the Lugo family. Immediately after the departure of Bean's corps, Irving started from this city with his command, numbering, as is supposed, forty men.
Shortly after his departure letters were received in town from Col. Magruder, at Chino, and Mayor Wilson of Los Angeles.
A meeting of the citizens was called, and it was determined to dispatch the sheriff, with a posse, to arrest Irving and his party, it being understood that the sheriff, on arriving at Cajon, should summon Gen. Bean's command to aid him in making the arrest. The sheriff started from the city with a large party of citizens, and on arriving at Cajon, was joined by Gen. Bean, with the remnant of hit command remaining there. They started together in pursuit of Irving. That person had on the previous day detached eleven men from the main body of his party, and ordered them to follow him in the direction of Lugo's. The main body meantime proceeded on their journey with the understanding that Irving and his detachment would rejoin them after dispatching the Lugo's. Irving arrived at the ranch, but the Lugo's having received notice of his intentions, had escaped, and were not to be found. Irving, doubtless exasperated at their departure, proceeded to plunder the ranch. He broke open trunks, forced doors, and destroyed and carried off various articles of value. He then, with his command, started to rejoin the main body. But he was not thus permitted to escape; he was doomed. The Indians attached to the rancherias in the vicinity, incited, I presume, by the Lugo's, gathered in formidable numbers, and started in pursuit of Irving. Some of the Indians were well mounted, and all it is supposed, were well armed with bows and arrows and lances. Irving and his men were armed to the teeth, they carried Colt's revolvers and bowie's; but they were doomed. They repeatedly fired upon the Indians in pursuit without, as is supposed, killing or wounding any one of them.
Irving had proceeded in this way ten miles from the ranch, the Indians still continuing in close pursuit. At this distance from the ranch, he came to two roads, nearly similar in appearance, one being the main road, and the other a bye-road leading into a Canada, or valley. Irving hesitated, faltered, and finally determined to take the bye-road, supposing, doubtless, that it would lead him safely through the mountains into a Canada on the opposite side. This error was fatal to him and his command. No sooner had he taken the bye-road leading into the cañada, than the Indians, numbering four or five hundred, closed upon him in the rear. Imagine the situation of that band of twelve men! In a mountain path just wide enough for two horsemen to ride abreast — on each side of these mountains ascending almost perpendicularly and so steep that horses could not scale them — behind them this body of Indians! Irving was deceived; the path or Canada did not lead to a valley on the opposite side; it led into a gulch in the mountains from which there was no egress except by the path he was pursuing. As he proceeded at the head of his command, his situation became more apparent to him at every step of his progress; he could not turn back, and he went forward. He went till his further progress was prevented by the mountains. The men saw the horrors of their position, and knew they must die; but with that dogged and indomitable resolution which seems to characterize the Anglo Saxon race, they refused, when called upon, to surrender. They preferred to die. The Indiana, scaling the mountains before and on either side of the doomed men, and blocking up the path behind them, then commenced the attack by launching their arrows and lances, and hurling down rocks upon their heads. The battle must have been short and desperate. Irving and his party are said to have fought like tigers at bay, himself and every one of bis men fought to the last, and every one of them was killed. The Indians assert that only one of their men, an Alcalde, was killed, and one wounded.
The news of the decimation of Irving and his men spread like lightning. Gen. Bean, with that portion of his command remaining at Cajon, accompanied by the sheriff of Los Angeles and his posse were on the road in pursuit of the rubbers, when they were met by the returning courier with the news of the battle. It was not I until the morning after that they arrived on the ground where the stripped and mangled bodies of the men were still lying. The names of Irving's men who were killed, as far as I have been able to collect them, were Frank Wilson, Perley, Jack Hitchcock, Charles Lavelle and George Clark, O'Dediel. John or Red Irving, as he was called familiarly by his chums.
The names of the others are not yet known. These men had with them, as is supposed about $500 in cash. (Some say not five dollars.) They were stripped of everything by the Indians, arms, money, clothing, every article was taken, and when Gen. Bean and his command arrived on the ground the buzzards were feeding on the bodies of the slain men.
In the meantime several hundred Indian warriors had been concentrated at the rancherias in the vicinty. They were in a highly excited state. Some of the men who had been killed were acquaintances in Gen. Bean's command, and the view of their bodies had tended to inflame the minds of the volunteers against the Indians. The excitement among the troops continued to increase after Gen. Bean returned to his camp with his command. The same state of feeling was exhibited by the Indians until finally a collision between them appeared inevitable. The volunteers were almost in a state of open mutiny, and had declared their intention of attacking the Indians, notwithstanding the most strict and positive orders had been given by the General that no man should leave the camp. The dreadful consequences of such a collision between the State volunteers and several tribes of Indians, able at any moment to bring more than three thousand men into the field, cannot be conceived; but the utter ruin and devastation o[f this section of the State must have followed such a strife.
Gen. Bean, with that sagacity which has always distinguished his character as a soldier, foresaw the consequences of such a collision with friendly Indians, and he saw that nothing but indomitable courage and firmness could avert it. He proved himself equal to the task. Parading his men, who were then in a state of open mutiny, he informed them that they would have to pass over his dead body before they left that ground for the purpose of commencing an attack upon the friendly Indians. Gen. Bean was at this moment unsupported by a single officer of his command, except Maj. Bird's Qr. Mast., (Maj. Fitzgerald, his Adjt. Gen., having returned to Chino,) and he was acting in violation of the wishes and feelings of an officer of the regular army, Lt. Smith, who was attached to his command. That officer did not stand by his superior. But Gen. Bean, with these odds against him, showed himself a soldier, General, and a good man. His men were under arms, and a large body of friendly Indians who lived near Gen. Bean's camp were drawn up directly in front of them. A word and that strife would have commenced. This was the position of affairs when Gen. Bean rode up in front of his men, and ordered them to lay down their arms; this order after some hesitation, was reluctantly obeyed, and the danger was for the moment averted. I trust that it has passed forever, and that the mutinous spirit thus nipped in the bud will never again show itself among thc men attached to his command.
I have referred to the consequences which must have inevitably followed a collision between the Volunteers and Indians. To Major General Bean then, and to his dauntless courage, is due the credit of averting this danger and sacrifice. As it is, more troops are needed here; more troops ought to be instantly ordered out and attached to his command. The public safety demands it. I learn that the 1st Regiment of Dragoons has been ordered to this place as a garrison. A coroner's jury has gone from this city to the scene of the battle between Irving and the Indians. I will communicate the result of their investigations and other important matters in a future letter.

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 200, Saturday, 28 June 1851, p.2,col.2, From the South[edit]

From the South
The steamer Ohio, Capt. Robert Haley, arrived from San Diego and the intermediate ports yesterday. She has encountered very violent winds all the way up, and was compelled to put into Point Lobos on the 21st, where she was detained four days owing to the severity of the weather.
The Ohio brought up 30 passengers, a list of whom will be found in another column.
The troops under command of Capt. Keyes, U. S. A., on escort duty to the Indian Commissioners, arrived at Los Angeles on the 16th, en route for their respective posts at Monterey and San Francisco. The three companies of the 2nd Infantry under command of Major Heintzleman, formerly stationed at Camp Yuma, Colorado River, have been withdrawn to San Isabel, a point sixty miles from San Diego. A guard of ten men has been left at the Colorado for the protection of the ferry.
Juan Antonio, an Indian Chief of the Cahuillas, and who led the Indians in the attack upon Irving's mem, had become alarmed by statements that a party was coming from Los Angeles to destroy him and his tribe, and had left his rancheria at Apolitan on that account. On the second of June he was met at the rancho of San Bernadino and the following document signed and given him. Doubtless this arrangement will be productive of good results. We extract the following from the Los Angeles Star: —
STATE OF CALIFORNIA — County of Los Angeles.—
Whereas Juan Antonio, Chief of the Cahuillas, and friend of the inhabitants of this county, as well as of all good and peaceable men, has withdrawn from in his residence in Apolitana, in consequence of a report that harm was meditated against him — which report is false — since he has always been considered in peace with all, and a friend of order, he is hereby notified that he can return with his people to their homes, to live as before they left take care of their property; work as they have always done; and associate with his white neighbors; with a guaranty that no harm shall he done him, either by individuals or by the county authorities, because all consider him as a good friend, and will not consent to let him be injured, but will co-operate with force if necessary to punish any person who may the peace.
In testimony thereof we subscribe our names at the rancho of San Bernardino, County of Los Angeles, this 2nd day of June, 1851.
Augustin Olivera, County Judge.
Benjamin Hayes, County Attorney.
Ignacio del Valle, County Recorder.
Stephen C. Foster, County Senator and late Prefect.
Diego Sepulvida, Rancho of Yucaipa.
A. P. Hodges, Coroner.
Ignacio Palomares, Rancho of San Jose.
E. H. M Gower, H. R. Myles and Hario Barela, Los Angeles.
Jose Del Carmen Lugo, Justice of the Peace.
W. B. Osburn, Deputy Sheriff.
Mongomerv Martin, Justice of the Peace.
D. G. Weaver, Rancho of San Gorgoneo.

Los Angeles Star, November 20, 1851, Interveiw with George Evans, (As quoted in Scrapbook of Benjamin Hayes, Vol. 38, Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkley)[edit]

Interveiw with George Evans:
Evans survived the massacre in San Timoteo Canyon and returned to Los Angeles in the fall of 1851 where he gave the following interview.
The gang had been at the home of Jose Maria Lugo for only minutes, "when they saw a large body of Indians advancing towards the house from the direction of Apolitan. They immediately mounted, and resumed the road. As the Indians approached, a hasty council was held, when Irving insisted on retreating, to which Evans strongly objected urging him to fight the Indians at once, as the only means of securing a successful passage along their road, which led through the mountains, to that taken by their companions who had been sent ahead. Irvings will prevailed, and this, according to Evans was the cause of the catastrophe. They occasionally fired at the Indians as they came near, but in the main kept up a rapid retreat until they reached the forks of the road, where Evans again begged Irving to fight, but in vain. He also advised him to keep the road, but Irving, as if doomed, turned into the mountains, along the path which led into the fatal trap where they were caught and killed. It was here that Evans, seeing that they were lost, determined upon attempting to escape. He was here, as generally, riding in the rear of the men, who were making all speed toward the hills. When near the chapparel[sic], his horse stopped and refused to go further.- Seizing his pistols from his holsters, Evans pushed on afoot, the savages almost at his heels. The chapparel[sic] is thick along the path and a limb knocked of his hat. Just there the road made a sudden turn, and he dashed in a clump of bushes, which offered the only hope of eluding pursuit. Almost instantly the Indians passed, one of them stopping to pick up Evans' hat. Soon Evans heard a few shots, followed by moments of dreadful silence, and then a few shots more. Thus he lay still near dark, when a cart passed, which he supposed contained the dead and wounded Indians, as much crying or lamentation accompanied it. From time to time various parties passed returning. At length, a Californian, mounted on a fine horse, rode right up to his hiding place, seeming to be in search of him. Evans waited to catch his eye, intending then to shoot, and if possible, size the horse and escape. It was a moment of terrible suspense, eluded by another Californian on the hill-side telling his companion to "come on." The other immediately left. Evans remained in the hiding place until dark, when all returning parties seemed to have passed. The stangest part of his adventure remains to be told, and we have no reason to doubt its truth. Evans followed the Indians directly back to the house of Jose Maria Lugo, (about eighty miles); there he found a mule saddled which he took and fled towards Temascal[sic], subsequently joining the company of Sonorenian miners near the Colorado, telling them that Irving would be on shortly. The true state of the case did not leak out until they had crossed the river, when, as if only then relieved from his terror, Evans exclaimed, 'Thank God I am safe.'"



Pioneer notes from the diaries of Judge Benjamin Hayes, 1849-1875, pp.75-76[edit]

MY ESCAPE FROM ASSASSINATION November 12, 1851 [In 1850 Judge Hayes, as County Attorney, prosecuted two sons of Don José M. Lugo for the asserted murder of two men in the Cajon Pass. The desert Indians under Chief walker frequently raided Rancho San Bernardino and ran off horses belonging to the Lugo family. It was claimed that the two victims misdirected a pursuing party, which consequently fell into an ambush in which at least one member was killed by the Indians, and that four young men of the Lugo party killed them in revenge. One of the four was said to have confessed; the remaining three were tried. They were defended by J. Lancaster Brent,Esq., and eventually were acquitted.
A former Captain of Cavalry in the Mexican War named Irving was at Los Angeles with a band of outlaws when the preliminary hearing was held. Irving made threats against the Lugo boys in case they were admitted to bail and shortly afterward appeared at the ranch with eleven men. They were driven into San Timoteo cañon by friends and employees of the Lugos and Cahuilla Indians under Juan Antonio, and only one escaped.
As County Attorney Judge Hayes went to San Bernardino to hold an inquest in the matter, accompanied by the County Coroner. Their verdict was that the outlaws were killed by Cahuilla Indians and that

---

76
the killing was justified. In the report on the Indians of Southern California, which Judge Hayes prepared for B. D. Wilson, the conduct of the Indians on this occasion is discussed. ... —Editor.]

Read All About It: The Irving Gang Massacre of 1851, by Paul R. Spitzzeri[edit]

William W. Twist[edit]

  • Twist robbery in LA., Powers connection with Miguel Blanco?

Los Angeles Star, Number 21, Saturday, 4 October 1856, p.1, col.4, Robbery.[edit]

Robbery. — On Wednesday evening, about eight o'clock, three men, two of them Mexicans, entered the store of Mr. Twist, on Main street, when one of them discharged a pistol at him, but fortunately without effect; immediately they rushed upon him, seized him and tied him, one of them inflicting a knife wound on his back, They ramsacked the store, opened the safe, and carried off about a thousand dollars. They then mounted their horses and rode off. Mr. Twist was soon relieved from his disagreeable position, when it was found that the wound was but slight. The officers are making search for-the perpetrators of the bold deed, but yet without success.

Los Angeles Star, Number 25, 1 November 1856, P.3, Col.2 Daring Outrage.[edit]

Daring Outrage.
On Sunday evening last, about eight o'clock another daring outrage was perpetrated in the immediate vicinity of the city. Mr. John Lemon, residing just across the river, on the above evening was unceremoniously visited by a band of armed Mexicans, in disguise, who entered the house and immediately discharged three shots at the inmates. They then seized Mr. Lemon and his brother-in-law, tied them, and demanded of the former his money. They told him that he had received money by the last steamer, and named the amount, some $4,000 or $5,000 — and demanded the full sum. They also told him where he kept his money. With gentlemen so accurately informed of his affairs, there was no use in trying to conceal anything. They took the key of a trunk in which the money had been kept from his pocket, and on finding only $1,020 became very indignant. Mr. Lemon explained that he had paid away the balance a day or two previously. They then demanded the keys of other trunks, which, not being forthcoming, they proceeded to open with a pick. Finding nothing in them but wearing apparel, they gave over the search. They then very coolly counted out the money on the table, the leader gave each man his share, and the proceedings of the evening being concluded, they departed. On finding the door open, Mr. Lemon immediately got up as well as he could, being still bound with a rope, and started off to the nearest house to give the alarm. The ruffians perceiving his object, fired two shots after him, then got on their horses and rode away. This was as cool a proceeding as any we have heard of, and shows that our robbers possess both tact and talent for their profession. Mr. Lemon having succeeded in making his way to a friend's house, gave the alarm, and immediately two officers, Messrs. Eli Smith and Wm. Little started in search of the robbers, but unfortunately without being able to trace them, the night being very dark.

Los Angeles Star, Number 26, 8 November 1856, p.2,col.5, The late Robberies.[edit]

The late Robberies.
MR. EDITOR—Surely some action ought to bo taken by our citizens to stop these impudent and daring villains in their audacious career. The two late robberies committed on Messrs. Twist and Lemon, have not been exceeded in boldness and atrocity, even by the infamous Joaquin. This band of robbers appears to be composed of some seven or eight Mexicans, led, as is suspected ; by some person of another nation, for the careful manner in which their plans are laid—the certainty of their victims being in possession of money and the success attending their attacks, are evidences of their being led by some master hand in villany, and one who must be in our very, midst, to be so well informed of the exact amounts possessed and where deposited.
It therefore behooves the people to look to themelves, if life and property are to be protected. Let us emulate the example of our eastern friends, by establishing a committee here for the detection of these ruffians, and hand them over to the authorities for punishment. Hang a few of the rascals, and we shall soon purge the country of these pests of society. Yours, OBSERVER.

Los Angeles Star, Number 27, 15 November 1856, p.2 ,col.5 Committed.—Miguel Coto[edit]

Committed.—Miguel Coto, has been committed by Justice Sackett, for being one of to party engaged in the late daring robbery of the store or Mr. Twist.

Los Angeles Star, Number 38, 31 January 1857, p.2,col.3 Military Organization of the Citizens.[edit]

Military Organization of the Citizens.
Immediately on the receipt of the intelligence of the terrible catastrophe which happened Sheriff Barton and his party, the people took measures for their own defence [sic] for the arrest and punishment of the robbers. Parties of mounted men were sent off in the direction of where the robbers were supposed to be, and the citizens organized themselves so as to keep up a close watch on the city and suburbs, for the detection of any of the robbers, or of such of their associates as should seek the city either as a place of refuge or for the purpose of obtaining supplies. In furtherance of this object, and more especially in consequence of information that day received in town, it was determined to have a general turn out of the citizens on Thursday night. About seven o'clock, a meeting was held, and a course of proceedings resolved on. Dr. J. S. Griffin was requested to take command of the people. A company was enrolled, who placed themselves under his immediate command. The following are the companies organized : A company under Dr. Griffin; afterwards formed into two companies. A company under Captain Twist. A company of Germans citizens, under the command of Mr. Joseph Waibel. A company of French citizens, under command of Mr. Charles At nine o'clock, the organization was completed, and the men stationed at the different posts. A consultation was then had amongst those on whom the responsibility was devolved, and a course of procedure adopted. Dr. Griffin was invested with the command of the entire force of the city, and his conduct in the position displayed his perfect fitness for the post. He co-operated throughout with the Mayor and City Marshal. At four o'clock, a.m., on Friday morning, the companies, leaving sentinels at their various posts, marched to the front of the Montgomery House, where they received their instructions and were detailed for -further duty. Before day-break, the town was surrounded by armed men, and every avenue of escape strictly guarded. The Marshal and his Deputy, with assistants. commenced a search of every house, beginning at the north-east end of the town. Dr. Griffin's company attended the Marshal, and took charge of the prisoners—about forty of whom were lodged in the city jail, the result of the examination. At about eleven o'clock, the men being worn out with the fatigue, the forenoon being excessively hot, and every house, yard and corral north and east of the Plaza examined, the search was suspended, and the forces relieved from duty, t0 reassemble at beat of drum.

Los Angeles Star, Number 47, 4 April 1857, p.2 ,col.2 Rifle Company. [edit]

Rifle Company.- At an election for officers of this company, held last week, the following gentlemen were chosen to fill the respective offices: , Captain — W. W. Twist, 1st Lieut., W. D. Brown ; first 2d Lieut., A. A 1 bright; second 2d Lieut., Henry King. Surgeon ( Dr. Carler ; Asst. do., Alex. S. Read. 1st Sergeant, Alonzo Waite; 2d, Joseph Warble 3d, Sydney Waite ; 4th, Geo. S. Dillon. Ist Corporal, M. Flashner; 2d, Theo. Wetter j gren; 3d, Perry Switzer ; 4th, Samuel Meyers. a Farrier and saddler, H. McLaughlin. Trumpeters, Huestus Smith and Henry Ulyard. The company numbers, besides the above, forty five privates. The uniform adopted is neat and inexpensive — black pants, blue shirts, and blue caps. The arms are the rifles lately received from the state. The company paraded during the week at the funeral of their deceased brother, Mr. H , Wagner, and made a very creditable appearance.

Los Angeles Star, Number 50, Saturday, 25 April 1857, p.2, col.2; Court of Sessions, Jack Powers, Acquitted. — Miguel Blanco[edit]

Court of Sessions.—Hon. W. G. Dryden, presiding ; R. Sackett and Wm. B. Osborne, associate Justices. The Court was occupied until Thursday in heaiing aud deciding motions and argument on demurrers. On Thursday, the case of Miguel Blanco, charged with robbing W. W. Twist, was tried, and resulted in the acquittal of the defendant. Court adjourned till this alternoon.

...

Jack Powers.—This individual, it will be remembered, was arrested on a charge of burglary, alleged to have been committed in Los Angeles county—taken on habeas corpus before Judge Freelon, who refused to discharge him, but admitted him to bail; and subsequently, on another habeas corpus taken before the Supreme Court. Judge Burnett remanded him to the custody of the Chief of Police of this city, with instructions to send him, as soon as possible, to Los Angeles county.— S. F. Chronicle.
Powers arrived here "on Wednesday last by the steamer Senator, accompanied by his lawyer, Col. James, of San Francisco. He was examined yesterday before Justice Mallard, and although a great number of witnesses were called, nothing could be elicited to connect the accused with the offense charged. Powers was consequently discharged.
Acquitted.— Miguel Blanco, charged with the robbery of Capt. Twist, was acquitted by the jury before the Court of Sessions on Thursday; notwithstanding the identification of the prisoner and fhe direct testimony of Twist to the main facts of the case as regards him. This appears still more strange when it is known that the prisoner had confessed to the officers his participation in the crime, and what disposition had been made of the booty. But, the confession was not legally before the jury.


Francisco "Pancho" Daniel[edit]

Make Pancho Daniel a redirect to Francisco "Pancho" Daniel

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Francisco "Pancho" Daniel

California Gazette, February 21, 1852 Confession of Teodor Basquez (association with the Daniel brothers)

"Confession of Teodor Basquez
In the year 1851 I came from the city of Hermocillo, Sonora to California; I arrived here on the first day of May; I pursued an upright and honorable course for the first year I remained in California. After the experation of one year I entered into company with some persons by the name of Francisco Daniel and his brother Bernardino, and one Juan Jose ___ all of Sonora.



Jack Powers Gang[edit]

Crimes while with Joaquin Murrietta.
Joaquin Valenzuela, caught by SLO vigilante posse, hung for crimes while with Joaquin Murrietta. (actually Jesus Valenzuela, /Latta, Frank, Horse Gangs,p.133-134 )
2 Basques/Nacimiento murder
Pio Linares - shot, KIA; (formerly a member of Joaquin Murrietta's Horse Gangs, per Latta.)
Jose Antonio Garcia - hung, Tuesday June 8th, 1858; after confession to part in 2 Basques murders.
Nieves Robles (named Eduriquez by his compatriots) - Caught in Los Angeles, returned by Pacheco posse, hung at SLO 7/12/58;
Rafael Herrada, El Huero, - Escaped from seige by posse. Chased by posse led by Romualdo Pacheco with Sheriff of Santa Barbara as far as Los Angeles, but he escapes southward a day ahead of them. They return instead with Nieves Robles.
Jack Powers - Fled from San Francisco June 3, to Guaymas, Sonora.
Baratie and Borel and Gilkey, murders at Rancho San Juan 5/12:
Santos Peralta - hung 5/14?
Luciano Tapia, El Mesteno - confessed, hung June 4th, 1858
Pio Linares - shot KIA in seige by posse
Miguel Blanco - hung at SLO, after capture in seige by posse
Desiderio Grijalva - hung at SLO, after capture in seige by posse
Rafael Herrada, El Huero, escaped seige by posse, fled, pursued as far as Los Angeles by Pacheco's posse, never caught (see above). Possibly executed in Guaymas in 1863.
Froilan Servin, Caught in Santa Barbara, Tried, Imprisoned: 1860. Died in prison.
Jesus Valenzuela, Fled, never caught. (Relatives said he was nicknamed from the age of 12 as "Ocho Merino" due to an incident with 8 sheep. Jesus later used it as an alias "Joaquin Ochomorenio" by which he became known to the authorities in 1853. After his brothers death in 1853 at the Cantua battle, he took that as his name, and was thus taken for his brother by the SLO posse in 1858. /Latta,Horse Gangs, p.133-134.)

Pio Linares[edit]

- shot, KIA, while resisting arrest by the vigilance committee, for Nacimiento murders / Garcia confession, murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey and killing of a posse member.
Frank Latta's testimonies taken from former members and decendants of Murrieta's gang, said Pio was a member of the Murrieta Horse Gang, of Joaquin's two younger brothers, Joaquin Juan Murrieta and Martin Murrieta. Pio was accompanied into that gang by a relative, "Flores" Linares. [The only brother about Pios age would have been his three year younger brother Feliz Bernardino "Fernando" Linares.]

"Flores" Linares tried to betray Joaquin Juan Murrieta to a posse in San Luis Obispo, then tried himself to assasinate Joaquin Juan Murrieta when he visited SLO in Spring 1858. However Joaquin Juan killed Flores instead./ Latta Horse Gang, p.114-115

Later another gang member, Angel Bojorquez, a relation of Flores, and Pio, tried avenge Flores trying to ambush Joaquin Juan at the Merced Ranch, with the same result. / Latta Horse Gang, p.95-96

Victor died in Feb. of 1852 or 1853. There are two records of death and burial Died Feb 1852 or 1853 San Luis Obispo, Alta California Buried 6 Jun 1852 or 1853 Mission San Luis Obispo, Alta California

Victor died in Feb. of 1853 not 1852. He had been counted in the 1852 census and an 1852 tax assessment for him exists in Angels History of SLO Co.

Rafael Herrada, “El Huero”[edit]

During the his confession about the San Juan Capistrano murders, Luciano Tapia, El Mesteno, discribed Herrada:

"... Huero Rafael; a Chileno, who knew the parties in Oakland, and from whose conversation I gathered that he had come expressly to San Luis, to prompt the robbery."
Joseph Hall-Patton, p.100 suggests Herrada was possibly hung by Romualdo Pacheco posse before 7/12 for murder of 2 Basques/Nacimiento murders / Garcia confession and murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey

However an advertisement of a reward for El Huero appeared Page 3, Column 2 of the 3 July 1858, Los Angeles Star, which suggests El Huero was still at large.

... slender, has large sleepy eyes, and without beard. EL HUERO (light, or empty headed) RAFEAL is tall, slender, and ...

PACIFYING PARADISE: VIOLENCE AND VIGILANTISM IN SAN LUIS OBISPO, A Thesis presented to the Faculty of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Joseph Hall-Patton, June 2016 p.100[edit]
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2264, 29 June 1858, p.2,col.4, San Francisco News[edit]

[323]

San Francisco News — Discouraging Advice. from Frazer — Farther from the South aid from Oregon.
San Francisco, June 28th, 1858.
...
Pio Lenares, at the South, was shot through the head in a fight with those who were after him. One of them was also killed. Robles had been taken at Los Angeles just before the boat left, and was expected to be hung forthwith. It was thought Jack Powers had managed to escape to Lower California.
A correspondent of the Bulletin, writing from San Luis, after describing the hanging of two more men, says "Of the eight persons who were accomplices in the San Juan Capistrano massacre, five have now expiated their crime by cord or pistol, to wit: Santos Peralta, Luciano Tapia, Pio Lenares, Miguel Blanco, and Desidero Grijalva. Three yet cumber the earth, to wit: Rafael Herrada, Jesus Valenzuela, and Froilan Servin. Of the six accomplices of the Nascimento murder, two have paid the forfeit — Pio Lenares and Jose Antonio Garcia. Then remains Jack Powers, Nivo Robles, Eduriquez, and Rafael Herrada. We are on their track, and some of them at least will yet pay for their crimes with their life."
“By Telegraph to the Union,” Sacramento Daily Union (7/13/1858) 2. [edit]
By Telegraph to the Union.
BY THE STATE TELEGRAPH LINE.
San Francisco News - Nieves Robles Hung at San Luis Obispo — Fraser River matters- Arrivals and Departures.
San Francisco, July 12th. Nieves Robles has been hung at San Luis Obispo, making the seventh who has been executed on charges of robbery and murder.
  • Note Santos Peralta, Luciano Tapia, Jose Antonio Garcia, Miguel Blanco, and Desidero Grijalva were hung at SLO. Pio Lenares was shot nearby. The sixth executed by hanging was Joaquin Valenzuela, seventh Nieves Robles. The article notes the executions which must not include Pio Lenares who was shot.
Daily Alta California, Volume 15, Number 5012, 18 November 1863, p.1,col.4, Items from Mexico.(Huero's death?)[edit]
Items from Mexico.
We translate the following items,of Mexican news from the Echo du Pacifique:
...
A gentleman who came up from Mexico on the Oregon, gives us the following items: Two criminals were executed by shooting; at Guaymas, on the 28th ult. - One was a Texan, named Garcia Brown; the other was a Mexican, called Huero. Both were murderers.

Jose Antonio Garcia[edit]

- after confession, hung for murder of 2 Basques/Nacimiento murders Tuesday June 8th, 1858

In this Garcia implicated Jack Powers along with Pio Linares, Nieves Robles aka “Eduriquez” and others as part of the murder of the 2 Basques/Nacimiento murders in 1857.

Nieves Robles, “Eduriquez”[edit]

- tried and acquitted 1857, hung 7/12/58, for murder of 2 Basques/Nacimiento murders / Garcia confession
Nieves “Eduriquez” Robles, (named Eduriquez by his compatriots) PACIFYING PARADISE: p.86
“By Telegraph to the Union,” Sacramento Daily Union (7/13/1858) 2.
By Telegraph to the Union.
BY THE STATE TELEGRAPH LINE.
San Francisco News - Nieves Robles Hung at San Luis Obispo — Fraser River matters- Arrivals and Departures.
San Francisco, July 12th. Nieves Robles has been hung at San Luis Obispo, making the seventh who has been executed on charges of robbery and murder.

Santos Peralta[edit]

According to Murray, one of the Chico Martinez band of horse-runners and was the murderer of Mr. Baratie. Hung in his cell, for murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey on identification of servant Silvas, no confession.

Luciano Tapia, "el Mesteno"[edit]

AKA, Luciano, el Mesteno,
Per his confession, his name was Luciano Tapi, born in San Vicente in Lower California. His father and mother lived in Los Nietos near Los Angeles. He was hunting deer for the horse-runners of Chico Martinez, when he went to San Luis Obispo and became involved in the crime by Santos Peralta. He also had previously known Miguel Blanco.

They visited the Rancho San Juan but left and stayed the night at the Agua de los Codornices in sp.Water of the Quails, [codorniz=quail, codornices = quails]

Candidates for Tapia's Agua de los Codornices

--

1 U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Quail Water Creek
Quail Water Creek is a 7.25 mile long tributary of Indian Creek, in San Luis Obispo County, California. Indian Creek is itself a tributary of the Estrella River, tributary to the Salinas River.
Quail Water Creek, tanslates well from Agua de los Codornices. It is west of the San Juan Rancho along a likely path of return of the gang to San Luis Obispo. The area seems wooded even today, and a likely place to dispose of Mrs. Baratie's body where it might not be found, if that was their intent to eliminate witnesses as it seems it was with Gilkey and the servants. Tapia could have rode in this direction then turned north up Indian Creek and Estrella River then made his way along mountain valleys northwestward to San Jaun Bautista.
June 4th, 1858 hung in San Luis for murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey after confession
Testimony of Luciano Tapia[edit]

Desiderio Grijalva[edit]

Killer of John Gilkey, hung for murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey, said to have made a full confession in his death sentence, before hanging, no written confession

Miguel Blanco (1840-1858)[edit]

Step Nephew, of Pio Linares. Killer of Borel, wounded Baratie. Born Feb. 1840 Miguel Blanco, full name Jose Miguel Blanco, was the son of Victor Pantaleon Linares's step daughter Maria Jesusa Villa [Maria de Jesus Patricia Villa] born 17 Mar 1816. On Jan 17, 1830, at the age of 13 years 10 months, she married Joaquin Blanco [Jose "Joaquin" Crecencio Blanco] a Mexican soldier in San Diego Presidio. Jose Miguel was a step grandson of Victor Linares, a step nephew of Pio Linares his step uncle.

Joaquin and Maria Jesusa Blanco, had five children that survived, the second was Jose Miguel Blanco. As a consequence of a divorce of his parents, on November 3, 1851 W. J. Graves, SLO County Judge, appointed Victor Linares their guardian, with the exception of the eldest, Jose Merihildo Blanco, age 16, who is to choose his own. In the event he chose Victor also. Jose Miguel Blanco, was 11 years old at the time.

He would be 17 years of age in 1857 when he robbed W. W. Twist in Los Angeles. He would have been 18 when he was hung in SLO for the murders of Borel and Baratie of Rancho San Juan.


born Mar 1816, Santa Barbara, Alta California
Married to soldier, Jose "Joaquin" Crecencio Blanco, 17 Jan 1830, San Diego Presidio, Alta California
children with Jose "Joaquin" Crecencio Blanco
1. BLANCO, Maria "Luisa" Seferina, b. 21 Feb 1833, Alta California, d 1836 >< 1851
2. BLANCO, Jose Maria ["Merihildo"], b. Abt. 1835, Alta California
3. BLANCO, Maria Ascencion de los Dolores, b. Abt. May 1837, Alta California, d. Abt. 23 Apr 1838, Los Angeles, Alta California (Age ~ 0 years)
4. BLANCO, Jose Miguel, b. Feb 1840, Alta California, [d. hanged 1858]
5. BLANCO, Maria Dolores, b. Mar 1842, Alta California
6. BLANCO, Jose Hermenegildo, b. Bef. 1843, Alta California, d<1851
7. BLANCO, Maria del Pilar, b. 13 Apr 1844, Alta California
8. BLANCO, Maria Francisca del Carmen, b. 27 May 1848, Alta California
Married to Maria de Jesus Patricia VILLA, 17 Jan 1830, San Diego Presidio, Alta California
died 1852?
  • GARCIA, Maria Micaela Mother of Maria de Jesus Patricia Villa while wife of Joseph Antonio "Doroteo" VILLA [1st],
    • 1. VILLA, Maria de Jesus Patricia, b. Mar 1816, Santa Barbara, Alta California
    • 2. VILLA, Sebastian, b. Abt. 1820, Los Angeles, Alta California Find all individuals with events at this location
    • 3. VILLA, Francisco Antonio, b. 3 Apr 1822, Alta California Find all individuals with events at this location
  • and Victor P. Liniares [2nd]. January 8, 1826


BLANCO, Jose "Joaquin" Crecencio




Probate Court Records San Luis Obispo County, California][edit]

San Luis Obispo County, California]

Originally recorded and hand written by Louise Radcliffe

Date of original research is unknown.

The Information was recorded from Probate packets located in the Superior Court of San Luis

Obispo County.

  • [Note] The hand written pages are being typed just as I found them, no attempt to correct

spelling , language or data will be made.

Packet #1: Estate of Joaquin Blanco - Filed November 3 1851
[Guardianship during divorce proceedings.]
Blanco, Maria Jesusa wife of Don Joaquin Blanco
Maria Jesusa Blanco's father is Victor Linares [Linaris]
Children of Joaquin and Maria Blanco:
Jose Merihildo Blanco, about 16 yrs chooses Victor Lenares as guardian
Jose Miguel Blanco, ca 11 yrs
Dolores Blanco
Pilar Blanco
Francisca Blanco
W J Graves, co Judge, appoints Victor Linares guardian, with the exception of Jose Merihildo

Blanco, who is to choose own.

All live in County of SLO, Maria, her children, her husband, her father.
30 Nov 1851:
Wm Stenner, principal
James D Htton - Bonded
Jacob Schieferli [Shefferli] - Bonded
Bonded $400.00 [Sureties]
27 May 1852:
Wm Stenner [Stanner], principal
Joseph Levey - Bonded
Wm Breck - Bonded
Bond $500.00 [Sureties]
28 July 1852:
Wm Stenner, Admin of Estate of Joaquin Blanco, deceased. He asks Court for permission to sell

inventory for creditors as he cannot pay admin expenses.

Miguel Blanco hung for murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey, said to have made a full confession in his death sentence, before hanging, no written confession/ Joseph Hall-Patton, p.150

Twist robbery in LA. Powers connection with Miguel Blanco?[edit]
Robbery. — On Wednesday evening, about eight o'clock, three men, two of them Mexicans, entered the store of Mr. Twist, on Main street, when one of them discharged a pistol at him, but fortunately without effect; immediately they rushed upon him, seized him and tied him, one of them inflicting a knife wound on his back, They ramsacked the store, opened the safe, and carried off about a thousand dollars. They then mounted their horses and rode off. Mr. Twist was soon relieved from his disagreeable position, when it was found that the wound was but slight. The officers are making search for-the perpetrators of the bold deed, but yet without success.
Court of Sessions*
This Court, completed the business of the October term on Monday week. Present, Hon. W. G. Dryden, County Judge; R. Sackett and Joseph Beard, Associates.
...
Miguel Blanco, robbery. Case continued until next term, on motion of defendant.
The late Robberies.
MR. EDITOR—Surely some action ought to be taken by our citizens to stop these impudent and daring villains in their audacious career. The two late robberies committed on Messrs. Twist and Lemon, have not been exceeded in boldness and atrocity, even by the infamous Joaquin. This band of robbers appears to be composed of some seven or eight Mexicans, led, as is suspected ; by some person of another nation, for the careful manner in which their plans are laid—the certainty of their victims being in possession of money and the success attending their attacks, are evidences of their being led by some master hand in villany, and one who must be in our very, midst, to be so well informed of the exact amounts possessed and where deposited.
It therefore behooves the people to look to themselves, if life and property are to be protected. Let us emulate the example of our eastern friends, by establishing a committee here for the detection of these ruffians, and hand them over to the authorities for punishment. Hang a few of the rascals, and we shall soon purge the country of these pests of society. Yours, OBSERVER.
Committed.—Miguel Coto, has been committed by Justice Sackett, for being one of to party engaged in the late daring robbery of the store or Mr. Twist.
"Important Arrests.—Some time ago, a Mexican named Miguel Blanco, was arrested and lodged in jail. He has confessed that Soto, who was shot by the people at the Mission, was concerned in the Twist robbery. He has also confessed his own participation in that bold outrage, and the names of the entire party."
"Arrest and Execution of Four Robbers.
"On Thursday last, Mr. Cyrus Sanford, of the Mission, was attacked by Miguel Soto and two others. Mr. Stockton came to his assistance, and the fight continued for some time pretty sharp, in close quarters. Sanford shot Soto in the thigh, and Soto shot Sanford's horse four times in tie breast. Solo, being disabled, left his horse, and ran afoot to take refuge in a marsh near at hand. He managed to cover up his body with mud and weeds. At this time some of the citizens from the Monte, Messrs. Houstin, King, and Ward came up, and set fire to the weeds and burned them off the ground. This exposed the position of the crafty robber, when one of the party, Mr. King, we believe, fired and shot Soto through the heart. The head of the robber was then cut off and taken to the Monte, where it was recognized by Mr. W. H. Peterson,,as the head of Miguel Soto, who had been examined before Justice Sackett for the robbery and attempt at murder of Mr. Twist some time ago. A number of arrests were made at the time by the people of the Mission of San Gabriel, who afterwards organized a court and tried the prisoners, and sentenced them to be hung. The following individuals were accordingly executed: — Juan Valenzuela, Pedro Lopez, and Diego Navarro. The rope having broke in the course of execution, the men were led out and shot dead. Thus four of the banditti who recently committed the murder of Sheriff Barton and his three associates, have expiated their offences with their lives—and others will follow."
Court of Sessions.—Hon. W. G. Dryden, presiding ; R. Sackett and Wm. B. Osborne, associate Justices. The Court was occupied until Thursday in heaiing aud deciding motions and argument on demurrers. On Thursday, the case of Miguel Blanco, charged with robbing W. W. Twist, was tried, and resulted in the acquittal of the defendant. Court adjourned till this alternoon.

...

Jack Powers.—This individual, it will be remembered, was arrested on a charge of burglary, alleged to have been committed in Los Angeles county—taken on habeas corpus before Judge Freelon, who refused to discharge him, but admitted him to bail; and subsequently, on another habeas corpus taken before the Supreme Court. Judge Burnett remanded him to the custody of the Chief of Police of this city, with instructions to send him, as soon as possible, to Los Angeles county.— S. F. Chronicle.
Powers arrived here "on Wednesday last by the steamer Senator, accompanied by his lawyer, Col. James, of San Francisco. He was examined yesterday before Justice Mallard, and although a great number of witnesses were called, nothing could be elicited to connect the accused with the offense charged. Powers was consequently discharged.
Acquitted.— Miguel Blanco, charged with the robbery of Capt. Twist, was acquitted by the jury before the Court of Sessions on Thursday; notwithstanding the identification of the prisoner and fhe direct testimony of Twist to the main facts of the case as regards him. This appears still more strange when it is known that the prisoner had confessed to the officers his participation in the crime, and what disposition had been made of the booty. But, the confession was not legally before the jury.

Froilan Servin[edit]

Implicated by the Tapia confession, captured and tried in Santa Barbara, imprisoned for murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey, 1860

Jesus Valenzuela[edit]

Fled, never found.
He was the brother of the infamous Joaquin Valenzuela, one of the first men to be hanged in Mission Plaza by the San Luis Obispo Committee of Vigilance.

CAPTURE OF ONE OF THE "FIVE JOAQUINS" — HANGED BY THE PEOPLE IN BROAD DAYLIGHT.

The party that went in pursuit spent a week of fruitless search in the hills. The murderers being well mounted, easily eluded them. At the rancho of San Emilio, however, they took one Joaquin Valenzuela, alias Joaquin Ocomorenia, who was identified by several persons as one of the five Joaquins, who were mentioned in the Act of 1853, authorizing the raising of Harry Love's company of rangers. This man is also an old accomplice of Jack Powers, spoke of him as his patron, and is a man steeped to the lips in guilt. He is well known at the mouth of the River Merced, and on the San Joaquin, and owes justice a score which fifty lives can never pay. He was hung in full sight of the whole people of San Luis, in broad daylight, by the voice and assistance of all the respectable men of the county, and died acknowledging his guilt, asking pardon of his friends, and warning all malefactors not to tell their secrets, even to their own countrymen. "Porqite asi se pierde" said he — that is: "Thus you loose yourself." [151] : 296 

Latta in his Horse Gangs 1980, says Jesus was going under the psudonym of his brother Joaquin Valenzuela after his brother had been killed at the 1853 Battle of the Cantua by Love's rangers. Thus it was he that was hung at San Luis Obispo as Joaquin Valenzuela. Jesus' nickname was "Ocho Merino", garbled by the Americans as "Ocomorenia" in 1853, hence Jesus was one of the 5 Joaquins, that were being hunted for by the Rangers in 1853. Latta, p.133-134.


Juan Pedro Oliveras[edit]

Oliveras mentioned in Robles confession as telling him about the plan to rob and murder the Basques on the Nacimento.

Jesus Luna[edit]

Angel, Myron; History of San Luis Obispo County, California; with illustrations and biographical sketches of its prominent men and pioneers, Thompson & West, Oakland, 1883[edit]
The election was held April 14, 1850.
J. Mariano Bonilla was elected County Judge; Henry J. Dally, Sheriff; Charles James Freeman, County Clerk; Joaquin Estrada, County Recorder; John Wilson, County Treasurer and Collector; Joseph Warren and Jesus Luna' were elected Justices of the Peace. [152]: 131 
Luna's vacant office of Justices of the Peace was filled in the election of Feb. 18, 1851.[152]: 133 
All Justices of the Peace were required to give a bond of $1,000, before entering upon the duties of their offices. At that date Jesus Luna, Mariano G. Lascano, and Luis Raggio were Justices.
JUDGES OF THE PLAINS.
The first mention of any other township than San Luis Obispo is in the records of the Court of Sessions upon the occasion of the appointment of Judges of the Plains, and prescribing their duties. The court met for this purpose August 4, 1851, and was composed of John M. Price, County Judge, and William L. Beebee and Jesus Luna, Associate Judges. The following order was made:
Ordered, that the following persons are hereby appointed Judges of the Plains within this county for the townships respectively as follows: For the township of San Luis Obispo, Jose Olevera, 1st Judge; for the township of San Luis Obispo, Dolores Herrera, 2d Judge; for the township of Nipomo, Francisco Branch; for the township of Nipomo, Dreago Olevera; for the township of 3d Precinct, Jose Vasquez, and Petronilo Rios. [152]: 133 
In March Don Jesus Luna is paid fifty dollars for custody of the prisoner, Pedro Lopez; and Enrique Dally receives $13.50 for the same, a further sum of $124 for taking the prisoner to Monterey, for his salary as Alguacil, and for his gustos particulares (traveling expenses), on the way. On March 31st, Enrique Dally as salary receives $105 for the time from August i, 1849, until February 7, 1850, being at the rate of twenty dollars per month. In April Enrique Dally becomes Henry J. Dally, Sheriff by election on the organization of the county government.
ASSESSMENT OF TAXES FOR 1850.
There is no record of the valuation of property in 1850, but a list of the tax-payers and the amount of taxes for State and county purposes is given, which is copied as follows:
Jesus Luna 18.60
F. Esteban Quintana 84.19
Thomas Herrera — 20.47
Pedro Linares — 7.50
Jose M. Quintana - 7.50[152]: 167 
ASSESSED VALUES IN 1851.
Assessment roll of real estate and personal property in the county of San Luis Obispo for the year 1851:
Tomas Herrera, lots and improvements in San Luis, $225; personal property, $900.
Tomas Herrera (for his son), lots in San Luis, $315; personal property, $390.
Victor Linares, 177.6 acres and improvements, lot in San Luis, $1,605; personal property, $2,510.
Jesus Luna, house and lots in San Luis, $1,000; personal property, $480.
Esteban Quintana, lots and improvements in San Luis, $275; personal property, $2,836. [152]: 168 
LICENSE ORDINANCE.
It was enacted by the Court of Sessions in August, 1851, that the proprietors of each and every gambling table in the county of San Luis Obispo should be compelled to pay a tax of $12.00 per month, said tax to be collected in the same manner as other taxes for town purposes.
In 1852 the Court of Sessions fixed cost of licenses as follows:
Monte tables, $35.00 per month. Two tables licensed.
Billiard tables, $10.00 per month. Two tables licensed in January and three in May.
Selling liquors at retail, $7.50 per quarter. Nine bars licensed.
Pedlling and hawking goods, $7.00 per month. One license to Devascio Guzman and one to S. Wolf & Co.
Merchandising, $1.00 per month. Seven licenses granted.
From December i, 1852, until May, 1853, the receipts for licenses were $525.
Jesus Luna was authorized to keep a gambling table and retail liquors; [152]: 169 


355
There was then much travel through the town, it being on the great thoroughfare used by
356 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY.
drovers and the people of the south and from Mexico en route to the gold mines in the Sierra Nevada. The Casa Grande subsequently became the Court House, and so continued until 1870.
The following incident of travel and of judicial authority is related by C. H. Johnson, Esq.: —
COLLECTING TOLL.
Sonoranean migration to California gold placers commenced in 1849. It culminated in 1852, and shortly after that period declined rapidly, until it ceased altogether in 1853. They traveled in bands numbering from fifty to two hundred, the men and many of the women and children on foot. But some of the women with small children were mounted, some on horses, others on burros (asses). Coming from a warmer climate than that of California, they were clad in light garments. The men wore cotton shirts, white pantaloons, and had sandals on their feet and carried machetes (long knives, the blades being two feet and a half in length), without scabbards. The men were called calzones blancos (white pantaloons), a derisive term applied to them by the native Californians.
Their route to the mines was invariably through the coast counties. The Justice of the Peace of San Luis in 1852, who was termed the Alcalde by the people, was a shrewd, unscrupulous man, named Luna. His office was in the adobe building on the corner of Monterey and Chorro Streets, adjoining the church property. The Sonoraneans in passing the church, generally stopped a few moments to make the sign of the cross, and to invoke a blessing from the virgin on their patron saints. The Alcalde improved the opportunity by exacting from them a tribute of quarto reals (fifty cents) a head for the privilege of passing through San Luis. The parties yet in the rear, having received information of this exaction, endeavored to evade it, by passing east of the town by the Munoz place; but the Alcalde sent his Algicaciles (Constables) to warn them, that they would be imprisoned should they attempt to pass by that road, and thus forced them to return and pass in front of the church and by his office, where he collected the tribute. These so-called Alcaldes assumed most extraordinary powers. One of the successors of Luna decreed a divorce between a man and wife.
The Justice of the Peace of the above story has been often mentioned in this history, being Jesus Luna, the first Justice and Associate County Judge in 1850, and also in the account of the vigilance committee as the one whose partner so mysteriously disappeared, after which Senor Luna fled to his native home in New Mexico. [152]: 355–356 

THE MURDER OF GEORGE FEARLESS, IN 1856.

All this time rumors have always been afloat in the community, criminating this or that resident of San Luis, in connection with these matters. No proof could be obtained, because no lives were ever spared, and so nothing was achieved. Good men walked about, whispering and breathing vengeance, but no definite result was obtained. At length, early in 1856, a man of the name of George Fearless . came down from San Francisco, with about $2,000, and went into partnership with a New Mexican named Jesus Luna, establishing a ranchito near the Nascimiento, on the road to Watson's about fifty miles from San Luis. In a few months. Fearless disappeared. Luna stated that he had gone to the States.

Luna sold out all the cattle and other animals even the New Foundland dog and gold watch of his partner and removed south with his family, and is now in New Mexico. About three months afterwards, the body of a man bearing every resemblance to George Fearless was found near the deserted rancho. Then men talked hard about Luna, but it was too late. This man was compadre to Pio Linares, whom we are now seeking. [152]: 294 

The end of the Jack Powers Gang Dan Krieger - San Luis Obispo - The Tribune, July 20, 2013 4:50 PM][edit]

Read more here: Dan Krieger - San Luis Obispo - The Tribune , July 20, 2013 4:50 PM

Read more here: [8]

Dan Krieger, Times Past, County banditos couldn’t outrun death, The Tribune, June 29, 2013 07:33 PM[edit]

Read more here: [9]

Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 139, 22 May 1858, p.2 col.2 Horrible Tragedy- Four Men Murdered[edit]

Horrible Tragedy- Four Men Murdered

We are indebted to the Echo du Pacifique for the following particulars of a horrid tragedy in Tulare valley: Mr. and Mrs. Baratier, a French couple, formerly of Oakland, established a ranch in Tulare ralley, at a place called Pulvadera, forty miles from any other house. They there had a number of cattle, in partnership with a Mr. Borel; and had two Spanish vaqueros. On the 12th instant, seven Mexicans, or Spaniards, came to the house, at 1 o'clock, P. M. Messrs. Baratier and Borel were in the garden, and went to the bouse when they saw the strangers. When they got to the door, the Mexicans fired a volley at them, killing Borel instantly, and wounding Baratier in the shoulder. Mrs. Baratier threw herself on the body of her husband, and begged for his life, weeping most piteously. The murderous gang tore her loose; took the husband into the house, made him tell where his money was ; then took him out to a tree, to which they tied him, and then they killed him. Soon after the vaqueros came to the house, and they were shot down. It was proposed to kill Mrs. Baratier, and one of the party proposed to take her to a distance, and murder her. He tied her on a horse, took her far off, and told her to flee, and prayed her to keep his secret, for his life might pay for his pity. Mrs. Baratier, ignorant of the roads and country, wandered about four days in the mountains, without food, and finally after ten days of intense suffering, arrived at Oakland yesterday afternoon, in a most miserable condition. The robbers obtained £2,000 in money.


Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 156, 8 June 1858, p.1, col.4-5 The San Luis Murder — Further Particulars[edit]
The San Luis Murder — Further Particulars
The Santa Cruz Sentinel published the following letter:
----------------------- San Juan, June 2d, 1858.
A party of fifteen men were in San Juan May 29th and 30th, in pursuit of the desperadoes who murdered the two Frenchmen and another man in San Louis Obispo county, of which mention has been made heretofore in the papers. From them the following items of news have been gathered:
They have taken another of the murderers and have him with them. He is the one who took charge of the woman who in said to be the wife of one of the Frenchmen killed. He brought her into this town and left her at a Spanish house, where she remained two days and nights without making her situation known or what had occurred, except to one or two Spaniards, who have kept the matter secret until now. It is said that she had five or six hundred dollars in money with her, and also, that she is a woman of bad character — at least, the conduct imputed to her while here, would seem to show this. She left here in the stage for Oakland, and employed a Spaniard to take along the two horses and saddles which she had with her.
The company here also with them a young Chileno, who was living with the Frenchman at the time, and whose life was spared by the desperadoes under promise of secrecy. They state that Jack Powers was knowing to and dictated the murder, and that they have proof of this fact. It is also believed by some, that the woman is implicated in the murder. It is furthermore said that Mr. Carlos Hija, a Mexican in this town, had private interviews with this woman while here, and must have known what had occurred. If this be true, he deserves the lash, if not the halter, for not making the matter known to others at the time. One of the company and the Chileno have gone on to Oakland after the woman.
Another item of news, from the same source, is, that Mr. Perkins was murdered ten days ago near Santa Barbara, and robbed of $5000. This is the same Perkins who is reported to have been robbed of money by a Mr. Carter, at Los Angeles.
This party of men have been out over two weeks in pursuit of the murderers of the two Frenchmen, and seem determined on bringing the last one of them to retribution. They say that they followed the woman and the man with her, by their tracks through the mountains, from the place of murder to San Juan, and it is believed that others of the gang are in these parts. Pio Linares is one. His house was surrounded at San Louis in the night time and set on fire, when he rushed out amid a volley of pistol shots, and made his escape.

Joaquin Valenzuela[edit]


Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 162, 14 June 1858, P.1,COL.3 THE LYNCHING AT SAN LUIS OBISPO[edit]

THE LYNCHING AT SAN LUIS OBISPO.—The Los Angeles Clamor Publico gives a long account of the lynchings in San Luis Obispo county, and is very indignant about them. We translate a portion of a long editorial on the subject, as follows: "Thus it is that justice is executed in this country, where they pretend there are laws, and rights and liberty. They lie! Here when they pretend to punish a crime, they commit another still greater." "Following the example of the other towns of California in similar cases, a Committee of Vigilance was formed [in San Luis Obispo.] Parties of men started out in all directions to arrest suspected persons. A few days afterwards, this rabble, styling itself "The People," publicly executed, in San Luis Obispo, an innocent man, named Joaquin Valenzuela, generally known by the nickname of "Nacamereno." Don David W. Alexander, who has just arrived in this city, on whose ranch the unfortunate man was employed, says he was torn from his labor and the bosom of his family, and that he had never left his home for a moment. Here then is another deed of blood which will be a mark of infamy forever on the reformers of the morality and law in San Luis Obispo. "But this is not all. The Committee, composed of about forty persons, went to the house of a certain Pio Linares, who resided about a mile distant from Santa Barbara. The Sheriff was at the head of the party. They told Linares that they came to search his house. He answered that they might enter, but not until he should be unable to defend it. They told him they would set fire to it, unless he would surrender, and so they did; and Linares escaped in the confusion, and his wife and innocent children, endangered by the flames, escaped as if by miracle. The house was reduced to ashes. It is possible that Linares is a criminal, but, if so, this was not a proper method to proceed against him. His family, at least, were innocent. Without doubt the band of saints must have used aguardiente freely before commencing their fiesta, for they gave two bullets to one of their party, believing him to be a thief."


LATER FROM THE SOUTH, Sacramento Daily Union 12 August 1859 P.3, Col.2[edit]

LATER FROM THE SOUTH.

...

From San Bernardino. — A correspondent of the Star, writing from San Bernardino, August 3d, furnishes the appended news: Day before yesterday, three men (Americans) who had been at work on Fernando Sepulveda's ranch, cutting wood, for about a month, stole three fine horses from said Sepulveda, one worth, it is said, $500. Don Fernando Sepulveda, accompanied by Joaquin Valenzuela, followed them into the Cajon Pass, 'en route' for the Mohave river, when they met an expressman coming into San Bernardino, who brought information of the robbers having attacked and robbed the house of one Highmore, at the head of the Mohave; and also that they had attacked two Mexicans connected with a pack train, who were returning from Beale's Crossing. These two Mexicans they robbed and wounded, leaving one of them for dead. The express rider advised Sepulveda to return to San Bernardino for assistance, as there was another party of several white men camped lower down on the Mohave river, with a band of horses, who were probably connected with and waiting for the party who stole the horses from Sepulveda to join them, He accordingly turned back, and arrived in San Bernardino this morning. Vanluven, the Under Sheriff, accompanied by G. N. Whitman, G. H. Williams, and several others, left here in pursuit of the robbers.

Recollections of Historical Events in California, 1843-1878 (Continued), William A. Streeter and William Henry Ellison, California Historical Society Quarterly, Vol. 18, No. 2 (Jun., 1939), pp. 157-179 Published by: University of California Press in association with the California Historical Society, DOI: 10.2307/25139108, Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/2513910[edit]
Joaquin Valenzuela 162-164, 175 seems to be a Californio not from Sonora and too old.

San Luis Obispo Vigilance Committee[edit]

Joseph Hall-Patton, PACIFYING PARADISE: VIOLENCE AND VIGILANTISM IN SAN LUIS OBISPO, A Thesis presented to the Faculty of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo , June 2016, p.155-156, Testimony of Andrea Barate[edit]


Walter Thurtell-Murray[edit]

James Thurtell-Murray (1790-1867) and His Descendants[edit]
Walter Thurtell-Murray (b. 9 Dec 1826 in London - d. 5 Oct 1875 in California), an Englishman, who immigrated to the United States as a young man, later known as Walter Murray, was a printer, miner, lawyer, and finally a Judge of the District Court of San Luis Obispo, California. For a time, he was also the publisher of the San Luis Obispo Tribune newspaper. He died just as he was writing his NARRATIVE OF A CALIFORNIA VOLUNTEER by WALTER MURRAY which was left unfinished, breaking off in mid sentence.
Walter Murray's letter to sister Anne of 28 May, 16 June 1858[edit]

Notes Murray's thoughts about Andrea's treatment by Tapia. Other private commentary on the situation at SLO before and during the vigilance campaign.

THE MURDER AT SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO/San Francisco Bulletin[edit]
  • The following account is the substance of a series of letters apparently written by Walter Murray to the San Francisco Bulletin during the month of June 1858, and recorded in Myron Angel's book The History of San Luis Obispo County:

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY 19th, CENTURY OUTLAW - LAWMAN HISTORY [1848-1899] Prepared by Manny Silva 2006.[edit]

Myron Angel[edit]

CHAPTER XXXII. THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE.[edit]

A Chapter of Crime Unparalleled — Former Murders and Lynching — Terrible Times in San Luis Obispo— The Murder of George Fearless, in 1856— The Dark and Bloody Grounds— The Mur- der of two Frenchmen, in December, 1857 — Light Dawning — -An Organized Gang of Murderers— One of the Murderers Caught— He Escapes the Gallows — Causes of His Escape — .Antagonism of the Native Californians and Americans- The Murder at San Juan Capistrano — Disposal of the Prisoners - Return of the Two Servants — One of the Gang Discovered — Hanged by the Citizens — Fruitless Pursuit of the Gang — The Motto of Linares and Jack Powers — "Dead Men Tell no Tales" — Capture of One of the "Five Joaquins" — Hanged by the People in Broad Daylight — Murder of Jack Gilkey by the Gang — Another of the Gang Caught and Hanged — Another Arrest — His Confession — His Execution — Letter to His Mother — Parties in Pursuit of Remaining Murderers — The Huero and Jack Powers in Distress — Corraling Some of the Gang in a Wood — Pio Linares Reorganized — Engagement with the Mur- derers — The Dead Buried — Execution of Blanco and Grijalva — How the Murderers' Account Stands — What Became of the Huero — The Native Californians Rising — Pursuit by Pacheco's Party after the Huero — Francisco Zuniga Discharged — The Value of Native Californians in the Matter — Growing Strength of the Vigilance Committee — Wholesome Result of the Move- ment — Prosperity Prostrated by Crime — "There's a Good Time Coming," 293 — 300

THE following vivid narrative of crimes of the early days of the county, and of the acts of the Vigilance Committee of 1858, is from the pen of Hon. Walter Murray, in a series of letters written contemporaneously to the San Francisco Bulletin: —

294

A CHAPTER OF CRIME UNPARALLELED.

San Luis Obispo, June 6, 1858. There are various conflicting accounts in regard to a murder lately committed in this county, falsely reported to have taken place on the Tulares. This county has enjoyed a very unenviable reputation for years past. It is now about being cleansed. I propose to lay before your readers as short a history of the annals of crime in San Luis Obispo as can be made out of ten years of bloodshed.

FORMER MURDERS AND LYNCHING.

I shall pass over the by-gone times of Solomon Pico and Joaquin Muriata, and commence in the fall of 1853, when I first arrived here. In October of that year, some eight or ten men passed through here, after murdering a peddler near San Juan; and, after flourishing around town for a few days, boasting of their misdeeds, levied on a lot of horses and decamped for Los Angeles. A pursuing party from this place overhauled them there, with the stolen property and that belonging to the murdered men, upon them. One was killed in the taking. Three of them were brought up to this place and hanged on landing. Another was taken in town and hanged. The rest escaped.

TERRIBLE TIMES IN SAN LUIS OBISPO.

I came to this place just after this affair happened, and I know that ever since then scarcely a month has passed without the disappearance of some traveler, or the finding of dead bodies or skeletons on the roads leading out north and south from here. 'Many a cattle-dealer from the upper country has come south to invest, and has never returned. As many as four dead bodies have been found on the road at one time, and scarcely a man has gone above upon business, without hearing of a new transaction of the kind. It seemed as though there was an organized band of murderers, with spies posted, who never failed of obtaining intelligence when a man passed with money, or in murdering him if found off his guard.

THE MURDER OF GEORGE FEARLESS, IN 1856.

All this time rumors have always been afloat in the community, criminating this or that resident of San Luis, in connection with these matters. No proof could be obtained, because no lives were ever spared, and so nothing was achieved. Good men walked about, whispering and breathing vengeance, but no definite result was obtained. At length, early in 1856, a man of the name of George Fearless came down from San Francisco, with about $2,000, and went into partnership with a New Mexican named Jesus Luna, estabhshing a ranchito near the Nascimiento, on the road to Watson's about fifty miles from San Luis. In a few months. Fearless disappeared. Luna stated that he had gone to the States. Luna sold out all the cattle and other animals — even the New Foundland dog and gold watch of his partner — and removed south with his family, and is now in New Mexico. About three months afterwards, the body of a man bearing every resemblance to George Fearless was found near the deserted rancho. Then men talked hard about Luna, but it was too late. This man was compadre to Pio Linares, whom we are now seeking.

THE DARK AND BLOODY GROUNDS THE MURDER OF TWO FRENCHMEN IN DECEMBER, 1857.

Well, things passed on. New bodies were discovered, but nothing known as to the perpetrators. Then a light broke upon us. In November last, two Frenchmen, Pedro Obiesa and Graciano, collected a band of cattle and started for the upper country. They hired a Californian named Froilan as their vaquero. This man, as also the great Sporting character, hcleped Jack Powers, saw the two Frenchmen receive money just before leaving. On Monday, the 30th day of November, a horse-race took place at Santa Margarita, twelve miles north of this place. At break of day the two Frenchmen received cattle from Froilan and another man at Paso Robles, fifteen miles further on, and paid for them. Froilan had then left their service. At the same time a man named Nieves Robles made his ppearance in their camp, and asked permission to accompany the party to San Jose. He did so, and pointed out that night a camping place, on a road pointed out by him, at a place near the mouth of the Nacimiento. This river and the ground for miles on each side is "the dark and bloody ground " of this section of country.

That night some horses were missed from the Frenchmen's caballada. In the morning they both went out to look for them— and never returned. Nieves Robles, the spy, on the day of the disappearance, left camp twice, returning with his horse sweated. In the morning he made some excuse, and returned to San Luis. Weeks afterwards, the body of one of the Frenchmen was found and identified, the flesh almost gone, and the skull perforated with bullet holes. The other was never found. They left camp in opposite directions. The horses were afterwards recovered. An Indian witnessed from a distance the murdering of one of the men, the one found. He recognized no one, but testified that it was done by two men on horseback, with pistol and riata.

LIGHT DAWNING AN ORGANIZED GANG OF THE MURDERERS.

The day before this murder a horse-race took place at Santa Margarita. That evening, at that place. Jack Powers was present, together with two or three greaser companions, particularly Huero Rafael, alias Rafael Money, alias Rafael Herrada, the same man who since assisted Powers as groom at his great match against time in San Francisco. That night Linares, Powers, and Rafael disappeared; the first returning after several days' absence, flush of money, the two latter going to San Francisco. Late discoveries, made by accessories after the fact, show that these three worthies, with other two or three, waylaid the two Frenchmen singly and killed them, taking from one of them $3,500. Powers was the planner and assistant, Pio Linares and Rafael the principal actors, and others aiding and abetting. So daring and impudent had long impunity made these men that the murder was almost openly talked of between the bad characters at the horse-race the day before; and on the very night before the murder Juan Pedro Oliveras, a worthy well known in San Jose, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles, committed it in town to another rascal, and mentioned every actor in it as above named.

ONE OF THE MURDERERS CAUGHT.

The day after the body was found, viz., on the 20th day of December, Nieves Robles was taken from the gambling table in San Luis, and lodged in jail. He was examined and committed for trial. Linares, as we are informed, went above immediately to warn Powers. Powers, however, came down on the next steamer, and immediately conferred with the prisoner. Powers was intimate with him beforehand. Now he furnished him with coffee, liquors, and other comforts, and urges his attorney to get him released in some way or other. It is right now to say that Powers is, and always has been, a gambler by profession, and a boon companion of the lowest and worst Californians and Mexicans. This Huero Rafael, a

THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE. 295

man who fled from Los Angeles to escape the reward of crime, and who is now recognized as an actor in two late murders, captain in the last, Powers designated as his "right arm," Tu eres mi brazo derecho! These were his words.

HE ESCAPES THE GALLOWS.

Well, Robles never confessed. He was a Californian. The Americans did not move. It was nobody but Frenchmen who had been killed. The French talked lynch; the Californians threatened that in case they did it, every Frenchman in the county should be killed. The best lawyer in the county, the Hon. W. J. Graves, was appointed District Attorney. The proof was light. The jury, a packed California one. One of the jurors was, at the time, a fugitive from the charge of murder. Another was an accomplice in the very crime for which Robles was tried, and since is recognized as one of the actors in the late tragedy at San Juan Capistrano. The man was cleared.

ANTAGONISM OF THE NATIVE CALIFORNIANS AND AMERICANS.

You will say, perhaps, that we are to blame. That the American citizens in this county should attend juries, support the laws, etc. Sir, the American citizens of this county are but a corporal's guard. The Californians and their Mexican defendants are the great bulk of the community. We are helpless. At an election, or at the empanelling of a jury, it is very easy for an unwashed greaser to swear that he came to this county before the treaty with Mexico. That oath makes him a citizen, and he takes his seat in the jury-box. The Frenchman, the Englishman, the Irishman can't do this. His conscience won't permit it. Therefore, although the good men of this community are in the ascendancy, as far as numerical strength and acknowledged respectability are concerned, yet at the ballot-box and in the jury-room they are powerless. When Nieves was cleared, the public voice declared him guilty. The Californians admitted it, but to justify him, justified the deed. They said: —

Ladron qui mata a ladron Merecer cien anos de perdon.

Which being interpreted means.

The thief who kills a thief Deserves a hundred years' relief —

.i.e. from the pains of purgatory. They said that the two Frenchmen had received stolen cattle; therefore, deserved killing. This argument needs no comment. The few Americans laid low and said nothing; but they kept up a devil of a thinking. They felt it was getting hot, and that it would soon be time to stir. They said: "The time is not yet come, but it will come." It did come.

THE MURDER AT SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO.

On the 12th of May another horrid assassination was committed. Please note well the facts stated, dates, names, places, etc., for they are all correct this time. Two Frenchmen, Bartolo Baratie and M. J. Borel, had come down from Oakland to settle on the Rancho San Juan Capistrano. They had been there but ten days. That place is forty-five miles from San Luis; fifteen miles from Captain Mallagh's; six miles from the Camate, the residence of Jack Gilkey. These two Frenchmen had two Californian servants, named Ysidro Silvas and Luis Morillo. On the morning of Monday, the l0th day of May, eight men came along, representing themselves to be horse runners, and wishing to buy food. The open-hearted Frenchmen refused to sell, but gave. That night the men slept in a hut apart with the servants, and on the morning of the 11th went off. Early on the 12th one of the men, since recognized as Miguel Blanco (well known to the Sheriff and Constables of Los Angeles) came back alone, and said that his partners were off running horses, and that he had left them, not wishing to tire his horse. He asked permission to unsaddle his horse there, which was given him. The Frenchmen were several hundred yards from the house, cleaning out a well hole. The Californians were a short distance from them, but hid from their sight, cutting hay. Miguel Blanco stood on a small hill overlooking both parties, and, on a sudden, went down towards the Frenchmen. One of them, Baratie, left his partner and went round to speak to the two servants. Just as he reached them shots were heard where Borel and Miguel Blanco were, at the well hole simultaneously. The balance of the robber party made their appearance on horseback, and Blanco, coming round from his first victim, fired a shot at Baratie, hitting him in the shoulder. Others of the party also fired, one of them singeing the hair of Luis Morillo, the servant, but not injuring him.

The party then bound Morillo, Silvas, and Baratie, and drove them up to the house at point of pistol. Here they found Madame Baratie, the wife of M. Baratie, whom they also threatened with death. Baratie was then forced to point out the trunk which contained his money, and the captain of the band, who proved to be none other than the Huero Rafael, spreading out a blanket on the floor, divided out the money, $2,700, into eight portions, afterwards giving to each his share. Both husband and wife begged for mercy, which was promised them.

DISPOSAL OF THE PRISONERS.

Two of the band, to wit, Luciano, the Mesteno (who has since, God be praised, paid for his crime by his life), and Froilan — still at large — were then ordered by the captain to take the two Californians at a distance and kill them. These two men then placed the servants, still tied, on horseback, and took them out a distance of about a league, and, after some discussion, finally agreed to spare their lives on condition that they should stay there until dark. The two robbers then returned. In the meanwhile, two of the men had been detached by the captain to dispose of Baratie and his wife. They were taken a few hundred yards from the house, to a patch of willows, still under promise of mercy. Here Mrs. Baratie saw one of the men draw on her husband, and kill him with pistol shots. She herself covered his body with his cloak and hat, in which position it was afterwards found.

They then brought Mme. Baratie to the house, and Luciano having returned, it was agreed that he should take her off to the "Cuevas," his resort. He mounted her on a mare, with a side-saddle, and started off with her. This man, from the first, promised to take her to a place of safety, and, in fact, did so, for, after about a week's travel by a round-about road, traveled evidently only by these miscreants, passing by the ranch of Hernandez, called the "Pulvaderas," kept by a wretch well-known as the harborer of thieves, and where she slept one night. She dared not speak here, or at the place where the fellow left her at San Juan, because she saw he was among accomplices. At San Juan he left her at a house about half a mile from the center of the town, kept by a man named Chavez. From here she went to the stage office and took passage for Oakland.

RETURN OF THE TWO SERVANTS.

The two servants of the Frenchman, at about 5 o'clock P. M., returned to the house and saddled up. They found M. Borel lying dead by the well hole, with

296 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY.

three shots in him. They did not find M. Baratie's body. The house was all in confusion; all the clothing picked over, and the best of it carried off. No horses were gone, except a black horse which the Mesteno had taken off, and a mare which the woman rode. Silvas and Morillo, the servants, went that night to the Estrella, where they slept. On the morning of the 13th, Silvas went to Mallagh's rancho Paso Robles. Captain Mallagh immediately saddled up and came into town with the witness. Silvas made his declaration in accordance with the above facts, before Justice White, no names being yet known, and warrants were issued to take John Doe, and Richard Roe, etc., on the charge of murder.

ONE OF THE GANG DISCOVERED HANGED BY THE CITIZENS.

While the papers were being made out. Captain Mallagh and the witness, with the Sheriff, in walking round town to look for the murderers, stumbled on one of them, whom the witness immediately identified. He gave his name as Santos Peralta, and was recognized as one of the Chico Martinez band of horse-runners. He denied his guilt, but could give no account of himself, except what was immediately proved to be false, and part of the stolen articles of clothing was found on his person. That night a party of citizens, infuriated by the enormity of the outrage committed, and satisfied of the determination of the greaser population to set justice at defiance by means of the mock forms of law, entered the jail and hung him. After revelations proved more conclusively even, if that were possible, his damning guilt.

FRUITLESS PURSUIT AFTER THE GANG.

In the morning information was given that a part of these rascals, in number four, were hid in a ravine back of town, where Pio Linares, the arch-conspirator of this place (a Califoruian whose father before him was a robber and murderer, and whose whole family is tainted with crime), had a receptacle for stolen horses, termed a ranchito. A party of fifteen men was formed under orders of the Sheriff, who traced the men up, and even got within two hundred yards of them, on the mountainside. Ysidro Silvas went with them, and there identified the whole four — Rafael, the Huero, as being the captain, Miguel Blanco as the man who killed one Frenchman and wounded the other, Froilan as the one who took the two servants out and afterwards spared them, and Desiderio Grijalva as another of the party.

THE MOTTO OF LINARES AND JACK POWERS — DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES.

All these men are well known as intimate friends and accomplices of Pio Linares and frequenters of his house in town. After revelations have proved that this Linares, a sort of chieftain among the young Californians, had accompanied the party on the expedition as far as the rancho of San Juan Capistrano, and had then, without showing himself, returned without taking part in the murder, because he wished to murder the whole party, including the woman, to which others would not agree. His motto is: "Dead men tell no tales." Jack Powers' motto is the same, hence their former impunity. A departure from this rule in this last murder is, under providence, the cause of our detection of these incarnate fiends.

CAPTURE OF ONE OF THE "FIVE JOAQUINS" — HANGED BY THE PEOPLE IN BROAD DAYLIGHT.

The party that went in pursuit spent a week of fruitless search in the hills. The murderers being well mounted, easily eluded them. At the rancho of San Emilio, however, they took one Joaquin Valenzuela, alias Joaquin Ocomorenia, who was identified by several persons as one of the five Joaquins, who were mentioned m the Act of 1853, authorizing the raising of Harry Love's company of rangers. This man is also an old accomplice of Jack Powers, spoke of him as his patron, and is a man steeped to the lips in guilt. He is well known at the mouth of the River Merced, and on the San Joaquin, and owes justice a score which fifty lives can never pay. He was hung in full sight of the whole people of San Luis, in broad daylight, by the voice and assistance of all the respectable men of the county, and died acknowledging his guilt, asking pardon of his friends, and warning all malefactors not to tell their secrets, even to their own countrymen. "Porqite asi se pierde" said he — that is: "Thus you loose yourself."

MURDER OF JOHN GILKEY BY THE GANG.

I will now relate a trifling episode in the San Juan Capistrano tragedy. At the Camate, six miles from that place, lived Jack Gilkey, a hunter, well known in Tuolumne and San Joaquin Counties, and a man as far as known here, without a vice. His only fault was, being a gringo, or huero, that is, having a light skin. When this band of murderers left the scene of their guilt they went to his place. He was hoeing in his field. The Huero, Rafael, rode up near him, and unseen by him let his pistol drop; then, dismounting, pretended to find it, and made the remark: "What a fine pistol I have found!" Jack went up to him to see, and the villain then fired at him. He missed, but another of the gang, Desiderio Grijalva, came behind and put a ball through his head which killed him instantly. It is supposed that he was killed because he knew them, as they had shared his hospitality the day previous. They knew the murder would be discovered; that parties would go in pursuit; that Jack would, like an honest man as he was, tell whom he had seen, and that they would be detected. Hence his untimely end.

The pursuing party came back without finding any of the criminals in the murder. However, they were determined to persevere to the end. During their absence, Pio Linares had remained in his house, feeling the public pulse, and safe, on account of his complicity in the last murder being hidden. After discoveries show that when the Huero Rafael returned from the murder, he gave Linares for his share $140, and $65.00 to Linares' wife. Rafael lived in their house. The party on entering town searched several houses for the culprits, and at length came to the principal one, Pio's. They surrounded it, and demanded entrance to search for the Huero Rafael, under the arrant. Pio Linares placed himself on the defensive, and refused admission. They therefore demanded that he should come out, which he refused. A light was then put to his roof, the rest of the inmates having voluntarily come out, and at length the head culprit broke, and became a target for a volley of balls. He, however, escaped, and is now in hiding — it is thought, wounded.

ANOTHER OF THE GANG CAUGHT AND HANGED.

Another party was formed, with good trackers among them, who, taking up the trail of the Mesteno and Madame Baratie, traced them two or three days' journey, at length encountering the villain on his return. He was immediately taken, and brought into town. He confessed everything. His story tallies with that of all the other witnesses, and the above statement. He was hung in broad daylight also, as a warning to all miscreants.

By the last boat Madame Baratie came here, at the instigation of San Luis Obispo gentlemen, who wished to see her and to prove to her that, although her fortune had been entirely wrecked by a pack of hell-hounds,

THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE. 297

fostered and favored by the natives of the soil of San Luis Obispo, yet that the American population would do her justice. Her account tallies with all the rest. We hear that stories against her have been circulated above, but here no one has a breath of suspicion against her. It is too ridiculous. It is too infamous to assail a poor woman who has had her husband murdered before her eyes, and the bulk of their property divided among a lot of bandits, with suspicions as to her complicity in a crime which would not advantage her one jot or tittle.

The people of San Luis, who did not know this lady until she came down on the steamer, since the occurrence above detailed, appeal confidently to her friends in Oakland, who have known her for five years, to rebut all attacks on her character. We can only say that those facts show her to be the victim of Spanish atrocity and cupidity, backed by Californian affinity and crime. One word in regard to the Californians. Of those who interest themselves to pursue the criminals of this county, two or three are of the native race. The rest are all Americans or foreigners. Romualdo Pacheco, our Senator, and Jose Maria Munoz, our County Judge, have been appealed to for their assistance, and to use their influence to get the Californians to stir, who are the best riders and have the best horses, who are in fact those who can take the criminals. They have replied formally: —

"Gentlemen, ourselves, our arms, and our animals are at your disposal. The Californians will not be influenced by us, however, to go in search of these men. Some of them are their countrymen, and claim kindred with them."

That is enough; they will not stir. Now this is the fact, the Californians in this country claim the right to rob and murder hueros and gringos with impunity. They do not oppose us openly, but they breathe "curses not loud but deep" against us. They would tomorrow clear the whole gang in a court of law.

ANOTHER ARREST. San Luis Obispo, June 14, 1858. Events come thick and fast in San Luis at this time. In my last I recounted the progress of matters after the execution of Luciano, the Mesteno — the man who took Madame Baratie to San Juan, after the murder of her husband. On Sunday, the 6th June, another of the malefactors, one Jose Antonio Garcia, was brought into town by a party who had been sent after him into Santa Barbara County. This man, like the Mesteno, confessed his fault and disclosed the names of his accomplices. The crime of which he was accused was that of complicity in the murder, on the 1st of December last, on the Nacimiento, of the two Basque Frenchmen, Pedro Obiesa, and Graciano. His confession, translated, reads as follows: —

HIS CONFESSION.

On the 28th day of November last, in Albarelli's billiard room, in San Luis Obispo, Jack Powers invited him to rob the two Frenchmen. After some persuasion he consented to assist in the job, and that morning went to the Santa Margarita, to the Paco horse-race, there to await Jack's arrival. On the 20th saw Jack arrive at Santa Margarita, at Joaquin Estrada's house, and talked with him. On the 30th he. Jack Powers, and a man named Eduviquez went out and slept at the corner of Estrada's fence together. In the night Powers complained of the tardiness of his two other companions, Pio Linares and the Huero, Rafael Herrado. -However, about break of day, the two last named arrived, and all four then galloped over the main road towards San Miguel. Thence taking the Peach-tree Road, they went six miles to a spring, near which the body of Graciano was since found. Here they all stopped to water their horses. Powers, Eduviquez, and Garcia riding on ahead a couple of miles — the other two lagging behind — the first mentioned arrived on a side-hill where there was plenty of grass, and Powers proposed to stay and feed their horses.

While they were doing so, they saw one of the Frenchmen coming along in the distance, and Rafael and Pio making for him. Heard shots fired, and Powers said: "What are they doing? That's very bad." They waited a little longer, and heard more shots, whereupon they saddled up and went in that direction, where they found the two bodies stretched out on the road, about fifty yards part. Garcia then expressed his horror at the deed that had been committed, which was so great as to make him feel sick, and, after taking a drink of water, to leave the place and return. At San Miguel, Eduviquez overtook him and handed him $200, which Jack Powers had sent him of the proceeds. This he took and disposed of.

HIS EXECUTION LETTER TO HIS MOTHER.

This Jose Antonio Garcia, with Eduviquez, were intimate companions here of Jack Powers, and for a short time lived in the same house. The Huero, Rafael, who was also in the San Juan Capistrano murder, was so much a friend of Jack's as to be termed by the Spaniards here "Hermano de Jacky Powers." Powers brought him up from Los Angeles because he found him to be a ready and daring tool to carry out Jack's enterprise. Jose Antonio Garcia paid the penalty of his crimes, at 3 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, 8th June, surrounded by the united population of San Luis Obispo. The padre administered to him the last rights of the Catholic Church. He was the only one of the culprits lately executed who died to all appearances truly penitent, and exhorting all his friends to take warning by his fate, and to avoid evil companions. The following is a letter sent by Jose Antonio to his mother, in Santa Barbara, just before his execution. It was written in Spanish, but the following is the translation: —

"San Luis Obispo, June 6, 1858.

"Beloved Mother: Providence has ordained that this shall be my last day, on account of my crimes. I conform to it, and at the same time remain entirely repentant (and trusting) in the goodness of our sovereign God, that he will pardon me. The last request that I ask of you, my mother, is that you pardon me my faults, and at the same time, that you, in my name, ask pardon of the whole people, and that they pray for my soul. Give the last adieu to my father and to all my family, and tell them that I died as a good Catholic, entirely repent- ant, and with the firm hope that God will pardon me. The priest will be at my side up to the last moment. Pardon and pray for my soul. Your son,

"Jose Antonio Garcia, "In presence of the Reverend Father Juan Comapla, Parish Priest."

PARTIES IN PURSUIT OF THE REMAINING MURDERERS.

On that night a party of ten men, armed and equipped, set out for the tules, with two horses each, furnished by well affected rancheros, and determined not to return without finding some trail of the remaining villains. On Wednesday evening, 9th June, another party, after paying a visit to the ranchito of Pio Linares, and bringing in all his horses, as a preventive measure, started out towards Santa Ynez and La Purissima, where the robbers were said to be. They were on a false scent, for the rascals were upon a hill overlooking San Luis at the time, and spied the party going out, taking it to be two parties, as when it started to visit Pio's ranch it was seen, but

298 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY.

not on the return; while it was again seen on the final start. The thieves thus supposed that it was two parties. This frightened them. They began to think the San Luis people were in earnest; and at night moved down into an immense wood of willows, situated on the Osos Rancho, Captain Wilson's, about ten miles from San Luis. Here we got wind of them.

THE HUERO AND PIO LINARES IN DISTRESS — CORRALING SOME OF THE GANG IN A WOOD.

On Thursday morning, l0th June, Captain Wilson sent word that one of the murderers had been seen. The Captain's shepherd had been accosted near the wood by the Huero Rafael, and after inquiring for his uncle who had formerly lived on the rancho, he offered the shepherd $22.00 to go and purchase for him some food. He said Pio Linares was with him, and that they had nothing to eat for several days. The shepherd at first refused to take the money, but upon being threatened, agreed to accept the commission. He came immediately to his employer. Captain Wilson, gave up the money, and gave information. As soon as the news reached San Luis, a force of about thirty men was raised, who in about two hours' time arrived on the ground. Search was made on horseback through the wood, but no one was found. At length, at about 3 o'clock in the afternoon, a party of about fifteen dismounted, and commenced searching where the wood was too dense for the entrance of horses. Tracks were found; then three horses tied under some willow bushes, then two saddles, and a small bag of provisions. Night was coming on, and it was deemed proper to guard the Wood until morning, then to prosecute the search further. A cordon of sentries was formed — wide apart, however, on account of the extent of the wood in comparison to the small number of men. At about 10 o'clock in the evening a shot was heard, and one of the sentries received a ball, fired from the brush, through the instep. The guards were then withdrawn, trust being placed in our trackers, and it being deemed advisable to let the robbers get out of the wood and take to the open country.

PIO LINARES RECOGNIZED. 11th In the morning it was found that they were still in the wood, and a party of about twenty men started in to hunt them. Taking up the trail where it was left the day previous, they came upon the saddle-bags of the principal villain, to wit, Pio Linares. These were recognized by his coat, which was found in them, and his wife's portrait. Going on a few steps further, the party was fired upon from the thicket of the brush, and then for the first time a glimpse was caught of them. One of the party was shot through the arm, and another had his coat ripped up from the collar to the waist by a rifle ball. Several shots were fired in return, one of which, as was afterwards learned, shot the above-mentioned Pio Linares through the leg.

ENGAGEMENT WITH THE MURDERERS.

Prudence again prevailed over valor, and the pursuing party again took position outside of the wood. Attempts were made to fire the brush, but with little success. Couriers were then sent all over the county, and by night from 100 to 150 men were on the ground. A close line of sentries was placed on the points most likely to be used for an escape. All that night the hungry and thirsty malefactors could be heard breaking their way through the wood. As we afterwards learned they had almost reached the edge of the brush on the side opposite to that on which they had entered, and were ready to break through when morning interrupted them.

12th A party of twenty-four men was then formed under Captain Mallagh, all volunteers, and mostly Americans, who entered the wood, and crept along on their bellies, for several shots from the robbers again pointed out their vicinity. Position was then taken as near as possible to them. In about a quarter of an hour, the head villain, Pio Linares, was shot through the head, and the other two, to wit, Miguel Blanco and Desiderio Grijalva, captured. The pursuers lost one man killed, John Matlock, a well-borer, late of San Jose, and two wounded, William Coates and a Mr. Cross, late of Santa Cruz.

It was learned from the two prisoners that they had eaten no food for four days; and that Linares had kept them from giving themselves up, which the rest had been willing to do for some days past. The prisoners stated that they had suffered so much from hunger, thirst, and fatigue, that they had come to the conclusion that death was preferable to such a state of misery. Linares, however, wanted to sell life for life. He it was who did most of the shooting.

THE DEAD BURIED EXECUTION OF BLANCO AND GRIJALVA.

The dead men of both sides and the prisoners were brought into town. The wounded men were left at Captain Wilson's house, who voluntarily cared for them. Next day, Sunday, 13th June, Matlock was interred in the Catholic burying-ground, it being proved that he had received Catholic baptism. All the population of San Luis Obispo were present at the funeral ceremony, Padre Juan Comapla officiating. Next day, Monday, 14th June, Miguel Blanco and Desiderio Grijalva, after receiving the consolation of religion at the hands of the priests, were led out to execution, and were hung at the hour of 1 o'clock p. m., in presence of the entire people of San Luis. Both the prisoners made a full confession of their guilt, both before the Notary Public and at the scaffold; and each of them exhorted their countrymen and friends to keep from bad company, and to preserve themselves from following the paths of sin. Both acknowledged the justice of their sentence, and expressed themselves as content, in their own words, "to pay their debts." They did pay it.

HOW THE MURDERERS' ACCOUNT STANDS

Of the eight persons who were accomplices in the San Juan Capistrano massacre, five have now expiated their crime by cord or pistol, to wit: Santos Peralta, Luciano Tapia, Pio Linares, Miguel Blanco, and Desiderio Grijalva. Three yet encumber the earth, to wit: Rafael Herrado, Jesus Valenzuela, and Froilan Servin. Of these six accomplices of the Nacimiento murder, two have paid the forfeit - Pio Linares and Jose Antonio Garcia. There remain Jack Powers, Nieves Robles, Eduviquez, and the Huero Rafael Herrada. We are on their track, and some of them, at least, will yet pay for their crimes with their lives. ­

WHAT BECAME OF THE HUERO - THE NATIVE CALIFORNIANS RISING SAN LUIS OBISPO, June 22, 1858. It appears, from the testimony of the two men captured and hung, that the Huero Rafael, after giving the money to the shepherd to buy provisions, had not rejoined his accomplices. He probably stayed on the lookout until he saw the party after him, and then had not time to rejoin his companions, but sought refuge in another part of the wood, after shooting the guard. The same shepherd says that he saw and fired at him after Linares was killed and the party and prisoners had retired. The taking of these three men, I am happy to say, at length stirred up the Californians, and a party of them started on the Huero's trail. On Monday, the 14th June, after the hanging of Grijalva and Blanco, a commission as Deputy Sheriff was given to the Hon. Romualdo Pacheco, our Senator, who, with a party of eighteen Californians and New Mexicans, started in search. ­

PURSUIT BY PACHECO'S PARTY AFTER THE HUERO On Tuesday afternoon, we again got wind of the Huero. A Mexican peon, who had gone out on business to Linares ranchito, where these villains were first scared up, came in and gave intelligence that he had there tied his horse in order to get a drink of water, and that the Huero had suddenly appeared from behind a tree, and taken possession of the horse, afterwards riding off. The Mexican is a man of very suspicious character, but, in evidence of the truth of his statement, he produced a double-barrelled shot-gun, which was left behind by the Huero, and a twenty-dollar gold piece, which he had received for the horse. The horse was a fine one, worth $150, and belonged to Fernando Linares, brother of Pio. Of course complicity in the flight is suspected, either on the part of the peon, or Fernando, or both; but all hands are still at liberty and unmolested, as a standing reproach to all who maintain that the San Luis Obispo people take notice of light offenses, or pursue crime with too much rigor. Information of the flight was soon sent to Pacheco and his party, who immediately started for Santa Barbara, on the Huero's trail. The last news heard from him is that on Friday last, 18th of June, at 11 A.M., he started from Los Angeles, still on the Huero's trail, and twenty-four hours behind him. Pacheco had with him the Sheriff of Santa Barbara, and five other men. We have strong expectations here that Pacheco will catch him. ­

FRANCISCO ZUNIGO DISCHARGED On the 19th Mr. Blackburn came down on the steamer from San Francisco, bringing with him Francisco Zunigo, charged with participation in the San Juan Capistrano murder. Madam Baratie is unable to recognize him, and there is no evidence, except that of one of the servants, who at present is in San Francisco. The murderers who have been caught so far speak of no such man. They only implicated in that deed seven men, to wit: Mesteno Luciano, Desiderio Grijalva, Huero Rafael, Miguel Blanco, Santos Peralta, Jesus Valenzuela, and Froilan Servin, besides Pio Linares who backed out in the sight of the scene of murder, and returned without assisting. Zunigo has been discharged for the present, but kept in surveillance in care of two of his countrymen until further news. I am confident that the man is innocent. ­

VALUE OF THE NATIVE CALIFORNIANS IN THE MATTER In view of the remarks made before in this article, touching on the supineness and neglect of the Californians to act against the murderers, without retracting what was then said, I am happy to state that a portion of them, with the Hon. Romualdo Pacheco at their head, have in good earnest set about doing their part of the work, being the best horsemen, they are the men who can do more in a chase than any of us. Furthermore, if they interest themselves, it will cut off a great deal of the comfort and assistance given to these fellows at the native ranchos. We are all rejoiced that the better portion of the Californians have taken the opportunity, however tardy, to set themselves right before the community. It gives us hopes for better times hereafter. ­

GROWING STRENGTH OF THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE Every day brings more aid to the committee. Every rogue that is taken and hung brings an accession of from twenty to thirty more names to the Vigilance Roll. These men know the villains and their crimes, and it is nothing more than fear of assassination that has kept them off. Besides, many half-honest Spaniards have heretofore lain quiet and tolerated, and even cloaked the crimes which have been committed, because they saw no hope for a redressal of them, and had not the energy to stand alone and aloof from them. Now that the united Americans and foreigners of the place have stretched out a strong hand to their succor, they embrace the opportunity to avail themselves of their protection, and to come out from the paths of sin. ­

WHOLESOME RESULT OF THE MOVEMENT The excitement heretofore reigning in the public mind is now partially allayed. The horses which the committee had stabled up in town ready to pursue the assassins, have been returned to their owners. All the parties have been called in, except one which we have lost track of in the Tulares, and three or four men under Pacheco, who are in pursuit of the Huero. Men walk about unarmed, transact their business, and feel at their ease. I have heard many a man say: "A load has been lifted from my mind!" It is true that business does not flourish so much. There is less money spent now in the billiard-rooms and drinking houses, and on gambling tables. And it was time that this should be. The fame of San Luis Obispo has long ago gone forth as being a place sustained and fostered by the fruits of assassination and robbery. All this must now change; and it will be a glorious change, although half the business done in San Luis should perish in consequence. ­

PROSPERITY PROSTRATED BY CRIME The damage done to this county by the incarnate fiends who have infested it heretofore is incalculable. The county was, at the time of the perpetration of these atrocities, in a critical period of its existence. It was then attracting attention all over the State as being a section of country presenting peculiar advantages to the settler. It is essentially a stock country. When there is no grass in any other county, here it is found in abundance. It is sufficiently well watered for stock. It is not an agricultural county, and therefore there is more room for the stock-owner than elsewhere. There is a large quantity of public land within its boundaries. Mr. Henry, Deputy United States Surveyor, had lately arrived, and was busily engaged surveying the public land, and dividing it from that belonging to the Spanish grants. Many beautiful little spots were being, by his survey, demonstrated to be public land, which before had been claimed by the old grantees. The fame of all this was getting abroad, and not a month passed without bringing one, two, or three persons, good American citizens, looking for a place to locate. Old ranches were changing owners. Senor Pujol, a very worthy gentleman, a native, I believe, of old Spain, had purchased the San Simeon Rancho. A respectable Californian named Castro, from Santa Cruz County, had purchased part of the rancho of San Geronimo. The Messrs. Blackburn, of Santa Cruz, had purchased the Paso Robles Rancho, and quite a colony of Americans had settled in around them, and between them and Captain Mallagh's rancho, the Huer-Huero. Finally Borel and Baratie, two worthy Frenchmen from Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, were about to follow their example. Now how changed! Ten days after their arrival, a band of cut-throats, living right among us, and breaking bread at our tables, lighted upon them and wiped them out of existence, and the poor woman, a respectable and educated lady of mixed Spanish and English blood, was compelled to flee with a bandit to a

300 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY.

more hospitable country, without knowing there existed a county seat within forty miles of her, with an American county organization, and a corps of officers whose duty it is to prevent and punish crime. What wonder that immigration to this county is temporarily stopped? What wonder that intended settlers pause before they trust themselves in such a nest of brigands? What wonder that the county has bean set back years in the path of progress? ­

THERE IS A GOOD TIME COMING But there is a good time coming. The people of San Luis have arisen and cast off this leprosy. They have determined to be vigilant in the repression of crime. They have stricken at its vary root. They have hanged and shot the known leaders in the work of bloodshed. Soon we shall have no more need for this spasmodic action. The committee will disband, but every member of it will hereafter continue vigilant in the support and execution of the laws. The laws are good. No one but skeptics in American progress doubt this. They only want administering by trustworthy man, and sustaining by a healthy population. That healthy population we have not; but we have the nucleus of it, and confidently hope that, now the late tumult has about subsided, a new stream of immigration will set in. With but fifty more good American settlers, we shall have enough to see that American laws are observed and respected and enforced. Than San Luis Obispo may be looked upon, as she really is, one of the most desirable counties of the State. Her soil and climate are almost unrivaled. What she lacks in is population. ­

WALTER MURRAY

The undersigned citizens of San Luis Obispo have read the foregoing statements, and find them to be substantially true: ­­

S. A. POLLARD, JOHN M. PRICE, H. G. ABBEY, DAVID P. MALLAGH, W. J. GRAVES, FREDERICK HILLIARD, THOMAS GRAVES, THOS. R. THORP, M.D, CHARLES W. DANA, C. H. JOHNSON, F. CASTRO, I. H. HILL, WILLIAM L. BEEBEE, TOMAS DE HERRERA, A. ALBARELLI, H. M. OSGOOD, JOHN PATTON, PATRICK MCMIST, P. A. FORRESTER, NICOLO RAVELLO, ANTONIO CAQURIO, D. D. BLACKBURN. ­

N. B. It is worthy of note that the assassins of San Juan Capistrano were taken exactly one month after the committal of their crime - May 12th, the murder; June 12th, the arrest.

CHAPTER XXXIII. VIGILANCE COMMITTEE CONTINUED.[edit]

Anti-Vigilance Newspapers — Review of the Evidence — A Veteran Bandit — The Case of Pio Linares — Defense of the Committee — Desperate Acts of Linares — The Necessity of a Vigilance Committee — The Criminal Element — The Vigilance Pledge — Roll of Members — Vigilance Subscriptions — The Evidence — Murder of the Basque Frenchmen 300 — 304

In the period when the events related in the preceding chapter transpired, there was a paper published in Spanish in Los Angeles, called El Clamor Publico, the organ of the native Californians and Mexicans, which animadverted severely upon the acts of the Vigilance Committee of San Luis Obispo, charging it with hasty action and executing men without evidence. The Spanish paper was supported in its attacks by the San Francisco Herald, which was at all times exceedingly bitter against any acts or organization styled Vigilance Committee. El Clatnor Fublico was read by the native population of San Luis Obispo, stimulating the people to hatred of Americans, and threatening dangerous consequences. This necessitated a reply from Hon. Walter Murray, who prepared and published a review of the evidence upon which the criminals were convicted and executed. From this review we glean the following:—

REVIEW OF THE EVIDENCE.

The editor of El Clamor Publico says that Peralta, or, as he calls him, Robles, was suspected, etc. Peralta was recognized on the instant by one of the Californians whose lives had been spared by the miscreants, as being one of them. This was on the 13th day of May, the day after the murder. He was asked to give an account of himself. He declared that for four nights previous he had slept in the house of a relative named Dolores Cordova. Cordova was sent for and interrogated. He declared that he had not seen the culprit for four days. All this, although done before a Justice of the Peace, was extra-judicial, for our laws do not permit such interrogating. Finally, a pair of handkerchiefs and other articles were taken from him and recognized as part of the property stolen. This much-wronged innocent died mute — not denying his guilt — but refused to disclose his accomplices. He felt himself supported by the law. His accomplices — when, at the cost of fatigue and money, and American blood, freely poured out by brave men, they were dragged from their retreat in the dark recesses of an almost inaccessible wood — when they stood face to face with men who knew the main facts, and who, strong in the rectitude of untroubled consciences, dared to deal out quick justice in the name of self-preservation — when all the paraphernalia of paid lawyers and perjured jurymen was thrown on one side — when Vigilance had hunted them down like wild beasts to their lair, and had demonstrated to them that neither subterfuge, nor fleet horses, nor the law's delay, nor cocked pistols, nor sympathizing countrymen, could longer avail them — then these accomplices voluntarily declared the truth, and disclosed that this very Santos Peralta was the man who shot down poor, wounded Baratie, in cold blood, before his wife's eyes, having purposely led her down to witness the atrocity. Then one of them, Miguel Blanco, confessed freely, what we knew before, that he (Miguel) was the man who killed Borel, and who gave Baratie his first shot. Then Grijalva disclosed how that he himself had shot poor Gilkey from behind, and stretched him lifeless upon the ground he had been tilling, and that Jesus Valenzuela had aftewards dragged him fifty yards at the end of his riata.

Could law have extracted all this from these men? No. But Vigilance did, and that without torture of any description. No impending power was used but the exhibition of an unswerving determination and resistless power. The above facts show the nature of the suspicions against Santos Peralta.

A VETERAN BANDIT.

Now we come to the innocent Joaquin Valenzuela. This man has never been charged with either the Nacimiento or the San Juan Capistrano murders. But he was an acquaintance and comrade of the murderers — brother to one, chum to another, and was proven before the committee to be as full of crime as an egg is full of meat. In 1853 he was a partner of Joaquin Murietta — the veritable Joaquin. It is notorious that he was one of the five Joaquins upon whose heads Governor Bigler

THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE, CONTINUED. 301

set a price, and to catch whom Capt. Harry Love's Company of mounted rangers was organized.

Just before that time he kidnapped an American child, Anne, daughter of an American named Smith, and brought her down to the San Joaquin River, where he and his Mexican female partner brought her up to learn Spanish and hate the Gringos. The Americans living there took the child away, and advertised for her relatives. The father made his appearance and claimed his child. He accompanied this Joaquin across the ferry on the San Joaquin, at the mouth of the River Merced. Joaquin returned; Smith never. The inference is that Smith was killed by the black villain. A skeleton supposed to be his was afterwards found a league or two from the ferry. I refer for these facts to D. P. Brown, of Stockton; to the mother of the child who lives there now, and to those who lived at and near the mouth of the River Merced, in the years 1853-54.

When the Harry Love's Ranger Law was passed, this Joaquin Valenzuela, alias Ocomorenia, came down to the Tulares and to Santa Barbara County. Here he made acquaintance with Jack Powers. In his company Powers inured himself to fatigue on horseback "in the pursuit of stolen or strayed cattle," as the great Jack's eulogist has it, but which rightly interpreted means, "in stealing his neighbor's cattle." There is evidence before the committee here, which will one day be printed, showing that Powers and Joaquin Valenzuela stole cattle together from Guadalupe, Santa Maria, and Nipomo, and drove them to the mines by way of the Tulares. He has been engaged in this nefarious pursuit off and on ever since he came to this section of the country. He was captain of a band of robbers near Purissima, in Santa Barbara County, nearly two years ago, and committed several robberies there. He is a miscreant of the deepest dye, a hardened sinner, the very type of a criminal. When he was being brought in, he told Captain Mallagh that he thought he ought not to be molested, as he had condescended to be honest for a year past. Creo que Vindes no deben de molestarme ahora, siendo que be condescendido por una ano.

This man was invited by Jack Powers at Santa Margarita, on the night of the horse-race there, on November 30th last, to take part in the murder at the Nacimiento. He replied, "I have formerly been in such things, as you know, but I have given it up." He declined going. When arrested, and asked if he knew Powers, he said yes, he was his patron. He seemed to think that the magic name of Powers would be a tower of strength to him. When brought afterwards before the committee, and when he found out that Powers was compromised, he denied any acquaintance with him. Afterwards acknowledged that Powers had invited him to accompany him above on a "business speculation."

This is the " innocent" man who has been torn from the bosom of his family by a mob and " done to death." Mr. David W. Alexander, of Los Angeles, says that this man " has never been absent a moment from his home." This gentleman forgot, perhaps, to tell the editor of the Clamor Publico, that in November last he loaned this man $100 to bring his wife, from Los Angeles; that he (Alexander) was informed at the time of the arrest, that at that very time when he was supposed to be in Los Angeles, he was here in San Luis in company with Jack Powers and other worthies, at the races in and near this place; that he stayed here several weeks, and that during that time instead of living with his wife, whoever the lady may be, he kept with an abandoned Mexican prostitute, for whose sake two men have been stabbed, and two shot within the last six months. For aught Mr. Alexander knows, this man was at the Nacimiento murder on December last. However, he is not charged with it. Now, as this gentleman has forgotten the above particulars, he has forgotten, doubtless, that this Joaquin s a notorious thief How is it then that Alexander Godoy, of Cuyama, Mr. Alexander's next neighbor, and one of Mr. Fremont's veterans, is thoroughly acquainted with the man's character? How is it that this man's character is notorious to every one except Mr. Alexander? Is not this gentleman, like hundreds of other rancheros in the southern country (not Americans, however) content to hire a vaquero without asking questions as to his character, or even if he knew him to be bad, content if he thinks the man will not rob or murder him? I think this is the gist of the matter.

THE CASE OF PIO LINARES.

Now let us return to the tissue of falsity in regard to the first attempt to take Pio Linares. In the first place, the "committee " did not do this. The committee was not then in existence. Secondly, the Sheriff's posse was composed of fifteen men, not forty men. Thirdly, Linares showed fight from the first to the last. The Sheriff had a warrant for the Huero Rafael, a man who had lived in Linares' house. He asked Linares to come out with a light. The intention was doubtless to arrest him, not to kill him, for no man has yet been killed here without a full trial, even by this bug-bear "committee;" no, not even when our men lay blood-stained around us on the cold sod. Then, in the height of the excitement, two of the head villains were spared, brought into town, and confronted by the priest. Well, Linares' reply made to his wife, his brother, and another man — all of whom were allowed freely to pass and repass by the Sheriff and his posse — made to their urgent solicitations that he should surrender, was simply this : No! yo no salgo me!" No; I'll not go out ! They'll ____ me !

The editor of the Clamor can supply the blank. It is fit only for assassins and their defenders.

This man, Linares, knew his weight of guilt. He was confident that he deserved instant death. He feared it. When he came out he came armed and running like a hound. He was fired upon as a criminal fleeing from justice, and two lives would have been saved since, had he fallen then. The roof only was burned. That was fired after timely warning, in order to get him out and to avoid such a catastrophe as happened in Monterey in 1856, when poor De la Torre and others were killed in the fruitless attempt to take Anastasio Garcia. His wife and children made no miraculous escape. His wife was repeatedly begged to come out, but stayed in only to cover his flight, and then came out at her leisure. The very posse assisted her to save her clothes and furniture. Furthermore, his wife, who has been his accomplice from the first, and has always shared in his plunder, and is a woman of notorious bad character, would, in any other county in the State, now be adorning the inside of a jail, instead of running at large as she now does here. As for the children, they are a mere myth. They do not exist. Neither Linares nor his wife ever had any. Truly one can quote here the very expressive words of the Clamor, "They lie."

DEFENSE OF THE COMMITTEE.

Now as to the whisky. These men who accompanied the Sheriff had been out for more than a week on the Tulares. They had returned home on an unfrequented road on purpose to avoid observation. They had not even seen liquor for three days. Every man of them is a better citizen than the Clamor editor ever can be until he plucks out that Mexican heart of his and substitutes an American one in its place. One of the men, a New Mexican, named Julian Garcia, a brave fellow, followed Linares in the darkness and fired his pistol at him as he

302 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY.

ran. Returning, he was seen by some of the party who had been behind the house and had not seen him before. They took him for Linares. It was a mistake. He was tenderly cared for, got medical attendance, and over $100 for his loss of time. No one is more ready than he to pursue cut-throats and to shoot them down. Such men as he put to shame all such men as the Clamor editor. The Clamor thinks that San Luis authorities are sufficiently strong to protect the laws if they desire to do so. Now, we do not want his opinion, nor mine, nor yours, sir, on this subject. We will just state the facts: This Linares, after committing the Nacimiento murders, almost openly bragged about them. In a month's time the whole of the details were openly talked about by his own countrymen, and all acknowledged him to be one of the parties.

DESPERATE ACTS OF LINARES.

Before this, he ran one of our Justices of the Peace all over the town, on account of some trifling misunderstanding. Shortly afterwards, he drew his knife and attempted to stab a very peaceable Mexican for interfering to stop a quarrel. On the night that Nieves Robles, his spy, was arrested, he stabbed two Sonorians in a dance-house, one of whom narrowly escaped with his life. After this, this man and his loose wife were invited to a ball given by the J. P., above mentioned, at the opening of a new hotel. They attended, and some of the first folks, and most, if not all the Americans of this place attended, too. At this ball, this Linares laid in wait for D. D. Blackburn, late of Santa Cruz. That night, he and a party of young Californians, armed, came down to Mr. Murray's house with the intention of firing through the windows at the unsuspecting Americans assembled there. After the matter was adjusted, Linares said to his fellows, "Well, if you come here to fight, why don't you go in? We are stronger than they!"

Miguel Blanco, before dying, was questioned as to whether Linares ever mentioned this last affair to him. Blanco is Linares' nephew. Blanco detailed a conversation which took place between them during their hiding. Linares said that under certain circumstances he could get a portion of the Californians to sustain him. Blanco said, "How can you expect our countrymen to sustain us, who are so criminal?" "They can be brought to do it," said Linares, "they backed me then," referring to the night of the ball. "To this end I have always taken up for them in any petty quarrel. Don't you know that I have always been at the head of all the revolutions in San Luis Obispo?"

This man, Pio Linares, has never been prosecuted for any of the crimes above detailed. He has sat on juries since all of them. The above dying declaration of his accomplice, Blanco, gives the key to it. He was a reckless man, ready for murder in open daylight — murder from behind a bush — in fact, murder in any shape. Every one knew it.

THE NECESSITY OF A VIGILANCE COMMITTEE.

The acquittal of Nieves Robles was before every one's eyes. The Californians were disposed to resist or resent any violent means, and to defeat any legal ones. The mover in any abortive attempt against this criminal was liable to be assassinated at any moment. Good men waited for a bond of unity. The natural bond of self-preservation at length presented itself, and they caught at it, and have, with God's help, succeeded now in right ing matters; in creating a healthy spirit in the community, and in preparing the way for another trial of the law. Here, as in San Francisco, I am confident that the law will hereafter work all the better for the quickening spirit infused into it by vigilance.

THE CRIMINAL ELEMENT.

The law-abiding citizens of San Luis Obispo occupied a very delicate position in the period preceding 1858. From Monterey to Los Angeles was the lonely coast road, with occasional ranchos and the villages of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara widely separated, with many mountains in which were dark canons, pretty valleys, and park-like potreros offering concealment and seclusion, and to this region gathered the worst bandits of California. If not numerous, they were by their boldness and desperation enabled to overawe the majority and maintain a reign of terror. A few Americans like Jack Powers and the infamous ex-Judge McGowan, commonly known as Ned McGowan, of San Francisco, who had fled from the Vigilance Committee of that city, had exerted a baneful influence over the native population, and had been harbored and protected by some of the most respectable people, through fear and in the hope that such a course would protect them from depredation. They thus, in a measure, dominated in politics, ruled the courts, and rendered trials abortive. This made it necessary to organize an extra-judicial power, and the Vigilance Committee of 1858 was the result. It was a bold and honorable movement, and the names of those who participated in it are worthy of the perpetuity of history. Following is the Vigilance Pledge, with the signatures attached, the Vigilance " Roll" and the amounts contributed for the public safety : —

THE VIGILANCE PLEDGE. The undersigned hereby pledge ourselves, each to the other, that in the case of the murder of the two Frenchmen, Bartolo Baratie and M. Jose Borel, we will stand together and will by all means whatsoever, discover the truth and punish the guilty. The first step shall be the application of personal restraint and intimidation to the prisoner now in jail, even if necessary to the danger of life. Walter Murray, A. Albarelli, Francisco Lertora, Luis de la Cella, Francisco Brizzolara, Domingo Garcia, Charles Pellerier, Nicolo Ravello. B. Block, T. P. Commayi, P. A. Forrester, J. J. Simmler, Jacob J. Scheiffarley, Rudolph Blum, B. F. Hamilton.

ROLL OF MEMBERS. The undersigned, citizens of San Luis Obispo, sign our names as members of a body to be called the San Luis Obispo Vigilance Committee, the object of which is and shall be the repression and punishment of crimes by all means whatsoever.

Walter Murray, Manuel Otero, Fredk. Hilliard, Thomas Herrara, S. A. Pollard, N. Amas, Thos. Graves, J. J. Simmler, Labat Pere, Thos. R. Thorp, P. A. Forrester, Leonardo Lopez, G. Leemo, Ramon Baldez, Jules Baume, J. A. de la Guerra, Chas. Johnson, Pedro Ruperez, Wm. Coates, Trinidad Becerro, Bernardo Lazcano, John Matlock, Jose Cantua, Cayetano Amador, Carl Dietz, Fabian Dastas, Ferdinand Quievreux, B. P. Brown,

THE VIGILANCE COMMITTEE, CONTINUED. 303

Miguel Serrano, A. Farnsworth, Joseph Stutz, Domingo Garcia, Dolores Herrara, Henry Pandee, Wm. L. Beebee, Daniel McLeod, B. J. Jones, Guadalupe Gonzales, David P. Mallagh, Basilio Castro, John Patton, A. Albarelli, J. T. Zamorano, Ysidro Balderama, Ysidro Silbas, Jerome A. Limas, John Bains, Albert Mann, Calistro Morales, L. H. Morrison, Capt. John Wilson, F. Laburthe, Enrique Galindo, Feliz Buelna, Jose M. Topete, Manuel Serrano, Selustriano Rojas, Bias Castro, Bentura Lopez, Fernando Martinez, Jose Canet, Francisco Salgado, Ardadio Borgnes, Jesus Olgin, Miguel Herrara, Francisco Huares, Apolonio Cordova, Jose Maria Ordunio, Modesto Carranza, Byron Olney, Lugardo Aguila, Wm. C. Dana, Antonio Paredes, James A. Wright, S. O. Sweet, Francisco Brizzolara, D. D. Blackburn, Pedro Ortega, J. A. Chaves, Antonio Capurro, B. Clement, B. F. Davenport, Alexander Murray, Dr. Ed. Albert, A. Elgutter, Estevan Quintana, Ynocento Garcia, Didelot, W. W. Gilfoyle, James White, F. Wickenden, Charles Pellerier, Benj. Williams, Luis de la Cella, R. Holford, T. W. Slaughter, Nicolo Revello, Chas. W. Dana, Rudolph Selm, Alexander MuUins, Isaac H. Bunce, G. F. Bauer, Reyes Enriquez, Antonio Stanusich, Peter Forrester, Robert Johnson, Chas. Varian, W. J. Graves, John Daley, Oscar Granie, Juan Stanusich, Ygnacio Esquerre, Hypolite Dallidet, Victorino Chavey, C. Dockes, Manuel Vanegas, Wm. Church, Wm. T. Gilkey, V. Mancillas, A. Herrara, C. G. Abbey, Bonifacio Manchego, B. F. Hamilton, John M. Price, Ricardo Durazo, J. Roth, Biceinte La Rey, S. Mora, Julian Garcia, Jose Antonio Garcia, Mariano Lazcano, Sandy Martin, Francisco Garcia, T. Ph. Schring, Augustin Garcia, Jose Carlon, Peter Wm. Williams, P. Z. Taylor, A. P. Hartnell, Angel Barron, Valentin Mancillas, Wm. Snelling, Noracio Carroso, AVm. E. Borland, Gabriel Labot, W. C. Imos, Jas. McNicol, J. M. Martinez.

VIGILANCE SUBSCRIPTION.

Murray $50, Thos. Herrara $50, Alberalli & Co. $100, Pollard $50, Beebee $50, Lafayette $20, Johnson $30, Stone & Barnes $65, Thorpe, M. D. $25, F. Wickenden $30, Davenport $40, Elgutter $20, Alex. Murray $25, Pedro Labat $5, Solano Rodriguez, John Wilson $500, Cash $5, Capt. F. Hilliard $30, Joaq. Estrada $200, F. Z. Branch $300, Letora & Co. $50, Juan Price $50, D. P. Mallagh $22, Horse $37, ditto $26, Brizzolara $50, Stanish $30, Block & Co. $25, Danas $20, Lazcano $50, Domingo Garcia $10, Tabian Dastas $5, Dolores Herrara $10, Ramon Valdez $10, J. H. Hill $10, Simmler & Co. $20, C. F. Roman $20, Limass $50,

Total amount received, $1,525; Disbursements, $1,487; Balance in fund $38.

THE EVIDENCE.

The convictions and executions by the Vigilance Committee were after conclusive evidence had been taken, and supplemented by evidence taken at a later date. The records of the evidence and confessions have been preserved, and are such as show the most depraved and heartless characters, long series of crimes and contempt of law, and leave no doubt of guilt that could be expiated only by death and eternal punishment.

MURDER OF THE BASQUE FRENCHMAN.

Testimony in this case was taken by Jose Maria Munoz, County Judge; W. J. Graves, Notary Public, and J. J. Simmler and James White, Justices of the Peace.

Francois Abadie testified that he was in the employment of Pedro Obiesa and M. Graciano, two men natives of the Basque Provinces of southern France, and known as the Basque Frenchmen, and was driving catde for them in November, 1857. He related the circumstance of their receiving some cattle in a suspicious manner near Paso de Robles, and afterwards the disappearance of the two Basques. These men he had never seen again alive, but at the time of his deposition, in December, 1857, recognized the remains of Graciano, one of them, having a bullet hole in the head. After this Nieves Robles was arrested, and recognized by Abadie as one of the men who had sold the cattle.

Jesus Zamorano testified to robberies and murder in which Nieves Robles had participated in San Mateo County in 1852 and 1853.

Juan Herrada testified, confirming the previous witness, and told of Jack Powers, Pio, Linares, the Huero Rafael, Nieves Robles, Jose Antonio Garcia, and Eduviquez following the Basques.

Nieves Robles confessed his crimes, and stated the agreement with Powers and the others to murder the Basque Frenchmen, and detailed the manner of the murder as told him by Linares, who, with the Huero Rafael, had committed the deed. This confession was made and sworn to before W. J. Graves, Notary Public, June 28, 1858.

Jose Antonio Garcia confessed to participating in the spoils of the murder, but was horrified upon being shown the dead bodies, and fled to his home in Santa Barbara.

Robles had been tried for this murder and acquitted by a jury in the court of San Luis Obispo. One of the jury was one of the murderers, and another was a fugitive under the charge of murder. Mr. Murray, in his account of the Vigilance Committee, has related the main facts of the murders on the San Juan, in the eastern part of

304 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY.

the county, extended particulars of which are given in the depositions and confessions taken at the trials, confirming all his statements, and justifying all the acts of the Vigilance Committee.


Bancroft[edit]

Bancroft, Hubert Howe, Popular tribunals V.1, The History Company, San Francisco, 1887[edit]
Following the great uprisings in San Francisco,
438 EXTENSION OF THE VIGILANCE PRINCIPLE.
there was a general exodus of criminals to the in terior. A San Francisco paper thus pounds the note of warning:
"The recent hanging and banishing of the friends and companions of these villains in San Francisco caused a stampede for the interior and southern portion of the state, where they formed themselves into organized banditti, robbing and murdering indiscriminately. Neither sex nor age were regarded by these desperate gangs of marauders. Patience at last ceased to be a virtue; the law was found to be inefficient to punish the bloody outrages which were daily being committed; the people in the lower counties, in Los Angeles, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and later still in Carson Valley, have been obliged in self-defence to follow the example of San Francisco and mete out a summary but just punishment to all that fell into their hands.
The result of such summary execution is that the desperadoes have concluded that California has become too warm for them, and they have determined to shift their quarters to the new gold regions north, where the people are not so united. In that comparatively unknown country they expect to have more facilities for carrying on their unholy business, and where there will be less chance of detection. As there will be no chance of these men being supported by political plunder in the country to which they have now gone, the more desperate and dangerous will they become. Their organization, it is now proved without a doubt, is complete throughout the coast; they have their secret signs, passwords, and grips, by which they are recognized. Their threats against the members of and sympathizers with the Vigilance Committee is no idle boast. That they will attempt outrages is beyond a doubt. Their friends and abettors in this city will keep them fully posted with the names and business views of all whom they consider will afford a good show of plunder, and murder will prove their safety against further recognition or detection; for, like Jack Powers and Pio Linares, their motto is, Dead men tell no tales.
485 COUNTRY COMMITTEES OF VIGILANCE.
These were desperate times; not a week passed but that the bodies of murdered men were found by the roadside, and many a cattle-dealer from the upper country met a secret and terrible fate in that bloody land. Early in 1856 a man named George Fearless came down from San Francisco with several thousand dollars and went into the stock business with a New Mexican named Jesus Luna, on a rancho some fiftv miles from town. After a few months
486 COUNTRY COMMITTEES OF VIGILANCE.
Fearless disappeared, and his Mexican partner said that he had gone to the states. Soon selling out their property on the rancho, Luna moved to New Mexico, and shortly after his departure the body of Fearless was found concealed on the place.
Now read the next incident, then put the two with twenty other like deeds unrecorded, with matters every day growing worse, and then say if vigilance committees are wrong:
Two Frenchmen collected a band of cattle and started north. They hired a native Californian named Frolian as their vaquero; this man and Jack Powers the gambler saw a large- sum of money paid to the Frenchmen. On Monday, the 30th of November, a horse-race took place at Santa Margarita, twelve miles from San Luis Obispo. Frolian left the service of the Frenchmen that day, and one Nieves Robles appeared in camp and asked permission to accompany the cattle-drovers on their journey as far as San Jose. The proposition accepted, that night he pointed them out a place to camp near the mouth of the river Nacimiento, a spot that has been baptized in the blood of murdered men. In the morning some horses were missing from the caballada, and the Frenchmen rode out to hunt them. They never returned. Weeks afterward the body of one of them was found, the skull perforated by bullets; the body of the other was never discovered. Jack Powers and two Mexican confreres, Linares and Rafael, attended the horse-race on the day before the murder, and that evening disappeared. It was afterward known that, in company with Nieves Robles, they had killed the Frenchmen, taking from one of them the sum of thirty-five hundred dollars. They all returned to San Luis Obispo, when Nieves was arrested and tried, but finally discharged. Nothing was done with the others at that time.
In May, 1857, two Frenchmen, Bortolo Baratie and M. Borel, came down from Oakland to reside on
BARATIE AND BOREL. 487
the rancho San Juan Capistrano. Madame Baratie accompanied her husband, and they had two Californian servants. One evening eight men came along, representing themselves as horse-runners, and wished to buy food. The Frenchmen generously supplied them without pay, and that night allowed them to sleep in the building with their servants. The next day one of the band, Miguel Blanco by name, came back alone, stating that his partners were running horses, and asked the privilege of unsaddling his horse, which was allowed him. The Frenchmen were engaged in cleaning out a well, and the servants were cutting hay a little distance away, but out of sight. Baratie left his partner and came round to speak to the servants, Blanco remaining by Borel. Baratie soon heard firing from the direction of the well, and Blanco, having shot Borel, came running round as the other murderers rode up, and fired at Baratie, hitting him in the shoulder. Driving Baratie and the servants to the house at the muzzle of the pistol, they forced the Frenchman to disclose the whereabouts of his money, about three thousand dollars, which they immediately divided among the band. Baratie was then shot down before the eyes of his wife, and she herself was carried away to a place of concealment in the mountain whence she afterward escaped and returned to Oakland. The Californian servants escaped with their lives and gave the alarm. Two of the murderes were soon afterward caught and hanged in San Luis, making a complete confession of their dark deed. So bold had crime become in San Luis that villains were often heard boasting on the streets of their bloody deeds, using such expressions as: "How the damned scoundrel fought for his life!" or "Why, he fired three shots from his revolver after we thought him dead! with reference to some one they had killed. Many of the native Californians of the southern counties were in league with the murderers, and gave them aid and comfort in every way, rendering it almost
488 COUNTRY COMMITTEES OF VIGILANCE.
impossible for the ends of justice to be attained. The robbers were completely organized, with their signs, grips, and passwords, and it was only the energetic action of the people, striding over the tangled meshes of the law, that finally broke up the powerful alliance and restored a measure of safety to the persons and property of the public.
In June, Jose Antonio Garcia, one of the parties concerned in the murder of the Frenchmen near the Nacimiento, was hanged by the citizens of San Luis. He made a confession on the gallows, implicating the gambler Jack Powers in the crime.
Following swiftly upon this event came another, which indicated that the people had at last become aroused. Several of the robbers who had been concerned in the tragedy at San Juan Capistrano, the miscreant Pio Linares at their head, being hard-pressed by the Americans who were pursuing them, took shelter in a dense willow wood on the Osos Rancho, near San Luis Obispo, and were surrounded. The pursuing party attempted to hunt them out, but after having one of their number wounded by a shot from Linares, were forced to desist on account of the approach of night. By the next night over a hundred armed citizens were on the ground, hemming the wood with a cordon of sentries, and the next morning began to beat the brush for the robbers. A battle ensued, in which Pio Linares was killed, and his two Mexican companions, both of whom were participants in the San Juan Capistrano murder, were captured. The citizens had one man killed and two others wounded. The captured Mexicans were openly hanged in San Luis the next day. Considering the reign of terror that had so long existed in that region, and the utter powerlessness of the law to reach the red-handed assassins, these acts of the Vigilance Committee were not only justifiable but eminently worthy of applause.
Nieves Robles was finally apprehended and lodged

LOS ANGELES ORGANIZATION. 489

in the jail at San Luis, whence he was quietly taken by the vigilants on the 27th of June 1858 and hanged. He confessed his part in the Nacimiento murder, and his statement was fully corroborative of those made by his accomplices who had preceded him on the gallows.
Soon after these occurrences the Vigilance Committee of San Luis Obispo disbanded, considering its work accomplished.

Mason, Jesse D; History of Santa Barbara county, California, with illustrations and biographical sketches of its prominent men and pioneers, Thompson & West, Oakland, Cal., 1883, Chap. XVI,XIX[edit]

82


THE SAN GABRIEL AFFAIR.

Two men left the steamer Savannah at San Diego, on its way up the coast, for the purchase of cattle, having considerable sums of money with them. When camped near the San Gabriel River, they were murdered by Zavaleta and another native, the murderers making their way to Santa Barbara, where they commenced spending money very freely among the lowest houses. A copy of the Los Angeles Star, giving a description of the murderers, was brought into town, and they were recognized and arrested by a number of citizens acting with the Sheriff, Valentine Hearne. It is said that the Americans were more than willing to assist in arresting criminals, provided they were Mexicans, while the natives themselves were considerable less than willing to arrest their own countrymen accused of crime. After the arrest, without a warrant, and, perhaps, on what then seemed insufficient evidence, the chief families, among whom was Captain Noriega, protested against the summary treatment of the men. Serious ill-feeling resulted between the law-and-order party, as the natives and their American friends called themselves, and the boys on the other part. A mounted guard of twenty-five men was made up to accompany the men back to Los Angeles, among whom were the following persons, Henry Carnes being the Commander: John Bowers[John Powers], P. H. Dun[ne], John Dun[ne], John Scollan, Thomas Ganon, Valentine Hearne, Carter, John Robinson, John Vidal, Theodore McCarty, Thomas Martin, Theodore Smith, and Geo. D. Fisher. [ ]

A semi-official demand was made upon the town of Santa Barbara for horses, with threats of retaliation if the horses were not forthcoming. The horses were furnished. (See account of the proceedings on the bills in Court of Sessions, October 11th.) The men confessed the murder, even to the details, and pointed out the place where the bodies were buried. The people of the town (Los Angeles) took the men to Castle Hill and hung them, the guard of twenty-five staying until the work was done. Hearne was Sheriff, and his part of the transaction not pleasing Dr. Den and the de la Guerras, who were his principal sureties, they withdrew from his bonds, thus forcing him to resign. W. W. Twist, a native of Nova Scotia, and, as some say, not a citizen, was appointed to succeed Hearne.

[Charles Frernald was appointed Aug. 9th, to fill Herne's term. Twist was, elected Nov. 2, 1852. Mason, p.82. Mason overlooks his own work here.]

THE ARROYO BURRO AFFAIR.

[If one replaces John Vidal with John Powers here as the party that acquired the property this account would at least be in conformity with the at least four news articles about the incident.] See: Los Angeles Star, Number 52, 7 May 1853, p.2,col.2, Bloody Affray in Santa Barbara — Deplorable State of Affairs., Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 126, 7 May 1853, p.2, col.1, FROM SAN DIEGO AND LOS ANGELES., Los Angeles Star, Number 3, 28 May 1853, p.2,col.2, From Santa Barbara., Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 126, 7 May 1853, p.2, col.1, FROM SAN DIEGO AND LOS ANGELES, Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 143, 24 May 1853, p.2,col.3 FROM SAN DIEGO. and Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 158, 8 June 1853, p.2 col.2; The Riot In Santa Barbara, Full Particulars of the Affray — Statement of the Sheriff

The American population were not always disposed to acquiesce in the large land holdings of the natives, and of the Americans who had intermarried among them. John Vidal, a member of Carnes' Company, of the Stevenson Regiment, was one of the dissatisfied. He bad rented for a time a tract of land on the Arroyo Burro, a small creek which runs into the ocean, west of Santa Barbara. When the lease expired he claimed the land under the preemption laws as Government land. Suit was brought in the proper courts, and the title adjudged to rest in Dr. Den, of whom Vidal had rented. The Sheriff (Twist) was ordered by the courts to oust Vidal and put Den in possession. Vidal was known to have many friends among the gamblers, who often numbered a score or more, among whom was the, even then, notorious Jack Powers, and the matter of dis-

83 NEW ALLEGIANCE.

possessing Vidal was considered hazardous. Whether wisely or not, Twist called out a posse comitatus to execute the writ of ejectment. The people began to take sides as they favored the gamblers or the law-and-order, or respectable party. Vidal's friends gathered to the place in dispute and fortified it, with the determination of holding the ground at all hazards. It is said by some of the partisans of Vidal that the presence of his friends at the Arroyo Burro was merely friendly; that no resistance to the law was contemplated. Some 200 men wore enlisted in

the posse comilatus. and an hour set for the departure of the army the next morning. A surgeon (Dr. BriiikerhofT) was employed to accompany the force. The party was to assemble at the Egerea House, then used as a Court House, at 9 o'clock. A small cannon was on the plaza, to be taken and used if necessary in knocking down the fortifications. Before the party had assembled Vidal and some of his companions came riding up as if to commence the fight there. Old residents differ materially as to the incidents. Some say that Vidal had come to avert the war or aflfect a compromise; that he stayed in town all night to answer a summons if need be; while others say that his whole party had come out from the fort that morning with the intention of capturing the cannon and thus break up the proposed attack. As Vidal came riding up, two men, one called "Little Mickey," and the other a short, swarthy Spaniard almost covered with a serape, lassoed the cannon and commenced to drag it away. It is said that Mickey was drunk, and that this part of the affair was mere fun or bravado on his part. Whatever it might be, Twist fired upon them, and firing immediately became general. Vidal was shot, by whom is unknown, but he fell ft-om his horse near where Rhynerson's Mills are. The swarthy man in the serape drew a long knife from his belt and rushed at Twist, and apparently plunged the knife through him. The knife was turned by a rib and the wound did not prove dangerous. Twist, however, shot his assailant dead. A running fight ensued for a few minutes, without any more serious casualties. Vidal lived fourteen days, without being able to speak, attended by Dr. Brinkerhoff. He had a ring on his finger, which he was evidently anxious to leave to some one, but he was never able to say to whom and it was buried with him. Vidal was much the best of the party, and seems to have been almost forced into the affair by his companions. He was a Justice of the Peace at the time of his death, and had been Associate Justice with Joaquin Carrillo. In a well-settled community he would undoubtedly have been a valuable citizen. Twist soon recovered.

The affair caused a great deal of excitement, and there was serious talk of driving out the whole gang of "hounds," as they were sometimes called. The slightest affair would now have produced a bitter and relentless war between the Powers crowd and the de la Guerra party. Pablo de la Guerra went to the fort the next day with a flag of truce, and induced Powers and the others who were with him to submit to the legal authorities, and the affair ended, though, by the advice of the de la Guerras, the citizens of Santa Barbara generally remained in their houses the following evening. The next morning a ship-of-war was found anchored in the offing, having sailed from Monterey the day before to enforce order if necessary.

The land in dispute was afterwards pronounced public ground, but the courts were undoubtedly correct in deciding that Vidal was a naked trespasser, the adverse party having had peaceable possession for years, a fact acknowledged by Vidal in the payment of rent for it.

GAMBLING.

The discovery of gold and its easy acquisition, by almost every one, made a harvest for gamblers. It is said that every one gambled. This was not quite true; but a stranger looking through the town would think that it was the principal business of the inhabitants. This was not true of Santa Barbara more than other California towns. From Siskiyou to San Diego, the abundance of gold had the same effect, to demoralize man, and make him seek fortune by chance, rather than hard work. Mining itself, is, or was, a kind of gambling. No amount of experience would insure one against ill-luck, and sometimes the greenest boy would •• strike it rich." A few days' work in the mines sometimes resulted in acquiring thousands of dollars. Would not a successful run on a monte bank do the same? So those who were constitutionally disinclined to work, would risk dollars in the hope of making their thousands. Gold was seen everywhere in glittering piles, to tempt the weak. Men gambled then, who have since sat high in the councils of the nation. Merchants, who in the East would as soon have stolen money, as gamble for it, would first risk a quarter on a card for fun, then a dollar to see how their luck run, and in a little while were as keen gamblers as though they had run on a Mississippi steamer for years. Preachers, finding their profession at a discount, would lay aside their prayers and deal a monte game. The lawyer without briefs thought gambling a brief way to fortune. The ranchero, who spent a dull life among his herds liked the excitement, and so nearly all gambled more or less. Gold lay in thousands upon the table, and the reckless and thoughtless helped to swell the piles to a greater size. Strange theories were in circulation about the chances of winning. The theory of chances by a mathematician and an enthusiastic votary of the card-table would not harmonize. A favorite rule was, double your bet every time you lose and you are certain to get your money back and eventually break the bank. This is true; but the certainty of breaking, even a small bank

84 HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.

involves a possibility of millions of dollars. A man has been known to win or lose twenty-five bets in succession without a change of luck. What if that number of bets should go against a man. Doctor Brinkerhoflf relates in his notes an incident of the kind illustrating the mutation of fortunes.

"Late one night I was accosted by a man by the name of , who asked me for twenty dollars. I at first refused, but he begged so hard I let him have it. The next day he came to me and returned the money saying, that he had won six thousand dollars and entirely cleaned out the bank," (meaning the monte bank).

The gambler with his " store clothes," and high-toned style, was the envy of the men and the admiration of the women. Colton says of them they first seek a mistress and then a horse. All kinds of crime followed in the wake of gambling. Prostitution, drunkenness, robbery, and murder seemed but the legitimate fruits of the gambling saloon. It was said of the profession that no man could take another's money without a consideration any length of time, without preparing himself for the halter.

FROM GAMBLING TO HIGHWAY ROBBERY.

Soon after the discovery of gold it became apparent that a new era of crime as well as of money was inaugurated. The southern portion of the State was traversed by cattle buyers who carried as high as $50,000 at a time. Many of these traveling south from San Jose were never seen again, or if seen were recognized by shreds of clothing when the winter rains should expose their decaying skeletons.

SOLOMON PICO'S GANG.

This band flourished in the early fifties, and in its best days numbered forty or more, composed mostly, if not entirely, of Californians or Mexicans. The leader or principal was Solomon Pico, a cousin of Andres and Pio Pico; so that he had the prestige of aristocratic blood. The headquarters of the gang for a long time were the Los Alimos and Purissima Ranchos. Though driving and trading in stock was the ostensible object of the company, it soon became apparent that the robbery of men, who came to the southern part of the State to purchase cattle, was the most flourishing part of their business. Many parties of two or three in number with saddle bags well filled with gold coin, were never heard of after passing San Luis Obispo; and in subsequent years, numbers of human skeletons found in out-of-the-way places with the ominous bullet hole in the skull, told the story of violence in a former day, and accounted for the mysterious disappearance of so many cattle traders. Their victims were mostly Americans whom the native population felt were natural enemies, and thus the crimes which they committed were never divulged, or if brought to trial, resulted in an acquittal, for blood was thick, and to testify against one's countryman, when an American or Gringo was the prosecutor, was something that few, who boasted of Castilian blood, would be guilty of, and thus none of the gang were ever convicted. They generally avoided contests with county oflicials, who, perhaps, with a prudent regard for consequences, were quite as willing to let the banditti alone.

85 JACK POWERS.
After the dispersion of Solomon Pico's gang, some of the remnants were gathered up by Jack Powers, who became one of the most successful and noted bandits of the time. He belonged originally to Stevenson's Regiment, Company F, commanded by Captain Lippett, and was said to have been a man of considerable character and standing when ho was enlisted into the regiment. Shortly after being mustered out he commenced his career as a gambler, making it a decided success. It is reported that he was at one time in possession of a quarter of a million in coin, but this is probably untrue. His first operations were in San Francisco, where he made many friends among the sporting men and politicians of the time.1 He made his appearance in Santa Barbara in an early day, and managed, as the phrase goes, to "pretty much run tho town" for a while; at least he exerted an influence which was greater than that of any other man. Looking back thirty years from our present stand-point of security for life and property, it seems astonishing that one man, or even a few men, should overawe a community and prevent the effective operations of the courts. There were many ways in which it could be done. Witnesses to a crime were hurried out of a country, or kept mute with the certainty of a desperate quarrel if they testified to the facts. A solitary juryman in the interest of a criminal can hang a jury and render a conviction impossible. Lawyers, able ones, can be found to shut their eyes at perjury, or even approve of it, and make an effective defense on known false testimony.
JACK POWERS' HORSEMANSHIP.

He was considered the best rider in the State. In a match at San Jose2 he rode 150 miles in six hours,

1 The reader may wonder that the two classes are thus mentioned together, but he may feel assured that the moral worth of either one was nothing to speak of.

2 The race was held at the Pioneer Racecourse just south of Mission Dolores in 1858. See

86 HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.

changing horses as often as he saw fit. He had a gray mule which would carry him 100 miles in twelve hours. He was in Santa Barbara within ten hours after a robbery committed near San Luis Obispo. The number of his robberies is unknown. He continued his career for nearly four years, his operations extending from San Diego to San Jose. Like the banditti of Italy or Greece, he robbed only those who were strangers to the country, spent his money freely, and kept on the good side of the people. His operations were so shrewdly conducted that for years many people believed that he was a persecuted and slandered man.

MURDER OP THE BASQUES.

Two brothers, who were Frenchmen (Basques), had bought a drove of cattle in Ventura County, and passing through Santa Barbara on their way north, attracted the attention of Powers' gang, and were attacked by some of the party under the leadership of Powers. By some means the attack was not planned with Powers' usual skill, for he found him- self in a desperate hand-to-hand conflict. A shot from one of the brothers passed through his leg, through a portion of the saddle, and killing the horse which he rode, which was a fine black charger, belonging to Miguel de la Guerra, of the San Julian Raneho. The Basques were killed and the cattle driven by Powers' band into the San Joaquin Valley and sold. Notwithstanding Powers' wound, he was in San Francisco the same night, when a circus proprietor, who was a great admirer of Powers for his horsemanship, procured a schooner and sent him to Cape St. Lucas, where he remained until his leg was healed.'*'

  • Authorities differ in regard to this affair. Some say that he was seen in Santa Barbara the same night, that Dr. Brinkerhoff privately attended him, but the writer found nothing in Dr. Brinkerhiff's notes respecting it, neither

could he trace the report to any reliable source.

[This voyage is a garbled ripoff of the escape of Powers in 1858 to Guaymas, reported in the Daily Alta California in Aug. 1858.]


ANECDOTES OF POWERS.
When Zavaleta, one of the principals in the San Gabriel murder, was about to be hung, he expressed a desire to be executed in a new suit of clothes. Jack Powers, who was present, ordered a suit in accordance with the wishes of the condemned, and enabled him to make his exit with the dignity and decency of a Castilian.
STAYING AN EXECUTION.
During the time that Twist was Sheriff, an Indian named Alisal, was to be hung for murder. While the sentence was pending, a petition was sent to the Governor to have the sentence commuted to imprisonment for life. The day for execution having arrived, and no order for a mitigation of the sentence having been received, the Sheriff proceeded to perform his duty. When the Indian was about to be hung. Jack Powers moved a stay of proceedings on the ground that the commutation of the sentence was probably on the steamer which was then overdue. A vote of the spectators was taken and the hanging postponed. The expected paper was on the steamer, so the Indian, instead of being hung, was subjected to imprisonment for life. Twist was much blamed for this, and his sureties withdrew from his bonds, compelling Twist to resign, when Brinkerhoff, by virtue of being Coroner, became Sheriff, a position he held until Russel Heath was elected.


PLAN TO RESCUE DUNN.
As Patrick Dunn was for years a prominent citizen of Santa Barbara, the following bit of biography from the Arizona Miner, of May 23, 1866, will be of interest: —
"Patrick Dunn was born in the State of Maine, 1825. At an early age he learned the trade of a printer, principally, we believe, in the office of the New York Repress. Subsequently he was connected with Mike Walsh's celebrated paper, the Subterranean, and at one time was the editor of it. He reached California in a whaling vessel in 1846, and ran away from the vessel, taking refuge in Sonoma County, where among the first persons he met was Theodore Boggs, now of Prescott, a son of ex-Governor Boggs of Missouri. Mr. Dunn was one of several daring men who went to the rescue of the Donner party of emigrants from the East, who were snowed in near the Sierra Nevadas, in 1847. At that time his feet were severely frosted, and he suffered more or less from them to the day of his death. We believe that Mr. Dunn worked as a printer in California, and once published a paper in Sonoma. He came to Sonora, Arizona, in 1857, and settled at Tucson, where, for a time, he edited the Arizonian, a paper printed for a year or two, in the interest of the Cerro Colorado and Santa Rita Mining Companies. As may be said of most men who have lived in Arizona, he had several desperate fights with the Apaches. In one, at Cook's Cañon, on the Messilla road, he was severely wounded. Mr. Dunn came to this part of the territory with Jack Swilling, in May, 1863. After remaining here for some time, working in the placers, and acquiring an interest in the Chase Mine, he returned to Tucson, and has since, excepting an occasional absence in California, remained there. He was elected to the Upper House of the first Legislature of the Territory. Upon the resignation of Mr. Hayden, as Probate Judge of Pima County, he was appointed to his place."
Dunn had the reputation of belonging to Power's gang. He was, when sober, rather companionable, but when in liquor, fiend, and a man without fear, and reckless to the last extent of personal safety or reputation. He got into a quarrel with a passenger from a steamer, who was said, however, to have been a gambler and rough; one who, like Dunn, always carried his life on the toss of a dime. According to the traditions, the difficulty commenced something like this: —
Dunn: "That's a damn fine hat you have."
Stranger: "I don't know that it's any of your business."
Dann: "Say, I'd like that hat."
Stranger: "You can have it if you can take it."
From this came shooting, or a shot, for the stranger fell dead at the first fire. The shooting occurred on
NEW ALLEGIANCE. 87
the plaza in front of the de la Guerra house, and was witnessed by several of the ladies of the family, but such was the dread of incurring the enmity of the gang, that only the solemn assurance, by the Court, that they should be protected, induced them to testify. Dunn was tried for murder, and plead justifiable homicide in self-defense. The trial lasted twenty-one days, and resulted in a disagreement of the jury. He was tried a second time at Los Angeles, with similar results. While the trial was in progress at Santa Barbara, the Sheriff, Judge, and District Attorney, each received a warning that they would be killed if they prosecuted the case. Six deputies were privately sworn in, with instructions to instantly shoot Dunn and Powers if any attempt was made to interfere with the proceedings. The certainty of becoming targets for half a dozen revolvers probably kept them quiet.
ATTEMPT TO MURDER TOM MARTIN.
Martin had some way incurred Dunn's displeasure, and, as usual, Dunn went for" the object of his wrath. He loaded a double-barrelled shot-gun with slugs, and commenced hunting Tom, and, on coming up with him, snapped both barrels without effect. For this he was arrested, tried, and sentenced to the State's Prison for a term of years. Powers determined to rescue Dunn in his passage from the jail to the boat. Twenty-five men were sworn in as deputies, with

instructions, as before, to shoot both Powers and Dunn, if any attempt to rescue him was made. Russel Heath, the Sheriff, assured him that in case any attempt was made, that he, Powers, would be the first to fall. Powers' friends numbered about forty, as was supposed, so the fight was likely to be serious if it once commenced. The men followed the van containing the prisoner, from the jail to the boat, where he was put on by means of a lighter. Powers and his friends, to the number of thirty, were on the beach on horseback, but the transfer was effected without any interruption.

The crowds of well-dressed people, who now flock to the steamer to welcome returning friends, or bid adieu to those about leaving, have little idea of the stirring scenes there thirty years since.
Dunn died in Arizona in 1866. Powers left California about 185(5, and, with most of his gang, went to Mexico, where he soon stocked a ranch with stolen cattle. He was shot in some difficulty with his own men, and was found in his corral half devoured by hogs.
97 ?
LAWLESS ELEMENT AMONG THE AMERICANS.

To add to the difficulties of maintaining law and order, a strong and active element among the Americans practically denied the authority of any officer, American or native. Jack Powers and his crowd, together with the Dunns, would have been troublesome customers even in the older States, where law and order were crystalized into custom. The daring and recklessness of such men begat a kind of admiration among the people, which, while it could not be considered esteem, was not wholly the result of fear, but was rather the respect paid to power. It must not be thought of Santa Barbara that that place alone had hero worshipers of that kind. The respect and sympathy for the James Brothers, in Missouri, one of the oldest settled States in the Union, are more deplorable than the actions of the "hounds" in Santa Barbara. In the first case the admiration for the men extended, in some degree, all over the Union; in the latter case the demoralization was but small in comparison, and, to some extent, excusable in a country just emerging from the chaos incident to war. Santa Barbara was no worse than other Californian towns, perhaps not quite so bad as San Francisco, where the hounds had several "runs."

In the election of 1853, the roughs laid a plan to capture the whole Legislative and other officers by petting the watches and clocks around the town back, so as to organize the election boards with their own men as officers. They succeeded so well, that there were two sets of officers returned as elected. The Legislature at the capital recognized the law and order officers.

The elections generally went Democratic. Huse was, however, a Whig, and oftentimes received the entire Democratic vote, the highest compliment that could be paid him.


111
THE LAST OF JACK POWER.
During the winter of 1856-57 a series of murders and robberies occurred in Los Angeles, which aroused
112
HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.


the whole country. The organization, for such it was, for murder and plunder seemed to be extensive, and strong enough to defy the county authorities and render for awhile business and ordinary jiursuits impracticable. Bands of twenty or thirty men would be encountered, armed and drilled to act in concert, in fact, the leader, Flores, was a trained dragoon, and put in practice the tactics he had learned in the army. Jack Power was suspected of belonging to this gang, and was arrested in Los Angeles and examined before Justice Millard, but no proof of being connected with the depredations appearing, he was discharged. When he put in an appearance at Santa Barbara he was again arrested. He urged that he was not in Los Angeles at the time of the murders, and could have had no connection with

them; desired counsel, and was taken to the office of Eugene Lies, who undertook his defense. Lies asked that a writ of habeas corpus might issue to bring out any evidence which existed against him. Mr. Lies asked that Power should be left with him in his office for a short time, agreeing to be responsible for his appearance. In the course of the evening, however, he left without notice. The Sheriff blamed Lies for the escape, and he, in turn, laid the blame on Power, who had given his word not to attempt an escape. Many persons thought that the whole affair was irregular; that a Sheriff should put a person charged with a criminal offense into the custody of a lawyer, and that a lawyer should take his word not to escape, was bad practice. It was believed that Power was concealed in the town, and the Gazzette, as it had often done before, appealed to the citizens not to harbor criminals. An ex parte hearing of the matter was had before Judge Fernald, who decided that there was sufficient ground for detaining Power. Lies inserted the following notice in the Gazette: —

"Whereas, John Power, a prisoner in charge of the Sheriff at Santa Barbara, effected his escape while in consultation with me as his counsel, I hereby promise to pay Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars for his apprehension and delivery into the hands of the Sheriff".
Eugene Lies.
Power left and no more troubled this part of the country. His future career is mentioned elsewhere.
EXCITEMENT AT SAN BUENAVENTURA.
The short distance from Los Angeles, and the facility with which a band of robbers could surprise the town from the south, induced the citizens to form themselves into a "Vigilance Committee, to apprehend suspected persons, and to more readily assemble for defense, in case of necessity. Late in the evening of February 3d, two hor.semen were seen approaching the town, apparently intending to pass unobserved towards the Rincon. When they found they were noticed they endeavored to escape-; one, however, who gave his name as Jose Jesus Espinosa, was apprehended. He confessed his connection with Flores' band, and gave the names of several who belonged to it. He was taken to Los Angeles and

hung on Fort Hill, with others of the gang. In this case, as in the Las Cruces' affair, the native Californians cooperated with the Americans in exterminating the bands of murderers, thus helping to secure protection for life and property and bring about a good feeling between the different races.

Mason, Jesse D; History of Santa Barbara county, California, with illustrations and biographical sketches of its prominent men and pioneers, Thompson & West, Oakland, Cal., 1883, Chap. XVI,XIX[edit]

82


THE SAN GABRIEL AFFAIR.

Two men left the steamer Savannah at San Diego, on its way up the coast, for the purchase of cattle, having considerable sums of money with them. When camped near the San Gabriel River, they were murdered by Zavaleta and another native, the murderers making their way to Santa Barbara, where they commenced spending money very freely among the lowest houses. A copy of the Los Angeles Star, giving a description of the murderers, was brought into town, and they were recognized and arrested by a number of citizens acting with the Sheriff, Valentine Hearne. It is said that the Amer- icans were more than willing to assist in arresting criminals, provided they were Mexicans, while the natives themselves were considerable less than will- ing to arrest their own countrymen accused of crime. After the arrest, without a warrant, and, perhaps, on what then seemed insufficient evidence, the chief families, among whom was Captain Noriega, pro- tested against the summary treatment of the men. Serious ill-feeling resulted between the law-and-order party, as the natives and their American friends called themselves, and the hoys on the other part. A mounted guard of twenty-five men was made up to accompany the men Sack to Los Angeles', among whom were the following persons, Henry Carnes being the Commander: John Bowers[John Powers], P. H. Dun[n], John Dun[n], John Seollan, Thomas Ganon, Valentine Hearne, Carter, John Robinson, John Vidal, Theodore McCarty, Thomas Martin, Theodore Smith, and Geo. D. Fisher.

A semi-official demand was made upon the town of

Santa Barbara for horses, with threats of retaliation if the horses were not forthcoming. The horses were furnished. (See account of the proceedings on the bills in Court of Sessions, October 11th.) The men confessed the murder, even to the details, and pointed out the place where the bodies were buried. The people of the town (Los Angeles) took the men to Castle Hill and hung them, the guard of twenty- five staying until the work was done. Hearne was Sheriff, and his part of the transaction not pleasing Dr. Den and the de la Guerras, who were his prin- cipal sureties, they withdrew from his bonds, thus forcing him to resign. W. W. Twist, a native of Nova Scotia, and, as some say, not a citizen, was appointed to succeed Hearne.


THE ARROYO BURRO AFFAIR.

The American population were not always dis- posed to acquiesce in the large land holdings of the natives, and of the Americans who had intermarried among them. John Vidal, a member of Carnes' Company, of the Stevenson Regiment, was one of the dissatisfied. He bad rented for a time a tract of land on the Arroyo Burro, a small creek which runs into the ocean, west of Santa Barbara. When the lease expired he claimed the land under the pre- emption laws as Government land. Suit was brought in the proper courts, and the title adjudged to rest in Dr. Den, of whom Vidal had rented. The Sheriff (Twist) was ordered by the courts to oust Vidal and put Den in possession. Vidal was known to have many friends among the gamblers, who often num- bered a score or more, among whom was the, even then, notorious Jack Powers, and the matter of dis-

83 NEW ALLEGIANCE.

possessing Vidat was considered hazardous. Wiicthcr wisol)- or not, Twist called out a posse comilatus to execute the writ of ejectment. The people bejuan to take sides as thej' ftivored the gamblers or the law-and-order, or respectable party. Vidal's friends gathered t<i the place in dispute and fortified it, wiih the determination of holding the ground at all Iimz- ards. It is said by some of the partisans of Vidal that the presence of his friends at the Arroyo Burro was merely friendly; that no resistance to the law was contemplated. Some 200 men wore enlisted in the posse comilatus. and an hour set for the departure of the army the next morning. A surgeon (Dr. BriiikerhofT) was emploj-ed to accompanj' the force. The party was to assemble at the Egerea House, then used as a Court House, at 9 o'clock. A small cannon was on the plaza, to be taken and used if necessary in knocking down the fortifications. Before the party had assembled Vidal and some of his com- panions came riding up as if to commence the fight there. Old residents differ materially as to the inci- dents. Some say that Vidal had come to avert the war or aflfect a compromise; that he stayed in town all night to answer a summons if need be; while others say that his whole party had come out from the fort that morning with the intention of captur- ing the cannon and thus break up the proposed attack. As Vidal came riding up, two men, one called " Little Mickey," and the other a short, swarthy Spaniard almo.st covered with a serape, las- soed the cannon and commenced to drag it away. It is said that Mickey was drunk, and that this part of the affair was mere fun or bravado on his part. Whatever it might be, Twist fired upon them, and firing immediately became general. Vidal was shot, by whom is unknown, but he fell ft-om his horse near where Rhynerson's Mills are. The swarthy man in the serape drew a long knife from his belt and rushed at Twist, and apparently plunged the knife thi-ough him. The knife was turned by a rib and the wound did not prove dangerous. Twist, however, shot his assailant dead. A running fight ensued for a few minutes, without any more seri- ous casualties. Vidal lived fourteen days, without being able to speak, attended by Dr. Brinkerhoff. He had a ring on his finger, which he was evidently anxious to leave to some one, but he was never able to say to whom and it was buried with him. Vidal was much the best of the party, and seems to have been almost forced into the affair by his companions. He was a Justice of the Peace at the time of his death, and had been Associate Justice with Joaquin Carrillo. In a well-settled community he would undoubtedly have been a valuable citizen. Twist soon recovered.

The affair caused a great deal of excitement, and there was serious talk of driving out the whole gang of " hounds," as they were sometimes called. The slightest affair would now have produced a bitter and relentless war between the Powers crowd and the de la Guerra party. Pablo de la Guerra went to the fort the next day with a flag of truce, and induced Powers and the others who were with him to submit to the legal authorities, and the affair ended, though, by the advice of the de la Guerras, the citizens of Santa Barbara generally remained in their houses the following evening. The next morning a ship-of- war was found anchored in the offing, having sailed from Monterey the day before to enforce order if necessary.

The land in dispute was afterwards pronounced public ground, but the courts were undoubtedly correct in deciding that Vidal was a naked trespasser, the adverse party having had peaceable possession for years, a fact acknowledged by Vidal in the payment of rent for it.


GAMBLING.

The discovery of gold and its easy acquisition, by almost every one, made a harvest for gamblers. It is said that every one gambled. This was not quite true; but a stranger looking through the town would think that it was the principal business of the inhabitants. This was not true of Santa Barbara more than other California towns. From Siskiyou to San Diego, the abundance of gold had the same effect, to demoralize man, and make him seek fortune by chance, rather than hard work. Mining itself, is, or was, a kind of gambling. No amount of experience would insure one against ill-luck, and sometimes the greenest boy would •• strike it rich." A few days' work in the mines sometimes resulted in acquiring thousands of dollars. Would not a successful run on a monte bank do the same? So those who were constitutionally disinclined to work, would risk dol- lars in the hope of making their thousands. Gold was seen everywhere in glittering piles, to tempt the weak. Men gambled then, who have since sat high in the councils of the nation. Merchants, who in the East would as soon have stolen money, as gamble for it, would first risk a quarter on a card for fun, then a dollar to see how their luck run, and in a little while were as keen gamblers as though they had run on a Mississippi steamer for years. Preachers, find- ing their profession at a discount, would lay aside their prayers and deal a monte game. The lawyer without briefs thought gambling a brief way to fort- une. The ranchero, who spent a dull life among his herds liked the excitement, and so nearly all gambled more or less. Gold lay in thousands upon the table, and the reckless and thoughtless helped to swell the piles to a greater size. Strange theories were in circulation about the chances of winning. The theory of chances by a mathematician and an enthusiastic votary of the card-table would not har- monize. A favorite rule was, double your bet every time you lose and you are certain to get your money back and eventually break the bank. This is true; but the certainty of breaking, even a small bank.


84 HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.

involves a possibility of millions of dollars. A man

has been known to win or lose twenty-five bets in succession without a change of luck. What if that number of bets should go against a man. Doctor Brinkerhoflf relates in his notes an incident of the kind illustrating the mutation of fortunes.

"Late one night I was accosted by a man by the name of , who asked me for twenty dollars. I at first refused, but he begged so hard I let him have it. The next day he came to me and returned the money saying, that he had won six thousand dollars and entirely cleaned out the bank," (meaning the monte bank).

The gambler with his " store clothes," and high- toned style, was the envy of the men and the admi- ration of the women. Colton says of them they first seek a mistress and then a horse. All kinds of crime followed in the wake of gambling. Prostitution, drunkenness, robbery, and murder seemed but the legitimate fruits of the gambling saloon. It was said of the profession that no man could take another's money without a consideration any length of time, without preparing himself for the halter.

FROM GAMBLING TO HIGHWAY ROBBERY.

Soon after the discovery of gold it became appar- ent that a new era of crime as well as of money was inaugurated. The southern portion of the State was traversed by cattle buyers who carried as high as $50,000 at a time. Many of these traveling south from San Jose were never seen again, or if seen were recognized by shreds of clothing when the winter rains should expose their decaying skeletons.


SOLOMON PICO'S GANG.

This band flourished in the early fifties, and in its best days numbered forty or more, composed mostly, if not entirely, of Californians or Mexicans. The leader or principal was Solomon Pico, a cousin of Andres and Pio Pico; so that he had the prestige of aristocratic blood. The headquarters of the gang for a long time were the Los Alimos and Purissima Eanchos. Though driving and trading in stock was the ostensible object of the company, it soon became apparent that the robbery of men, who came to the southern part of the State to purchase cattle, was the most flourishing part of their business. Many parties of two or three in number with saddle bags well filled with gold coin, were never heard of after passing San Luis Obispo; and in subsequent years, numbers of human skeletons found in out-of-the-way places with the ominous bullet hole in the skull, told the story of violence in a former day, and accounted for the mysterious disajipearance of so many cattle trad- ers. Their victims were mostly Amei'icans whom the native population felt were natural enemies, and thus the crimes which they committed were never divulged, or if brought to trial, resulted in an ac- quittal, for blood was thick, and to testify against one's countryman, when an American or Gringo was the prosecutor, was something that few, who boasted of Castilian blood, would be guilty of, and thus none of the gang were ever convicted. They generally avoided contests with county oflicials, who, perhaps, with a prudent regard for consequences, were quite as willing to let the banditti alone.



85
JACK POWERS.
After the dispersion of Solomon Pico's gang, some of the remnants were gathered up by Jack Powers, who became one of the most successful and noted bandits of the time. He belonged originally to Stevenson's Regiment, Company F, commanded by Captain Lippett, and was said to have been a man of considerable character and standing when ho was enlisted into the regiment. Shortly after being mustered out he commenced his career as a gambler, making it a decided success. It is reported that he was at one time in possession of a quarter of a million in coin, but this is probably untrue. His first operations were in San Francisco, where he made many friends among the sporting men and politicians of the time.* He made his appearance in Santa Barbara in an early day, and managed, as the phrase goes, to "pretty much run tho town" for a while; at least he exerted an influence which was greater than that of any other man. Looking back thirty years from our present stand-point of security for life and property, it seems astonishing that one man, or even a few men, should overawe a community and prevent the effective operations of the courts. There were many ways in which it could be done. Witnesses to a crime were hurried out of a country, or kept mute with the certainty of a desperate quarrel if they testified to the facts. A solitary juryman in the interest of a criminal can hang a jury and render a conviction impossible. Lawyers, able ones, can be found to shut their eyes at perjury, or even approve of it, and make an effective defense on known false testimony.
JACK powers' horsemanship.

He was considered the best rider in the State. In a match at San Jose he rode 150 miles in six hours,

  • The reader may wonder that the two classes are thus mentioned together, but he may feel assured that the moral worth of either one was nothing to speak of.


86 HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.

changing horses as often as he saw fit. He had a gray mule which would carry him 100 miles in twelve hours. He was in Santa Barbara within ten hours after a robbery committed near San Luis Obispo. The number of his robberies is unknown. He continued his career for nearly four years, his operations extending from San Diego to San Jose. Like the banditti of Italy or Greece, he robbed only those who were strangers to the country, spent his money freely, and kept on the good side of the people. His operations were so shrewdly conducted that for years many people believed that he was a persecuted and slandered man.

MURDER OP THE BASQUES.

Two brothers, who were Frenchmen (Basques), had bought a drove of cattle in Ventura County, and passing through Santa Barbara on their way north, attracted the attention of Powers' gang, and were attacked by some of the party under the leadership of Powers. By some means the attack was not planned with Powers' usual skill, for he found him- self in a desperate hand-to-hand conflict. A shot from one of the brothers passed through his leg, through a portion of the saddle, and killing the horse which he rode, which was a fine black charger, belonging to Miguel de la Guerra, of the San Julian Raneho. The Basques were killed and the cattle driven by Powers' band into the San Joaquin Valley and sold. Notwithstanding Powers' wound, he was in San Francisco the same night, when a circus proprietor, who was a great admirer of Powers for his horsemanship, procured a schooner and sent him to Cape St. Lucas, where he remained until his leg was healed.'*'

  • Authorities differ in regard to this affair. Some say that he was seen in Santa Barbara the same night, that Dr. Brinkerhoff privately attended him, but the writer found nothing in Dr. Brinkerhiff's notes respecting it, neither

could he trace the report to any reliable source.

[This voyage is a garbled ripoff of the escape of Powers in 1858 to Guaymas, reported in the Daily Alta California in Aug. 1858.]


ANECDOTES OF POWERS.
When Zavaleta, one of the principals in the San Gabriel murder, was about to be hung, he expressed a desire to be executed in a new suit of clothes. Jack Powers, who was present, ordered a suit in accordance with the wishes of the condemned, and enabled him to make his exit with the dignity and decency of a Castilian.
STAYING AN EXECUTION.
During the time that Twist was Sheriff, an Indian named Alisal, was to be hung for murder. While the sentence was pending, a petition was sent to the Governor to have the sentence commuted to imprisonment for life. The day for execution having arrived, and no order for a mitigation of the sentence having been received, the Sheriff proceeded to perform his duty. When the Indian was about to be hung. Jack Powers moved a stay of proceedings on the ground that the commutation of the sentence was probably on the steamer which was then overdue. A vote of the spectators was taken and the hanging postponed. The expected paper was on the steamer, so the Indian, instead of being hung, was subjected to imprisonment for life. Twist was much blamed for this, and his sureties withdrew from his bonds, compelling Twist to resign, when Brinkerhoff, by virtue of being Coroner, became Sheriff, a position he held until Russel Heath was elected.


PLAN TO RESCUE DUNN.
As Patrick Dunn was for years a prominent citizen of Santa Barbara, the following bit of biography from the Arizona Miner, of May 23, 1866, will be of interest: —
"Patrick Dunn was born in the State of Maine, 1825. At an early age he learned the trade of a printer, principally, we believe, in the office of the New York Repress. Subsequently he was connected with Mike Walsh's celebrated paper, the Subterranean, and at one time was the editor of it. He reached California in a whaling vessel in 1846, and ran away from the vessel, taking refuge in Sonoma County, where among the first persons he met was Theodore Boggs, now of Prescott, a son of ex-Governor Boggs of Missouri. Mr. Dunn was one of several daring men who went to the rescue of the Donner party of emigrants from the East, who were snowed in near the Sierra Nevadas, in 1847. At that time his feet were severely frosted, and he suffered more or less from them to the day of his death. We believe that Mr. Dunn worked as a printer in California, and once published a paper in Sonoma. He came to Sonora, Arizona, in 1857, and settled at Tucson, where, for a time, he edited the Arizonian, a paper printed for a year or two, in the interest of the Cerro Colorado and Santa Rita Mining Companies. As may be said of most men who have lived in Arizona, he had several desperate fights with the Apaches. In one, at Cook's Cañon, on the Messilla road, he was severely wounded. Mr. Dunn came to this part of the territory with Jack Swilling, in May, 1863. After remaining here for some time, working in the placers, and acquiring an interest in the Chase Mine, he returned to Tucson, and has since, excepting an occasional absence in California, remained there. He was elected to the Upper House of the first Legislature of the Territory. Upon the resignation of Mr. Hayden, as Probate Judge of Pima County, he was appointed to his place."
Dunn had the reputation of belonging to Power's gang. He was, when sober, rather companionable, but when in liquor, fiend, and a man without fear, and reckless to the last extent of personal safety or reputation. He got into a quarrel with a passenger from a steamer, who was said, however, to have been a gambler and rough; one who, like Dunn, always carried his life on the toss of a dime. According to the traditions, the difficulty commenced something like this: —
Dunn: "That's a damn fine hat you have."
Stranger: "I don't know that it's any of your business."
Dann: "Say, I'd like that hat."
Stranger: "You can have it if you can take it."
From this came shooting, or a shot, for the stranger fell dead at the first fire. The shooting occurred on
NEW ALLEGIANCE. 87
the plaza in front of the de la Guerra house, and was witnessed by several of the ladies of the family, but such was the dread of incurring the enmity of the gang, that only the solemn assurance, by the Court, that they should be protected, induced them to testify. Dunn was tried for murder, and plead justifiable homicide in self-defense. The trial lasted twenty-one days, and resulted in a disagreement of the jury. He was tried a second time at Los Angeles, with similar results. While the trial was in progress at Santa Barbara, the Sheriff, Judge, and District Attorney, each received a warning that they would be killed if they prosecuted the case. Six deputies were privately sworn in, with instructions to instantly shoot Dunn and Powers if any attempt was made to interfere with the proceedings. The certainty of becoming targets for half a dozen revolvers probably kept them quiet.
ATTEMPT TO MURDER TOM MARTIN.
Martin had some way incurred Dunn's displeasure, and, as usual, Dunn went for" the object of his wrath. He loaded a double-barrelled shot-gun with slugs, and commenced hunting Tom, and, on coming up with him, snapped both barrels without effect. For this he was arrested, tried, and sentenced to the State's Prison for a term of years. Powers determined to rescue Dunn in his passage from the jail to the boat. Twenty-five men were sworn in as deputies, with

instructions, as before, to shoot both Powers and Dunn, if any attempt to rescue him was made. Russel Heath, the Sheriff, assured him that in case any attempt was made, that he, Powers, would be the first to fall. Powers' friends numbered about forty, as was supposed, so the fight was likely to be serious if it once commenced. The men followed the van containing the prisoner, from the jail to the boat, where he was put on by means of a lighter. Powers and his friends, to the number of thirty, were on the beach on horseback, but the transfer was effected without any interruption.

The crowds of well-dressed people, who now flock to the steamer to welcome returning friends, or bid adieu to those about leaving, have little idea of the stirring scenes there thirty years since.
Dunn died in Arizona in 1866. Powers left California about 185(5, and, with most of his gang, went to Mexico, where he soon stocked a ranch with stolen cattle. He was shot in some difficulty with his own men, and was found in his corral half devoured by hogs.
97 ?
LAWLESS ELEMENT AMONG THE AMERICANS.

To add to the difficulties of maintaining law and order, a strong and active element among the Americans practically denied the authority of any officer, American or native. Jack Powers and his crowd, together with the Dunns, would have been troublesome customers even in the older States, where law and order were crystalized into custom. The daring and recklessness of such men begat a kind of admiration among the people, which, while it could not be considered esteem, was not wholly the result of fear, but was rather the respect paid to power. It must not be thought of Santa Barbara that that place alone had hero worshipers of that kind. The respect and sympathy for the James Brothers, in Missouri, one of the oldest settled States in the Union, are more deplorable than the actions of the "hounds" in Santa Barbara. In the first case the admiration for the men extended, in some degree, all over the Union; in the latter case the demoralization was but small in comparison, and, to some extent, excusable in a country just emerging from the chaos incident to war. Santa Barbara was no worse than other Californian towns, perhaps not quite so bad as San Francisco, where the hounds had several "runs."

In the election of 1853, the roughs laid a plan to capture the whole Legislative and other officers by petting the watches and clocks around the town back, so as to organize the election boards with their own men as officers. They succeeded so well, that there were two sets of officers returned as elected. The Legislature at the capital recognized the law and order officers.

The elections generally went Democratic. Huse was, however, a Whig, and oftentimes received the entire Democratic vote, the highest compliment that could be paid him.


111
THE LAST OF JACK POWER.
During the winter of 1856-57 a series of murders and robberies occurred in Los Angeles, which aroused
112
HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.


the whole country. The organization, for such it was, for murder and plunder seemed to be extensive, and strong enough to defy the county authorities and render for awhile business and ordinary jiursuits impracticable. Bands of twenty or thirty men would be encountered, armed and drilled to act in concert, in fact, the leader, Flores, was a trained dragoon, and put in practice the tactics he had learned in the army. Jack Power was suspected of belonging to this gang, and was arrested in Los Angeles and examined before Justice Millard, but no proof of being connected with the depredations appearing, he was discharged. When he put in an appearance at Santa Barbara he was again arrested. He urged that he was not in Los Angeles at the time of the murders, and could have had no connection with

them; desired counsel, and was taken to the office of Eugene Lies, who undertook his defense. Lies asked that a writ of habeas corpus might issue to bring out any evidence which existed against him. Mr. Lies asked that Power should be left with him in his office for a short time, agreeing to be responsible for his appearance. In the course of the evening, however, he left without notice. The Sheriff blamed Lies for the escape, and he, in turn, laid the blame on Power, who had given his word not to attempt an escape. Many persons thought that the whole affair was irregular; that a Sheriff should put a person charged with a criminal offense into the custody of a lawyer, and that a lawyer should take his word not to escape, was bad practice. It was believed that Power was concealed in the town, and the Gazzette, as it had often done before, appealed to the citizens not to harbor criminals. An ex parte hearing of the matter was had before Judge Fernald, who decided that there was sufficient ground for detaining Power. Lies inserted the following notice in the Gazette: —

"Whereas, John Power, a prisoner in charge of the Sheriff at Santa Barbara, effected his escape while in consultation with me as his counsel, I hereby promise to pay Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars for his apprehension and delivery into the hands of the Sheriff".
Eugene Lies.
Power left and no more troubled this part of the country. His future career is mentioned elsewhere.
EXCITEMENT AT SAN BUENAVENTURA.
The short distance from Los Angeles, and the facility with which a band of robbers could surprise the town from the south, induced the citizens to form themselves into a "Vigilance Committee, to apprehend suspected persons, and to more readily assemble for defense, in case of necessity. Late in the evening of February 3d, two hor.semen were seen approaching the town, apparently intending to pass unobserved towards the Rincon. When they found they were noticed they endeavored to escape-; one, however, who gave his name as Jose Jesus Espinosa, was apprehended. He confessed his connection with Flores' band, and gave the names of several who belonged to it. He was taken to Los Angeles and

hung on Fort Hill, with others of the gang. In this case, as in the Las Cruces' affair, the native Californians cooperated with the Americans in exterminating the bands of murderers, thus helping to secure protection for life and property and bring about a good feeling between the different races.

Annie L. Morrison and John H. Haydon, History of San Luis Obispo County and environs, California, with biographical sketches of the leading men and women of the county and environs who have been identified with the growth and development of the section from the early days to the present, HISTORIC RECORD COMPANY, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNLA, 1917.[edit]

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY AND ENVIRONS 62
CHAPTER VII
History from 1850 to 1860. A Land of Crimes
The discovery of gold had apparently no influence upon the history of this county. The gold frenzy was confined to the northern part of the state. From San Jose to Los Angeles the cattle business was the principal industry. Only two settlements large enough to be called villages even, existed in 1850, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. Travel from one place to the other had to be by schooner or sailing vessel, and few stopped at our ports; for there were no wharves, only "landings," and rarely a passenger; so on horseback down the Salinas valley, over the Santa Lucia mountains, through Cuesta pass to the first little town, and on by the coast trail to Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. Travel by land was very dangerous, for the whole region, especially south of Soledad, was infested by bands of desperadoes. Robberies and murders were of great frequency. The native Californians, with their hatred for the "Gringos" and fear of meeting a like fate at the same hands, would give no evidence against the villains, but harbored them, either through fear or for a share of the plunder.
In 1852-53, the state was terrorized by a band of desperadoes that ranged the country under the leadership of Joaquin Murrieta. Another leader, Jack Powers, with his gang infested this and Santa Barbara counties, making excursions into other territory as well. In 1853, the legislature ordered the enlisting of a company of rangers to hunt Murrieta and the others. The company was known as Harry Love's Rangers, Love being the captain.
...
Jack Powers was a criminal and gambler in San Francisco in 1849. Fleeing from justice there, he organized a band of cutthroats and transferred his operations to this section. He would send out spies to find out when men would lie coming south to buy up cattle. Often these fellows represented themselves as owning large herds seeking buyers. The buyers would set a time to come; and few, if any, got south of the Nacimiento river, which became known as the "dark and bloody ground." Their disappearances remained mysteries so far as the courts were concerned, for reasons already given. Their bodies with bullet holes or gaping knife thrusts were often found beside the road ; or later in some ravine not far distant a bleached skeleton, with perhaps enough clothing left for identification, would be found.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY AND ENVIRONS 63
In November, 1857, two Frenchmen, Pedro Obiesa and Graciano, collected a band of cattle and started north, hiring a Mexican, Frolian, as vaquero. This man and Jack Powers saw the Frenchmen receive money before leaving San Luis Obispo. The following Monday, November 30, a horse race took place at Santa Margarita; Powers, Lenares and a band of "greasers" were present, and that night disappeared. At Paso Robles the Frenchmen received cattle and paid for them. Here Frolian left the cattle buyers, but a man named Nieves Robles appeared and asked to join the Frenchmen and travel with them to San Jose. That night their horses were stampeded. In the morning the two Frenchmen left camp, going in opposite directions to look for their horses. Neither ever returned. Robles made excuses twice during the day to the others at camp and went off, each time returning with his horse in a lather. The next morning he left, saying he was going back to San Luis. A few days later Lenares, flush with money, was back in town. At last, on December 20, Robles was taken from a gambling den on suspicion of the murder and jailed; Lenares at once went north and warned Powers, who came down on the next steamer and furnished Robles with coffee, liquor and other comforts, at the same time urging Robles' attorney to get him released in some way. The night before the murder, Juan Pedro Olivera, a man of evil deeds, told another rascal what was to take place, mentioning every one in the plot. An Indian told of seeing one of the men murdered, the one found, by two men on horseback with reatas and pistols. One was never found. Robles was tried. He was a Californian, the murdered men only Frenchmen, and the Californians swore to kill every Frenchman in the county if Robles were convicted. W. J. Graves, the best lawyer in the county, was district attorney, but what could he do with a "packed" jury? One juryman was a fugitive from a murder committed; another, it was later learned, participated in the murder of the cattle buyers.
Murder at San Juan
The cattle buyers were murdered in the early part of December. In May two more Frenchmen, Bartolo Baratie and M. J. Borel, came down from Oakland to settle on the San Juan ranch, which was forty-five miles from San Luis Obispo, fifteen miles from the Mallah ranch, and six miles from the Comatti. They had two Californians for servants, Ysidero Silvas and Luis Murillo. On May 10, eight men appeared saying they were horse runners and wanted to buy food. The food was freely given to them. That night they slept in a hut apart from the rest, leaving on the morning of the eleventh. On the twelfth, Miguel Blanco, one of the party, returned saying he was not going to run his horse, and asked if he might unsaddle it there and rest. His request was granted. The Frenchmen were some distance from the house cleaning out a spring. The Californians were a short distance away cutting hay, but out of sight of the Frenchmen. Miguel Blanco stood on a little knoll that commanded a view of both parties. Suddenly he started towards the two Frenchmen. Baratie left his partner and started to go to the servants. Just as he reached them shots were heard from where Blanco and Borel were. The rest of the desperadoes rode up on horseback; and as Baratie appeared, Blanco shot him, wounding him in the shoulder. A bullet passed so close to the servant Murillo that it singed his hair. Murillo, Silvas
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and Baratie were then bound and driven to the house, where Madam Baratie was threatened, with death. The bandits then forced Baratie to show them the trunk the money was in. The captain of the band, Huero Rafael, poured the money, $2,700, onto a blanket, dividing it into eight piles, which were passed out to the eight murderers, for so they all were. Baratie and his wife begged for mercy and it was promised. Two of the villains, Luciano and Frolian, one of the gang that committed the double murder the December before, but still at large, were told to take Murillo and Silvas off and shoot them. They took them, still bound, some distance, but finally promised not to kill them if they stayed where they were told until dark. The thieves then returned to the rest of the gang. Meantime Baratie and his wife had been taken to a patch of willows. Here Baratie was shot before his wife's eyes. The poor woman covered her husband's body with his cloak and hat, and so he was found.
Luciano returned after taking the servants away and was told off to take Mrs. Baratie to his resort, the "Cuevas." He compelled her to mount a horse and started off, promising her safety. For a week he took her by trails known only to the thieves, and at last arrived at a ranch, the "Pulvaderas," kept by a harborer of thieves. They stayed there one night, but the terrified woman dared not speak. At last he took her to San Juan, the old settlement near Hollister. She knew he was among accomplices and she held her peace. The house where Luciano left her was about a half mile out from the town and was kept by a fellow named Chavez. From there she took the stage and went to Oakland, let us hope to safety and friends.
About five o'clock Murillo and Silvas went back to the house; Borel lay dead with three shots in his body. They did not find Baratie in the willows. Everything had been rifled and the best clothing was gone. The horses were unmolested save a black horse, and a mare the woman rode. Murillo and Silvas went that night to the Estrella. On the morning of May 13 they went to Captain Mallah's ranch, now known as the Huer-Huero, and told their story, Mallah at once saddled up and came with them to San Luis, where warrants were issued for the murderers as John Doe and Richard Roe. Mallah, Murillo, Silvas and the sheriff walked about the town to see if they could locate any of the murderers. They stumbled on one, Santos Peralta, who was recognized as one of Chico Martinez's band of horse runners. Of course he denied his guilt, but part of the stolen clothing was found on him. He was arrested and jailed, and that night a party of citizens saved the county expense by taking him out and hanging him.
In the morning word was brought to the town that four of the gang were hid in a ravine back of town, where Pio Lenares had a "ranchito" for stolen horses. The sheriff with fifteen men set out to capture them. It was later proven that Lenares went with the gang to murder the two Frenchmen, as far as the San Juan ranch, but left there because the rest would not consent to the murder of the woman. Lenares' motto was "Dead men tell no tales." This was also the saying of Jack Powers. For a week the sheriff" and his men hunted the bandits, who on fine horses easily eluded them in the hills. At a ranch, however, they took Joaquin Valenzuela, identified by several as one of the five Love's Rangers were to capture. He was one of Jack Powers' pals, whom he called his "patron." He was hanged in daylight in full sight of the populace, who turned out to a hanging as to a new kind of "fiesta."
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY AND ENVIRONS 65
Before dying he confessed his guilt. Another party followed on the tracks of Mrs. Baratie and captured Luciano on his return from San Juan. He was brought to town, confessed and was hanged in broad daylight — "fiesta" number two. Mrs. Baratie was brought down from Oakland by Americans and corroborated the testimony of the others in the case.
One June 6, 1858, Jose Antonio Garcia was arrested and confessed to being one of the gang who murdered the two Frenchmen the previous December. In his confession he told of the part Pio Lenares, Jack Powers and Huero Rafael Herrado took, and told of receiving two hundred dollars Powers sent him as his share of the booty. Garcia was hanged at 3 P. M., June 8, another "fiesta"; but now things were getting serious, for justice was being dealt out by the Vigilantes — but that story must be told more fully. On the same night ten men, with twenty horses furnished by the ranchers, set out after the remaining members of the gang. On June 9 another party went to Lenares' "ranchito," and driving in his horses as a preventive measure, started off for Santa Ynez and La Purisima, where the rest were said to be. Pio and his friends were right at hand, however, and saw the party starting, but thought it was two parties. This spelled business; so in the night Lenares and his men left for the immense willow thickets that grew on the Los Osos, then owned by Captain John Wilson. On Thursday morning, June 10, Captain Wilson sent word that one of the gang, Huero Rafael, had given one of his shepherds twenty-two dollars and asked him to get them food. The shepherd gave Wilson the money and information. In about two hours thirty men were in the saddle and off. The men pushed their horses into the willows, but so dense was the growth little could be done. At 3 P. M. fifteen men on foot entered the thicket beating the brush for their men. At length three horses, two saddles and a little bag of provisions were found. Night was near and it was thought best to get out of the woods. Guards were placed, but wide apart, as there were not enough men to circle the place at nearer distances. One guard was shot through the instep. About 10 A. M. the guard was called off, and it was decided to let the bandits get out of the woods and then set the "trackers" on their trail. However, twenty men insisted on taking up the trail in the willows. Soon they found Lenares' saddle bags, and robber and murderer though he was, he carried with him a picture of his wife, which was in one of the bags. In a moment bullets flew, one wounding Lenares through the leg. The pursuers then left the woods and the brush was set on fire; but it was so green it would not burn. Couriers were sent all over the county, and soon one hundred fifty men were on the ground. A close line of guards were set about the willows, through which, all night long, the bandits could be heard breaking their way. In the morning a party of twenty-four men under Captain Mallah crawled on their bellies into the thicket, four shots from the hunted men showed their location. In about fifteen minutes Pio Lenares was shot through the head and Miguel Blanco and Desidero Grijalva taken prisoners. John Matlock, a well-borer from San Jose, was killed and two men wounded, of the pursuing party. The prisoners stated that they had been without food for four days, but Lenares refused to let them surrender. The dead on both sides were brought to town and buried. Monday, June 14, Blanco and Grijalva were hanged at 1 P. M., all hands looking on ; but now the "fiestas" were not very gay affairs. Human life is not a tiling to see pass
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without a tremor, and the Californians of the desperado class knew they were all in close quarters. Some of the better class of Californians assisted the Americans in raiding the bands from the county, notably Romualdo Pacheco.

...

Other Crimes
In November, 1855, Isaac B. Wall, collector of the port of Monterey and T. B. Williamson, an officer of Monterey county, were on their way to San Luis Obispo. On the "dark and bloody ground" of the Nacimicnto they were waylaid and murdered. No direct trace of the murderers was ever found.
In October, 1853, eight or ten men passed through San Luis Obispo going south and openly boasted of having killed a peddler near San Juan. After being "bad men" here for a few days they stole a lot of horses and left. A party from San Luis Obispo followed them and overtook them in Los Angeles. They had the horses and the stolen goods of the peddler. Three of them were put aboard a boat and started back. At Avila a party with ropes received the gentlemen and there was a triple hanging. One was brought back with the pursuers, some say taken in town. At any rate he also was hanged.
Bodies were found beside the road, north or south of town. Once four bodies were found in one place. In 1850, a man named George
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY AND ENVIRONS 67
Fearless came down from San Francisco with $2,000, and went into business with Jesus Luna, a Mexican. They established a "ranchito" on the Nacimiento. Soon Fearless disappeared; Luna said he "had gone to the states." Luna sold out cattle, horses, and even the Newfoundland dog and his partner's gold watch, then left for the south. About three months later Fearless' body, or what was left of it, was found near the ranchito. Luna was a pal of Pio Lenares, so the truth is easy to guess. John Gilkey, living on the Comatti ranch, had been killed by the gang who murdered Borel and Baratie, after they left the San Juan ranch. Grijalva confessed that he shot him in the back and Valenzuela dragged him fifty yards with his reata.
Organizing of a Vigilance Committee
Nieves Robles had been acquitted, though every one knew he was a murderer. The majority of the native Californians either resented or resisted punishing the criminals. Settlers would not come into a county where they were almost sure to meet death on the way. Other portions of the state were filling up with a good class of settlers. Here business was prostrate, life very unsafe and the county known far and wide as a camping ground for countless thieves and murderers. From Monterey to Los Angeles stretched a country full of mountain hiding-places, pleasant pastures for horses, and abundant game. No wonder the bandits gathered here from all over the state. Jack Powers and ex-Judge "Ned McGowan," infamous Americans, who had fled from the San Francisco Vigilantes, came here and organized bands. They plotted and planned most of the crimes, while the natives executed them, alone if the leaders failed to take a hand at the critical moment. The Vigilance Committee of 1858 was the result, and they deserve great praise for the work they did that the courts could not do for lack of evidence, that is, sworn evidence in a court room.
The Pledge
"The undersigned hereby pledge themselves, each to the other, that in the case of the murder of two Frenchmen, Bartolo Baratie and M. Jose Borel, we will stand together and by all means whatsoever, discover the truth and punish the guilty. The first step shall be the personal restraint and intimidation to the prisoner now in jail, even if necessary to the danger of life. Signed : Walter Murray, Francisco Letora, Francisco Brizzolara, Charles Pellerier, B. Block, P. A. Forrester, Jacob J. Scheifferley, A. Albarelli, Luis de la Cella, Domingo Garcia, Nicolo Ravello, T. P. Commay, J. J. Simmler, Rudolph Blum, B. F. Hamilton."
Roll of Members
"The undersigned citizens of San Luis Obispo sign our names as members of a body to be called the San Luis Vigilance Committee, the object of which is and shall be the repression and punishment of crimes by all means whatsoever: Walter Murray, Fred'k Hillard, S. A. Pollard, Thos. Graves, Labat Pere, G. Leemo, P. A. Forrester, Jules Baume, Chas. Johnson, Wm. Coates, Bernardo Lazcano, Jose Cantua, Carl Dietz, Ferdinand Quievreux, Manuel Otero,

Thomas Herrara. N. Amos, J. J. Simmler, Thos. R. Thorp, Leonardo Lopez, Ramon Baldez, J. A. dc la Guerra, Pedro Ruperez, Trinidad Becerro, John

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Matlock, Cayetano Amador, Fabian Dastas, B. P. Brown, Miguel Serrano, A. Farnsworth, Joseph Stutz, Domingo Garcia, Dolores Herrara, Henry Tandee. W. L. Beebee, Daniel McLeod, B. J. Jones, Guadalupe Gonzales, D. P. Mallah, Basilio Castro, John Patton, A. Albarelli, J. T. Zamorano, Ysidro Balderana, Ysidro Silbas, Jerome A. Limas, John Bains, Albert Mann, Calistro Morales, L. H. Morrison, Captain John Wilson, F. Laburthe, Enrique Galindo, Feliz Buelna, A. Elgutter, Estevan Quintana, Jose M. Topete, Inocento Garcia, Didelot, Manuel Serrano, S. Rojas, James White, W. W. Gilfoyle, Bias Castro, Bentura Lopez, F. Wickenden, Chas. Pellesier, F. Martinez, Benjamin Williams, Jose Canet, Luis de la Cella, R. Holford, F. Salgado, Ardadio Borgues, Jesus Olgin, jMiguel Herrara, F. W. Slaughter, Nicolo Revello, Chas. W. Dana. Francisco Huares, A. Cordova, Jose Maria Ordunio, Modesto Carranza, Byron Olney, Lugardo Aguila, W. C. Dana, Antonio Paradeo, James A. Wright, S. O. Sweet, Francisco Brizzolara, D. D. Blackburn, Pedro Ortega, J. A. Chaves, Antonio Capuero, B. Clement, B. F. Davenport, A. Murray, Dr. Ed Albert, Rudolph Selm, A. Mullins, Isaac H. Bunce, G. F. Sauer, Reyes Enriquez, A. Stanwick, Peter Forrester, Robert Johnson, Chas. Varrian, W. J. Graves, John Daley, Juan Stanwick, Ygnacio Esquerre, H. Dallidet, Victorino Chavez, C. Dockes, Manuel Vanegas, William Church, William F. Gilkey, V. Mancillas, A. Hcrrera, C. G. Abbey, Bonifacio Manchego, B. F. Hamilton, John M. Price, Ricardo Durazo, J. Roth, B. La Rey, I. Mora, J. Garcia, Jose A. Garcia, Mariano Lazcano, Sandy Martin, Francisco Garcia, T. Ph. Schring, Augustin Garcia, Jose Carlon, P. W. Williams, P. Z. Taylor, A. P. Hartnell, Angel Barron, V. Mancillas, William Snelling, Noracio Carroso. Win. E. Borland, Gabriel Labat, W. C. Imos, James McNicol, J. M. Martinez."
The following subscrilied for the expenses of the committee: Murray, $50: Thomas Herrara, $50; Albarelli & Co., $100; Pollard, $50; Beebee, $50; Lafayette, $50; Johnson, $30; Stone and Barns, $65; Dr. Thorp, $25; F. Wickenden, $30; Davenport, $40; Elgutter, $20; Alex Murray, $25; Pedro Labat, .'R5 ; John Wilson, $500; Capt. F. Hillard, $30; Joaquin Estrada, $200; F. Z. Branch, $300; Lazcano, $50; Domingo Garcia, $10; Fabian Dastas, $5; Dolores Herrara, $10; Ramon Valdez, $10; J. H. Hill, $10; Simmler & Co., $20; C. F. Roman, $20; Lenares, $50; Letora & Co., $50; Juan Price, $50; D. P. Mallah, $22; Horse, $37; ditto, $26; Stanish, $30; Block & Co., $25; Dana. $20. Total amount, $1,525; disbursements, $1,487; balance, $38.
Many more murders were committed besides those mentioned, but the quick work of the Vigilance Committee put a damper on crime and it was less openly boasted of and of much less frequency. The accounts of those crimes from 1850 to 1858, are taken from a series of letters written by Walter Murray in 1858, to the San Francisco Bulletin. He came to San Luis Obispo in 1853, and was from the first a leading citizen, foremost in wiping off the slate of criminality, that for so long had made of the county a safe nest for all sorts of vagabonds, Murders and robberies still occurred, but at longer intervals.

Los Angeles Star, Number 23, 13 October 1860, U. S. LAND SURVEYS. p.4 col.1[edit]

Name of Rancho...............Confirmee
Lot in San Luis Obispo ..... Widow and Heirs of V. Linares.
11. Micaela Linares, Executor of Victor Linares, deceased—Mission of San Luis Obispo—claim confirmed to the appellee.

Guinn[edit]

THE condition of affairs in California steadily grew worse as the revolution in Mexico progressed. Sola had made strenuous efforts to arouse the Spanish authorities of New Spain to take some action towards benefiting the territory. After the affair with the insurgent Bouchard he had appealed to the viceroy for reinforcements. In answer to his urgent entreaties a force of one hundred men was sent from Mazatlan to garrison San Diego and an equal force from San Blas for Monterey. They reached California in August, 1819, and Sola was greatly rejoiced, but his joy was turned to deep disgust when he discovered the true character of the reinforcement and arms sent him. The only equipments of the soldiers were a few hundred old worn-out sabers that Sola declared were unfit for sickles. He ordered them returned to the comandante of San Blas, who had sent them. The troops were a worse lot than the arms sent.
They had been taken out of the prisons or conscripted from the lowest class of the population of the cities. They were thieves, drunkards and vagabonds, who, as soon as landed, resorted to robberies, brawls and assassinations. Sola wrote to the viceroy that the outcasts called troops sent him from the jails of Tepic and San Blas by their vices caused continual disorders; their evil example had debauched the minds of the Indians and that the cost incurred in their collection and transportation had been worse than thrown away. He could not get rid of them, so he had to control them as best he could.


Charles Montville Gidney, Benjamin Brooks, Edwin M. Sheridan; History of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties, California, Vol. 1, Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, 1917[edit]

Charles Montville Gidney, Benjamin Brooks, Edwin M. Sheridan; History of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties, California, Volume 2, Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, 1917[edit]

John Wilson

Walter Thurtell-Murray[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Walter Murray

Biographical/Historical note

Walter Murray was born in Gloucestershire, England in 1826. Apprenticed to a lawyer, he was sent to America in 1842; by 1846 he was living in New York, where he learned of the California Volunteers, a regiment commanded by Col. Jonathan D. Stevenson of New York. The regiment was intended to serve in the Mexican War with the understanding that, following the American possession of California, the Volunteers would be discharged and provided with settlements in the newly obtained land. Murray’s company was one of the few to see actual battle, as most of Stevenson’s Regiment arrived in California too late to take part in military service. Following his duties with the Volunteers, Murray tried his hand at mining gold in Sonora and, finding it unsuitable, made his living providing miners with supplies from San Francisco. Murray also established and published the Sonora Herald. Having married, Murray moved to San Luis Obispo, where he studied law, served as a Justice of the Peace, and published the San Luis Obispo Tribune. At the time of his death in 1875, Murray was the District Judge of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.

PACIFYING PARADISE: VIOLENCE AND VIGILANTISM IN SAN LUIS OBISPO, A Thesis presented to the Faculty of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Joseph Hall-Patton, June 2016[edit]
Jack Powers, American Bandito in Old California, By Richard Duree (Col. Richard Dodge, SASS 1750 Life)[edit]
Prepared by Manny Silva, 2006. Sources: ”1883 history of San Luis Obispo” by Myron Angel and “Journey of Justice” by Gary Hoving.

Jack Powers[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Jack Powers[edit]
Jack Powers
Fled: - to Sonora, for Nacimiento murders / Garcia confession, and murders of Baratie and Borel and Gilkey
Calabasas, Arizona[edit]

By Rachel St. John

Frank Soulé, John H. Gihon, M.D., and James Nisbet. The Annals of San Francisco. 1855: San Francisco. PART SECOND. Chapter VII, VIII, PART THIRD. The Hounds.PART SECOND. Chapter XXVI. 1853. [edit]
Reminiscences and incidents of "the early days" of San Francisco by John H. Brown; actual experience of an eye-witness, from 1845 to 1850; MISSION JOURNAL PUBLISHING CO., SAN FRANCISCO, 1886.[edit]
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... I have often read in the newspapers, about the hounds in San Francisco, but the true history, I have never seen in print. At first, the merchants of San Francisco tried every way to protect the captains and to keep the sailors from leaving the ships. The merchants raised a company of ten persons, and signed a paper, in which they promised to pay them twenty-five dollars for every runaway sailor they brought back. These men were called the Regulators. This paper was signed by Edward Harrison, W. D. M. Howard, James Layton, Captain Folsom Robert A. Parker, and many others. The only purpose for which this company was formed, was for the protection of captains of vessels, as the sailors would run away every chance they got, and the Regulators were found to be of great service, both by the shipping and city. They were not

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called regulators very long, however, as they took a new name, and were known as ‘‘The Hounds.’’ Some very desperate characters joined the company, most of whom have been hung in this country for murder and other depredations, which they had committed. I will mention some of the leading characters: Captain Roberts, Jacob [Jack?] Powers, Tom Edwards, (who to my certain knowledge, has murdered three men in this city), a man named Curley and four others from Sydney, named Red Davis, Curley Billy, Sam Terry and Barney Ray. Soon after these men joined the company, I would see them pass the hotel very often with a quantity of clothing. In conversation with one of them, he said they had taken the clothing as confiscated goods, as the Mexicans would not pay them their share for keeping the town in good order. There were many Mexicans and other foreigners who lived in tents on Sacramento street, between Kearny and Montgomery. They complained very much of the brutal usage they received from these hounds. They would first demand money, and if they had none, they would take whatever goods they could lay their hands on. They made many complaints to the Hon. T. M. Leavensworth, who was then Alcalda of the city. He did all he could by talking to them, to stop such proceedings, and would have punished them, if he could have had the support of the city; but he found they were too many and too strong to undertake it alone.
In the year of 1849, there was a party undertook to take charge of the city, and demanded from T. M. Leavensworth, then Alcalda, all books and documents that belonged to the city; but Leavensworth refused to deliver them up, until there was another person elected by order of the Governor to supply his place; but Lieutenant Norton was at the head of the party, and with several men from his company, went to the Alcalda's office and took possession of all the effects contained in the office, and removed books and documents to the school-house at Portsmouth Square; and for a short time Lieutenant Norton and Peer Lee did all the business of the office. But it was only for a few days; as the citizens demanded them to return all books and documents to Leavensworth, at the Alcalda's office. There was one book containing a record of deeds missing, which has never been heard from, to my knowledge, at least. One evening the party with fife and drum went to Leavensworth's office with a rope, with the full intention of hanging him, if they could get hold of him. I found out by one of the party what they intended to do; and when I ascertained that their intentions were of so serious a nature, I went out of the back door of the hotel, locked the front

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door, and got Leavensworth in the hotel. I then went around and asked them what was the matter. They were just in the act of bursting the door of the office open. I told them if they would come into the hotel, I would treat them all. This stopped any further disturbance; but I made Leavensworth foot the bills for all expenses.
At this time there were very few persons living in the city, and the Mexicans who were here, was so scared, that they were afraid to protect themselves. Some few days after this, the Hounds made a demand for money from the Mexicans, again; and when they would not pay them anything, they commenced shooting, and two Mexicans were badly wounded. John McDougal, who saw the transaction, called on some person, who was standing by for assistance, and he made two prisoners. The Hounds found out that McDougal meant business, so they made themselves scarce, and on the next day, a vigilance committee was formed, for the protection of the city, and all who could be found belonging to the Hounds were arrested and brought to trial before Senators' Gwin, Geary and T. M. Leavensworth. Those who were not caught left the city. Mr. McDougal was afterwards Governor of the State of California.
William Redmond Ryan, Personal adventures in Upper and Lower California, in 1848-9; with the author's experience at the mines. Illustrated by twenty-three drawings taken on the spot. W. Shoberl, London, 1850; .p.288-290[edit]
287
... Pushing on, one day, to the Mission of Dolores, of which I had heard such glowing accounts, I was disappointed to find it an insignificant Californian village, without any sort of accommodation for travellers. The only house that pretended to the character of an inn, La Cabesa del
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Toro, or Bull's Head, could provide me with neither dinner nor bed.
Dolores is famous for bull-fighting, horse-racing, and gambling; and, being much frequented by the citizens, I was surprised that some enterprising Yankee had not established a good hotel there. Being the only place to which the inhabitants of San Francisco can resort, without travelling a great distance, I am confident that Dolores will ere long become a thriving little town.
Whilst stopping here, I saw a smart-looking Yankee and a Spanish girl married by the priest, whose words were interpreted to the bridegroom as the ceremony proceeded: the lady was of rather a dark complexion, but extremely pretty; and, although she knew scarcely a word of English, and the bridegroom knew still less of Spanish, it was evident, from the eloquence of the glances that passed between them, that they were at no loss to make themselves understood.
I returned to San Francisco with a large party, amongst whom was my last partner
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and Jack Power, one of the sporting characters of the country. Jack had been a volunteer; and, on the disbanding of the regiment, becoming infected with the excitement and adventurous character of the wild life which he had led since his arrival in the country, had devoted himself entirely to gambling and horsemanship, in both of which accomplishments he greatly excelled.
Previous to my becoming acquainted with him, he had been up to Stockton, and in an incredibly short time had amassed, at his favourite pursuits, about fifty thousand dollars, the greater part of which he had subsequently lost. No matter how low the state of his finances, he was never without a good horse, caparisoned in the true Californian fashion; and that on which he was now mounted was one of the most beautiful I had ever seen. It had, however, this striking peculiarity, that it would never gallop straight forward towards any given point, but would advance in a sort of sidelong canter, very pleasing to behold, but requiring great skill on the part of the rider to maintain
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his seat. In this eccentric movement of the animal Power took great delight, for it afforded him opportunities of displaying his superior horsemanship. In addition to his other accomplishments, he was also an excellent performer on the banjo; and one evening, with three or four others, gave a “nigger” concert in the dining-saloon of the Parker House, which was suitably arranged for the occasion; and, although the tickets for admission were three dollars each, the attraction of our Nimrod's celebrity ensured a numerous attendance.
The life and adventures in California of Don Agustín Janssens, 1834-1856. Edited by William H. Ellison and Francis Price. Translated by Francis Price, Huntington Library, San Marino, Calif., 1953.[edit]
151
In 1852 two Americans came to buy cattle. They arrived at Los Alamos, and left from there for the summit. Seeing some men whom they instinctively distrusted, they came back. Later they saw that the suspected men had gone another way and decided to continue their trip. They didn't see anyone as they went over the summit, but on descending they saw that two people were approaching. If they went down the ravine, they would meet them at the first creek. One American said to the other: “There he comes.” At that, the one who told me the story turned and received a bullet in his throat, falling from his mule. The villains turned upon his companion, firing shots at him. The fallen one raised himself a little and saw them attacking his companion. When he recovered somewhat from his faint, he bound his wound with leaves and a cloth and, little by little, worked his way into a ravine thick with greasewood, while with a branch he erased his footprints, until he came to a hollow tree. There he hid his money belt, which held $1,300. At a more suitable place, he lay down. He heard the shots fired at his companion. Soon the villains returned on the gallop to the place where he had fallen. They looked everywhere and passed very close to him, but he had the luck not to be discovered. Later he saw them crossing the ridge with the mule and saddlebags of his companion. They didn't take the first mule, because she had disappeared and was found later.
The man was able to get to the bank of the Santa Inés River by short movements, but exhausted by loss of blood, he could not climb the bluff. His presence there made my dogs bark. I went with some people to see what was the matter and found
152
the man. I took him to the house and treated his wound, which fortunately was not serious. We sent for his money, and it was found intact where he had left it. Later the mule with saddle and all in good condition was found, but the reins and bit were somewhat damaged. The man could identify one of the bandits, and later seeing him in Santa Barbara, he notified the sheriff, but nothing was done about capturing the murderer. (This same American, with four or five more, was killed a little later in...[balance cut from page])
Recollections of Historical Events in California, 1843-1878 (Continued), William A. Streeter and William Henry Ellison, California Historical Society Quarterly, Vol. 18, No. 2, (Jun., 1939), pp. 157-179[edit]
Early Outlaws in LA SB and SLO Counties. Streeter, p.171-172[edit]
Recollections of Historical Events in California, 1843-1878 (Concluded), William A. Streeter and William Henry Ellison, California Historical Society Quarterly, Vol. 18, No. 3 (Sep., 1939), pp. 254-278, University of California Press in association with the California Historical Society, DOI: 10.2307/25160825, Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/25160825[edit]
Alamos (cont.) p.254[edit]
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  1. Numbered list item
Francisco Badillo p.259-260[edit]
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John Power, pp.266-271 notes -100[edit]
Bell, Horace; Reminisces of a Ranger; Yarnell, Caystile & Mathes, Los Angeles, California, 1881[edit]

--- p.57

The most noted character, probably, in all California at the time referred to, '51, '52 and '53, and especially in the Southern counties, was Jack Powers. Jack was an Irishman by birth, and came to California with Stephenson's New York Volunteers. When I arrived in Los Angeles Jack was here, although he properly resided in Santa Barbara. Jack was a great gambler and when he walked through a crowd of gamblers it was with the air of a lion walking among rats. Gifted with mental qualities of the highest order, with the manners of the true gentleman, with a form and face physically perfect, with a boldness and dash that made him a leader among men, Jack Powers, under favorable circumstances might have attained to the most honorable distinction; as it was, he wielded a great influence not only among the gambling fraternity and the Spanish population, over whom he lorded it, but he made his influence felt at the State Capital, where he was held in high esteem by a succession of Governors, having been on the warmest

--- p.58

58 REMINISCENCES OF A RANGER.
terms of friendship with Governors McDougall and Bigler. At San Francisco Jack was the acknowledged peer of the most prominent, and had he aspired to political preferment, he could have chosen between a seat in the National Congress and the helm of State.
Jack was a power in this land. In Los Angeles Jack ruled the gamblers. In Los Angeles the gamblers, to the number of about four hundred, absolutely ruled the roost for a succession of years. Jack was not a politician however. Jack was a first class sport, owned his own ranch, kept hounds, fast horses and a large number of retainers, and was a lord in the land. Jack wielded such a power that at one time he maintained an army of followers at his own expense, and boldly defied the authorities. As before stated, Jack owned a ranch, which, like all other ranches at the time, was swamped in litigation. The Sheriff held a writ of ejectment against Jack which was resisted; an attempt was made to arrest him in Santa Barbara; his friends rallied to his support and the attempt failed. Jack and his friends then seized the only piece of artillery in the town and took up their line of march to Jack's ranch, some miles distant. W. W. Twist, the Sheriff, also one of Stephenson's Volunteers, summoned the power of the county, attacked Jack, and attempted to take the gun away from him. The Sheriff was defeated, some two or three persons being killed and others wounded. Jack safely reached his ranch, provisioned and fortified it for a siege. He had one sure enough cannon; he took the stove-pipe from his kitchen, mounted it, cut embrasures through the thick walls of his house, made many Quaker demonstrations, and, although besieged for days by the foiled Sheriff, he successfully defied the laws, and the Sheriff was forced to raise the siege. This occurred in January, 1853 — and for a long time thereafter when Jack would visit the capital of the county, he was followed by a troop of retainers that assured his freedom from arrest.

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REMINISCENCES OF A RANGER. 59
Nordhoff refers to an interview and conversation between himself and Ned Beale in regard to Jack Powers as one of the robbers of early times, and although Jack was the lord and head of all the bad characters in the southern counties, the writer who knew him well, has no hesitation in saying that he believes Jack Powers to have been as incapable of personally committing a robbery as either of the gentlemen referred to as discussing his character. Jack, however, outlived his influence; or, better say, he outlived his followers. In 1856, when the blood-hounds of the San Francisco Vigilance Committee pursued Ned McGowan to Santa Barbara, Ned was only saved through the influence and shrewdness of Jack, who necessarily fell under the baneful influence of the great Vigilance Committee. In 1857 Jack stood almost alone; his followers had fallen off; the influence of the gamblers had gone. Standing in fear of the law, that in the zenith of his glory he had defied, he concluded to fly the country he could no longer rule. He accordingly emigrated to Sonora where those gentle and practical people, who so summarily disposed of poor Crabbe and his followers, converted Jack to the most profitable possibleuse as they thought, that is to say, they chopped him up and fed him to their pigs! Alas, poor Jack! He was full of a noble generosity, and deserving of a better fate.
A great many sensational scribblers have tried to hold Jack up as an out-and-out highwayman; others have maintained that he was the veritable Joaquin Murieta; but neither is correct. He was, as I have described him, a man born to be prominent in that sphere of life to which fate may have assigned him.

p.285

... The religious feasts celebrated at the

--- p.286

286 REMINISCENCES OF A RANGER.
churches were brilliant, pompous, expensive and imposing, the most important of which were the feast of the Holy Week, Corpus Christi and St. John's Day, the latter being devoted to cock-fighting and kindred amusements, one of which was to take a live cock and after plucking the feathers from and thoroughly greasing his neck, his body would be buried in the middle of the street or road, the greased neck alone being exposed above the ground. Now the game was to dash past the buried cock at full speed on horseback, and lean over and seize the neck and pull the cock from the ground — a most difficult performance. On St. John's Day, in '53, General Andres Pico, Jack Powers and Don Jose Sepulveda were the principal contestants in this exciting sport, Sepulveda being the victor of a well-contested day.
Mason, Jesse D; Thompson & West, History of Santa Barbara county, California, with illustrations and biographical sketches of its prominent men and pioneers, Thompson & West, Oakland, Cal., 1883[edit]

Jack Powers, pp. 84-86.

--- p.82-84

THE SAN GABRIEL AFFAIR.
Two men left the steamer Savannah at San Diego, on its way up the coast, for the purchase of cattle, having considerable sums of money with them. When camped near the San Gabriel River, they were murdered by Zavaleta and another native, the murderers making their way to Santa Barbara, where they commenced spending money very freely among the lowest houses. A copy of the Los Angeles Star, giving a description of the murderers, was brought into town, and they were recognized and arrested by a number of citizens acting with the Sheriff, Valentine Hearne. It is said that the Americans were more than willing to assist in arresting criminals, provided they were Mexicans, while the natives themselves were considerable less than willing to arrest their own countrymen accused of crime. After the arrest, without a warrant, and, perhaps, on what then seemed insufficient evidence, the chief families, among whom was Captain Noriega, protested against the summary treatment of the men. Serious ill-feeling resulted between the law-and-order party, as the natives and their American friends called themselves, and the hoys on the other part. A mounted guard of twenty-five men was made up to accompany the men back to Los Angeles', among whom were the following persons, Henry Carnes being the Commander: John Powers, P. H. Dun, John Dun, John Seollan, Thomas Ganon, Valentine Hearne, Carter, John Robinson, John Vidal, Theodore McCarty, Thomas Martin, Theodore Smith, and Geo. D. Fisher.
A semi-official demand was made upon the town of Santa Barbara for horses, with threats of retaliation

if the horses were not forthcoming. The horses were furnished. (See account of the proceedings on the bills in Court of Sessions, October 11th.) The men confessed the murder, even to the details, and pointed out the place where the bodies were buried. The people of the town (Los Angeles) took the men to Castle Hill and hung them, the guard of twenty-five staying until the work was done. Hearne was Sheriff, and his part of the transaction not pleasing Dr. Den and the de la Guerras, who were his principal sureties, they withdrew from his bonds, thus forcing him to resign. W. W. Twist, a native of Nova Scotia, and, as some say, not a citizen, was appointed to succeed Hearne.

THE ARROYO BURRO AFFAIR.
The American population were not always disposed to acquiesce in the large land holdings of the natives, and of the Americans who had intermarried among them. John Vidal, a member of Carnes' Company, of the Stevenson Regiment, was one of the dissatisfied. He bad rented for a time a tract of land on the Arroyo Burro, a small creek which runs into the ocean, west of Santa Barbara. When the lease expired he claimed the land under the preemption laws as Government land. Suit was brought in the proper courts, and the title adjudged to rest in Dr. Den, of whom Vidal had rented. The Sheriff (Twist) was ordered by the courts to oust Vidal and put Den in possession. Vidal was known to have many friends among the gamblers, who often numbered a score or more, among whom was the, even then, notorious Jack Powers, and the matter of dis-

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NEW ALLEGIANCE. 83
possessing Vidal was considered hazardous. Wiicthcr

wisol)- or not, Twist called out a posse comitatus to execute the writ of ejectment. The people bejuan to take sides as thej' ftivored the gamblers or the law-and-order, or respectable party. Vidal's friends gathered t<i the place in dispute and fortified it, wiih the determination of holding the ground at all Iimz- ards. It is said by some of the partisans of Vidal that the presence of his friends at the Arroyo Burro was merely friendly; that no resistance to the law was contemplated. Some 200 men wore enlisted in the posse comilatus. and an hour set for the departure of the army the next morning. A surgeon (Dr. Brinkerhoff) was employed to accompany the force. The party was to assemble at the Egerea House, then used as a Court House, at 9 o'clock. A small cannon was on the plaza, to be taken and used if necessary in knocking down the fortifications. Before the party had assembled Vidal and some of his com- panions came riding up as if to commence the fight there. Old residents differ materially as to the inci- dents. Some say that Vidal had come to avert the war or affect a compromise; that he stayed in town all night to answer a summons if need be; while others say that his whole party had come out from the fort that morning with the intention of captur- ing the cannon and thus break up the proposed attack. As Vidal came riding up, two men, one called " Little Mickey," and the other a short, swarthy Spaniard almost covered with a serape, las- soed the cannon and commenced to drag it away. It is said that Mickey was drunk, and that this part of the affair was mere fun or bravado on his part. Whatever it might be, Twist fired upon them, and firing immediately became general. Vidal was shot, by whom is unknown, but he fell ft-om his horse near where Rhynerson's Mills are. The swarthy man in the serape drew a long knife from his belt and rushed at Twist, and apparently plunged the knife through him. The knife was turned by a rib and the wound did not prove dangerous. Twist, however, shot his assailant dead. A running fight ensued for a few minutes, without any more seri- ous casualties. Vidal lived fourteen days, without being able to speak, attended by Dr. Brinkerhoff. He had a ring on his finger, which he was evidently anxious to leave to some one, but he was never able to say to whom and it was buried with him. Vidal was much the best of the party, and seems to have been almost forced into the affair bj' his companions. He was a Justice of the Peace at the time of his death, and had been Associate Justice with Joaquin Carrillo. In a well-settled community he would undoubtedly have been a valuable citizen. Twist soon recovered.

The affair caused a great deal of excitement, and

there was serious talk of driving out the whole gang of "hounds," as they were sometimes called. The slightest affair would now have produced a bitter and Powi .w(| and tl relentless war betwi la Guerra party. Pablo ih- la (^utim wont to tiie fort the next da\' with a flag of truce, and induced Powers and the others who were with him to submit to the legal authorities, and the affair ended, though, by I he advice of the de la Guerras, the citizens of Santa Barbara generally remained in their houses till' following evening. The next morning a ship-of- war was found anchored in the offing, having sailed from Monterey the day before to enforce order if necessary.

The land in dispute was afterwards pronounced

public ground, but the courts were undoubtedly cor- rect in deciding that Vidal was a naked trespasser, the adverse party having had peaceable possession for years, a fact acknowledged by Vidal in the pay- ment of rent for it.


--- p.85

JACK POWERS.
After the dispersion of Solomon Pico's gang, some

of the remnants were gathered up by Jack Powers, who became one of the most successful and noted bandits of the time. He belonged originally to Ste- venson's Regiment, Company F, commanded by Captain Lippett, and was said to have been a man of considerable character and standing when ho was enlisted into the regiment. Shortly after being mus- tered out he commenced his career as a gambler, making it a decided success. It is reported that he was at one time in possession of a quarter of a million in coin, but this is probably untrue. His first opera- tions were in San Francisco, where he made many friends among the sporting men and politicians of the time.* He made his appearance in Santa Bar- bara in an early day, and managed, as the phrase goes, to "pretty much run tho town" for a while; at least he exerted an influence which was greater than that of any other man. Looking back thirty years from our present stand-point of security for life and property, it seems astonishing that one man, or even a few men, should overawe a communitj- and prevent the efl'ective operations of the courts. There were many.waj-s in which it could be done. Witnesses to a crime were hurried out of a country, or kept mute with the certainty of a desperate quarrel if they testi- fied to the facts. A solitary juryman in the interest of a criminal can hang a jury and render a conviction impossible. Lawj-ers, able ones, can be found to shut their eyes at perjury, or even approve of it, and make an effective defense on known false testimony.

JACK powers' horsemanship.
He was considered the best rider in the State. In

a match at San Jose he rode 150 miles in six hours,

  • The reader may remember that the two <l-i8ses are thus mentioned timether,

but he may feel assured that the moral worth of either cUsa was nothing to speak of.

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86 HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY.

"changing horses as often as he saw fit. He had a

gray mule which would carry him 100 miles in twelve hours. He was in Santa Barbara within ten hours after a robbery committed near San Luis Obispo. The number of his robberies is unknown. He continued his career for nearly four years, his operations extending from San Diego to San Jose. Like the banditti of Italy or Greece, he robbed only those who were strangers to the country, spent his money freely, and kept on the good side of the people. His operations were so shrewdly conducted that for years many people believed that he was a persecuted and slandered man.

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MURDER OP THE BASQUES.
Two brothers, who were Frenchmen (Basques),

had bought a drove of cattle in Ventura County, and passing through Santa Barbara on their way north, attracted the attention of Powers' gang, and were attacked by some of the party under the leadership of Poweirs. By some means the attack was not planned with Powers usual skill, for he found him- self in a desperate hand-to-hand conflict. A shot from one of the brothers passed through his leg, through a portion of the saddle, and killing the horse which he rode, which was a fine black charger, belonging to Miguel de la Guerra, of the San Julian Raneho. The Basques were killed and the cattle driven by Powers' band into the San Joaquin Valley and sold. Notwithstanding Powers' wound, he was in San Francisco the same night, when a circus pro- prietor, who was a great admirer of Powers for his horsemanship, procured a schooner and sent him to Cape St. Lucas, where he remained until his leg was healed."*

ANECDOTES OF POWERS.
When Zavaleta, one of the principals in the San

Gabriel murder, was about to be hung, he expressed a desire to be executed in a new suit of clothes. Jack Powers, who was present, ordered a suit in accordance with the wishes of the condemned, and enabled him to make his exit with the dignity and decency of a Castilian.

STAYING AN EXECUTION.
During the time that Twist was Sheriff, an Indian

named Alisal, was to be hung for murder. »While the sentence was pending, a petition was sent to the Governor to have the sentence commuted to impris- onment for life. The day for execution having arrived, and no order for a mitigation of the sentence having been received, the Sheriff proceeded to perform his duty. When the Indian was about to be hung. Jack Povvers moved a stay of proceedings on the ground that the commutation of the sentence was probably on the steamer which was then overdue. A vote of the spectators was taken and the hanging

  • Authorities differ in regard to this affair. Some say that he was seen in

Santa Barbara the same night, that Dr. Brinkerhoff privately attended him: but the writer found nothing in Dr. Brinkerhoff's notes respecting it, neither could he trace the report to anyyrellable source.

---

postponed. The expected paper was on the steamer, so the Indian, instead of being hung, was subjected to imprisonment for life. Twist was much blamed for this, and his sureties withdrew from his bonds, compelling Twist to resign, when Brinkerhoff, by virtue of being Coroner, became Sheriff, a position he held until Russel Heath was elected.

PLAN TO RESCUE DUNN.

As Patrick Dunn was fbr years a prominent citizen of Santa Barbara, the following bit of biography from the Arizona Miner, of May 23, 1866, will be of interest: —

"Patrick Dunn was born in the State of Maine,

1825. At an early age he learned the trade of a printer, principally, we believe, in the office of the New York Repress. Subsequently he was connected with Mike Walsh's celebrated paper, the Subterranean, and at one time was the editor of it. He reached California in a whaling vessel in 1846, and ran away from the vessel, taking refuge in Sonoma County, where among the first persons he met was Theodore Boggs, now of Prescott, a son of ex-Governor Boggs of Missouri. Mr. Dunn was one of several daring men who went to the rescue of the Donner party of emigrants from the East, who were snowed in near the Sierra Nevadas, in 1847. At that time his feet were severely frosted, and he suffered more or less from them to the day of his death. We believe that Mr. Dunn worked as a printer in California, and once published a paper in Sonoma. He came to Sonora, Arizona, in 1857, and settled at Tucson, where, for a time, he edited the Arizonian, a paper printed for a year or two, in the interest of the Cerro Colorado and Santa Rita Mining Companies. As may be said of most men who have lived in Arizona, he had sev- eral desperate fights with the Apaches. In one, at Cook's Cañon, on the Messilla road, he was severely wounded. Mr. Dunn came to this part of the territory with Jack Swilling, in May, 1863. After remaining here for some time, working in the placers, and acquiring an interest in the Chase Mine, he returned to Tucson, and has since, excepting an occasional absence in California, remained there. He was elected to the Upper House of the first Legislature of the Territory. Upon the resignation of Mr. Hay- den, as Probate Judge of Pima County, he was appointed to his place."

Dunn had the reputation of belonging to Power's gang. He was, when sober, rather companionable, but when in liquor, a fiend, and a man without fear, and reckless to the last extent of personal safety or reputation. He got into a quarrel with a passenger from a steamer, who was said, however, to have been a gambler and rough; one who, like Dunn, always carried his life on the toss of a dime. According to the traditions, the difficulty commenced something like this: —

Dunn: " That's a damn fine hat you have."
Stranger: "I don't know that it's any of your

business."

Denn: "Say, I'd like that hat."
Stranger: "You can have it if you can take it."
From this came shooting, or a shot, for the stranger

fell dead at the first fire. The shooting occurred on

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NEW ALLEGIANCE. 87
the plaza in front of the de la Guerra house, and was

witnessed by several of the ladies of the family, but such was the dread of incurring the enmity of the gang, that oiilj^ the solemn assurance, by the Court, that they should be protected, induced thom to tes- tify. Dunn was tried for murder, and plead justifiable homicide in self-defense. The trial lasted twenty- one days, and resulted in a disagreement of the jury. He was tried a second time at Los Angeles, with similar results. While the trial was in progress at Santa Barbara, the Sheriff, Judge, and District Attor- ney, each received a warning that they would be killed if they prosecuted the case. Six deputies were privately sworn in, with instructions to instantly shoot Dunn and Powers if any attempt was made to interfere with the proceedings. The cer- tainty of becoming targets for half a dozen revolvers probably kept them quiet.

ATTEMPT TO MURDER TOM MARTIN.
Martin had some way incurred Dunn's displeasure,

and, as usual, Dunn "went for" the object of his wrath. He loaded a double-barrelled shot-gun with slugs, and commenced hunting Tom, and, on coming up with him, .snapped both barrels without effect. For this he was arrested, tried, and sentenced to the State's Prison for a term of years. Powers determined to rescue Dunn in his passage from the jail to the boat. Twenty-five men were sworn in as deputies, with instructions, as before, to shoot both Powers and Dunn, if any attempt to rescue him was made. Rus- sel Heath, the Sheriff, assured him that in case any attempt was made, that he, Powers, would be the first to fall. Powers' friends numbered about forty, as was supposed, so the fight was likely to be serious if it once commenced. The men followed the van con- taining the prisoner, from the jail to the boat, where he was put on by means of a lighter. Powers and his friends, to the number of thirty, were on the beach on horseback, but the transfer was effected without any interruption.

The crowds of well-dressed people, who now flock to the steamer to welcome returning friends, or bid adieu to those about leaving, have little idea of the stirring scenes there thirty years since.

Dunn died in Arizona in 18G6. Powers left Cali- fornia about 185(5, and, with most of his gang, went to Mexico, where he soon stocked a ranch with stolen cattle. He was shot in some difficulty with his own men, and was found in hia corral half devoured by hogs.

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p97 LAWLESS ELEMENT AMONG THE AMERICANS.

To add to the difficulties of maintaining law and order, a strong and active element among the Amer- icans practically denied the authority of any officer, American or native. Jack Powers and his crowd, together with the Dunns, would have been trouble- some customers even in the older States, where law and order were crystalized into custom. The daring and recklessness of such men begat a kind of admir- ation among the people, which, while it could not be considered esteem, was not wholly the result of fear, but was rather the respect paid to power. It must not be thought of Santa Barbara that that place alone had hero worshipers of that Itind. The respect and sympathy for the James Brothers, in Missouri, one of the oldest settled States in the Union, are more deplorable than the actions of the "hounds" in Santa Barbara. In the first case the admiration for the men extended, in some degree, all over the Union; in the latter case the demoralization was but small in comparison, and, to some extent, excusable in a country just emerging from the chaos incident to war. Santa Barbara was no worse than other Cal- ifornian towns, perhaps not quite so bad as San Francisco, where the hounds had several "runs."

In the election of 1853, the roughs laid a plan to capture the whole Legislative and other officers by setting the watches and clocks around the town back, so as to organize the election boards with their own men as officers. They succeeded so well, that there were two sets of officers returned as elected. The Legislature at the capital recognized the law- and order officers.

The elections generally went Democratic. Huse was, however, a Whig, and oftentimes received the entire Democratic vote, the highest compliment that could be paid him. ---



[https://archive.org/details/bwcalinterpoc35bancroft THE WORKS HUBERT HOWE BANCROFT. VOLUME XXXV. CALIFORNIA INTER POCULA. THE HISTORY COMPANY, PUBLISHERS, SAN FRANCISCO: 1888, p.411[edit]

SANTA BARBARA AND HEALDSBURG, 411 SQUATTERISM.

In May 1853, one of the frequent disputes arose as to the possession of a certain piece of land at Santa Barbara. Jack Powers had settled upon a tract about two miles from town, which Nicholas Den claimed to have leased for a number of years from the government. The case was decided in Den's favor in the district court, and afterward in the supreme court. Nevertheless, Powers refused to give up possession, claiming that as it was government property, it was free to all American citizens. Sheriff Twist deter- mined to eject him by force. Powers then collected fifteen of his friends, and formed a sort of barricade on the rancho,.by felling trees, piling up logs, and ar- ranging wagons for the purpose. They had liquors and food provided for a number of days, and several pieces of music to enliven the time. - Well armed with revolvers, rifles, and shot-guns they were pre- pared to resist the officers. Three of Powers' adher- ents, on the way to his place, encountered the sheriff and others, who were trying to take out the spikes that had been put in the cannon the previous night. Words ensued as to their intended use of the cannon, which resulted in a serious melee with several wounded and some killed on both sides.

Storke, Yda Addis, A Memorial and Biographical History of the Counties of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura, California Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, 1891.[edit]
Juan Francisco Dana, of the Nipomo Rancho, as told to John Edwin Hogg, "Ten Decades on a California Rancho: Random memories of stirring events in the Golden State under three flags", Touring Topics November 1931, Volume 23, Number 11, The Automobile Association, of Southern California, through John Lehrer, Westways Editor[edit]
Dana, Don Francisco; The Blonde Ranchero; South County Historical Society, Arroyo Grande, California[edit]
Ross, Dudley T.; Devil on Horseback; Valley Publishers, Fresno, 1975[edit]
Tompkins, Walker A.; Santa Barbara History Makers; McNally & Loftin, Santa Barbara, California, 1983[edit]

-- SOURCES --

1. 1883 HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY" Author: Myron Angel
2. "HISTORY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY" [1917 Published by: Historic Record Company Authors: Mrs. Annie l. Morrison/John H. Haydon]
(Reported for the Alta California.) The Chilenos and other Foreigners in the city of San Francisco attacked by an Armed Party of Americans—Great Excitement—Meeting of the Citizens—Formation of a citizen armed Police—Arrest of the Rioters—Their Trial and Sentence. Weekly Alta California 2 August 1849[edit]
(Reported for the Alta California.) The Chilenos and other Foreigners in the city of San Francisco attacked by an Armed Party of Americans — Great Excitement — Meeting of the Citizens — Formation of a citizen armed Police — Arrest of the Rioters — Their Trial and Sentence. Weekly Alta California 4 August 1849[edit]
(Reported for the Alta California.) The Chilenos and other Foreigners in the city of San Francisco attacked by an Armed Party of' Americans — Great Excitement — Meeting of the Citizens — Formation of a citizen armed Police — Arrest of the Rioters — Their Trial and Sentence. (Concluded.) Weekly Alta California 9 August 1849, p.1-3[edit]
Weekly Alta California, Number 33, 16 August 1849, (Reported for the Alta California.) The Chilenos and other Foreigners in the city of San Francisco attacked by an Armed Party of Americans — Great Excitement — Meeting of the Citizens — Formation of a citizen armed Police — Arrest of the Rioters — Their Trial and Sentence.[edit]
(Reported for the Alta California.) The Chilenos and other Foreigners in the city of San Francisco attacked by an Armed Party of Americans — Great Excitement — Meeting of the Citizens — Formation of a citizen armed Police — Arrest of the Rioters — Their Trial and Sentence.
(Concluded.) Saturday, July 21, 1849.
The Court met at ten A. M., pursuant to adjournment. Considerable interest was manifested to hear the decision of the jury, who returned into court with a sealed verdict, as follows: —
" We, the undersigned, jurors in the case pending, the case of the People vs Samuel Roberts, do hereby render the following verdict —
" Guilty of conspiracy, riot, robbery, assault with intent to kill; shooting, with intent to kill; and that the jury unanimously and earnestly recommend that the prisoner be placed at once on a man of war now lying in the harbor of San Francisco, and there closely confined, in irons, and as soon as circumstances will allow to be returned to some port in the United States, never to return under penalty of death.
The jury were discharged, and the court then adjourned to meet again at 12 M.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
The court met at 12 M., and the second prisoner having been arraigned, a jury was empanelled, and the cause proceeded to trial.
The People vs Theodore R. Saunders. The cause was opened by Frank Turk, Esq.
As the indictment against the prisoner does not vary materially in form or allegation from the one we give above, we do not think it necessary to publish it. The evidence in the case presented no new features, with the exception of that of Higgins, who voluntarily became state's evidence. That we subjoin, as follows:
Philip A. Higgins sworn. — Early Sunday evening I was at Tammany Hall ; I left with three or four companions — John Farley, Edward and Philip; we left between eight and nine o'clock ; proceeded as far as the Parker House, where J. Hathaway left us, and then to a house near the " Stranger's Retreat," before reaching which we were joined by a large party of sailors and boatmen. Prisoner was one of the party; they asked us to drink; a stranger gave me a stick or club; we all went, after drinking, to Domingo's tent; drank; went to the Point; commenced tearing down tents and destroying property; after which we returned to the " Retreat," and drank; then want to Tammany Hall, and drank. I then went to Dr. Ely's, to have my eye dressed, which was wounded by the back stroke of an axe; then saw a party of men with fife and drum going down Washington-street ; marched down to Montgomery-street; went to the Point; tore down some tents, and shoved off some boats, and stove others to pieces; heard cries of a woman in a tent; went there and assured her there was no harm; left her and went to examine a bale of goods; found nothing of interest, and went to the " Retreat;" asked if the party was there; not seeing them, proceeded to where I heard a fife and drum, joined the party, and destroyed a tent; then went to Tammany Hall; it was closed; the party left, and myself and another remained; I lifted the door and went in; going behind the bar to get a light, woke the bar-keeper, David Gale; he struck a light; I threw behind the bar a coat, serape, sheets, &c., which I had picked up; left the drum; the others left, and I laid down on the floor. Hathaway left at the Parker House; don't remember seeing him again; last I saw of prisoners they were staving in the boats; did not see prisoner do anything; tore down six or nine tents; heard two shots fired from within a tent after it was surrounded; some of the band had bundles; some one said he had found a bag of gold dust; Farley asked if my eye was much hurt; was with the band Sunday afternoon; Roberts, at the head, William Anderson, James Hathaway, Edwards, the bone player; prisoner was not there to my knowledge. The day of Beatty's funeral I asked Lee if I could join the society; I understood the society to be a party called the Regulators; its objects to assist each other in case of sickness or accident; Lee had no objection; initiation fee ten dollars; there was to be a meeting to form the society; know of no society called the " Boys," or by any other name. If I was in trouble I should call upon Sam Roberts, John Curley, John and George Farley, Batchelder, Long and Shorty Lee, Peter Earl, Joseph Downey, James Hathaway, William Dougherty, Jimmy Twitcher, alias George LeFort, Frank Barker, A. St John, as friends to assist me. Myself and associates have before Sunday night taken stolen property; we took property Sunday morning at day break; James Hathaway, John Farley, Alfred Flock, William Anderson, and a man named Frank were with me; we took preserves, boots and hats, and other articles; preserves from Adams &. Field's store; took them to T. Hall, and broke them open; one or more jars of preserves, and some other articles were carried to a tent near Farley's house; John Farley, William Anderson and Flock carried them up; Anderson, Flock and Frank occupied the tent; I showed David Gale where Ward & Smith's yard was that he could get a box of candles; dogs barked, and we thought they were watching goods on the beach, and did not attempt to get the candles. I was unwilling at first to go, because I did not want to become a robber: but afterwards went; can't say who the leader was; it was not prisoner; there were certain persons who frequented T. Hall, who were particular friends and associates; do not believe, from my knowledge, that there was any society of " Boys" before Beatty's funeral; Bachelder played the drum Sunday afternoon. I have been in California three months; have been in the town and harbor all the time; have known these associates of mine since Beatty's death; it is about a month since Beatty was shot ; was a clerk for Sherman & Ruckel up to July 3d; a day or two driving team; I first became acquainted with prisoner the day before Beatty's funeral; I have not been much in company with prisoner; have been much at Tammany Hall; as far as I can remember I have not seen prisoner at Tammany Hall since Beatty's funeral; do not remember seeing prisoner with us on any occasion where crime was committed except on Sunday night; prisoner has not been in the habit of associating with us; has not been with us at any time except on the occasion of Beatty's funeral and Sunday night. Prisoner is a boatman ; did not see prisoner on Sunday ; was not, to my knowledge, in the party with fife and drum on Sunday; I first saw him Sunday night in the party that met us and asked us to drink; as far as I can remember I did not see him have any arms or club that night. As far as I can remember I did not see prisoner engaged in any act, but was only a looker on; think I saw prisoner in Tammany Hall the first time we came up; should think there were over one hundred persons on the Point that night; there were as many lookers on as actors on the Point; have been before the Grand Jury today and yesterday; have, until yesterday, been a prisoner on board the Warren; a committee of the Grand Jury visited me yesterday on board the Warren ; they promised to set me free if I would tell all I knew about the Sunday night affair and others, and give the names of the guilty parties; I promised to do so; I was examined on oath to day before the Grand Jury.
At a late hour in the evening the jury returned into court with a verdict of Guilty of riot, robbery, and assault with intent to kill, and not guilty of conspiracy The court then adjourned to Monday morning at 9 o'clock, A. M.
Monday. July 23, 1849.
The court assembled at the hour fixed on adjournment. The following prisoners were then arraigned: William Mickle, David Gale, James H. Harrison, Augustus S. John, George Batchelder, J. F. Barker, George Childs, Robert Starkie, John Kanaka. James Leatherby, John Curley, John Powers, and Frederick Cole, and plead " Not guilty."
The jury was then empanelled, and the trial proceeded.
The evidence in these cases amounted to nothing more than a reiteration of that produced on the trial of Roberts. It will be observed that the prisoners are mentionad in the indictment on which Roberts was tried, and they were arraigned on the same.
The jury in the above case rendered the following verdict: —
John Curley, guilty of conspiracy ; also of riot and robbery in Sacramento-street; not guilty of the fourth charge of the indictment.
David Gale, guilty on the first charge; not guilty on the second, third, and fourth charge
John F. Barker, guilty on the first charge; and guilty on the second; not guilty on the third and fourth.
William Mickle, guilty on the first charge; not guilty on the second, third, and fourth.
Augustus S. John, guilty on the first charge; not guilty on the second, third and fourth.
Jas. H Harrison, guilty on the first charge, with recommendation to mercy; not guilty on the second, third, and fourth.
George Batchelder, guilty on the first charge, with recommendation to mercy; not guilty on the second, third, and fourth.
John Powers, not guilty on all the charges.
George Childs, not guilty on all the charges.
Cyrus Leatherby, not guilty on all the charges. E. Laffan, Foreman.
Abstract of Record of Sentences. —
Samuel Roberts sentenced to ten years hard labor in the penitentiary where the Governor of the territory of California may direct.
Theodore R. Saunders sentenced to ten years hard labor in the penitentiary where the Governor of the territory of California may direct.
John Curley sentenced to pay a fine of $1000 and to one year hard labor in the penitentiary where the Governor of the territory of California may direct, the time to be counted from the date of the payment of the fine.
David Gale sentenced to pay a fine of $500 and six months in the penitentiary at hard labor where the Governor of the territory of California may direct, the time to be counted from the date of the payment of the fine.
Augustus S. John sentenced to pay a fine of $500 and bond for $5000 to keep the peace for twelve months.
John F. Barker sentenced to pay a fine of $250, and bond of $2500 to keep the peace for twelve months.
William Mickle sentenced to pay a fine of $250, and bond of $2500 to keep the peace for twelve moanths.
Prisoners remanded on board ship until the Governor can be heard from. By order of T. M. Leavenworth, Alcalde. H. Gillingham, Clerk. At the instance of the prosecuting attorney, a nol pros. was entered in the following cases: Frederick Cole, Robert Starkie, and James Robinson.


Daily Alta California, Volume 3, Number 166, 15 June 1852, p.5,col.1 Later From the South[edit]
Indian Troubles. — Under this head a correspondent of the Star thus writes from Santa Barbara:
On the 9th of May about 100 Indian warriors, from the Tulares. with fire-arms, &c., came into the mission of San Buenaventura. The news was immediately sent up to this place, purporting that two Americans "had been taken prisoners by the tribe, and a party numbering 18 persons, comnmanded by Valentine Hearne, the Sheriff of the county, and nearly all Americans, immediately armed themselves and proceeded to San Buenaventura the same night, traveling all night and arriving there in the morning. Among the Indians were two who had escaped from jail at this place about two weeks previous, having both been committed to await their trial for the murder of a peddler. The Indians had a pass, from the U. S. Indian Commissioner, to come to the mission and return to the plains. Many of their horses were recognized as those stolen by the Indians on some previous visit. The story of the two Americans who were supposed to be prisoners of the Indians proving false, and the Indians exhibiting no hostile inclinations, the sheriff and his party returned. On the 10th instant, Mr. John Powers, of this city, having lost some horses, again went down to the mission, but the Indians had robbed two travelers on the road of their horses, saddles and bridles, leaving them to proceed on foot. Powers, with twenty-five men, pursued and overtook them a few miles this side of Don Carlos Carrillo's rancho, and by representing to them that he had an armed force of one hundred and fifty Americans, succeeded in getting three of his horses "and the two escaped prisoners. He then returned to the mission. The Indian prisoners were tried by the people for the murder of the peddler, convicted, and hung on the 11th ult. Previous to their death they confessed the murder, and proved themselves to be the leaders of a regular gang of horse thieves.
Los Angeles Star, Number 12, 31 July 1852, p.2,col.1-3, TERRIBLE EVENTS. MURDER AMD ITS PROMPT PUNISHMENT[edit]
TERRIBLE EVENTS. MURDER AMD ITS PROMPT PUNISHMENT.
In the last number of the Star mention was made of the disappearance of two Americans known to have been travelling towards this city from San Diego, and several circumstances were mentioned as justifying the suspicion that they had been murdered,and that the fearful crime had been committed by a Californian named Doroteo Zabaleta and two Sonorenos who were traced from San Juan to Santa Ana in company with the persons who had so misteriously[sic] disappeared. The events of the past week have fully justified the suspicions which had existed in the minds of our citizens, and expose crimes of the most awful nature, together with a corresponding retribution.
Information was received here on Tuesday that Zabaleta and two others had been arrested at Santa Barbara upon the charge of stealing horses; that an examination had been held, and that Zabaleta had been committed for trial, but that his companions had been discharged in consequence of an insufficiency of proof against them. No additional information had been received concerning the murder, but it was deemed advisable to send to Santa Barbara for the person said to be in custody there, and accordingly on Thursday morning Sheriff Barton and deputy sheriff Osburn were despatched for that purpose. This measure, however, was hastened by the prompt and efficient action of the citizens of Santa Barbara.
When the news reached Santa Barbara that Zabaleta and his companions were suspected of murder. the two persons who had been released, Rivas and Carmillo were immediately taken into custody, and a guard placed over them to secure their safe keeping. Notwithstanding the precautions, however, Zabaleta succeeded in getting out of the stocks in which he had been confined, and but for the vigilance of another prisoner he would have made good his escape. The excitement was very great: and a number of the citizens having assembled together at the court house, the prisoners were brought before John A. Vidal, Esq., and examined separately. When Carmillo was questioned, he said that Rivas had confessed to him that he and Zabaleta had murdered two Americans near this city. Many of the citizens of Santa Barbara were disposed to inflict summary justice, but,on the other side was a strong party in favor of placing the accused persons in the hands of the authorities, and a conflict seemed inevitable--but happily a compromise was effected, and it was agreed that twelve persons should be selected from among the citizens of the place. for the purpose of conducting the prisoners to the city of Los Angeles, where the crime for which they were arrested, was said to have been committed. The gentlemen charged with the conveyance of the prisoners to this city,--Messrs; H. S. Carnes, V. W. Hearn, John A. Vidal, John Scollan, C. R. V. Lee. E. S. Hoar, P. H. Dunne, John Powers, Thomas Gannon, Robert Moore. Thomas W Harper, and Mr. Millhouse—left Santa Barbara on Wednesday, and arrived in this city on Thursday evening, and in accordance with the wishes of our citizens, delivered their prisoners into the custody of Col. Stewart and Capt. A. Sublette.
After a short consultation among our citizens, it was deemed proper that a committee should be chosen to hear any statements that the prisoners might be inclined to make. The committee were instructed to report to a public meeting to be held the next day (Friday) at the court house.
The Committee of Examination.
The committee, consisting of Manuel Requena, Matthew Keller. J R. Scott, Lewis Granger. M. C. Rojo and John G. Downey, proceeded to an examination, of the prisoners, at the Wilson House. Francisco Carmillo was the the first one brought before.them. He said that he saw Jesus Rivas and Doroteo Zabaleta at San Gabriel, sometime about the first of July, and that Zabaleta and Rivas went to San Juan, but that he did not accompany them ; that when they returned, about a week afterwards, he again met them and that Zabaleta, in reply to the question, "What success?" said that he had had pretty good success, and exhibited $250 in money, two revolvers, and two horses. Carmillo also said that when they left San Gabriel neither of them had any money, and that Rivas's clothes were old and tattered, and when he returned he had good clothes. When Carmillo applied to Zabaleta for money, he was told that if he would go up the country with them, he should be supplied with money and a horse. They then went up the country together, and when near Santa Barbara were arrested on the charge of horse stealing. Rivas and Carmillo were set at liberty. but Zabaleta was held for trial. While the two were at liberty, Rivas said something to Carmillo which arroused his suspicion that they. Rivas and Zabaleta, had not come honestly by the money, and upon expressing his suspicions, Rivas confessed that he and Zabeleta had murdered and robbed two Americans near the San Gabriel river. [The voluntary testimony of Carmillo was apparently clear and straight forward; but after the confessions of Zabaleta and Rivas, it becomes comparatively unimportant. The substance of it is comprised in what is mentioned above.]
Doroteo Zabaleta being brought before the. Committee, denied having committed any murders near the San Gabriel river He confessed to stealing some horses, and gave an account of his trip to San Juan, but he could not recollect of having ever seen any Americans. The examination was conducted with great caution and Zabaleta's statements were sometimes contradictory. After four or five hours had been spent in putting and answering question's, Zabaleta expressed, a willingness to tell the whole truth, and requested that the judicial oath might be administered to him. After having sworn to tell the truth, he made the following confession.

The Confession of Doroteo Zabaleta. About the 5th of July, myself and Jesus Rivas went to San Juan to see my brother, for the purpose of obtaining means to go away from this part of the country. We arrived at San Juan on Wednesday, [7th July] and on the next day Rivas came to me and said he had seen two Americans stopping at a house; the house has old walls. Afterwards, when I was at my brothers', Rivas told me he had spoken to these gentlemen, the Americans, and that they wanted to buy thirty or forty mares.— Myself, Rivas and my brother went to see the, Americans, and we asked them if they wanted to buy mares. They said they would buy twelve at that place. My brother told them if they would buy twenty or twenty-live mares they could trade. They replied that they had not money enough, but that they had the intention of going to Los Angeles to buy thirty or forty. My brother told them that he would not sell twelve, and we went away without the Americans, to a tavern, and remained there all day. Afterwards, Rivas said to me " Let us go and do something : let us go and overtake these Americans and kill them, and take their money." Then I said, " I have never committed a murder, and there is no reason why you should do such a thing." Rivas told me that I was wanting in valor. Something was said about conscience, and Rivas said, " Have you never done such a thing?" Rivas told me he, he had committed some murders above. We. we're disputing the matter about two hours, and in the afternoon, about 4 o'clock, we saddled up. After we had saddled up. I told Rivas I had compunctions, and was afraid; that there was no necessity of our throwing ourselves away; and that I had brothers who would help him to go away without prejudicing myself in the business I had with them about obtaining money. I had bid farewell to a sister, but not to my brothers. I had told Silvedia (a brother) that I wanted some animals, and he told me I might have two at San Joaquin if I would go for them. When I set out I did not tell my brothers what I was going to do. We left the Mission of San Juan together, and Rivas said, "let us go as fast as we can and overtake these men." After traveling a short distance, I stopped behind to talk with some friends, and Rivas went on alone. When I arrived at the Alvisos I had gained some on Rivas, and enquired of a woman if she had seen him pass. She directed me to where he was, and I found him encamped under, a sycamore. From thence we went together, and Rivas said that the Americans were far ahead, for he had enquired of persons who saw them pass. We rode on slowly—sometimes we galloped - -until we had overtaken the Americans within 400 yards, when we struck off from the road to one side and came on ahead of the Americans to the Cienega, and stopped there and commenced conversation Rivas asked what was the best method to kill the Americans. I told him it was not necessary to kill them, but that it would be better to hunt the manada of my brother, and sell to them. Rivas objected, and said he calculated the men were bringing with them a $1000 or more. Rivas proposed to kill a calf, which was done, and after we had made the meat, the Americans passed on the high road which leads to the lower Santa Ana. I said to Rivas, "call the Americans to come and eat meat, " and he went out and returned with them, and I saluted them and invited them to eat some meat that I had roasted. Both the men spoke Spanish - one a little better than the other. There was no water there. I had a bottle of aguadiente mixed with water, I invited them to drink of it, which they did. Then Rivas was making signs to me to kill them, and I said "no," with signs. We came on from there with them, by the other side of the Santiago creek, and Rivas was making signs to me every moment to lasso them. We fell back to converse, and I told him my conscience would not let me kill the unhappy men without any motive. Rivas went to Patricio Banello and got a fresh horse, and I remained with the Americans talking about buying horses. When Rivas returned, he proposed to decoy these men to cross some hills to another ranch. I replied "no," in a loud voice, and we came on all together to the Santa Ana. Rivas did not want to go to any house, for he did not wish to be seen in company with the Americans. I told him I had no intention of committing murder. I had no embarrassment in calling at a house where I was known. Rivas replied, "you are a coward." We went on and arrived at a rancheria, where were some Indians, the Americans still with us looking for pasture for their horses. I told them I was born in that section, and they trusted me to procure pasture for them. The Americans encamped near the milpa of Don Teodocio Yorba, and Rivas and myself went to the house of Patricio Banello and slept. In conversing about the murder of the Americans, Rivas said he had been in company with four men above, who were good men, and that they made the conditions that if any of the party was to disclose the least little concerning their actions the balance would kill him. I consented to the same conditions, and it was agreed that we should go to Sonora together with Francisco Carmillo, who had agreed to similar terms.

The morning after sleeping at Bonillo's, Rivas and myself saddled up about 7 o'clock, and crossed the Santa Ana river. Rivas asked me if I was not going to see the Americans, and I said "No." We came on slowly to the arroyo seco, where Rivas turned back, telling me to await him at the Mesa; I stopped at the side of the road to graze, and an American passed me. Presently Rivas came up with the two Americans. Rivas asked me if I had seen an American passing towards the Santa Ana. I told him I had, and he enquired why I did not kill him. I asked why I should kill him, and he accused me of cowardice. We went along, Rivas always declaring his intention of killing these men. I told him it was better to take their money without their lives, but he said it was necessary to kill them in order to get their money. We took the road of the Coyotes towards the Pueblo, and at the Cienega, near the Coyotes, the Americans took off their saddles, and we all rested under a tree. Rivas took me; out some fifty yards to tell me the plan of killing the Americans, for they had arms — one a knife in his boot, and the other a Colt's six- ; shooter. Rivas proposed to go up and ask one ; for his pistol to look at. and the other for his knife. I said "Yes." We asked them to let us look at their arms, and they, having no distrust, gave them up to us. Rivas made signs to me to stab the Americans, but I would not, and we returned the weapons. Rivas was chiding me all along because I would not help to kill the Americans when I had a chance, and he then proposed to go on to the San Gabriel river, and "if we did not take the lives of the Americans there we would return. I pointed out the road to the Americans, directing them to the Jaboneria, and I went a little off the road, alone, waiting for Rivas who had gone to get a horse. When he came back; he went on and overtook the Americans and ordered them to stop, and they stopped in the mustard, having missed the sira.ig.ht road. We then went on together until we reached the San Gabriel at the Jaboneria, when I proposed to go on to the Pueblo, but the Americans said it was too late, and their horses were foundered. Rivas. determined to go up the bank of the rivet a short distance, and while there, we saw two or three persons lassoing a bullock: I enquired where there was pasture for our animals, and they, told us on the other side of the river, from the house of Chico Lugo, up, was plenty of grass. We went there and encamped near a high bluff of the river, about fifteen paces from it. Rivas proposed to go and buy beef to eat, and the Americans agreed to it, and one of them gave him a Sit) piece to go and buy the beef. There was-no iVesh beef at the house, and they gave Rivas dried beef, without taking auy price for it.— lie returned with the money, and gave it up to the' Americans. Rivas then said to mo, "There is no remedy, we must kill these Americans." I objected, but he borrowed the American's knife, and cut two sticks, about one vara long, and an inoh and a*half thick, for the purpose of killing them. After eating, it being.night, the Americans, after talking together.a great deal, fell asleep. Rivas then took one of the sticks and struck both of the Americans on the forehead, almost at the same time, as their heads were'close' together, and they did not move. Be then took the pistol and the knife from them 1 ; saying to me, " Come on coward," and struck the Americans two or three times more on the head with the club. The men were'still breathing, iiitd | Rivas told me to go andkiek one of the men in ! the bowers and finish him, which I did, for fear j oti Rivas, who was cursing, and had the pistol in his hand threatening to shoot me. After ; Rivas had rifled their pockets, we removed the [ bodies a short distance and left them. Rivas would not let me'bury them, as 1 proposed to do. We took from them a buckskin purse containing money—l do not know how much— the 'six shooter and knife, the two horses and one saddle. This is the pure truth that T have told you. The murders were committed on the 8th of 9th of this month.
The Finding of the Bodies of the Murdered Men.
After Zaveleta had confessed the murder of the Americans, a party of men started out in search for the bodies, taking Zaveleta with them as a guide. The prisoner led them to the opposite bank of the San Gabriel, about half a mile from the house of Chico Lugo, and first showed them where he and Rivas cut the clubs with which the murders were perpetrated. Some fifty feet farther on the bodies were found, lying about twenty feet apart, in the mustard. They had been dragged to this place, perhaps twenty-five feet from the tree under which they were encamped when they were killed. Every thing corresponded, even to the minutest particular, with, the confession of Zavaleta: The bodies had been eaten by coyotes and birds of prey, aud were too much decomposed to allow of any description which would be satisfactory. One of the bodies was covered with a calico shirt, and a pair of plaid pantaloons. The other body was also covered with a calico shirt. A pair of boots and a pair of shoes, small size, were found near the bodies: also a Spanish and English Dictionary, a hat, a pair of white blankets, and a stripped pillow case but none of these had any marks by which the names of the murdered men could be ascertained. The party searched all about for for sbmething by which the bodies might be identified, but to no purpose. The remains of the murdered men were gathered up, a grave was dug, and they were buried at the in the very-spot where their lives were taken.
The Examination and Confession of Jesus N Rivas.
When Rivas was first examined, he denied any k'nowledg e : I of the Americans referred to in the con session ot ISavaleta. — : ! .He said thai they went to San Juan in 'ompauy andreturned; they they left Carmillo at San Gabriel and found h'.m there | when they returned When questioned upon the sep irate ! noints developed in the confession of SaV'ileta, ho denied evj ery thing. After about twenty .interrogatories hud been put . (o him, he requested permission to retire with .M.'U! ltojo, i Esq., promising tcf make a true declaration, The committee j retired, leavidg the prisoh.tr with Sefior llojo. An hour or ' more elapsed, whau the commute ? railed to investigate the j charges aaaiust the accused, having returned, fienor Kojo, ; in the presence Ilivas, and with his approval, gave the | purport of the conversation he had held with prisoner, lli- ; gave an account of the trip to Sun Juan, pret- ; cy nearly with thecoh&ssion of Zabaleta. He confessed the : murder of the Americans ; >but said Savaleta Incited to the j crime. Having brought the Americans to tho Sau Gabriel, ! he went ou to sny : j Tho Americans had made abed for four and invit'd us to : share it. Savaleta declined to lie down with the Americans > Bayinjr that he had his prayers to sny. I laid down near tho ! Americans on my muchillus. About two hours after all had, : retired. Savaleta gave the sign agreed upon, and got out ins • ! sticks and leveled a blow at tho head, of one of the Americ.fcntfj | the other tried to rise up. when Savaleoa oried out to me, i "why don't you strike tiieother One.?" I struck the other j onn down with repeated blows. The one which fiavaieta I struck tried to rise, but was struck down. Wo then took j tlieir arms away, a fix-shooter and a knite, the same knife | which was used to cut the clubs with which we despatched; ! them. After taking their arms away, the bodies Showed signs . of life, and Sa valet i asked me r.o assist in despatching-theui, which was done with many blows. Sav.deti took the horses ' and anddle, aud Itook from in money. Francis-' I co Carmillo had no hand or agency in tliesij twomurders. ; Tile Peoples' Meeting. j The citizens assembled at the Court House, at 4 o'clock. i Friday afternoon, to consider upon the serious questious in» 1 volvedin tho disclosures made by Dorotero Hpveleta. Jesus J.ivas and Francisco Carmillo- ' Ab -1 creates was called to the chair, and W. G. Dryden opi pointed Interpreter. M. 0. Rojo and W.' T. Is. Sanford wore | un motion of Mr Sanford, the Chair appointed Alez. Bell, j Manuel G irfias, and Fcanci s .Melius, to se'c'-t.a jury of twelve to«n to hear the rtMHSS determine th-? cause ot the acI" oused. t The committee appointed as said jury : W. C. Winstpp, 0. Morgan, Leo :ce Hoover, W. L. K-oncdy, S. Lnzard, John Ward, Jo e Auto. Yorba. Asdics i'ieo, Dolores Sepulveda, Francis Melius, Feli.je Lugo, Julian Chavis On motion of Col. Stewart, the evidence taken bef >re a preEs(j., in English, and by Manuel-C. Kojo, Esq . in Spanish — I). Whereupon the fame.was lead.in tlm.prcsejl.ee of the prisoner I '. The Jury retired for a few moments and returned with the following verdict : We, the Jury, find that the prisoners Savaleta and Ilivas I are guilty of murder (in the first degree) of two Americans as charged. JOHN WABD, Foreman."
On motion of Lewis Granger, it was voted unanimously, that the citizens hang the accused at 8 o'clock Saturday in Jfuiu'i; and it was also moved and carried that the Chair appoint a committee of three to determine what disposition should be made of the third prisoner, Francisco Carimillo; whereupon the Chair appointed Francis Melius, Francisco Lopez and Andres Pico said committee. Subsequently the decision was made that Francisco Carmillo should be handed over to the civil authorities.
Los Angeles Star, Number 47, 2 April 1853, p.2,Col.3 Local Summary[edit]
Local Summary.
Smiles and mirth have succeeded the tears and sadness of Passion Week; out and in-door Sports and amussments have prevailed in place of the ceremonies at the church; the black, sombre dresses of the señoritas have retired before the beautiful costly silks in which they have this week adorned themselves. The tinkling of the harp and guitar fill the ear with grateful mush; and above all, the mild, balmy air of a California spring, the singing of birds, and the delicious fragrance of fields of waving and beautiful flowers, make our city one of the pleasantest spots on earth.
On Saturday the ceremonies at the Church ended. On the same day, in the afternoon, a grand cock fight came off on the Plaza, opposite the Church, made up between Don Pio Pico and Mr John Powers, which was continued at intervals for several days, neither party Winning nor losing to any amount. On Monday a race came off between Moore and Brady's horse, John Smith, and Mr J. Powers' mare, Sarah Jane, for $2,100 a side, which the horse won by about a length. This was decidedly the prettient race wo have seen in the city. After the race, a game of "shinty " was played between a party of twelve Americans against twelve Californians, on the result of which about $1500 was bet. That was fine sport. The men on each side were strong,athletic, nimble fellows, selected expressly for their supposed proficiency in the game, and at the commencement bets were about even. At the start the Americans got the lead, and knocked the ball pretty well towards their bounds, when unfortunately it fetched up in a mud puddle, and in extricating it, the Californians sent it whizzing the other way, and managed to follow up their advantage so well that Iin about two hours' time they won the game.— The chase was very exciting throughout, each party striving its utmost to win, and the friends of each cheering and encouraging their favorites. At the close of the game, the players presented a speotacle which put one in mind of Sir John Falstaff's famous company—completely "tuckered out," mud-bespattered, hatless, bootless, stockingless, and some almost "trouserless," panting and limping from fatigue and damageu shins, they wended their way homeward mightily pleased at the day's sport. We understand an effort ia being made to get up another game in the course of a few days.— The Americans are reluctant to acknowledge their opponents masters. Throughout the week "bailecitos" hare been of nightly occurrence.
Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 105, 16 April 1853, p.2, col.1 San Diego and Los Angeles[edit]
San Diego and Los Angeles
The Ohio brings v files of Los Angeles Star and San Diego Herald to the 9th instant. We are indebted to Adams & Co. for the early delivery of our papers.
The San Diego paper is dull — no news — but from the Los Angeles Star we take a few items.
About one hundred Indians from San Luis Rey honored our city with a visit yesterday. They came for the purpose of paying their respects to the Indian Agent, and to collect some present. In accordance with the authority vested in him.
On Monday a race came off between Moore & Brady's horse John Smith, and Mr. J. Powers' mare, Sarah Jane, for $2100 a side, which the horse won by about a length. There is absolutely nothing worth transferring, beyond the above to our columns, from the papers before us.
Los Angeles Star, Number 52, 7 May 1853, p.2,col.2 Bloody Affray in Santa Barbara — Deplorable State of Affairs.[edit]
Bloody Affray in Santa Barbara—Deplorable State of Affairs.
Our intelligence from Santa Barbara, by the Sea Bird, is of a most exciting and melancholy nature, and such as to cause the keenest regret among all classes of our citizens. A fight occurred in the streets of that city on Saturday last, between a party of Californians on one side and some Americans on the other, which resulted in the death of one man and the wounding of three more, one, of whom, it is supposed will not recover.
We have received no correspondence from the scene of difficulty, and have been obliged to gather our information relating to it from various sources. This we have taken some pains to do, and we believe the following is a tolerably fair statement of the case, though we do not vouch for its authenticity in every particular.
An American named John, but more familiarly known as Jack Powers, had been occupying a piece of land which Mr Nicholas Den had leased from the government for a term of years, situated about, two miles from the city. Den had instituted proceedings against Powers for the recovery of his property, and the case, after being decided in favor of the plaintiff in the District Court, was carried up to the Supreme Court of the State, where a decision was also rendered for the plaintiff. Powers, however refused to give up the land, claiming that it was government property, and as such, free to all American citizens. Thus the case continued for some time. At last the Sheriff of Santa Barbara, county, Mr. Twist, resolved to eject the occupant by force, and for that purpose assembled a posse of men to assist him.- Powers hearing of the intention of the Sheriff, collected a party of friends to the number of fifteen, and proceeded with them to fortify himself on the rancho, felling trees, piling up logs and arranging wagons, so as to form a sort of barricade for that purpose. On Saturday morning the sheriff assembled his force. Powers and his men were in town at the time, and immediately procured wagons and horses, and proceeded on in advance, taking with then, eatables and drinkables sufficient to last several days, and all well armed with six shooters, rifles and shot guns. They had also several pieces of music with them, and apparently started off pretty jolly. Three of the number named John Videll, John Dunn and Jack Stout remained behind for a short time, and were riding past the place where the Sheriff was engaged with some of his men in cleaning a cannon which had been spiked the night before, when something which was said induced them to stop. The Sheriff was asked what he intended to do with the cannon? to which he replied that he was merely unspiking it, that he had no disposition to use it in any way, and that he was desirous of executing his duty without a difficulty. Some other words followed, and Videll finally rode up and threw a rope over the cannon, but immediately loosed it again. An Irishman named Micky, then approached and made a rope fast to the cannon, and started off, dragging it after him. Upon this, the Sheriff is reported by some to have told his men to "protect the gun." and by others to have given orders to kill all the Americans present, and the order was obeyed instantly — Videll was shot seven times — four shots in the back, two in the wrist, and one through the head. Report says that he was then lassoed and dragged a short distance on the ground, but we cannot conceive of the perpetration of such an unheard of brutality, and therefore I judge the statement to be incorrect. Dunn was wounded but not very seriously, and he and Stout made their escape. During the melee, one of the Sheriffs party stabbed him just above the hip by mistake, inflicting a very severe wound, and the Sheriff in his turn, drew shot the man through the breast. He was a Californian named Lugo. Micky got off unhurt. In the afternoon, Powers, having heard of what had taken place, drove into town with his party and paraded the streets for a short time, but no further bloodshed followed. All classes were very much excited, the Californians and Americans generally taking sides against each other. At the time the Sea Bird left, tranquility had been in a measure restored, but bitter feelings still exist, which may develop themselves in further difficulties. Powers, we understand, refuses to give up his land.
On one evening during the last week, a Californian, while riding through the street was shot at twice, the balls passing through his serape, but doing no further injury. As it was supposed to have been the work of Americans, a party of about fifty Californians collected with the design of tearing down Mr Hearn's billiard saloon, a place much frequented by Americans in Santa Barbara but were restrained by the Sheriff. We shall await with some interest, further details of the affair, which we hope will be furnished by some of our friends in Santa Barbara.
Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 126, 7 May 1853, p.2, col.1, FROM SAN DIEGO AND LOS ANGELES.[edit]
FROM SAN DIEGO AND LOS ANGELES.
Excitement and Deadly Affray in Santa Barbara.
By the arrival of the steamer Ohio, Capt. Briggs, from the southern ports, we have dates from Los Angeles, San Diego and Santa Barbara, several days later. From San Diego to the 23d ult., Los Angeles, 20th. The following painful intelligence comes to us from Santa Barbara: For some time past the ranch known at the Arroyo Burro has been in possession of one John Powers who held it under a squatter claim. On Saturday last the sheriff, W. W. Twist was about to proceed to serve a writ of ejectment on Powers. It being intimated to him that to get possession, he must do so by force of arms, he called upon the citizens to meet in the Plaza to render him assistance in the execution of his duty. The party procured a large cannon to take with them and while on the Plaza a man threw his riata over it to draw it away. The sheriff ordered him to desist. During the dispute a Californian stepped behind Twist and stabbed him, the latter turned round and shot him dead. A general firing then commenced, during which J. A. Videl was killed.
Monday Morning. — The excitement has somewhat subsided on account of the arrival of the cutter Ewing whose commander offers to render all assistance in his power in the execution of the law. At last account. Twist was very low, but hopes were entertained of his recovery. We are indebted to Purser Deane for the above account, our correspondence having from some unaccountable cauase failed to reach us. There is not much other news from the South.
The following items are from the San Diego Herald:
From the Colorado. — We learn that the Yuma have come down in large numbers from the mountains to cultivate their planting round, in the vicinity of Fort Yuma; their numbers are considerably larger than was anticipated by the authorities at the post. The rich and fertile lands on the Gila and Colorado are capable of being made to produce all the tropical fruits and vegatables, and by the time the overland immigration arrives here will be an abundance cf melons, squashes and other vegetables for their use. Messrs. Dennis and Alden have a very extensive drove of sheep lately arrived in the lower country from New Mexico. Mr. Dennis went down a few days ago to meet them.
Capt. Ingles arrived here on the Sea Bird. He proceeds to the Colorado forthwith to relieve Major Andrews, the much respected Quartet master at Camp Yuma.
Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 143, 24 May 1853, p.2,col.3 FROM SAN DIEGO.[edit]
By the arrival last evening of the Sea Bird, steamer, Capt. Hillard, from San Diego, we are favored by the following items from that section of country.
....
At Santa Barbara every thing was quiet. A lease had been granted to Jack Powers to allow him time to remove his crops off the land about which the unfortunate affray occurred.
Los Angeles Star, Number 3, 28 May 1853, p.2,col.2, From Santa Barbara.[edit]
From Santa Barbara.
It has been rumored in town during the past week that Mr Powers had delivered himself up to the Sheriff of Santa Barbara. Tranquility is again restored, though the late difficulties have engendered enmities between the American and native population which will not soon be extinguished.
Los Angeles Star, Number 4, 4 June 1853, p.2,col.2 ARRIVAL OF THE SEA BIRD[edit]
ARRIVAL OF THE SEA BIRD.
The Sea Bird, Capt Hilliard, arrived at San Pedro on Wednesday, bringing San Francisco dates to the 23th inst. Passengers—by the Sea Bird. Hon. S. C. Foster, Hon J. P. McFarland, Hon Jefferson Hunt, John Rowland, Esq, Master R. Rowland, Mrs George Mellus, Mrs J H. Landers, John O. Wheeler, Mr Gordon and lady, Mr Miner and lady, Juan Bandini, Hon J. M. Covarrubins, Hon A. M. De la Guerra, J. A. Lewis, Hon I. B. Wall, Capt Trussell, John Powers, John Dunn, Lola Montes, the celebrated Countess of Lansfeldt, and world renownod for her beauty and eccentricity, has arrived at San Francisco and is playing at the American Theatre. She attracts crowded houses, and is pronounced by the critics to be an actress of extraordinary merit.
Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 158, 8 June 1853 p2 col1 WEDNESDAY MORNING, JUNE 8[edit]
WEDNESDAY MORNING, JUNE 8
At length we have an "official," and no doubt a very just and reliable statement, detailing the circumstances and particulars of the late riot and resistance of the law in Santa Barbara. We have waited with some degree of interest for such a report as this, and we do not hesitate to attach full faith to the straightforward and manly exposition of the matter, which appears in another part of this paper over the signature of the Sheriff Santa Barbara county. Our readers will not forget that an effort was made shortly after the occurrence to put such a construction upon the actions of the rioters as would screen them from popular indignation and censure. It was a curious circumstance that each time the medium selected was an organ of the present State administration.
But there is another more singular fact in this case to which we would direct the reader's attention. It appears, from Mr. Twist's statement, that immediately on matters assuming the threatening appearance which they did shortly after the riot, he made a requisition on the Governor of the State for arms. This request was never noticed, and Mr. TWIST innocently supposes it failed to reach the Executive! That worthy Sheriff lives a long distance from the seat of Government of this State. It is possible that the official requisition on the Governor may have failed to reach that most notable functionary. Facilities for "conveyancing" (as well as engrossing) are in a very rough and uncertain state in and between the official departments and posts of functionaries in this new country. We shall perhaps examine this interesting feature of the case still farther before the votes of the people are required at the fall election.
Our suspicions are justified in one particular of the occurrence at least. With the names of the principal actors in the affray, as well as the chief of the resistance party, we have some acquaintance. We recognized those of two or three individuals who, in the fall of the year 1849, became notorious in this city in connection with the riots, still remembered as the "Hound Excitement." The rioters in conflict with whom the Sheriff was wounded are composed, in part at least, of some of these scoundrels. In an organized band, or pack, styling themselves "Hounds," these fellows held that town in constant terror by their frightful outrages, until they were finally broken up and driven away by an outraged community. Some of them betook themselves to Santa Barbara, and other places on the lower coast, where they have since resided. They are bad men, and it is to be hoped they will not escape for their recent misdemeanors, through want of facilities and properly constituted authorities for their just punishment, as was the case when they were arraigned before a people's court in this city.
Daily Alta California, Volume 4, Number 158, 8 June 1853, p2 col2 The Riot In Santa Barbara[edit]
THE RIOT IN SANTA BARBARA
Full Particulars of the Affray — Statement of the Sheriff.
We lay before our readers the following official statement of Sheriff Wilson, of Santa Barbara Co., giving the fall particulars of the late difficulty in that place and the affray between a squatter party and the authorities.
Sheriff's Offce, - }
Santa Barbara, 27th May, 1853.- }
Most Excellent Sir - Having somewhat recovered from the effects of the wound received by me on the 30 of April last, while trying to exacute my duty as sheriff of this county, I deem it proper to dispatch to you an official statement of the whole affair, from first to last, insomuch as to this date I have seen no true account of th« matter, nor anything approaching to the truth in any public print of the day. On the 20th day of April last a writ was placed in my hands, commanding me to dispossess a John Powers of a certain tract of land, house, corral, fences, ditches, &c., and immediately to place Messrs. Hill and Den in peaceful possession of the same. I had thirty day allowed me to return the writ to court previous to my receiving it. I was told several times by some of Powers' gang or partners, that I had better not attempt to serve it, that it would not be given up, and that I would lose my life. and that I bad better resign. "Squatters had their rights." I replied that I had nothing to do with "squatters rights," if I received a writ or execution from any court, I should try and serve it.
But to proceed. The moment I received the writ I set out alone to to serve it, and on the road I was overtaken by some cf the gang and requested to stop; that they wished to have a little time or notice and that it would no doubt be settled immedately and in a leagal manner, and that it was unfair in me to take the advantage of them, when the principal, John Powers, was absent in Los Angeles. I replied I would consent to give them ten days notice to quit the premises. They said that it was all they could ask of me, and expressed themselves well satisfied with me when I consented to give them that time.
Meantime; Powers arrived. I went immediately and notified him that I held the writ, and that I had on urgent request of his agents, given him ten days notice to quit, and that the notice would expire on Saturday 30th April, at 10 o'clock, A. M. He said, "I will not give up the place: if the boys and by me as they promised, not if the house is burnt over my head; and I give you notice, Sheriff: that you can get all the force you can, for alone you know you can do nothing." I replied "Very well, on next Saturday, at 10 o'clock in the morning, expect a call from me," and I left him. He stated a day or two after the above conversation, that he would have about forty armed men to help him to resist; and in a subsequent conversation he told me so. I then, under the circumstances, concluded that it behooved me to make all necessary preparation to carry into effect the law. I began to summon a posse comitatus to appear at my office at the hour of 10 o'clock on Saturday, 30th April. Meantime he was making preparation to resist by collecting arms, as arms were seen in the hands of men who carried and left them at his house; it had now fully become a question of the force of the law against disorder. On Saturday morning the people began to assemble in front cf my office; which assembly Powers passed by, in the road to the "Arroya del Burro," accompanied by some ten or fifteen armed men in a wagon, preceded by a band cf music.
As he passed by I called him, and beseached him not to proceed to extremes in resistance, and not to be the cause of bloodshed. He went on, and the people said to me, "these men have rifles and are fortified in a house; we have few, if any arms and no guns: we had better take out a cannon." I said, "go and get it." They went off and got a small swivel, which will carry a ball of two pound's weight. When they arrived in front of the house with it, John Videl, John Dunn, Robinson, alias Stout, and some others cf the Powers party, rode up on horseback to within a few feet of where I was standing, and Vidal asked me If I thought cf carrying out that gun? I told him that I would take such steps to enforce the law as were proper under the circumstances. He thereupon became very much enraged, and said "what kind Of a d__d Sheriff are you?" took out his pistol and said. "you had better make out your will — you will get a bullet through your head." I replied, "the bullet is not made that is to kill me today." He said " boys do you hear that?" and thereupon began to turn over the cannonand to ride their horses over it, and make insulting remarks. The people began to get enraged. I exclaimed to them, "do not mind what they say, for it amounts to nothing: keep your temper." I then asked Vidal, I would not take it. He then put a rope on it to draw it away. I said, "I command you to let it remain where it is." Some person cut his rope, but one of his friends put another rope around it, and they persisted in taking it away. I then commanded all to assist me in detaining the gun; at that moment Vidall raised (as was proven in court afterwards) his pistol, and fired at me, the ball passing close by my head, and burying itself in the walls cf the house behind. This was the first shot fired, (also proven In court). I then drew my pistol and fired, Robinson, alias Stout, one of the same gang, turned to run away, and as he run away, fired at me. I followed after him and fired upon him as he turned the corner of the houie. The moment I fired upon him I was stabbed, by one Alejo Servia, a man who knew me well, and for a longtime lived here in town. He was sent here a prisoner by the Mexican Government, for assassinating a man, and during the California revolution was set at liberty. As I fell, I turned my pistol upon him with all my remaining strength, as be turned to flee, and shot him". He died a few days afterwards from the effects cf the wound. I was then carried into my house and the wound I received came near being mortal; for several days my life hung on a thread. Powers and a portion of his party hearing what had happened, came marching into town in the afternoon, his troops under arms, and formed in battle array. Powers was assisted throughout the day at the Arreye del Burro, and in getting his men in order, by a certain man named Lynch, that made a statement in the San Joaquin Republican, that the man that attempted to assassinate me came two hundred miles to answer my summons, and that he stabbed me by accident. Alejo Servia has lived in this city for several years, and has conversed with me, face to face, for fifty times at the least.
But to proceed. On the same day I fell, not knowing what would be the result, I deemed it proper to make a requisition on you, as Governor of the State, for troops; the requisition was eonfirmed by the signitures of the District Judge, County Judge, Mayer, and District Attcrnry, and in it I think was a concise statement of the whole affair. As you have never answered it I am inclined to think that you never received it; it must have miscarried. As soon as I regained my health, somewhat I learned that Powers and his party supposed themselves victorious and that the authorities would not trouble them again. I was well aware that the force of the law and order party of this county was not by any means exhausted, and having procured a few good arms, I secretly collected forty man together, to be in readiness to act in case any resistance was made, and sent a deputy to arrest Powers, John and Pat Dunn, and the man Robinson alias Stout. They finding that resistance was useless, gave themselves up at last, were examined before the County Judge, and Robinson was put under bail of three thousand dollars; the others were acquitted. They had retained all the lawyers that would act, and the people owing to the District Attorney being at the time unwell had no lawyers to file a complaint against them after they were acquitted. I took possession of the "Arroy-del Burro," placed Messrs. Hill and Den in peaceable possession of the same, where they still remain. This is all of that affair.
And in conclusion. I beg leave to state to you that I have not made a statement but has been, or can be, if necessary, proven; and that, also, it was in no wise a question of Americans against Californians, but simply one of the force of the law against whomsoever chose to resist its executi0n. As far as the county is concerned, that question is now settled most definitely; there are ten to one in favor of order and law and the authorities, in doing their duty. The people of this county want no troops now, and the American and Oalifornian population have proved it to the world that they will sustain the law, acting ever together in unity and good faith.
I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
W W Twist,
Sheriff of the County of Santa Barbara.
To his Excellency John Bigler, Governor of the State of California

---

Santa Barbara, May 22, 1853.
In connective with the above ststement of the Sheriff, the undersigned feel bound to notice the reports which have been circulated through some of the newspapers in different parts of the State touching the late difflculties here. Some of the reports referred to reflect a design to veil the authors of the whole tragic occurrence by giving it the coloring of an outbreak by one class of citizens against another. It is hoped that this has been denied too often to be believed. The American citizens say that this is not true, and enter a solemn protest against being burdened with the acts of a few squatters who have heretofore set the law at defiance.
Charles Frernald, County Judge.
Russel Heath, District Attorney.
Oliver Magment,
J. J. Spark,
Wm. Z. Packard,
John Rayes,
F. J. McGuire.
cont., p.2, col.3 FROM THE SOUTH[edit]
FROM THE SOUTH
Arrival of the Sea Bird.
The steamer Sea Bird, Capt. Hilliard, three days from San Diego, arrived yesterday, by which we receivsd the San Diego Herald and Los Angeles Star of the latest dates. We find but little news of interest from the lower country.
...
From Santa Barbara — lt has been rumored in town during this past week that Mr Powers had delivered himself up to the Sheriff of Santa Barbara. Tranquility is again restored, though the late difficulties have engendered enmities between the American and native population which will not soon be extinguished. — Star.
Los Angeles Star, Number 7, 25 June 1853, p.2,col.3, District Court—Special Term[edit]
District Court—Special Term.
John Powers vs. Barnes, Suit for money won by cheating at cards. Demurrer argued and overruled.
Los Angeles Star, Number 30, 10 December 1853, p.2,col.2, Court of Sessions.[edit]
Court of Sessions. Wednesday, John Powers and seven others, indicted in Santa Barbara county, or resisting the sheriff in the discharge of his duty, and venue changed on the ground that an impartial trial could not be had in Santa Barbara. Verdict, not guilty—the only evidence against them being the indictment of the grand jury.
Daily Alta California, Volume , Number 45, 15 February 1857 p.2, col.4, INTERESTING LETTER FROM LOS ANGELES. NEWS OF THE PAST FORTNIGHT--FULL ACCOUNT OF THE ARREST AND EXECUTION OF THE ROBBERS[edit]
  • 7 February 1857 On Wednesday, a party started for Santa Barbara in search of Jack Powers, who is identified with several robberies here. On the way, at San Buenaventura, they seized Jesus Espinosa, a convict who was at the killing of Barton — who had escaped from the Monte men — and hung him to the branch of a wide-spreading tree, in the Mission village. They also seized and hung, at Santa Barbara, Berryesaa, a murderer; but they did not find Jack; he was always too cunning to be caught. Jack's career has been one of crime for years, and there are few who would not be glad to assist his exit.
From the Los Angeles Star Extra we glean the following additional particulars:
Expedition to Santa, Barbara— Execution of Two Men.
On Tuesday, the 2d of February, a party, contitting of five persons, started out on an expedition to Santa Barbara. Near tbe Mission of 6an Buenaventura they surprised a party of the robbers in ambush, and succeeded in arresting one of them, who proved to be the notorious Jetut Espinosa, one of the rang who murdered Sheriff Barton. Ue was tried by the people and condemned to death. He was accordingly executed; previous to which he made a confession of his participation in the crimes charged against him.
Confession of Espinosa.
The following is a translation of the letter of Bey. Father Serrano, and the confession of Espinota:
In the name of th» Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. I, Domingo Serrano, curate of the Catholic Church In the Mission of San Boenaventura, having beard the confession of Jose Jesus Espinota, native of Monterey River, aged about seventeen or eighteen years; and considering the benefit which may result tn the numerout unfortunates who are imprisoned upon suspicion of robberies sod murders, recently committed in or about Lot Angelet, by divulging some part of tbe confession, and having undrr consideration, a', the same time, that it might serve to quiet and tranquiliie the feeling of the community, which is much excited by the belief of numerout tecret companies or societies; aad having taken into consideration the before mentioned, I have accordingly with deep solicitude labored to obtain his consent in the presence of witnesses, that I might reveal a part of what I had beard in confession, and that it all might be substantiated by him as true; and believing it to be the most advisable, I have made it in writing, and after reading, was signed ,by the culprit, the witnesses and myself, which it as follows:
I, Jose Jesus Espinoia, fully convinced that after a few hours I shall have ceased to exist, and shall appear before the presence of God, to give a strict account of all the actions of my life, most truthfully say that we, the thieves and murderers, are but ten persons, namely: Antonio Maria Vareles or Chino, Andres Fontes, Juan Catabo, Juan Flores, Santos _______, Santiago Silvas, Leonardo Lopez, and the remaining one, which I only know as the "Ardillero," and who I confess is innocent, as he joined us after we had committed all tbe crimes. I also affirm that our organization dates back one month, or little less, in which time we have committed four murders, near, but not in, San Juan. We have stolen from three stores in San Juan, taking away goods and money, which, with that taken from the murdered persons, I think might exceed $120, and about ten horses. This is the truth, which I sign with a cross before my name, as I cannot write. + Jose Jesus Espinosa.
On the return of Mr. E. H. Ruebottom and party from Santa Barbara, they proceeded to the house of a man named Berryessa, whom they arrested and brought to trial. It appears this man had been tried and found guilty of a murder, in Santa Clara County; had been ordered to be executed, and that he had been actually hung up, but being cut down before life become extinct, the body was given over to his friends who effected his resuscitation. The mark of the rope still remained on his neck. Since then, he committed another murder. These facts having been proved satisfactorily, he was also condemned and executed.
Besides these, Juan Flores, the captain of the gang, it in custody, awaiting execution.
Making in all twelve persons, whose lives had been devoted to robbery and murder.
A meeting of the citizens of Los Angeles was held on Monday, February 9th, when it was resolved to postpone action in tbe case of Juan Flores and othen, now in jail, till Saturday next, tbe 14th instant.
Los Angeles Star, Number 43, 7 March 1857, p.3,col.1, Arrest and Escape of Jack Powers — Santa Barbara Gazette.[edit]
Arrest and Escape of Jack Powers
The Sheriff of this county having received a warrant from Los Angeles for the arrest of John Powers, proceeded to execute his commands on the 6th iabt. No difficulty was experienced in the arrest of the person accused, but after being taken into custody, Powers desired to consult an attorney in relation to the matter, wich was accorded him. Upon arriving at the office of his counsel, Mr. Lies, Powers made a deposition before him, stating in substance that he was illegally confined, that he had been absent from Los Angeles county since the month of September last, and that there now being great excitement in said county, his life would be in imminent danger if he should be takea there at the present time. His counsel upon the above deposition being made, requested that a writ of habeus corpus might issue to test the legality of his detention. While the above statements were progressing, Mr. Lies, requested that the accused should be left temporarily under his charge, stating that he would be personally responsible for the safe keeping of Mr. Powers. This, after some reluctance, was eventually acceded to on the part of the Sheriff, trusting in the good faith of the statements made by Mr. Lies. In the course of the evening, however, Powers succeeded in making his escape. Upon a final hearing of the case, Judge Fernald decided that Powers was legally held in custody, and a reference to our advertising columns will show that Mr. Lies offers a reward of $250 for his apprehension.— Santa Barbara Gazette.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 85, 27 March 1858, p.1 ,col.4-5, OUR LOS ANGELES CORRESPONDENCE. Los ANGELES, March 24, 1858.[edit]
OUR LOS ANGELES CORRESPONDENCE. Los ANGELES, March 24, 1858 (p.1,col.4)
...
In thirty-six hours we anchored in front of Santa Barbara. We went ashore, and found the town and the Gazette still mourning for the old Noriega. Santa Barbara is not a great place, nor is it thriving. The years which have changed everything else in California have made no change here. The place is not Americanized. The De la Guerra, as from time immemorial, still fills all the offices, and bears sway like a Sultan. There are no hotels, and the hospitality of the place has never been celebrated. A stranger, if he is not fastidious, can find bad liquor, a dirty bed, and large prices at the Union Hotel.
...

--- (p.1,col.5)

They have a unique way of dispensing small justice here, in cases where it is supposed the jury may learn the wrong way. As we went up town, a trial was progressing before the Recorder, Major Carrillo, of a Frenchman, for assaulting a native. The jury were empaneled, the witnesses were all examined. The. Recorder, then, after a moment of reflective silence, addressed the jury thus: "Gentlemen of the jury, you are discharged. The court is adjourned till ten o'clock to-morrow, when judgement will be rendered." Jack Powers was upon the jury, and he reminded His Honor that they were entitled to their fees, two dollars, for sitting upon those benches, and he didn't intend to leave until it was paid. His Honor replied that they were entitled to no fees, as they had rendered no verdict. He had taken the case into his own handstand would decide it upon its merits. Exeunt omnit, and the key locked on the outside.
...
MURDER AND ROBBERY AT MISSION SAN MIGUEL
I am told that the wooded mountains between San Luis Obispo and San Miguel have, for a year post, been infested by a band of desperadoes, who rob and murder travellers who may seem to have money or valuables. Efforts have been made by the people to break them up, but without success. Their last crime was committed upon two Frenchmen, brothers, named Basque, belonging to San Mateo, near San Francuco. They were murdered about the 10th February, on the road through Peach Tree Valley, near San Miguel. They had been to this country to purchase cattle, and were returning with some 600 head, and also some $3,200, with which they were trying to purchase some more cattle on their way north. It was known along the road that they had money, and on the day of the murder their horses had either strayed or been stolen from camp. They directed their vaqueros to drive on the stock, while they remained to search for the horses. The vaqueros went on one day, when the brothers not coming up, the servants returned to seek them. Their bodies were found near the road, pierced with eight or nine bullets. The money was missing. The cattle were driven on to their destination by the servants.
A German named Lorch, or Luf, a buyer of hides, was attacked three miles from the Peach Tree Valley, by four men, armed with revolvers, who requested him to deliver his money without delay. He gave them twenty dollars, which he had in his pocket. But the robbers were not satisfied. They pulled him from his carriage, ripped up its cushions, and discovered $1500, which they carried away, leaving him his horse and wagon. One man, a Californian, was arrested and confined in jail, upon suspicion of being concerned in the outrages. But it was believed he would be set at large, as there was no proof of his guilt.
Daily Alta California, Volume 9, Number 95, 6 April 1857, p. ,col. , Summary of the Fortnight News[edit]
The notorious Jack Powers was arrested in this city, on the 27th ult., as a fugitive from justice. He is charged with having committed a burglary in Los Angeles county some months ago. On the 28th, a writ of habeus corpus was granted in the case and argued before Judge Freclon, of the County Court. On Monday, the 30th, His Honor ordered the prisoner to be admitted to bail in the sum of $5,000, for his appearance to undergo a further examination on the 18th proximo.
Los Angeles Star, Number 48, 11 April 1857, p. col. Arrest of Jack Powers[edit]
Arrest of Jack Powers,
This individual was arrested by the chief of police of San Francisco, in a house on California street between Powell and Stockton streets. A deputy sheriff of Santa Barbara went up on the Senator with a wairant, and the police immediately .went on the search. Powers was arrested on a charge of burglary, by vircue of a warrant from Judge Dryden, County Judge of Los Angeles county. The warrant was endorsed by Justice Austin, and an affidavit of Pacificus Ord, Esq, identified the hand-writing of Judge Dryden. Objections were taken to the validity of the warrant, which were sustained, and on motion Powers was admitted to bail in the sum of $5,000. His bondsmen were John Wilson, P. Campbell, Wm Kohl, Thomas Adams, John Logue. The above particulars are taken from the S. F. Bulletin.
Daily Alta California, Volume 9, Number 103, 14 April 1857, p.6 col.2, BY MAGNETIC TELEGRAPH.[edit]
Jack Powers. — Jack Powers, who was admitted to bail in the sum of $5,000 a short time since by Judge Freelon, for his appearance to answer, on the 18th of April, is now in Sacramento, and on Saturday last he obtained a writ of habeus corpus, which was heard before Judge Burnett of the Supreme Court. His discharge was asked for upon the same grounds as those given in the former examination, viz: the insufficiency of the warrant, &c. Judge Burnett took the case under advisement until this morning, at 10 o'clock, when a decision will be rendered.
NEWS OF THE MORNING, “Robbers at the South,” Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2200, 15 April 1858, p.2, col.1[edit]
Robbers at the South. — The southern country appears to be much infested with horse thieves and banditti. Seven Mexicans attacked the residence of the Danas in San Luis Obispo county. They fired upon the house, but became frightened and fled without following up the attack. The county is said to be greatly troubled by the thieves and assassins who have escaped from the northern counties. The horses stolen tie generally taken to Lower California.
Los Angeles Star, Number 50, 25 April 1857, p.2,col.2, Jack Powers[edit]
Jack Powers.—This individual, it will be remembered, was arrested on a charge of burglary, alleged to have been committed in Los Angeles county — taken on habeas corpus before Judge Freelon, who refused to discharge him, but admitted him to bail; and subsequently, on another habeus corpus taken before the Supreme Court. Judge Burnett remanded him to the custody of the Chief of Police of this city, with instructions to send him, as soon as possible, to Los Angeles county.— S. F. Chronicle.
Powers arrived here on Wednesday last by the steamer Senator, accompanied by his lawyer, Col. James, of San Francisco. He was examined yesterday before Justice Mallard, and although a great number of witnesses were called, nothing could be elicited to connect the accused with the offence charged. Powers was consequently discharged.
Acquitted. — Miguel Blanco, charged with the robbery of Capt. Twist, was acquitted by the jury before the Court of Sessions on Thursday; notwithstanding the identification of the prisoner and the direct testimony of Twist to the main facts of the case as regards him. This appears still more strange when it is known that the prisoner had confessed to the officers his participation in the crime, and what disposition had been made of the booty. But, the confession was not legally before the jury.
Daily Alta California, Volume 9, Number 116, 27 April 1857, p.1,col.1, LATER FROM THE SOUTH. ARRIVAL OF THE SENATOR. DISCHARGE OF JACK POWERS.[edit]
The steamer Senator arrived from San Diego and intermediate ports yesterday morning. By the Senator, we have dates from San Diego and Los Angeles to the 18th of April. We learn that upon his arrival at Los Angeles, Jack Powers was brought before Justice Dryden and discharged, there being no evidence on which to hold him.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 120, 2 May 1858, Page 1,Column 5 Advertisements, PIONEER COURSE; FOR $5,OOO!; ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILES IN EIGHT CONSECUTIVE H0URS![edit]
PIONEER COURSE.
FOR $5,000!
ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILES
IN
EIGHT CONSECUTIVE H0URS! SUNDAY,
SUNDAY,:::::::::::::MAY 2d.
JACK POWERS' GREAT MATCH TO Ride One Hundred and fifty miles, in 8 consecutive hours, will come off on the Pioneer Course Sunday May 2d, 1858. Starting at 9 o'cloek A. M., and ending at 5 P. M. The above feat is unparalleled, as his match is to ride nothing but California Mustangs, thorough-bred English and American horses having been barred out. J. M. DANIELS, Proprietor.

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CITY ITEMS, THE GREAT RACE OVER THE UNION COURSE - ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILES IN SIX HOURS AND FORTY-THREE MINUTES., Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 121, 3 May 1858, P.2, COL.2[edit]
"THE GREAT RACE OVER THE UNION COURSE - ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILES IN SIX HOURS AND FORTY-THREE MINUTES.
"Early in March last a match was made between certain parties in this city, of whom the celebrated rider, Jack Powers, was one, that he would make 150 miles over the Union Course in eighth consecutive hours. The stakes were $2,500 a side, $1,000 forfeit. Powers left this city on the steamer Senator for Santa Barbara, on 5th of March, for the purpose of selecting his horses, which were to be entirely California stock. In due time he returned by land with his selected horses, which were driven up by himself and two hired Californians. From the date of his arrival, great interest has been manifested in the result, and for several days back the rider has been "rehearsing," as a musical man expresses it, and had got his animals into perfect trim. A great deal might be said as to the relative merits of the turf. In breif, this is summed up as follows: that the distance of 250 miles in ten consecutive hours is said to have been done by the English jockey, Mr. Spollingford, and that Mr. Obaldistone has certainly accomplished 250 miles in ten hours. It should be remembered, however, that these feats were effected with the best blooded stock of England; whereas, that of Mr. Powers is by the native Mustang stock of California, not crossed with any other breed. Thus, had the whole eight hours been occupied in this race, there could have been no comparison with the above instances, as the animals used were entirely dissimilar in breed and reputation. But when we take into consideration the fact that this distance was yesterday accomplished in six hours and forty-three minutes, all comparison ceases, and the fact stands unrivaled in the sporting calendar. The race, which has been the great theme of conversation during the past ten days, took place yesterday, as advertised, over the Union Course. About three thousand persons collected, and all arrangements having been completed, Powers got off at nine o'clock. He rode easily, and with his body bent slightly forward, after the manner of a California 'vaquera'. His weight is 150 pounds, and that of the saddle and accoutrements about 10 more. The saddles used were of the California make, with tapadillas, machillas, etc, etc. He used 24 horses in the race, most of which belonged to himself. The first few miles were done with horses tendered him by several rancheros, who were anxious to have thier horses perform part of the play. There, of course, were the most splendid animals the country could produce. A great numbers of native Californians were on the ground, who manifested the greatest pride in the triumph of the California stock. The first 60 miles were done in 2 hours and 30 minutes. Powers dismounted 72 times during the race. The farthest any one horse was ridden at a time was 4 miles, and the least distance 1 mile. He ran at top speed the whole distance. On taking a new horse, he would spring from the saddle, run a few steps, to stretch his legs, and immediately vault into the saddle of the animal which awaited him. Attendants sometimes made the rounds with him, tendering him drink, and receiving his orders. About the 130th mile a little "shenanigan" was perpetrated for the benifit of those behind the curtain. Powers, up to that time had ridden without difficulty, and sat his saddle like a monument. He now began to spit blood, and was taken with a sudden weakness in the abdomen, which seemed to communicate itself to the legs. Doubters now began to bet against Powers, which was all that was desired, and considerable sums were put up by those who considered the game as over. The only blood vessel which was ruptured was a small sheep's bladder, which was filled with the sanguinary fluid. The story of it being claret is a fiction. At this juncture his friends cheered him on with encouraging words, clapping him on the back as thought they feared for the result, and abjuring him -- "Keep up Jack;" "Stick to it old fellow," etc., etc., all of which was of course admissible, and part of the play. The entire distance [150 miles] was accomplished in 6 hours and 43 minutes, the rider coming in perfectly fresh, and making an extra mile in 2 minutes and 28 seconds, to display his condition. Tremendous cheers were given as he mounted the judges stand, and addressed the throng who pressed around to hear him. He publicly offered to bet $5,000 that he would ride 50 miles in 2 hours; and that no other man in California could perform the feat he had just accomplished; and another,that he would accomplish the 150 miles in 5 hours; with English or American stock, to which there was no response. The average time of the race is within a fraction of 23 miles an hour. Powers does not hesitate to assert that he can make much better time than the above. He is a spare built man, with full sunburnt face, heavy hair and whiskers, and a keen eye. The party with whom Powers is associated realize about $18,000 by the operation. Patrons of the turf count this as the greatest race of the kind on record.


Los Angeles Star, Number 52, 8 May 1858, p. , col. , Race Against Time.[edit]
Race Against Time.—Jack Powers has been astonishing the good people of San Francisco by a race against time. He engaged for a bet of $2,500 aside, with Mr. Daniels, proprietor of the Pioneer course, to ride 150 miles in eight hours. Oh Sunday, the 2d inst., he accomplished the feat in six hours, forty-three minutes and thirty-one seconds. Twenrty-five animals were used on the ride. An immense concourse of spectators were on the ground ; it is said that as much as $8,000 were taken for admission at the gate.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 139, 22 May 1858, p.2 col.2 Horrible Tragedy- Four Men Murdered[edit]
Horrible Tragedy- Four Men Murdered
We are indebted to the Echo du Pacifique for the following particulars of a horrid tragedy in Tulare valley:
Mr. and Mrs. Baratier, a French couple, formerly of Oakland, established a ranch in Tulare ralley, at a place called Pulvadera, forty miles from any other house. They there had a number of cattle, in partnership with a Mr. Borel; and had two Spanish vaqueros. On the 12th instant, seven Mexicans, or Spaniards, came to the house, at 1 o'clock, P. M. Messrs. Baratier and Borel were in the garden, and went to the house when they saw the strangers. When they got to the door, the Mexicans fired a volley at them, killing Borel instantly, and wounding Baratier in the shoulder. Mrs. Baratier threw herself on the body of her husband, and begged for his life, weeping most piteously. The murderous gang tore her loose; took the husband into the house, made him tell where his money was; then took him out to a tree, to which they tied him, and then they killed him. Soon after the vaqueros came to the house, and they were shot down. It was proposed to kill Mrs. Baratier, and one of the party proposed to take her to a distance, and murder her. He tied her on a horse, took her far off, and told her to flee, and prayed her to keep his secret, for his life might pay for his pity. Mrs. Baratier, ignorant of the roads and country, wandered about four days in the mountains, without food, and finally after ten days of intense suffering, arrived at Oakland yesterday afternoon, in a most miserable condition. The robbers obtained £2,000 in money.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2240, 1 June 1858, p.3, col.3 Rewards for Banditti and Robbers.[edit]
Rewards for Banditti and Robbers. — It having been represented to Governor Weller, by citizens of San Luis Obispo, that several atrocious murders and robberies have been perpetrated at San Miguel and San Juan de Capistrano, and the following named persons, as designated, charged therewith, he has offered the rewards respectively affixed to their names, for their arrest:
Jack Powers, an Irishman, and generally known as a gambler. $5OO
Pio Linores, a native of this country; dark complexion;
slender, with large, sleepy eyes, and no beard ..............500
Rafael Morrey, alias Rafael Henedo, alias Huero (light, or
empty headed); Rafael is tall, slender, and quite handsome,
with light mustaches......................................... 500
Miguel Blanco, also of this country; of low stature about
twenty years of age, very handsome, with a bold face, and no
beard ........................................................200
Disederio Grijalvo ; small and slender, of dark complexion,
with large eyes, half open, like the eyes of a cat; has no
beard, and is jovial and pleasant in manner ..................200
Jesus Valenzuelo ; of a slender form ; brother to San Joaquin
Valenzuelo, and is one of the five Joaquins; he is also called
Jesus Chiquito ...............................................200
Niebes Robles, alias Florian Servin, has a round face, is of a
somewhat dark complexion, and ls small in size; he is about
twenty-three years of age ....................................200
Lucian EI Mestero, or herdsman; hunter of the Tulares ........200
Total .................................................... $2,500
The above rewards have beea directed to be published in the Los Angeles Star and Santa Barbara Gazette.
Daily Alta California, 3 June 1858 p.1, col.1 Jack Powers' Last Ride, From our Evening Edition of Yesterday.[edit]
Jack Powers' Last Ride. — The telegraph yesterday announced that a warrant for the arrest of this individual, on an indictment for murder and highway robbery, came up in the Senator, but before it could be served. Jack was giving an illustration of his prowess of fast riding, out of town in an opposite direction. A month ago newspapers were vieing with each other in complimenting the skill of perhaps one of the most abandoned knaves in California. Jack has acquired much of his equestrian prowess in hair breadth escapes from the hands of justice, unless he has reformed since 1848. In that year, he made better time over the road leading out of San Francisco, than he has ever done on any race track since, probably. He was one of the organized banditti of San Francisco, who paraded the streets in open day, under the name of "Hounds," and, with his companions, narrowly escaped hanging by the people, who turned out, armed, to put them down. Jack went to Santa Barbara, where he has been ever since, except during his excursions, of one kind and another, in the interior. It is to be hoped he will not remain long out of the hands of the officers. It were a pity to spoil so fine a rider, but Powers would be much more advantageously placed, for the interests of society, in one of the small rooms for lease by the State at San Quentin. — Sacramento Union.
“Another Lynch Execution in SLO County,” Daily Alta California (6/3/1858) 1.[edit]
“Another Lynch Execution in SLO County,” Daily Alta California (6/3/1858) p.1, col.6
"HIGHWAYMEN IN SAM LUIS OBISPO COUNTY. — Such is the boldness of the highwaymen about San Luis, that it is dangerous for one to go from the Mission to the beach with money, unless he is well armed.— Santa Cruz Sentinel"

Daily Alta California, (6/3/1858) p.1,col.5 ---

Another Lynch Execution in San Luis Obispo County.— The Santa Cruz Sentinel of the 22d ultimo. Informed us that one of the gang which committed the Baratier murder, was hanged in San Luis Obispo county on the 13th ult.; the day after the murder. The Sentinel of the 29th ultimo says: "The .next day (the 14th ultimo] a party of men, headed by the Sheriff, went in pursuit of the murderers, saw them once on a mountain, but lost them again. They returned to town with a Sonoran named Joaquin Valenzuela, alias Joaquin Ocomorenia, one of Joaquin Murieta's crowd or gang of - robbers. A Vigilance Committee was formed instantly. They tried Joaquin, found him guilty of murder, rape, and kidnapping an American child on the Merced river some time ago. He was then hanged." Daily Alta California, (6/3/1858) p.1,col.6

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Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 151, 3 June 1858, Page 2, Column 1, Advertisements, $1,500 Reward
$1,500 REWARD!
THE FOLLOWING REWARD WILL
be paid by the undersigned for the Arrest and
Delivery of the following persons, or for Information
that will lead to their Arrest:
For JACK POWERS............................$500
For PIO LANERES............................$500
For RAFAEL MONY, alias HUERO RAFAEL....$500
This Reward is in addition to that offered by Gov.
Waller. FRANCISCO CASTRO, Sheriff of San Luis Obispo,
By D. D. Blackburn
SAN FRANCISCO, June 2d, 1858
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 153, 5 June 1858, p.1,col.3, Summary of the Fortnight's News. State.[edit]
Summary of the Fortnight's News. State.
Two Mexicans named Santos Peraltas and Joaquin Valenzuela have been hanged by lynch law in Santa Barbara county, the former for complicity in the Baratier. murder, and the latter for other crimes. Large rewards have been offered for the arrest of all the parties engaged in the Baratier murder.
  • Note the error, it was San Luis Obispo county.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 156, 8 June 1858, p.1, col.4-5 The San Luis Murder — Further Particulars[edit]
The San Luis Murder — Further Particulars
The Santa Cruz Sentinel published the following letter:
----------------------- San Juan, June 2d, 1858.
A party of fifteen men were in San Juan May 29th and 30th, in pursuit of the desperadoes who murdered the two Frenchmen and another man in San Louis Obispo county, of which mention has been made heretofore in the papers. From them the following items of news have been gathered:
They have taken another of the murderers and have him with them. He is the one who took charge of the woman who in said to be the wife of one of the Frenchmen killed. He brought her into this town and left her at a Spanish house, where she remained two days and nights without making her situation known or what had occurred, except to one or two Spaniards, who have kept the matter secret until now. It is said that she had five or six hundred dollars in money with her, and also, that she is a woman of bad character — at least, the conduct imputed to her while here, would seem to show this. She left here in the stage for Oakland, and employed a Spaniard to take along the two horses and saddles which she had with her.
The company here also with them a young Chileno, who was living with the Frenchman at the time, and whose life was spared by the desperadoes under promise of secrecy. They state that Jack Powers was knowing to and dictated the murder, and that they have proof of this fact. It is also believed by some, that the woman is implicated in the murder. It is furthermore said that Mr. Carlos Hija, a Mexican in this town, had private interviews with this woman while here, and must have known what had occurred. If this be true, he deserves the lash, if not the halter, for not making the matter known to others at the time. One of the company and the Chileno have gone on to Oakland after the woman.
Another item of news, from the same source, is, that Mr. Perkins was murdered ten days ago near Santa Barbara, and robbed of $5000. This is the same Perkins who is reported to have been robbed of money by a Mr. Carter, at Los Angeles.
This party of men have been out over two weeks in pursuit of the murderers of the two Frenchmen, and seem determined on bringing the last one of them to retribution. They say that they followed the woman and the man with her, by their tracks through the mountains, from the place of murder to San Juan, and it is believed that others of the gang are in these parts. Pio Linares is one. His house was surrounded at San Louis in the night time and set on fire, when he rushed out amid a volley of pistol shots, and made his escape.
Los Angeles Star, Number 5, 12 June 1858, $2,500 Reward[edit]
Los Angeles Star, Number 5, 12 June 1858, $2,500 Reward, p.2,col.5
$2,500 REWARD.
WHEREAS, IT IS REPRESENTED To me by the citizens of San Luis Obispo that several atrocious murders and robberies have recently been perpetrated at San Miguel, San Juan de Capistrano, and Camate; and that upon the oath, of respectable men, these crimes have been charged upon the following persons, who are still at large, viz:
JACK POWERS, an Irishman, and generally known as a gambler.
PIO LINARES, is a native of this country, has a slightly dark complexion, is slender, has large sleepy eyes, and without beard.
EL HUERO (light or empty headed) RAFEAL is tall, slender, and quite handsome, with a light mustache.
MIGUEL BLANCO, is also of this country; of low statue, about 20 years of age, is handsome very fair, with a bold face and without beard.
DISEDERIO GRIZALYA, is small and slender, has somewhat dark complexion, large eyes, half open like the eyes of a cat, has no beard and is jovial and pleasant in his manners.
JESUS VALENZUELA, is slender; brother to Joaquin Valenzuela; one of the five Joaquins, and is also called Jesus Chiquito.
NIEVES ROBLES alias FLORIAN SERVIN has a round face, somewhat dark complexion is small, and about 23 years of age.
LUCIANO, El Mestino, or Herdsman, is a hunter of the Tulares.
Now, therefore, by virtue of the power vested in me, by Constitution and laws of this State I hereby offer the following REWARDS for their arrest and conviction:
For JACK POWERS, Five Hundred Dollars
For PIO LINARES. Five Hundred Dollars
For RAFEAL MONEY, alias RAFEAL HENADA. alias EL HUERO RAFEAL, Five Hundred Dollars.
For MIGUEL BLANCO, Two Hundred Dollars.
For DESEDERIO GRIZALVA, Two Hundred Dollars.
For NIEYES ROBLES, Two Hundred Dollars.
For JESUS VALENZUELA, alias JESUS CHIQUITO, Two Hundred Dollars.
For LUCIANO, El Mestino, Two Hundred Dollars.
Done at Sacramento, California, this 31st day of May, A. D., ONe Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty-Eight.  : : In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Great Seal of the State. JOHN B. WELLER. : : Attest: Ferris Forman, Secretary of State.
JACK POWERS — VIGILANCE COMMITTEE. San Luis Obispo county, you will remember, is alleged to have been the "stamping ground" of the notorious Jack Powers, and the scene of many a robbery and murder perpetrated by the band of outlaws of which he is said to have been the leader. So universal among the inhabitants is the belief of his guilt, that they have offered a reward of $2,500 for hit arrest, and have formed themselves into a Vigilance Committee to aid in exterminating the hordes of robbers who infest their country. It appesrs that they had reason to believe that Jack would be down upon the steamer, and some 60 of the Committee well armed, were waiting upon the beach to give him a warm reception. Everything was prepared to hang Jack "as high as Hainan." The feeling against him is very bitter and he will stand no show of escape if ever he falls into their clutches.


Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 162, 14 June 1858, p.2, col.4 The Robber Band of San Luis Obispo.[edit]
The Robber Band of San Luis Obispo.
An intense excitement prevails in San Luis Obispo county, in regard to a gang of robbers and murderers said to infest that county. According to rumor, the gang has long existed, under the leadership of Jack Powers, and has committed many robberies and murders. The newspapers of Los Angeles have informed us of the arrest and lynch-hanging of Santos Robles and Joaquin Valenzuela, accused of belonging to this gang. A gentleman, who arrived on the Senator, tells us that four others hare been arrested, and two of them hanged, making the total number of the executed, four. All, or nearly all, of them are of Spanish blood. It seems that many rancheros have long known the misdeeds of Jack Powers, but were heretofore so much afraid of him and his gang, that they dared not bring any accusation against him, but now that a reward is offered for him, and that there is a general "hue and cry" against him, they all come out, each telling of some crime, until the entire list would show a career of almost unparalleled wickedness. The native Califomians are particularly bitter against him, and if they catch him, they will stretch his neck in marvellously short order. As our San Bernardino correspondent says, the people at Santa Barbara were expecting him to be on board of the Senator on her last trip down, and had prepared a derrick, upon which to string him up. It is generally believed that he is concealed in Santa Barbara county by some of the native Californians, a very few of whom are still friendly to him. According to common talk at Santa Barbara, Jack Powers was at the head of the gang which murdered two Frenchmen in Peach Tree Valley, in Santa Barbara county, last February. The Frenchmen were engaged in buying stock, and had a couple of hired men with them. Several of their horses having been stolen, they sent the hired men forward on the road, and remained to look for the animals, which they supposed to have strayed away. While they were thus alone engaged in the search, they were attacked. They were good pluck, and made a brave fight. Several of the assailants were wounded, Jack Powers himself receiving one shot in the calf of his leg, and another in the flesh part of his arm. The Clamor Publico, in an article, part of which we translate, conveys the idea that Joaquin Valenzuela was an industrious and good citizen, but we are told that he leaves the reputation of having richly deserved to be hanged.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 162, 14 June 1858, P.1,COL.3 THE LYNCHING AT SAN LUIS OBISPO[edit]
THE LYNCHING AT SAN LUIS OBISPO.—The Los Angeles Clamor Publico gives a long account of the lynchings in San Luis Obispo county, and is very indignant about them. We translate a portion of a long editorial on the subject, as follows: "Thus it is that justice is executed in this country, where they pretend there are laws, and rights and liberty. They lie! Here when they pretend to punish a crime, they commit another still greater." "Following the example of the other towns of California in similar cases, a Committee of Vigilance was formed [in San Luis Obispo.] Parties of men started out in all directions to arrest suspected persons. A few days afterwards, this rabble, styling itself "The People," publicly executed, in San Luis Obispo, an innocent man, named Joaquin Valenzuela, generally known by the nickname of "Nacamereno." Don David W. Alexander, who has just arrived in this city, on whose ranch the unfortunate man was employed, says he was torn from his labor and the bosom of his family, and that he had never left his home for a moment. Here then is another deed of blood which will be a mark of infamy forever on the reformers of the morality and law in San Luis Obispo. "But this is not all. The Committee, composed of about forty persons, went to the house of a certain Pio Linares, who resided about a mile distant from Santa Barbara. The Sheriff was at the head of the party. They told Linares that they came to search his house. He answered that they might enter, but not until he should be unable to defend it. They told him they would set fire to it, unless he would surrender, and so they did; and Linares escaped in the confusion, and his wife and innocent children, endangered by the flames, escaped as if by miracle. The house was reduced to ashes. It is possible that Linares is a criminal, but, if so, this was not a proper method to proceed against him. His family, at least, were innocent. Without doubt the band of saints must have used aguardiente freely before commencing their fiesta, for they gave two bullets to one of their party, believing him to be a thief."
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2251, 14 June 1858, p.3, col.3, “A Murderer of Baratier Arrested”[edit]
A Murderer of Baratier Arrested. — A telegraphic dispatch to the Bulletin, dated Martinez, June 12th, gives the following intelligence:
By the arrival of G. M. Swain from San Luis Obispo, we are informed that one of the murderers of Baratier and Burnell was arrested by a party from San Luis Obispo, who had been in pursuit for several days, while camped at a place called Four Creeks, on the Tulare Plain?, on the night of the 7th of June. The party arrested is the same man who rode off with Burnell immediately after the murder. Swain passed the party with the prisoner about six miles from San Luis Obispo, where they intended to take him, and await the arrival of the Senator from San Francisco. He made a full confession of the murder, which may be looked for by the Senator, due today. Great excitement exists in San Luis Obispo on account of the many murders and other depredations constantly being committed in that section of country. Parties are scouring the country in every direction, to arrest the perpetrators.
There is no intelligence of the San Luis Obispo bandits, nor of Jack Powers, or the schooner Laura Bevan.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2253, 16 June 1858, p.3, col.2; CITY INTELLIGENCE. The Robberies at San Luis Obispo.[edit]
The Robberies at San Luis Obispo. — A person who recently came up the coast in the Senator, informs the Alta ofthe following:
It seems that many rancheros have long known the misdeeds of Jack Powers, but were heretofore so much afraid of him and his gang that they dared not bring any accusation against him, but now that a reward is ottered for him, and that there is a general hue and cry against him, they all come out, each telling of some crime, until the entire list would show a career of almost unparalleled wickedness. The native Californians are particularly bitter against him, and, if they catch him, they will stretch his neck in inarvelously short order. It is generally believed that he is hid in Santa Barbara county by some of the native Californians, a very few of whom are still friendly to him. According to common talk at Santa Barbara, Jack Powers was at the head of the gang which murdered two Frenchmen in Peach Tree Valley, in Santa Barbara county, last February. The Frenchmen were engaged in buying stock, and had a couple of hired men with them. Several of their horses having been stolen, they sent the hired men forward on the road, and remained to look for the animals. While they were thus alone engaged in the search, they were attacked. They were good pluck, and made a brave fight. Several of the assailants were wounded, Jack Powers himself receiving one shot in the calf of his leg, and another in the fleshy part of his arm.

---

  • Sacramento Daily Union, 16 June 1858, p.4 col.1 FURTHER FROM THE SOUTHERN COAST. The San Luis Murderers.
The San Luis Murderers. — On Friday, June 4th, Luciano, or El Mesteiio, was hung in San Luis ; he was caught near the Tulare Plains, by the party of citizens who have been scouring the country in all directions, for the purpose of catching this band of murderers, who have been infesting that county so long, and committing such wholesale butcheries. On Tuesday following, Jose Antonio Garcia, also one of the same band, was hung. He was acting in the capacity of cook at the Rancho of San Julian, in this county, and when taken from thence to San Luis, he went freely, and was desirous of making a statement of the whole affair. He was allowed to have the assistance of the priest, when he requested it. Before his execution, he made a full and free confession of all the circumstances connected with the murders, and those who perpetrated them. Previous to his death, said that he merited it, and that he shared in the money taken from the Frenchmen; but he did not assist in killing them, although he went there with that intention. He acknowledged also that he was one of the party who aided in killing the Vascos, who were killed about four months since, near the Paso de Robles; that Jack Powers invited him to go, and planned the whole affair, and killed one of them. He seemed to be very repentant, and died accordingly.
Los Angeles Star, Number 6, 19 June 1858, P.2,Col.2 Arrest and Execution of Two More Murderers[edit]
  • Arrest and Execution of Two More Murderers
By the arrival in this city,, on Tuesday morning, of Don Antonio do la, Palma y Mesa, direct from Santa Barbara, we have been placed in possession of the Gazette, of that place, of date June 10th, containing an account of the hanging of two more of the banditti who have committed so many outrages in and-about the county of San Luis Obispo, "We copy from the Gazette:—
"On Friday last, (June 4th,) Luciano, or el Mesteno, was hung in San Luis: he was caught near the Tulare Plains by the party of citizens who have been scouring the country in all directions for the purpose of catching: this band of murderers, who have been infesting that county so long, and committing such wholesale butcheries. On Tuesday following, Jose Antonio Garcia, also one of the same band, was hung. He was acting in the capacity of cook at the rancho of San Julian in this county, and when taken from thence to San Luis, he went freely, and was desirous of making a statement of the whole affair. He was allowed to have the assistance of the priest when he requested it. Before his execution, he made a full and free confession of all the circumstances connected with the murders, and those who perpetrated them. Previous to his death, said that he merited it, and that he shared in the money taken from the Frenchmen; but he did not assist in killing them, although he went there with that intention. He acknowledged, also, that he was one of the party who aided in killing the Vascos, who were killed about four months since, near the Pasa de Robles, that Jack Powers invited him to go, and planned the whole affair, and killed one of them. He seemed to be very repentant, and died accordingly. With these two it makes four of the band that have been hung of the eight who murdered the Vascos, the two Frenchmen, and an American.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2263, 28 June 1858, p.2 col.3, BY THE STATE TELEGRAPH LINE. Later from the South.[edit]
Later from the South.
The steamer Senator arrived from the South last night. Jack Powers, Pio Linares, and Rafella Monay, passed through Los Angeles on June 13th, and went on towards San Juan Capistrano. Parties hud started in pursuit of them.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2264, 29 June 1858, p.2, col.4, ARRIVAL OF THE JOHN L. STEPHENS. San Francisco News.[edit]
San Francisco News — Discouraging Advices from Frazer — Farther from the South and from Oregon. San Francisco, June 28th, 1858.
Pio Lenares, at the South, was shot through the head in a fight with those who were after him. One of them was also killed. Robles had been taken at Los Angeles just before the boat left, and was expected to be hung forthwith. It was thought Jack Powers had managed to escape to Lower California.
A correspondent of the Bulletin, writing from Sun Luis, after describing the hanging of two more men, says "Of the eight persons who were accomplices in the Sun Juan Capistrano mas sacre, five have now expiated their crime by cord or pistol, to wit: Santos Peralta, Luciano Tapia, Pio Lenares, Miguel Blanco, and Desidero Grijalva. Three yet cumber the earth, to wit: Rafael Herrada, Jesus Valenzuela, and Froilan Servin. Of the six accomplices of the Nascimento murder, two have paid the forfeit — Pio Lenares and Jose Antonio Garcia. Then remains Jack Powers, Nivo Robles, Eduriquez, and Rafael Herrada. We are on their track, and some of them at least will yet pay for their crimes with their life."
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 183, 5 July 1858, Daily Alta California., p.1, col.2, SAN FRANCISCO, MONDAY, JULY 5. 1858. Summary of the Fortnight's News.[edit]
Luciano Tapia was hanged at San Luis Obispo by the Vigilance Committee of that place. It is rumored that Walter Murray, a member of the Committee, was shot and killed, while in pursuit of a Mexican accused of crime. Jack Powers has not yet been caught, but a number of men are in close pursuit of him. He has started for Sonora.
“By Telegraph to the Union,” Sacramento Daily Union (7/13/1858) 2. By Telegraph to the Union. Nieves Robles Hung at San Luis Obispo[edit]
By Telegraph to the Union.
BY THE STATE TELEGRAPH LINE.
San Francisco News - Nieves Robles Hung at San Luis Obispo — Fraser River matters- Arrivals and Departures.
San Francisco, July 12th. Nieves Robles has been hung at San Luis Obispo, making the seventh who has been executed on charges of robbery and murder.



San Francisco Bulletin, July 16 1858, More Vigilance Doings at San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, June 30, 1858; from Library of Congress, Chronicling America, News Articles with a Connection to San Luis Obispo County, CA, SLO - Set 8, p.3-5[edit]
More Vigilance Doings at San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, June 30, 1858.
July 16 1858: San Francisco Bulletin
Editor of the San Francisco Bulletin: - I write you a few lines by a gentleman who leaves to-day for your city, by land. On June 25, the Hon. Romualdo Pacheco arrived here from San Pedro, bringing with him Jack Powers’ old friend and spy, Nieves Robles, who was arrested, some time before, by Deputy Sheriff Thompson, of Los Angeles, and detained for transmission to San Luis. From Pacheco and others we have learned that he (Pacheco) left Santa Barbara about the 10th, for Los Angeles, in company with the Sheriff of Santa Barbara and a posse, on the track of the Huero Rafael. They traced him into Los Angeles, and to a particular house, which, together with the garden adjoining was searched, but the bird had flown. The Huero is well known in Los Angeles, and the friends of justice on the assassin are so active and numerous there, that there is but little chance of escape for the arch-villain. Two days before Pacheco arrived in Los Angeles, the San Luis party sent to the Tulares had got into the same town, by way of the Tejon Pass. They arrived here yesterday, all hearty and well, but unfortunately without having got scent of any of the missing birds.
Execution Of Nieves Robles By The People.
On Sunday, June 27th, Nieves Robles was taken out of the Sheriff’s hands by the Committee, and placed under guard. On Monday, additional evidence was taken in regard to him, and his full confession, freely given, was taken down. He was executed at half-past 6 P.M., at the usual place, attended by the Catholic priest, and in presence of all the people of San Luis. In his case, as in every other, there was no mob violence, no hurry, no clamor nor turmoil; but the people, as an entire body, knowing the facts, and that a punishment had to be inflicted on a great criminal, quietly and determinedly went about the work, each in his place, until justice was satisfied, and then dispersed quietly, each to his own home.
His Confession – The Gang Of Murderers And Robbers.
Nieves’ confession is substantially as follows: On Saturday, December 20th, 1857, he had an interview with the whole of the murdering party, behind the Tunas, in San Luis Obispo. There were present Jack Powers, the Huero Rafael, Pio Linares, Jose Antonio Garcia, Eduviquez, Nieves Robles and Juan Pedro Oliveras. This last gentleman, a well known scoundrel, is now in earnest request here. The villains, at this interview, arranged their plans. It was agreed that the Frenchmen should be killed and their money taken, and their cattle driven to San Francisco and sold. Robles was to engage with them to help them drive the cattle; was to show them the camp on the Nascimiento, and on the Monday night the rest of the band were to come near the camp, make a signal to Robles, who was to come out and communicate with them, and afterwards they were to come into camp together, under some pretence, and were to attack and kill the Frenchmen and party. This plan was afterwards departed from, as will be seen.
Robles says that that night Powers and Linares got drunk, (Saturday night.) and
Powers (as he says it was his custom to do in San Francisco) demolished the bar at Alvarelli’s billiard - room. Linares and Robles lost their horses, saddled from in front the same house, and Robles went in search of them but without success. Linares gave him the horse and saddle of William Hartwell, which he stole from the same house last mentioned, and Robles rode out where he had some horses of his own, and brought them in. Robles then put Harwell’s saddle on one of his own horses, and went that night to Santa Margarita. He returned next day and went up the coast to the Coyucos.
Here he changed horses, and at night passed the mountain by Howe’s rancho, and came into the Frenchmen’s camp at Paso Robles. Here he half engaged with the Frenchmen for the trip, and accompanied them on Monday to the Nascimiento, where they camped and slept that night, as agreed upon between the murderers. Robles staid that night in camp, under the pretence of sickness, but the robbers came not.
In the morning, some of the Frenchmen’s horses were missing, and Obiesa and Gruciano, the two partners, went out in search of them. Robles says that he also searched for them that morning. At noon he returned to camp, and in the afternoon he went off a little down the river to the bank of the Salinas river, about one thousand yards from camp, where he put his horse to feed, and watched on a small hillock until he saw his accomplices on the other side of the river making signs to him. He then mounted and rode over, where he found Jack Powers and the Huero. These informed him that they had murdered the Frenchmen, that the balance of the gang had returned to town, and that Pio Linares had $100 of the proceeds for him. Robles asked why they had not done the job as first agreed upon, and according to contract. They said that Linares had got drunk the night before, and had failed in the rendezvous; and that they were therefore compelled to do it by daylight.
Here Jack Powers took Robles’ saddle – that is, the saddle of William Harwell, which Linares had stolen from Alvarelli’s house – and gave Robles his own (Jack’s) saddle in its place. These saddles have been traced in all their wanderings. Robles was seen with Harwell’s saddle at the Frenchmen’s camp. He was afterwards seen in San Luis with that of Jack Powers. Jack Powers, at or near Soledad, on his trip up, met Thomas Graves, of this place, and showed him the saddle – probably because he thought Graves would recognize it – telling him that he had taken it from a Sonorian on the road, and would return it. He did so, and by no less a personage than the Huero Rafael, who a short time afterwards came to San Luis, and brought the saddle back to William Hartwell. After the interview between Jack and the Huero and Nieves Robles, Robles returned to camp, and from thence, throwing up his employ with the Frenchmen, to San Louis. Jack and the Huero went to San Francisco to spend the ill - gotten gold in the gambling hells of that place.
Nieves, as you have before learned, was arrested soon afterwards, and lodged in jail. Pio Linares and the Huero Rafael went to San Francisco, to apprise Powers of the fact. Powers came down in the steamer, and had several interviews with Robles in jail, but all in presence of the Sheriff. Robles says that Powers did not get an opportunity, in any of those interviews, to talk to him confidentially; but on one occasion he told him to take care how his case was conducted, and to look out for the Americans, for they were against him.
Robles [Continued]
This Nieves Robles is the same man who was mayor domo on the rancho of Secundino Robles, in 1852 or ’53, in the present county of San Mateo. There he was accustomed to steal cattle and sell them in San Jose. He has been engaged here in one or more robberies of cattle from the Guadalupe rancho, in company, among others, with Juan Pedro Oliveras.
Jack Powers
Our town is again quiet. Rumors are afloat everywhere in regard to the whereabouts of Jack Powers; most of them started by his friends in order to favor his escape. When I say “friends,” it is with no respect for them, as none but assassins or thieves will now cloak this criminal. The yarn started in the papers of San Francisco when the warrant for him first arrived there, that he had started for San Luis Obispo, to confront his accusers, was, of course, all moonshine, and was got up by confederates who would cover him, had they seen him commit the murder, and, perhaps, would have assisted him in it. No honest man can now favor or hide him, for he stands revealed in all his deformity – a murderer for gain. He has forfeited the sympathy even of American blacklegs and rowdies. No man with a spark of humanity in his bosom can longer uphold him. He has associated continually with the lowest outcasts of the Spanish race. He has eaten and drank with them, gambled, spreed, and traveled with them, and stolen cattle with them. Finally, linked in with a tribe of assassins, already steeped in blood, he has planned and assisted in the waylaying of two hardworking and unoffending drovers, and by force of numbers, and by surprise, has treacherously murdered them in cold blood, for the sake of a few hundred dollars. All this is proven on him. Can white men shield him longer from his merited punishment? I trow; no and the supposition now is that he is among the dingy tribe whose company he most prizes.
San Luis Obispo At Present
We have beautiful weather down here – cool and pleasant. The wheat crop will be an entire failure. We shall raise hardly anything, and shall be forced to look for our flour to your city. Settlers are coming in. Several American families came here with the last few days. They are all satisfied with the doings here, and say, “Clean them out!” Strong anti-Vigilance men, when they come here and see for themselves say to us, “Go in boys! There’s no other way!”



Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2292, 2 August 1858. p.2, col.3, BY THE STATE LINE.[edit]
Jack Powers is reported to have left this city yesterday for Mazatlau, in ship Star of the West. lie was disguised.
Daily Alta California. SAN FRANCISCO THURSDAY, AUG. 12, 1858. LATER FROM THE SOUTH. ARRIVAL OF THE SENATOR. Whereabouts of Jack Powers.[edit]
Whereabouts of Jack Powers. — The übiquitous Ned McGowan will be compelled to adopt a new name, for Jack Powers appears to be carrying off the palm of übiquitariness. We were informed last week that the schooner Elizabeth Owen, with freight on board for the Colorado river, was purchased in San Francisco by a Mr. H______, to be delivered after discharging her cargo, at the mouth of the river, and that $1,000 was paid down, but on the condition that a passenger should be taken. This passenger did not go on board until the schooner had dropped down towards the mouth of the harbor, on the llth ult. Suspicions were raised respecting this passenger, and an express was sent to San Diego, but the news arrived in San Diego on the 5th of July, that the schooner in passing Cape St. Lucas, had there landed the passenger, who was no other than the veritable Jack Powers, and further that the San Francisco merchant had forfeited the $1,000, not having any further use for the vessel. Per contra, a party arrived here from Sonora on Wednesday last, who say, that on the desert, they met three men, two of which were Mexicans, or of the Spanish race, and the other answering to the description of Jack Powers; and further they state that on their arrival at Warner's rancho, a Californian made particular enquiry of them if they had seen such persons, and on replying in the affirmative, they were told that it was Jack Powers and his companions. Whether he was landed at the Cape, or met on the desert, we think he has for this time evaded the vigilance of California justice. — Ib.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 234, 26 August 1858, p.1 col.5 Jack Power Turned Up[edit]
Jack Power Turned Up.
The following is an extract from a private letter:
Guaymas, July 16th, 1858. A few days ago, the schooner Elizabeth Owen arrived here from San Francisco, having the notorious Jack Powers on board. He says that what they say of him in San Francisco is a pack of lies. He tells the people here he is a friend of the Mexicans, and always has been. He says he is the owner of the Elizabeth Owens. The captain of the schooner is named Bogart. The captain tells me that Jack is connected in San Francisco with a man named Leonidas Haskell, hide dealer. Jack has purchased a load of wheat, which he sends by the Elizabeth Owens. He intends to make Ouaymas his permanent home, and he has sent to Mr. Haskell to send him down here a full cargo of goods by the Elizabeth Owens. Capt. Arnold, of the brig Carmelito, made the quickest passage on record, having arrived from San Francisco here in ten days. Capt. Stone and surveying party are still here, making preparations to go into the interior." We know nothing of the correctness of the above statement as to the movements or business connections of Jack Powers, but can safely contradict the assertion that Jack is the owner of the Elizabeth Owens. That vessel is owned by R. E. Raimond, Esq., of this city, and stands in his name upon the books of the Custom House.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 235, 27 August 1858. p.2, col.1, A Statement from Mr. Haskell[edit]
A Statement from Mr. Haskell.— We were called upon yesterday by Mr. Leonidas Haskell, who informs as that the information contained in the extract torn the letter from Onaymat, which we published yesterday, reJatiTe to any boaincss oonnectioB between him•elf ana Jack Powers, is entirely false. Mr. HaskeU states that he has no bu«in«« transactions whatever with Powers, and that the story if a shear fabrication, made up by that notorious individual.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 235, 27 August 1858, P.1. COL6, LATER FROM THE SOUTH, Arrival of the Steamer Senator. SAN DIEGO THREATENED BY A BAND OF OUTLAWS. Later from Guaymas.[edit]
Later from Guaymas.
The schooner Elizabeth Owen, Capt. Albert Bogart, Arrived here, says the San Diego Herald of the 21st of August, on Thursday morning, from Guaymas, which, place she left on the 16 th of July. She left in Adair Bay the barque Rebecca, to sail for San Francisco on the 25th. At Guaymas, the brig Manuel Pcno, with the surveying party of Capt. Stone and Jasper Whiting on board. They had completed the survey of the coast fiom the mouth of the Colorado river, and would sail in a few days to continue thesurvey southward. Also left at Guaymas Mexican brig Cannelita, to sail on the 18th for San Francisco. Capt, Bogart reports everything as being quiet and peaceable in Guayamas when he left. Jesus Ainsa, the only survivor of the unfortunate Crabb expedition, was still in prison at that place. The Elizabeth Owens sailed from San Francisco on the 3d of June, for the mouth of the Colorado, but was obliged to put into Guaymas for water. She continued her voyage to the river, and returned for cargo. The notorious Jack Powers went down on the schooner from San Francisco to Guaymas, and was still there when the vessel left, notwithstanding the reports that he has lately been seen in Lower California. The Elizabeth Owens has on board 22 tons of wheat and 250 hides, from Guaymas, and 10 tons of silver ore from the Heinttleman mine, near Tubac. The schooner sailed for San Francisco yesterday.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2314, 27 August 1858, p.3, col.1, City Intelligence. Jack. Powers.[edit]
Jack. Powers. — A letter has been received in San Francisco, says the Call, from the notorious Jack Powers, who is in the Apache country, having arrived at Guaymas in the schooner Mary E. Owens. He states that he has discovered a "mountain of silver," and writes to be furnished with crow bars, picks and arms, He confirms the statement that Aubrey was shot with golden bullets, and alleges that he has some in his possession. He gives a glowing description of the country, and pronounces it far superior to California as a mineral region. He recommends that a company of fearless men should become the pioneers in settling the section he is in and subduing the Apaches. He says he has purchased the land of a man in Ures, Sonora, including the mountain, and wherever he has prospected he has found silver in chunks, and he considers himself wealthier than the Rothschilds. Although we place no credit in his statements concerning these discoveries, it would be strange if the expatriation of a desperado like Powers should result in exposing to the world such unlimited wealth in Sonora.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 2315, 28 August 1858, p.1, col.7, LETTER FROM SONORA. Jack Powers Heard From.[edit]
Jack Powers Heard From. — The following is an extract from a private letter received in San Francisco:
Guaymas, July 15th, 1858
A few days ago, the schooner Elizabeth Owens arrived here from San Francisco, having the notorious Jack Powers on board. He says that what they say of him in San Francisco is a pack of lies. He tells the people here he is a friend to the Mexicans, and always has been. He says he is the owner of the Elizabeth Owens. The captain of the schooner is named Bogart. The captain tells me that Jack is connected in San Francisco with a man named Leonidas Haskell, hide dealer. Jack has purchased a load of wheat, which he sends by the Elizabeth Owens. He intends to make Guaymas his permanent home, and he has sent to Haskell to send him down here a full cargo of goods by the Elizabeth Owens.
Captain Arnold, of the brig Carmalita, made the quickest passage on record, having arrived from San Francisco here in ten days. Captain Stone and surveying party are still here, making preparations to go into the interior.
We know nothing of the correctness of the above statement as to the movements or business connections of Jack Powers, says the Alta, but can safely contradict the assertion that Jack is the owner of the Elizabeth Owens. That vessel is owned by R. E. Raimond, of this city, and stands in his name upon the books of the Custom House.
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 237, 29 August 1858. p. , col. [edit]
Affairs in Sonora, Mexico.
EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN GUAYMAS TO HIS FRIEND IN SAN FRANCISCO.
Capt. Stone and his party, of the surveying expedition, are still in this place. The captain, with Mr. Robert Whiting and servants, left here a few days ago for Hermosillo, to have an interview with Gov. Pesquiera. Capt. Stone, I think, has received some decisive news from Mexico; for that reason he went to see the governor of this State to ascertain whether he will let him go on with the survey. His party surveyed the whole coast from the mouth of the Colorado river to this port, but which fact is not generally known to the people here. Stone's party is composed of some of the best m«n I ever came in contact with; they are prepared for any emergency, for any encounter that may tale place against them.
There arrived here, a few days ago, on the way to the Colorado river, a schooner called the Elizabeth Owens, and she brought at a pasenger the somewhat celebrated Jack Powers. The moment I saw him I knew he had done something he should not have done, and on the arrival of the Carmalita the cat was let out of the bag. He says that the statements in regard to him, published in the San Francisco papers are a pack of d — d lies. He tells the Mexicans here that he in a friend of their countrymen in California, and has always taken their part, and for that reason has incurred the displeasure of some of the Vigilantes in Alta California. He posted off in hot haste for Hermosillo, oalled on Governor Pesquiera, told him the circumstances of his advent here; he and the governor soon became great cronies, and Jack already circulates quite freely among some of the first families of Sonora. Powers says that if any American attempts to take him, for the reward offered for his apprehension, he will have every white man in Guaymas killed. Jack has bought a cargo of wheat and hides, which he has forwarded to San Francisco by the Elizabeth Owens, and talks very glibly of transacting a large commercial and forwarding business in this place. I hope his commercial career will prove more profitable and honorable than his wayward life in California has hitherto proven.
Gov. Pesquiera and his Congress are at swords points. His Excellency has had three of the members of the honorable body incarcerated in the public prison in this place. I thick he intends to send them to San Francisco, but for what purpose has not yet been disclosed — perhaps he only intends to exile them, after the fashion of the central rulers of Mexico. They would not consent to act as the lickspittles of his Excellency, therefore he desires their banishment. Pesquiera is losing his popularity very fast, and his rule, I am inclined to believe, will soon be over.
Jesus Ainsa was sent to Mazatlan this day, in the schooner Jose. Thomas Robinson, who is now acting as Prefect of this city, sent him off. I think the authorites are becoming alarmed. The American man-of-war Saranac was heard of at Realejo, Nicaragua, on her way to the Gulf of California. The nearness of her visit to this place has caused the shackles to fall from the limbs of an American citizen. I trust Ainsa may be soon restored to the bosom of his family in your State.
Commercial affairs here are somewhat dull at present, but times will get better towards Christmas, when the feasts are celebrated in the interior. There are about twenty Americans here, who are all praying for the purchase and annexation cf Sonora to the United States.
Gandara is in the State of Sinaloa, and has not yet relinquished the idea of regaining his foothold as the Governor of Sonora. He is conferring with Gen. Yanez on the subject, but there are so many stories in regard to his plans and intentions that I do not deem it worth while to state them in detail.
Los Angeles Star, Number 22, 9 October 1858, p.2, col.3, Later from Sonora.[edit]
Later from Sonora.
We are indebted to our contemporary, El Clamor Publico, for the following Intelligence from Sonora. furnished us in advance of their own publication:—
By the arrival of Senor Dolores Reina, we have received recent dates from Sonora.
...
The Government of Sonora has taken measures to give a free passage, from San Francisco to Guaymas, to all Mexican citizens residing in California, who may wish to return to their country, but who, on account of their destitute condition, are unable to do so.
...
The Government of Sonora has taken measures to give a free passage, from San Francisco to Guaymas, to all Mexican citizens residing in California, who may wish to return to their country, but who, on account of their destitute condition, are unable to do so.
We are glad to perceive that the efforts of Don Jesus Islas are crowned with success. His new colony, established at a place called Sani, now numbers more than two hundred persons; all contented and happy. They are engaged in developing the agricultural resources of that part of the country. New mines are being discovered daily.
Jesus M. Ainsa, who for so long a time was suffering in jail at Guaymas, for his implication in the unfortunate Crabb expedition, has at length been set at liberty. He was lately at Mazatlan.
The notorious Jack Powers is in Hermosillo. He has plenty of money, and is enjoying himself as it nothing had happened. He says that in two years he intends to return to San Francisco.
...
The Apaches have been committing their accustomed depredations, and almost every district has suffered from their incursions. The Government has entered into a most vigorous campaign against them. The Apaches, on hearing that such was the determination of the Governor, had sent commissioners to sue for peace; but the Governor has not paid any attention to their protestations, knowing the treacherous disposition of that tribe, which for so many years has been the scourge of that state.
...
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 297, 29 October 1858, p.1,col.6, Osbaldson's Great Ride. [edit]
Osbaldson's Great Ride.—The Hongkong Register of Aug. 17th quotes the Alta's account of Jack Powers great ride on the 2d May, in which we mentioned Osbaldeston's famous feat. The Register speaking of Osbaldeston's ride, says: "The Squire's" undertaking was to ride 200 miles in 10 hours, for a bet of a thousand guineas. Mr. Osbaldeston at the time of the match, 1851, weighed 11 stone, and dividing the distance into heats of four miles each, he performed it with twenty-eight horses, the fastest four miles having been done in eight minutes and the slowest in twelve. The length of this heat was occasioned by the horse stopping short and turning round which caused Mr. O. to throw himself off.
The whole distance was performed in 7. 19. 4.
Allowed for stoppages &c, 1. 22. 66.
8 h. 42 m.
This feat of Powers, sinking the blackguardism seen in it, is a most extraordinary feat. Supposing that Mr. Osbaldeston rode in an eight pound saddle, the horses he used, making a mile in 2m. and 11s., carried 11 stone 8 lbs. The horses which Mr. Powers used, making a mile in 2 m. and 11s. carried 13 stone, 8 lbs.— [E. H.R.]
Daily Alta California, Volume 10, Number 311, 12 November 1858, p.1,col.2, P. S. (execution of Manuel Murieta in Santo Tomas, Baja Ca.)[edit]
P. S. — I have just this moment been conversing with a gentleman from Santa Tomas, Lower California, who arrived here yesterday evening. He brings the news of the execution of another renegade or outlaw, who was obliged to leave this State, for some criminal act, a short time since. He gave his name as Manuel Murieta, a relative of the notorious Joaquin Murieta, the bandit robber of California. In common with Solomon Pico and Roubles, and the assassin Leroy, and some others who have engaged in the Jack Powers affair in San Luis Obispo county, he had taken up his residence in this portion of Mexico, and for some length of time lived a quiet and peaceable life. At length, however, getting blood-thirsty, and as he could not wait to cross the line, and wuh his wrath away in the heart's blood of some Americano, as he says he has on several occasions — he rises up and kills an innocent, inoffensive citizen - of his adopted home, and tries to escape, but Got. Castro intercepts him, brings him back, tries him ; finds him guilty, sentenced him to be shot. Immediately a file of soldiers are marched out, and he is completely riddled to pieces with musket balls. Thus justice is dealt out to the unjust ; would that his other associates in crime could speedily meet with the same just fate, and thus rid the world of such monsters.
Gov. Castro acts his part well; he does not enquire into the character of those men who are criminals in other counties; hut if they commit any crime within his jurisdiction, he immediately brings them to justice by shooting them.


Los Angeles Star, Number 36, 15 January 1859, p.2,col.4,(Froylan Servin conviction)[edit]
One of the Jack Powers Gang, Froylan Servin, one of the members of the above notorious band which committed so many atrocities in the County of San Luis Obispo, has been convicted on two indictments for grand larceny. On one, sentenced to nine years, and on the other, to eight years in the State Prison. He is still in custody, awaiting trial on an indictment for murder, before the District Court.
Daily Alta California, Volume , Number 19, 20 January 1859, p.1 col.6 OUR SACRAMENTO CORRESPONDENCE.[edit]
From Los Angles. The Los Angeles stage arrived last evening. The only item if intereat is that Froilan Servin, one of Jack Powers' gang, has been convicted in San Luis Obispo of grand larceny on two indictments, and sentenced to serve the State for seventeen years in the State Prison.
Los Angeles Star, Number 44, 12 March 1859, p.2,col.4, From Sonora[edit]
The notorious Jack Powers is "sloshing around" at Hermosillo. He represents himself as having had to leave California for interfering to protect some unoffending Sonoranians from the code of Judge Lynch. He is, of course, a great favorite with the lower classes, with whom he alone associates.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 17, Number 2561, 11 June 1859, p.3, col.3, Sonora.[edit]
Sonora. — the Guaymas correspondence of the San Francisco Herald we extract the following :
Jack Powers, about whom so much has been said, has located himself at Hermosillo, where ho has opened a fine hotel. Jack is in high feather with the Peiquiera Government and the Mexicans generally, and in consequence is able to render great assistance to Americans traveling through the country, who are free to stop at Hermosillo. And to his credit be it said, that he has in all cases where it has come under his notice aided them. I know two parties myself, who left free, that took letters to Jack. Jack says he is no friend to filibusters, as the Mexicans have treated him kindly, but will aid his countrymen whenever and wherever he can, who are peaceably traveling through the country or pursuing a legitimate calling in it. He says in a short time he will again visit California and face hid enemies.
Daily Alta California, Volume 12, Number 3883, 30 September 1860, p.1,col.6 OUR GUAYMAS CORRESPONDESCE.[edit]
Jack Powers.
Jack Powers left, a short time ago, for Arizona. He has, I believe, purchased a ranch a few miles from Tucson, on which he intends to keep some horses he bought to sell the government. He also has a contract for making brick for a new fort about to be put up by the United States. Powers has many friends in Sonora and friends who would perhaps do as much for him as any he ever had in California. And of his whole conduct since he has been here has been most quiet and inoffensive, but little attention is paid to what is said of him in California.
Daily Alta California, Volume 12, Number 3917, 3 November 1860, p.1 col.2 BY TELEGRAPH.[edit]
BY TELEGRAPH.
[Special Dispatch to the Alta California.]
[Per Pacific and Atlantic Line.]
Los Angeles, Nov. 2.
Murder of Jack Powers.
We learn from Mr. R. O. Cossett, who passed here on the Overland mail stage to-day, that the notorious Jack Powers was murdered on his ranch a little south of Tubac, Arizona, by his Mexican peons. He had some seven or eight hundred head of stock on his ranch when he was murdered.
Daily Evening Bulletin, November 15, 1860[edit]
Letter From Arizona
From Our Own Correspondent.
Tucson, Arizona, November 3, 1860.
Two men have met with violent deaths in this vicinity in the last ten days. Both victims were formerly residents of California, and were well known there.
Murder of Jack Powers
Intelligence was received here about a week since that Jack Powers was found murdered at a ranch upon which he had recently located, near the boundry line. His body was so much mutilated by hogs as to be scarcely recognizable, and, from appearances, it is supposed that he was killed by a blow from behind, with an ax. His peons had all fled, and are of course suspected of having perpetrated the bloody deed. Powers had some $6,000 worth of stock on the ranch, which is secured to his estate by responsible parties. He also owns real estate in Hermosillo, Sonora. The deceased was a prominent sporting man in California some years since. His history there is, I presume, well known.
Daily Evening Bulletin, November 16, 1860[edit]
Letter From Arizona
From Our Own Correspondent.
Fort Buchanan, Arizona, October 31, 1860
Additional Particulars of the Murder of Jack Powers
Some three months ago Jack Powers came up from Sonora with 500 head of cattle, also a lot of sheep and horses. He first stopped on what is known as the Potrero ranch, 4 miles north of the Line. Wishing to find better grass, he moved to the Babacomari ranch (deserted some 40 years ago on account of the Apaches, and belonging to the Spanish family Elias.) Jack came up with 30 Yaqui Indians , who deserted him for fear of the Apaches. While at the Babacomari ranch Capt. Ewell sent him some dragoons until he could get peons to herd his cattle. The Apaches appearing on the ranch, he left for the Potrero ranch, occupied by Montgomery & Smith, and built a house half-a-mile from them, where he settled, with four peons, to herd his cattle. (I forgot to mention that he was on his way to the Rio Mimbres, but on his arrival here, he learned that the mines were a failure, and so he stopped at this point.) On Thursday last, Grundy Ake called to see Jack, and asked him if he was not afraid to stop with along with the Mexicans. He answered that his life was safer with Mexicans than Americans.
On Friday night, Montgomery and Smith called at his (Jack's) place, to ask if their (Montgomery & Smith's) hogs had been around. Jack said yes, and wished them to remain over night, as they would be sure to find them in the morning, when they came out of the tules. But Montgomery and Smith said they would come about daylight. On returning in the morning, they found several hogs at the house, and Jack Powers lying on the floor with his throat cut, and skull cracked by a blow on the head. The hogs had badly mangled his body. He was buried on the Sunday, by the farmers living around Calabasas (the U.S. Custom House). Later on the day of the burial, an Amercian, who came up from a small town called Imcorza, met the four peons with a half-breed American (supposed to be Cherokee) on their road down to Sonora. The half-breed was riding Jack's horse. None of the party was leading any animals. It appears that Jack had row with his peons and they killed him, taking all his animals, and everything that was valuable, together with five horses. Mr. Boza of Calabasas, has for the present taken charge of Jack's stock.
Daily Alta California, Volume 13, Number 4030, 27 February 1861, [edit]
Arizona. — A letter, written at Tucson on the 17th ult., and published in the Echo du Pacifique, says that the Papago Indians make earthenware jairs, for holding water, of graceful form, resembling those used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The Church At the Mission San Xavicr is so good, that such a building in San Francisco would be one of its finest ornaments. The building is now going to destruction, however, for there is no one to take care of it. One of the largest ranchos in the Territory is that of Canoa. containing 141,5oo acres, owned by Lieut. Mowry. The Weekly Arizonian is soon to resume publication at Tubac. Mr. Mowry, administrator of the estate of the late Jack Powers, has published the following notice:
"The undersigned, administrator of the estate of Jack Powers, deceased, will offer to the highest and best bidder, on the 10th January, l861, the personal property belonging to said estate, consisting of: 475 head of stock cattle, 22 head of horses and mules. 220 head of sheep, 2,000 fanegas flour and beans, 1,200 lib. pinole, 1 trunk, kitchen furniture, and other articles, too numerous to mention."

Rancho Cañada de los Osos, Rancho Pecho y Islay[edit]

Annual Report of the Commissioner of the General Land Office to the Secretary of the Interior, United States. General Land Office, 1881. p.507[edit]
  • Blythe, Elizabeth, and Hy Root. Ambush, Arson & Murder on the Nacimiento. Accounts of the James Lynch family of Tierra Redonda. Sponsored by El Paso de Robles Pioneer Museum, Paso Robles, California. Blue Oak Publishing, Paso Robles, 1999.
  • Lynch, Alice Clare. The Kennedy Clan and Tierra Redonda. San Francisco: Marnell & Company, 1935.

Rancho Cañada de los Osos[edit]

Victor Pantaleon Linares 1807 - 1853[edit]
User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Victor Pantaleon Linares 1807 - 1853
granted on Dec.1 1842 by Governor Juan B. Alvarado to Victor Linares. 5.3 Leg. = 23,571 acres SD 218
The following claims were yesterday conflrmed, ... and of Victor Linares, to one thousand varas square at the Mission San Luis.

Rancho Pecho y Islay[edit]

granted on April 27, 1843 by Governor Manuel Micheltorena to Francisco Badillo. 2 Legua = 8856.8 acres SD 28
  • 3,660 acres from ‘Devils Creek Canyon to Pecho Creek sold to Rancho San Miquelito 1892.
  • 5,200 acres balance of the ranch sold to Spooner in 1902.
  • 1 vara = 33 inches (838.2 mm) was adopted in California.
  • A (square) league is equivalent to about 4,428.4 acres (1,792.11 ha). A league is equivalent to 5,000 varas squared or 4,428.4 acres (1,792.11 ha).
Saddle Peak, (Irish Hills, California) U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Saddle Peak Class: Summit :N 35 13' 20" W 120 47' 34"
Pecho Rock an island / rock offshore of the coast of San Luis Obispo County, California. U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Pecho Rock an Island at Latitude: 35.1794° or 35° 10' 45.9" north; Longitude: -120.8166° or 120° 48' 59.7" west

San Luis Hill U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: San Luis Hill Class: Summit

add Diablo Canyon Power Plant to Rancho Pecho y Islay and Rancho Cañada de los Osos y Pecho y Islay Asiaticus (talk) 23:35, 1 July 2017 (UTC)
The "Expanation" [map of Rancho Pecho y Islai] may be translated as follows:
A. Canada and Arroyo of Pecho, boundary with the land of Don Miguel Avila. [Pecho Creek];
B. Canada of the Thieves;
C. Pasture and Arroyo of the same;
D. Islai Creek and spring;
E. Beach;
F. Summit of the mountains, boundary with the land of Don Victor Linares."
Islay came from the Salinan work "slay" referring to the choke cherry. Some of the plant docents know more about what a choke cherry is. I read somewhere that the Indians liked to collect and grind the pits. A favorite source of sweetness. Don't know why the creek as named after the choke cherry, must have been a good source.
I looked in the "Handbook of the Indians of California by A.L. Kroeber, pubished in 1925, an could find no reference to the Islay cherry or the word "Islay." The common name for the plant is holly-leaved cherry, (Prunus ilicifolia) I have a 1923 plant book in which the common name for Prunus ilicifolia is "Islay." This adorable little book provides a pronunciation - is-lah-ee, but they do not mention where the name comes from.
The Pecho (breast) may refer to a rock off the coast from Pecho creek that is breast shaped and is named Pecho Rock. The Rancho Pecho y Islay was bordered on the south by Pecho Creek and on the north by Islay Creek.
Per an article sent to me from Dorothy Oksner, Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society regarding RANCHO PECHO Y ISLAI [Map #49, San Luis Obispo], owned by Francisco Badillo: "In 1825, there arrived in California, as one of a group of convicts dispatched there from Mexico during the year, on Francisco Vadillo, or Badillo. Apparently, once here, he behaved himself; he married, and in 1843 petitioned for a tract of land formerly used by Mission San Luis Obispo, known as Pecho y Islai, citing eighteen years' residence in California. Badillo submitted diseno with his petition, which was approved in April of 1843. In October following, Justice of the Peace Mariano Bonilla administered the juridical possession and measurment for Badillo, reporting, "they began to measure from the Arroyo del Pecho along the coast northwest in the Arroyo of Islai, both its banks being included, distant one hundred and seventy-five cordeles of one hundred varas each. In said point was fixed, designating the boundary in that direction, thence measuring easterly up the Arroyo of Islai to the end of the Canada of the same name at the Sierra twenty cordeles and said place was marked; thence along the ridge of the Sierra, southeast one hundred and eighty-three cordeles to the source of the Arroyo del Pecho, marking this point with a cross as boundary with Don Miguel Avila; thence measuring westerly down the Canada and Arroyo of the Pecho, twenty-nine cordeles, to the point of beginning....." Three months later, Badillo sold the rancho to a partnership of James Scott and John Wilson, who also purchased the adjoining Rancho Canada de los Osos, and in 1845, the combined property was re-granted to Scott and Wilson, to whom it was subsequently confirmed. The surveyed Rancho Pecho y Islai extended down the coast from Point Buchon nearly to Point San Luis. The Montana de Oro State Park now occupies approximately the northern one-fifth of the tract. The "Expanation" [map of Rancho Pecho y Islai] may be translated as follows: A. Canada and Arroyo of Pecho, boundary with the land of Don Miguel Avila. [Pecho Creek]; B. Canada of the Thieves; C. Pasture and Arroyo of the same; D. Islai Creek and spring; E. Beach; F. Summit of the mountains, boundary with the land of Don Victor Linares."

Red Bluff Daily News; Jean Barton: A tour of southern California’s Rancho Pecho

Posted: 06/02/17, 1:44 PM PDT | Updated: on 06/02/2017

When I accepted the invitation to accompany California CattleWomen President Cheryl Foster to the spring meeting of Santa Barbara CattleWomen with a tour of Rancho Pecho hosted by Sue Bench and PG&E, I had forgotten that Bill and I had toured Pecho Ranch in May of 2005 on the California Beef Cattle Improvement Association (CBCIA) tour.

Sue Bench shared the history of the ranch with the cattlewomen before the pot luck luncheon. “Rancho Pecho Y Islay was 8,880 acre portion of a larger Mexican Land Grant conveyed to Francisco Padilla in 1843.

“It was sold to Captain John Wilson and patented in 1869. Originally it included the coastal terrace and adjacent hills generally from just north of Islay Creek to Pecho Creek near Port San Luis.

“The ranch was passed to his granddaughter Ramona Hillard in 1872. In 1892 she sold 3,660 acres from ‘Devils Creek Canyo to Pecho Creek’ to Luigi Marre who owned the neighboring Rancho San Miguelito to the south. Part of the deal included a right of way along a wagon trail to Port Harford (today’s Port San Luis) which was an important shipping point for crops and supplied. She then leased the remainder of the ranch to the Spooner and Hazzard families. Spooners and Hazzards were not always best of friends with right of ways occasionally contested.

“Around the turn of the 19th century, Hillard borrowed money using the remaining 5,200 acre ranch as collateral. When the loan came due in 1902, Henry Cowell took ownership of the ranch and then sold Rancho Pecho to Alden Spooner Jr. in 1902.

“Sooner was primarily a dairyman but crops such as beans and barley were grown on the coastal terrace. After Alden Spooner died in 1920, his three sons continued their tradition of dairying through the ‘30s. During the ‘20s and ‘30s much of the Coastal terrace was leased to Japanese farmers where they grew bush peas, Brussel sprouts and artichokes.

“Oliver Chapin Field purchased Rancho Pecho in 1941. He was born in California but spent much of his teen years in Ketchikan Alaska where his father owned a general store. He graduated from Stanford as an engineer and then served in the Navy in 1920 aboard an 1890 vintage battleship. In 1922, after his service in the Navy, he formed his own business and eventually developed an asphalt from heavy crude oil at a plant in Casmalia. Rancho Pecho was one of the first of many properties he purchased with his new wealth. His three children spent their summers working at the ranch. Beef cattle and a variety of crops were grown. OC Field died in 1974, and the heirs continued the ranch operation until 1984.

“PG&E purchased the ranch in 1985.”

It is the site of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant, an electricity-generating nuclear power plant near Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo County.

After the permanent shutdown of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station in 2013 it is the only nuclear plant operational in the state.

Since 9-11 there are no tours, and we were inside a locked gate on the ranch, at a barn high on a hill above the ocean, with no view of the power plant.

In 2005 I had written “After a lunch prepared by the Cal Poly Young Cattlemen we boarded the buses for a trip through the scenic Montana de Oro State Park enroute to PG&E’s Pecho Ranch and Bob Blanchard who rents the ranch.

“Pecho Ranch covers 4.5 miles of coastline near Los Osos, behind a locked gate, since south of the corrals is Diablo Canyon. Bob uses high density, short grazing instead of continuous grazing, and PG&E financed the changes (fences and water systems) they needed to make.

“We could see the difference between the grazed land and the park, which hasn’t had grazing for over 40 years. The ground was rocky with gravel on top of the soil since the wind and rain had eroded away the litter. There were no new shrubs in this area and no wild animals.

“On the PG&E land, Bob had grazed cattle, sheep and goats in March and April. We couldn’t see bare ground since the hooves make a better seed bed, and there were pocket gophers and rabbits in the four native perennial grasses. He said that the field had been farmed until 15 years ago and now native perennial grasses and shrubs were coming in.

“The first 25 acre pasture across the fence from the park had been grazed for three weeks in April by 400 sheep and goats with 500 lambs and kids. Then the pasture is rested at least 45 days.

“The livestock won’t eat salt here because of the salt in the atmosphere that clings to the grasses. We were on a shelf above the ocean with brushy hills in back of us.

“Bob and his wife raise 25 acres of avocados and eight acres of oranges on the inherited family ranch at Cayucus. Mrs. Blanchard sells at the local farmers markets the organic beef, lamb and goat meat, avocados and oranges.

He said it takes 30 months to get a steer to harvest on grass. They are processed near Creston, three head at a time. Last year they sold 25 steers at farmers markets, since the customer isn’t price sensitive.

“He can sell an 80 pound goat for $ 100 in the local area. Bob has Boer goats and three or four Anatolian guard dogs to protect them from predators.

“The sheep are a meat breed instead of grown for their wool. He has Barbado- Dorfort cross ewes. He would like more Dorfort ewes, but ewe lambs are expensive.

“His cowherd numbers 70 head and he likes the smaller framed cattle with larger capacity for eating grass. He acknowledged the weaning weights aren’t as good, but profitable for him.

“We saw a fresh water pond with a group of steers nearby on green grass and the ocean below, when we got off the bus for a closer look behind the locked gate.”

After Sue Bench concluded the history of the ranch, Sally Krenn, a retired PG&E Biologist that worked with Bob Blanchard told more about how Cal Poly students had developed forestry and grazing plans for the ranch. In the fall, they plan to work with Cal Fire on a controlled burn on the brushy hill sides.

Jean Barton has been writing her column in the Daily News since the early 1990s. She can be reached by e-mail at jbarton2013@gmail.com. Copyright © Red Bluff Daily News Copyright

PECHO RANCH HISTORY, Spooner History edited by Joyce Cory
  • 1892 - February - A.B. II leased property on the Central Coast, south of the town of Morro in San Luis Obispo County. The acreage was bounded by the Pacific Ocean on the west, Coon Creek on the south, and Pecho and Islay Creek on the north. Spooner, with his wife and three sons, moved into a simple three room house located on a windy bluff above Buchon Cove. (now called Spooner's Cove)
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Coon Creek


  • 1892 - A.B. II and his brother Cornelius build a landing on the south side of Buchon Cove (see photo). The landing consisted of a hole through the cliff and a 400 foot trestle that extended from the end of the tunnel and over the rocks. At the end of the trestle was a 25 ft. movable apron that could be lowered with a block and tackle. A few years later a barn was built on the bluff. Bales of hay, sacks of beans, grain and live hogs were slid down the trestle unto the deck of a waiting steamer.
  • 1892 - October 9 - (San Luis Tribune) "A new shipping point has been created at the mouth of Islay Creek. Last Thursday the steamer Bonita discharged a large consignment of lumber and then took on board 2,500 sacks of beans and grain by means of a chute."
  • 1902 - July 28th - An agreement to sell between Isabella M. Cowell and A. B. Spooner II. "All that portion of Rancho Pecho y Islay which lies north of the Canada de Diablo, containing 5,200 acres." The price for the land was $38,000. - (Filed for record, July 30, San Francisco, Calif.)


Francisco Felipe Badillo[edit]


Badillo (Francisco), 1825, Mex. convict who continued his lawless career in Cal.; wife Rafaela Garcia, 4 child. ; lynched in '60 with one of his sons.ii. 707 , iii. 16, 549, 652 [154]: 707 
15[155]
Herrera, however, was not the only official who arrived on the Morelos in July 1825. The vessel brought also to California Lieutenant Miguel Gonzalez in command of a detachment of artillerymen, who was immediately made a captain, and became comandante de armas at Monterey by virtue of his rank. There also came, probably in this vessel, and certainly about this time, three more alfereces, or sub-lieutenants, Antonio Nieto, Rodrigo del Pliego, and Jose Perez del Campo, the first being in command of a small body of infantry sent as a guard to eighteen convicts condemned to presidio life in California for various offences. With few exceptions, the new-comers, whether officers, soldiers, or convicts, were Mexicans of a class by no means desirable as citizens. 29

---

29 The number of the soldiers, both artillery and infantry, is not recorded. Vallejo, Hist. Cal, MS., ii. 62-6, and Alvarado, Hist. Ccd., MS., ii. 110-14, confound this arrival of convicts with the later ones of 1830. A list of the 18 convicts who started is given in St. Pap., Sac, MS., x. 20-2, and of the 17 who arrived, in Dept St. Pap., Ben. Mil., MS., lvii. 3, besides mention of several of the number in Id., Ii. 2-3. Eight or nine came with definite sen-
16 A TERRITORY OF THE MEXICAN REPUBLIC.

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[29 cont.] tences, while the rest were simply banished to California. The former were mostly the companions of Vicente Gomez, 'el capador,' a fiend in human form, thief and assassin, who is said never to have spared nor failed to torture any man, woman, or child of Spanish blood that fell into his hands, but who, in consideration of his services to the 'cause of independence,' was simply sent to California subject to the orders of the comandante general. It is not quite certain that he came to Monterey with the rest, since there are indications that he came to S. Diego with Echeandia, or at least about the same time. He was soon sent overland to Sonora, perhaps in the hope that he would be killed by the Indians, where he arrived in March 1826, after narrowly escaping death at the hands of the Yumas. After having been employed by Gen. Figueroa on various commissions, he was sent back, and on the way he was killed by Alf. Jose Maria Ramirez at S. Vicente, Lower California, in a personal quarrel, probably in September 1827. Dept St. Pap., Ben. Mil., MS., Ivii. 21; Dept Rec, MS., v. 96-7, 130.
One of the companions of Gomez bore the illustrious name of Fernando Cortes, 'do muy mala fama en toda la republica,' but of whose Californian experience nothing is known. Another was Joaquin Solis, 'principal agente de Gomez, de muy mala conducta, voz general ser ladron,' who acquired fame as leader of a revolt in 1829, described in chap. iii. of this volume, as did also in lesser degree in the same affair another companion, Antonio Avila, condemned to death for murders and robberies in Puebla, but pardoned on condition of exile to California. Another of the band was Francisco Badillo, sentenced to 10 years of presidio work in chains, or to be shot without hesitation or formality should he venture to move from the spot where he might be put to work. In 1835, the time having expired, Badillo was set at liberty, but remained in the country. Dept St. Pap., Ben. Mil., MS., lxxvi. 20-2. In 1833 he had been charged with a new robbery. Id., lxxiv. 44. He was married in 1830 to his mistress at Sta Barbara. Carrillo {Jose), Doc. Hist. Cal.,MS., 26. He at one time kept a monte bank at Sta Barbara, and Manuel Castro once found him concealed under the table, and stealthily reaching out to steal his own money, merely, as he said, to keep in practice! After a long career as cattle-thief, he was finally lynched about 1860, his body with that of his son being found one morning hanging to a tree with the feet very near the ground. A little grand-daughter wept bitterly because the cruel Americans allowed her grandpapa to die when a little earth under his feet would have saved him! Another son known as Six-toed Pete escaped across the frontier. Alvarado, Hist. Cal., MS., ii. 251-3; Streeter's Recol., MS., 159-63.
Other members of this band of convicts were for the most part ordinary thieves and vagabonds, of whose life in California nothing is known, a few also not being named here by reason of their good behavior and respectable connections.
  • capador, noun
1. One whose business is to geld or castrate. (m)
2. A kind of whistle employed by those whose business is to geld. (m)

549[155]

Jose Antonio Carrillo, was sent with a force to occupy San Buenaventura.10 This occupation was effected probably on March 12th, without disaster, and soon Castaheda was instructed to advance and attack Santa Barbara before it could be reinforced from the north. He was to form his own plan of attack, but was to lose no time. He must allow no conditions, but insist on immediate surrender at discretion, after which the leaders were to be kept in close confinement. "No more consideration must be shown for those faithless rebels."11

---

10 March 10, 1838, Portilla's instructions to Castaneda. Vallejo, Doc, MS., v. 38. He was to hold the mission and prevent the northern revolutionists from using its resources — it will be noticed that Carlos Carrillo was the administrator of this mission — to cut off all communication with Sta Barbara, and if attacked by the enemy in overwhelming numbers, to 'save the national honor' by retreating. Should he find the place already in possession of the foe, he might use his judgment as to the possibility of dislodging them. A letter of J. A. Carrillo to his brother on March 10th, Dept. St. Pap., MS., iv. 182-3, seems to indicate a degree of displeasure that some of his ideas had not been adopted.
11. March 10, 1838, Portilla to Castaneda. 3 despatches. Alf. J. A. Pico is to join him with a reinforcement. Vallejo, Doc, MS., v. 42-4. March 12th, Carrillo warned Castaneda against Sergt Macedonio Gonzalez, who was to be closely watched. And on March 15th, he had recommended a Mexican named Badillo, who has a plan 'favorable to our views.' Id., v. 40-1.
652 LOCAL ANNALS OF SANTA BARBARA DISTRICT. [155]

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3 1835 Career of the convict Badillo, released this year. This vol., p. 16.

[155]: 16, 549, 652 

Badillo family[edit]
Death: 08-24-1859 in Carpinteria, Santa Barbara Co., CA
Birth: ABT 1789 in San Juan Teotihuacán, Mexico, Nueva España
Burial: The small cabin which Francisco lived in was located north of Carpenteria Avenue, off Lindan Avenue, in Carpenteria. Per burial register #1517 SBMAL Padre Jaime Vila gave a "church" burial to Francisco & Eduardo Badillo. Unknown grave location. 08-25-1859 Mission Santa Barbara Cemetery, Santa Barbara Co., CA
Name: Francisco Felipe Sr. Badillo
Sex: M
Per 1850 U.S. Federal census Francisco Badillo is living in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, born abt 1787 Mexico
Per 1852 California State Census Francisco Badillo is living in Santa Barbara County, age 66, born abt 1786 Mexico Head Married Monte-Dealer, spouse name Rafaela
Per the Marriage Certificate of Francisco Badillo and Rafaela Garcia, translated and researched by Alex Grzywacki, volunteer for the Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society & Vice Commander (Graves Registration Officer) Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, William T. Sherman Camp #28 Santa Barbara County, California and Project Researcher for the lost graves of the men who served during the Civil War with the 1st Battalion Native California Calvary, Company C:
Per Huntington.org Marriage Records, http://missions.huntington.org/MarriageData.aspx?ID=169: Francisco Badillo married Petra Garcia 11 June 1830 Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00160. Francisco's origin San Juan Teotiguacan. Petra was baptized Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00468, origin Presidio Santa Barbara. Francisco's father is stated as Ramon Badill, deceased, and mother is stated as Gregoria Ruiz, deceased. Maria's father is stated as Carlos Garcia, deceased, baptized Mission San Carlos Borromeo #00428X and mother is stated as Maria del Carmen Ayala, baptized Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00052X. Sacrament Witnesses are Joaquin Alvarado and Tomas Garcia. Officiant and Recorder is Antonio Ximeno.
"Mission Presidio Santa Barbara Marriage #205 states Francisco Badillo, widower and Rafaela Garcia, single. On the 5th of September 1835, having presided at the presentation of the involved people and the information for the council seriously/solemnly having given dispensation for impediments for the bonds of affinity in the first degree*, by R.P. President Fr. Narcisco Duran and not having other impediments to the lawful union and in condsideration of this by the President, Francisco Badillo, native of [San Juan Teotiguacan], widower of Petra Garcia; and Rafaela Garcia, single, daughter of Carlos Garcia and of Maria de Carmen Ayala. Witnesses: Jose Maria Roxo and Alta Garcia." [* "afinidad en primer grado por copula licita"]"
Per Huntington.org Marriage Records, http://missions.huntington.org/MarriageData.aspx?ID=206: Francisco Badillo married Rafaela Garcia 05 September 1835 Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00205. Francisco's information not stated. Rafaela's information not stated. Franciso's previous wife stated as Petra Garcia [sister], baptized Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00468X, death Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00291X. Rafaela's father is stated as Carlos Garcia, baptized Mission San Carlos Borromeo #00428X and mother is stated as Maria del Carmen Ayala, baptized Mission Presidio Santa Barbara #00052X. Sacrament Witnesses are Alta Gracia Garcia and Jose Maria Roxo. Officiant and Recoreder is Antonio Ximeno.
Per Badillo family descendant Ellen Allen: "Francisco Badillo was a political prisoner when he first came to California. He then married and started a business and bought land. He married twice. He married sisters; Maria Petra Garcia (which was my ggg grandmother) and Maria Rafaela Garcia. I am from his daughter from his first wife Petra Garcia. Her name was Tomasa Badillo, and she was married to Pedro Abelar [de Ablar], who was the son in law that was in partnership with him. He was a merchant, and there was also something going on with his death and what happened to his estate. I have been researching, but I have not found any connections yet with the two. He was married to Rafaela Garcia when the incident [hanging] happened. Also, hung was one of her sons, Eduardo Antonio Badillo, who was only 16 years old, and it was witnessed by the other younger children. They were hung on the morning [4 a.m.] of August 24, 1859 in Carpenteria. His wives were related to the Carrillo and Ayala families of Santa Barbara".
The following article was written by Michael Redmon, Director of Research at the Santa Barbara Historical Society:
"Santa Barbara's transition from Mexican pueblo to American town during the 1850's was not always an easy one. As the American segment of the population grew, tensions increased between the new arrivals and the Californios, tensions exacerbated by hotheads on both sides. At the end of the decade, violence and, for a time, law and order virtually disintegrated. A number of contentious issues separated Americans and Californios. The former resented the political power of the majority Californios. Differences between Catholic and Protestant were also bones of contention. Language was a flashpoint. The city's only newspaper, The Gazette, urged that school be conducted in English only, a suggestion to which the Californios took offense. In response, steps were taken that effectively drove The Gazette out of business. Bandit activities had further sown suspicion and had led to short-lived attempts at vigilantism in mid-decade. Tensions had reached a dangerous level. On August 24, 1859, local officials received word [by two of Badillo's young sons] that one Francisco Badillo, who lived in the Carpenteria Valley, and one of his teen-aged sons had been hung the night before. The coroner, mayor and ex-sheriff [Russell Heath * NOTE: In 1858 Joaquin De La Guerra was appointed to fill out Heath's term. In 1859 Albert A. Chateauneuf, a Ventura resident, was elected - but only held that office for half the year. For the latter part of 1859 to 1862 Thomas Dennis was the Sheriff] with a party of around 20 riders set forth to investigate. They discovered the two bodies dangling from an oak tree near the Badillo home. Badillo had an unsavory reputation as a suspected horse thief and cattle rustler. Two of Badillo's younger sons told the party what they had seen the previous night: A party led by John Nidever and his three sons had committed the lynching. Just then, one of the Nidever sons, George, was spotted riding nearby. Part of the party broke away, rode Nidever down, and proceeded to shoot, stab, and beat him almost to death. The testimony of the two Badillo sons led to the arrest of John Nidever, one of his sons, and three accomplices. Charges were then brought against the men accused of assaulting George Nidever. In early September, a grand jury was impaneled to investigate the charges against both groups of men. The grand jury consisted of eight Americans and eight Californios. The result, reported on September 14, was predictable--the jury split right down the middle over the convictions of the two groups, and all parties were released from custody. This, of course, satisfied no one. A few days later, John Nidever had an altercation with Badillo's widow and one of her grown sons. The shouting match was quelled by a constable. Nidever also had a run-in with one of the men accused of wounding his son George. Nidever threatened to shoot him, and the man escaped by jumping off a small cliff. Emotions were now at a fever pitch. On September 25, a large group of Americans confronted one of the town's leading Californios, former state Senator Pablo De la Guerra. The Americans demanded that three of the men acquitted in the attack of George Nidever, along with Mrs. Badillo's son, leave town or face dire consequences. For their safety and head off the possibility of further violence, De la Guerra convinced the four to leave. By this time, local government was in a shambles. The offices of the mayor, district attorney, and sheriff were all vacant. For a time, County Judge Charles Fernald and De la Guerra seemed to be the only voices of law and order. The situation was such that federal troops from Fort Tejon were called in to ensure peace. The appearence of troops headed off further trouble and gradually tensions subsided. In his report, the troop commander, James H. Carleton, criticzed both sides. "Both classes seem to have lost sight of the fact that they are American Citizens in common--having equal rights and bearing equal responsibilities." The crisis had passed, but the antagonisms would linger."
According to a book "Occurrences in Hispanic California", written by Angustias de la Guerra Ord in 1956 [Acadamy of American Franciscan History], page 16: "Those on the island [Santa Cruz], being there some time, lost what they had by fire. We saw the flames from here. A long time passed before succor could be sent to them because the schooner which was used to carry supplies to the islands had not arrived. The convicts made some rafts and came here on them. Some landed at Carpenteria or the Rincon and were taken and confined in the guardhouse. Corporal punishment was ordered inflicted by rods or lashes---2 or 3 were very badly treated. Later the Comandante was obliged to send for the rest. They all came to Santa Barbara and complaint was never made of them. Some were sent to Monterey. Before this convict expedition arrived, there had been another from Mexico to Monterey in which came Francisco Badillo and others whose names I do not mention because they have left respectable descendants or relatives whom I should not disgrace. I cannot give the reason for all this because I was a very young girl at the time and it was the custom in those days among the adult Californians not to say anything in front of the children about wickedness except in a very general way, never referring to particular persons not only to avoid "opening their eyes" but that they might not at any time point out any family which had the disgrace to be related to some individual who had been a criminal." Page 76: "The island to which they were sent was Santa Cruz. Because of this episode, the location to which they were sent is known today as "Prisoners Harbor". Francisco Badillo arrived on the ship MORELOS in 1825 with 16 other criminals. Eight or nine of these had definite sentences, while the others were simply banished to California. Badillo was sentenced to 10 years of Presidio work in chains. When his time had expired he was set to liberty."
Per documents at the Mission Santa Barbara Mission Archive-Library & the Carpenteria Historical Society regarding the hanging incident: "During the time of unrest between the Californiano's and American's, there was a large riot in Santa Barbara and the military had to be brought from Fort Tejon to stop the fighting between the Americanos and the Californianos. There is a document in the Santa Barbara Archives which is the report written by the officer, Brevet Major Carleton from Fort Tejon, California, dated 05 October 1859 to W. W. Mackall, Asst. Adjutant General, U.S. Army San Francisco, California; Bancroft Vol. XXXVI Vol. 1 Grand Jury Report 17 September 1859] in charge at the time and the report also states that John Nidever, at least one (there were three reported) of his sons, Ebenezer Nidever, William Callis [step-brother to Martha Jane Callis, who married John Marion Nidever II], M. Coates and John McKeon were involved in the hanging of a man named Francisco Badillo and one of his sons, Eduardo Antonio, age 16, on 08-23-1859 in Carpenteria. He was over seventy years old, had a ranch in Carpenteria, a Monte House in Santa Barbara as well as other property. He was also in business with his son in law buying and selling property. He was not a poor man. He was accused of stealing a cow." [NOTE: Besides Ebenezer J. Nidever, the other two Nidever sons riding with their father possibly were David Allee and John Marion Nidever II - twc 2009]
Daily Alta California, Volume XI, Number 237, 27 August 1859, p.1,col.4, Lynch Law at Santa Barbara— Two Men Hung and One Man Shot.[edit]
Lynch Law at Santa Barbara— Two Men Hung and One Man Shot.
Some weeks ago a Mexican, named Badillo, was arrested at Santa Barbara, on a charge of cattle stealing; he was tried and acquitted. Many of the citizens were dissatisfied with his acquittal, and on the night of the 23d inst. a number of men proceeded to his house, at La Carpenteria, about 15 miles from Santa Barbara, and took the old man Badillo and his son, a lad of 14 years, and hung them in front of their own home. They were found hanging there on the following day. It is not known positively who committed the deed, but the Sheriff has arrested several men on suspicion of their having been concerned in the affair. Among those arrested are John Nidever and son, old settlers of California, and Charles Callis. It appears that a younger son of the murdered man gave information to some of his friends, that the parties who committed the deed were all Americans, and pointed out young Nidever as having bean concerned in the murder. He was returning from San Buenaventura at the time. A party of the friends of Badillo started in pursuit of young Nidever and overtook and shot him several times, and he died on the following day. He is thought to have been entirely innocent of the hanging affair. His father and brother were subsequently arrested, however (as above stated), and are now in the Santa Barbara Jail, guarded by the sheriff's posse; a posse of citizens are also under arms, guarding the Sheriff's party!
Los Angeles Star, Number 18, 10 September 1859, p.2,col.5, Shootlng of George Nidever:— Arrest of the Parties.[edit]
Shootlng of George Nidever:— Arrest of the Parties.
The Coroner, Dr Ord, was examined on Wednesday by the District Attorney, before Hon. Joaquin Carrillo, District Judge, relative two the shooting of George Nidever at the Carpentaria, on the 24th of last month, by a party of Californians, as he was coming from his rancho, near San Buenaventura. Warrants were issued for the arrest of Wm Carrillo, Francisco Leyba. Eugenio Lugo, Jose Maria Gutierrez and Maunel Zurita. After the testimony of Dr. Ord, the complaint was dismissed against Mr. Carrillo which honorably freed him from any suspicion of being one of the party who shot Mr. Nidever. Mr. Nidever's condition was so critical yesterday, that the attending surgeon thought it not prudent to have his testimony taken; but to-day we learn that he is much better, and after his testimony is taken, the District Attorney will proceed with prosecution and testimony of the rest of the accused.—Santa Barbara Gazette.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 17, Number 2639, 12 September 1859, p.1,col.7, FURTHER FROM THE SOUTH. Lynch Law at Santa Barbara.[edit]
FURTHER FROM THE SOUTH.
...
Lynch Law at Santa Barbara.— The Gazette, of August 1st, narrating the events growing out of the hanging of Francisco Badillo and son by Lynch law, says:
On the arrival of the Coroner a jury was impaneled, and having viewed the bodies, which were suspended from the branches of an oak, proceeded to take the testimony of two boys, both of the deceased— one about 11, the other about 18 years of age; and, on their testimony, it was learned for the first time that Americans were charged with the commission of the crime as up to that moment suspicion fell solely on the native population, some of whom had but a few days previously prosecuted F. Badillo for stealing cattle. It appears that about 1 p. m., as the boy was giving his testimony, he suddenly pointed towards a bridle path and cried out: "There goes one of them." In a second some ten or twelve mounted men rushed to the spot, and shots were quickly fired. When the Sheriff, who was on foot, reached the scene, he found young Geo. Nidever lying on the ground weltering in his blood, and who had only strength left to claim his protection and then fainted. He had five balls in his body, was stabbed once, and had received a blow on the skull from a thing in human shape, who thus wreaked private vengeance under the color of aiding the law. We might add that every wound of young Nidever's was received after his horse was shot from under him and he was lying on the ground. We were informed that the Sheriff had to draw his pistol and threaten with death the excited actors, in order to restrain them from accomplishing their deed of blood; and that the young man, who has been a cripple for years was finally taken under charge by the Coroner Dr. J. L. Ord, who had him conveyed to the house of Dally.
About 4 o'clock of the same day, the party returned here, bringing John Nidever and Ebenezer Nidever prisoners, charged with being engaged in the hanging of the Badillos. The excitement then culminated, and several threats against the Americans were uttered, and many thought there would be an effort to carry them into execution; but the County Judge and the other authorities agreed to postpone the examination until the following day, and this in a measure abated the excitement. Yet it was thought necessary to keep a guard over the prisoners during the night, composed of one-half natives and one-half Americans.
On the same night and following day further arrests were made. They were: Cailis, since discharged, McKeon, Coates, and another young man, who was also discharged. The examination lasted five days, the State being represented by Albert Packard, and Charles E. Huse of counsel for prisoner.
Judge Carillo, on hearing argument on a motion for a writ of habeas corpus, fixed the bail of John Nidever at $20,000. On an examination as to the shooting of George Nidever, who is recovering, warrants were issued for the arrest of William Carillo, Francisco Leyby, Eugenio Lugo Jose Maria Gutierrez and Manuel Zurita. After the testimony of Dr. Ord, the complaint against Carillo was dismissed, which honorably freed him from any suspicion of being one of the party who shot Nidever.
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 18, Number 2647, 21 September 1859, p.5,col.5 The Lynchinq in Santa Barbara.[edit]
The Lynchinq in Santa Barbara._ The sequel of this affair is as follows ; The persons charged with being concerned in the late lyncbiog case at Santa Barbara, to wit: Jonn and Ebnezer Nidever, McKoon and — Coatee, were liberated, the Grand Jury having reported no bill. The Santa Barbara Gazette, of the 15th of September, says that the jury were equally divided, there being eight for "a true bill" and eight against it. The Mayor of the town had resigned his office. Considerable excitement existed on these subjects. The Gazette urges that a "Council of Safety" be formed. The feeling between the Americans and native, Oalifornians continues bitter.
Los Angeles Star, Number 22, 8 October 1859, p.2 col.4 [edit]
A company of United States Dragoons, under command of Major Carlton, arrived here this afternoon from Fort Tejon. They encamped near the Mission.—Santa Barbara Gazette.
Los Angeles Star, Number 25, 29 October 1859, p.2,col.1 [edit]
Movement or Troops.—Companv E, Sixth Infantry, under command of Lt. D. D. Clark, has been ordered to Fort Yuma, from San Bernardino. Capt. Hancock, A.Q.M. supplies the transportation. A train of wagons left here yesterday, for San Bernardino, on this service.
The detachment of the First Dragoons, under command of Major Carlton, have left San Buenaventura and returned to Fort Tejon.


William A. Streeter, Recollections of Historical Events in California, 1843-1878 (Concluded)[edit]
259
In 1859 considerable excitement prevailed here for several weeks, and trouble was expected between the native population and Americans, owing to the hanging of a Mexican and his son by the name of Badillo. This Badillo[90] was a bad character having been sent here in 1825 by the Mexican authorites as a convict. According to his own admission, he had been a highway robber in Mexico, and spoke freely and even boastfully of his crimes. Another son,

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Pedro, who was more familiarly known as Chicuaso by the Californians and Six-toed Pete by the Americans, was obliged to leave the state some time ago owing to his crimes and is now living, I believe, in Lower California. The old mad Badillo owned no stock of any kind and yet he had plenty of fresh meat, and this circumstance, together with the fact that cattle were missed from the bands that grazed near, left little doubt as to the theif. He was even caught in the act. George Nidever[91] met him one day driving one of his cows towards his [Badillo's] house, but let him go, I believe, although he was surely tempted to shoot him. He also stole a cow from Carlos Ruiz, a Californian, and was arrested and proven guilty. A fine of $20 was, I believe, imposed, but Ruiz recieved no pay for his cow. In the month of _____ 18__ I came up from Los Angeles with Father ______. We stopped at Badillo's place. The Father asked him if he did not find it lonesome living there alone and so far away from any neighbors, as he then lived near Carpinteria Creek, and for at least a half mile on either side there was a heavy oak woods and his nearest neighbor was about ____ off. "Oh, no!" he said, "I am perfectly contented here and want for nothing. If I want fish or shell fish , the beach is nearby; if fresh meat, there is cattle all round me; and if I want money," placeing his hand significantly on his pistol, "this will get it for me."
The old man's carreer was brought suddenly to an end, however. He was found one morning hanging to a tree near the roadside about a half mile from his house; and by the side of him his son also hung. A party in disguise came to the house in the night and took them away, and the following morning one of the boys found them and notified the neighbors. It was reported to the authorites in Santa Barbara, and a party went down and held an inquest, Dr. Ord being coroner. A posse under Sheriff Chateauneff accompanied them. Different parties were examined, but not the least trace of the perpetrators of this deed could be found. While the posse was there, and shortly after they had arrived, if I am not mistaken, a young man, a nephew and namesake of old George Nidever, came outof the woods by a path from some ranch beyond, and was on his way to____.
One of the Badillo boys who was with the party cried out, "That is one of them." The posse fired a volley at him and he fell from his saddle almost shot to pieces. While he was leaning against a tree, dying as everyone supposed, a Californian by the name Pancho Leyba would have shot through the breast with his pistol had not the coroner pushed the pistol away, telling him at the same time that he must not shoot a man who had given up. The Nidevers and several Americans among them Coats and McKewen, were arrested on suspicion and kept in jail about eight days. They had no proof against them, and were obliged to let them go. Opinions were rife at the time, and even now, as to the parties who did the hanging and their motives, but I doubt if to this day it is known by any one, excepting the persons who did the deed. The majority of the Califorians attributed it to the Americans,

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and particularly to the Nidever family who had suffered from Badillo's thieving propensites, and who were not men that would be imposed upon.
Accordingly, the natives made threats of retaliation, and would in all probability carried them into execution but for the determined attitude of the Americans. The Nidevers never came to town or, in fact, went away from home without being well armed; and perhaps the majority carried weapons about them and were prepared at all times foer an attack. The Californians knew full well the men they had to deal with and wisely refrained from exasperating them.
Most of the Americans and some few of the natives were inclined to think that Badillo and his son were hanged by their own countrymen. Badillo had been arrested several times, and had said publicly that there were a great many in Santa Barbara no better than he, and that sooner or later he might expose them. There were still many desperadoes in the country, principally Sonorenos, who have always been the disturbing and criminal element in California, that were now keeping quiet through fear of the vigilance committees. Still horses were occasionally stolen and other depredations committed, and it is more probable that all of these bad characters were well known to Badillo.
His theats of exposure would naturally convince them that their own safety demanded that he should be put out of the way. Complaints against Badillo had been repeatedly ignored or insufficiently satisfied by the justice and judges, and Badillo and other disreputable characters were harbored and protected by the De la Guerra's for political or other purposes. For this reason they were indirectly responsible for acts of these men. In 18__ a vigilance committee was formed and Pablo de la Guerra was summoned before one of their meetings and warned against retaining in his employ certain Californians or Mexicans who were known to be bad characters.[156]
The following is from a book "La Carpenteria - A History of the Carpenteria Valley," which was sent to me from the Carpenteria Historical Museum:
"The years of the 1850 decade saw Carpenteria Valley's American population well established, and on the the increase. History gives little detail of the period, it is easy to assume that all was peaceful and that the Spanish and Americans lived amicably together. While the Spanish felt resentment towards the Americans, regarding them as intruders, most of them were busy acquiring and developing their holdings in the valley, the men transacting necessary business and the women busy at home. The barrier of language was the chief obstacle to understanding. However, in 1859 occurred an incident which roused all the old animosity among the Spanish and set off a train of suspicion and accusations that reached into public offices and courts in Santa Barbara and received wide notice in state newspapers.
On August 24 of that year Francisco Badillo and his 16-year old son were found hanging from an oak tree about one-half mile from their cabin which stood at the foot of what is now Oak street. Earlier histories have taken for granted the fact the Badillo was a criminal, some stating that he was one of a company of prisoners exiled by the Mexican government to Santa Cruz Island. They say that fire destroyed their island camp and that Badillo and his two sons floated to the mainland near the mouth of the Carpenteria creek on a raft made of sheepskins stretched between poles. There seems to be no doubt that Badillo had a past. William W. Streeter of early Santa Barbara wrote in an article for the California Historical Society that Badillo had come to to Santa Barbara with a sentence of ten years of Presidio work in chains for crimes committed father south. Records seem to point that Badillo had come as a prisoner directly to the Presidio, perhaps for political mis-doings. One may presume that he was a likeable character with a large amount of persuasiveness, for although his prison term was not strictly enforced -- he was permitted to go at large on occasions and was charged with robbery during those intervals -- he was freed in 1835 when his sentence expired.
Badillo married Rafaela, a daughter of Carlos Garcia, whose father, Francisco, had come from Spain and married Maria Luisa Ortega. Rafaela's mother was Maria de Carmen, a daughter of a well to do family in Santa Barbara. Rafaela received a deed from her mother to the property on the west side of State street, the second lot below Canon Perdido. From the city of Santa Barbara she had bought, for thirty dollars, a tract of land "being situate between the Rancho of Las Ortegas and the Carpenteria, being known as Paraje de Toro" (residence of the bull). A tract of land "east of the Carpenteria stream" was deeded in 1853 to Rafaela Garcia de Badillo for four hundred dollars by Fancisco and Dolores Davis Arias. Land in Carpenteria was also in the name of her husband. In 1853 Fancisco Badillo and Peter Dianblar [ this may have been Pedro Manuel de Abelar, who married his daughter, Tomasa, from his first marriage to Petra Garcia] sold for one hundred dollars sixteen acres fronting the Ventura road to Henry McDonohue whose land adjoined it. In 1852 Francisco deeded "all that lot, messuage or tenement his property with the house and buildings erected thereon, having thirty-five vara frontage on State street.....for and in consideration of the natural love and affection which he, Fancisco Badillo, hath and beareth to his legitimate wife, Rafaela Garcia de Badillo." This may have been where Rafaela was living at the time of the hanging as some accounts speak of a party of Carpenterians going to her home in Santa Barbara. Thus it would seem that Badillo had a certain standing in the community that compensated in a measure for his evil reputation.
Streeter tells of coming from Los Angeles with one of the Mission priests. They stopped at Badillo's cabin and the priest inquired if he did not find it lonely living thus. Badillo replied with a show of bravado that approached insolence that he was contented and wanted for nothing. If he wanted fish the beach was nearly; if he wished fresh meat, there were cattle at hand; if he needed money -- he patted the pistol in his belt. It was a known fact that he killed cattle for his own use; George Nidever found him driving one of his cows away from the herd; Carlos Rodriguez had him arrested for stealing a cow but did not prosecute him.
But Badillo pushed his luck too far, and on the morning of August 24, 1859, his young son [two young sons] arrived at the ranch of ex-sheriff Russell Heath with the news that his father and brother had been dragged from their cabin by a group of men and hung. Russell Heath and the coroner, Dr. Ord, accompanied by a posse went to the spot where the bodies hung, surrounded by a crowd of Spanish and Americans. The Badillo boy accused one of the Nidevers, who was arrested along with men by the names of McKeon, Coates and William Callis. After a trial in Santa Barbara which lasted two days the grand jury brought in a verdict of "no bill" and the men were set free. This caused a new wave of indignation to sweep the Spanish population of the town. The mayor, Antonio de la Guerra, resigned as did the sheriff, leaving only the clerk and treasurer in the county's offices. They appealed for state troops to keep order and twenty-six dragoons from Fort Tejon were stationed in Santa Barbara for more than two months.
Public opinion, especially among the Spanish, still directed suspicion toward the men accused of the hanging and we are told that, for a long time, those men never appeared without being fully armed. They and many other Americans of the period were men who had crossed the plains, had met and dealt with hostile and thieving Indians as they felt they deserved. They regarded Badillo and his stripe as being in the same class and my have taken the law into their own hands. The Californios felt that the process of law had been ignored, and that justice had been outraged by these Americans who had invaded their territory. One cannot help wondering why Francisco Badillo chose to live the life of an outlaw when he seems to have owned enought property at different times to provide for himself and his family. Perhaps he found the life of an ordinary citizen a bore, and preferred the isolation of his cabin on the bank of Carpenteria creek. There was an element among the cooler-headed Americans who thought Badillo might have been murdered because he knew too much of the activities of Sonorans who were operating in and around Santa Barbara, some of them said to be in the employ of the best Santa Barbara families and their crimes ignored by county and city officials who profited through them, politically or personally.
Streeter writes of a vigilance committee formed in Santa Barbara to wait upon one of the city officials to warn him against retaining certain notorious characters in his employ. Altogether it was a period of turmoil in the mannner of best TV westerns, and Carpenteria was the point of contact where the whole fair was set off. Time took the edge off the affair in the memories of the valley's Spanish, although it was many years before they ceased to use the contemptuous term "bluebellies" in speaking of Americans. Later generations, who have heard the story from their parents, agree that probably Francisco Badillo received his deserts, but the mob should not have hung the boy who "if he had stolen cattle had just done what his father told him to do."
According to The Works of HUBERT HOWE BANCROFT (1887) - Vol. XXXVI Popular Tribunals Vol. I, page 482(-485) [Country Committees of Vigilence] : "On Tuesday, the 23rd of August, 1859, at midnight, two men were executed in the woods of Santa Barbara. They were FRANCISCO BADILLO, aged eighty, and his son, fourteen years of age. Their horse-theiving achievements were notorious, but the course pursued by the mob was strongly censured. On the following day the coroner and jury proceeded to the spot where the bodies were hanging and received the testimony of Badillo's sons, eleven and thirteen years old. An excited crowd of native Californians had gathered, and threats of vengeance were muttered against the Americans. George Nidever, a crippled youth riding by, was suddenly pointed out by the younger of Badillo's boys as one of the murderers, when the enraged law-abiders stabbed, shot, and clubbed the poor fellow until he lost conscousness. Several persons were arrested for assaulting Nidever, but were acquitted, as were also George and John Nidever, and others arrested on suspicion of the death of Badillo."

adding more GFS

The following report was made by the grand jury to the court of sessions September 17, 1859:


SANTA BARBARA. 483

"In the case of the people of the state of California versus J. Nidever and others, charged with murder, there were thirty witnesses sought for and obtained in different parts of the county, and all the testimony that could be brought to bear upon the case, either directly or indirectly, was obtained. There were such numbers of contradictions and alibis proven as rendered the testimony in favor of the state entirely worthless; consequently there was ; no bill found. In the cases of F. Sayba, J. Guticruz, Lugo and R. Zuriba, charged with assaulting and shooting George Nidever, there were no bills found. The positive evidence given in respect to two of those cases by Russell Heath and James L. Ord was positively disputed in toto by the evi dence of Jose Dolores Garcia. The undersigned believe the testimony of the first two witnesses to be true; we also believe the testimony of the latter to be false. The persons who a little more than a year since robbed and mur- dered the Basques on their way up the country would not have been punished but for the people of San Luis Obispo, who summarily hanged them by the necks. Cases of horse and cattle - stealing, almost without number, have within the last five years been brought to the notice of our courts; yet in almost every instance unprincipled petit juries could easily be drummed up who would not hesitate in bringing a verdict of not guilty, though the offence had been so clearly proven that it did not admit of a single doubt. Even those who seek office, with now and then an exception, absolutely humiliate and degrade themselves, either by lavish promises to the corrupt, who hold the influence, or by pandering to a set of ruffians. Our elections are a farce, and an insult to common-sense; scores of hombres, of all grades and colors, are brought in front of the polls, whose intelligence and education would not compare with the slaves of the southern states; yet these same hombres re- ceive sealed votes, either from the hands of the influential or their employes, and without opening them or examining their contents put them in the ballot-box. Since the sitting of this grand jury the foreman has had his life threatened by outside vile ruffians. In conclusion, we propose to allude to the state of society as it here exists in connection with the execution of the laws. In a republican government like ours, our system of jurisprudence is established on the broad supposition that at least the majority of the people are notoriously honest, and always ready to maintain the supremacy and majesty of the law, and to assist the courts in its execution. In most com- munities such is the case. We deeply regret to be obliged to assert that in this county it is widely different. We are of the unanimous opinion, so far as this county is concerned, that the courts, in consequence of the notorious bad characters that are frequently summoned and impanelled to serve as petit jurors, are entirely powerless in punishing crime. Thieves and villains of every grade have been from time to time upheld, respected, fostered, and pampered by our influential citizens, and if need be, aided and assisted in escaping from merited punishment due to their crimes. Characters similar to those just named have frequently been seen sitting beside the wealthy and influential in their carriages traversing our streets, or mounted on the richly caparisoned steeds of these same persons. The virtuous and the prostitute, the cattle-thief and the influential, have been too often seen mingling to gether at parties and balls. In fact it is with deep regret that we are com-


484 COUNTRY COMMITTEES OF VIGILANCE.

pelled to publish the fact to the world that the ruling population make little or no distinction as to the character of their associates; if there is any preference it is in favor of the vicious. Offences, thefts, and villainies in defiance of the law, of every grade and character, from the horse and cattle- thief to the highway robber and midnight assassin, have dwelt, to our knowl- edge, for the last five years in our very midst. Whenever those crimes have been perpetrated on the persons of honest, industrious, and good citizens, the tranquillity of the public mind, so far as the ruling population was concerned, would not be disturbed.

Only three years since, an American by the name of Moore had quietly settled in Montecito, had erected his humble cabin, and had industriously engaged in fencing a field and sowing a crop in order to gain an honorable support. He was basely murdered while asleep by having his throat cut from ear to ear, and left to welter in his gore; yet the tranquillity of the ruling population was not in the least disturbed. Neither they nor their officers appeared to take the least interest in ferreting the perpetrators of the crime and bringing them to justice; and had it not been for private American citizens, who had him buried with their own means, so far as the authorities are concerned he would have been left like a wild beast to rot where he was murdered. One of the perpetrators of that crime has since been hanged, not by the actions of our courts, to which he fled for protection for other crimes, but by the sovereign people of San Luis Obispo. Previous to his execution he confessed to that and a number of other heinous crimes. We could go on from page to page and enumerate the evils under which we suffer; suffice it to say, good, independent, industrious, and honest citizens are not wanted here by the ruling powers. Could they accomplish it, they would drive us from the country, unless we would degrade ourselves by pandering to their wishes, obeying their orders, and affiliating with their ruffians.

"Cyrus MARSHALL,"Foreman of Grand Jury.

"R. Forbush, A. M. Cameron, William Brick, G. Abadie, L. Loomis, Juan Hill, John M. Haskell."

This report was published in the San Francisco Herald, as the Santa Barbara papers refused it a place in their columns. Serious disturbances were constantly occurring, and the law seemed powerless to protect the rights of citizens. The Santa Barbara Gazette says: "Law there was plenty, law-craft enough and to spare, but organization none at all, save a shadowing of that worst of all organizations, suggested by the example of righteous Los Angeles and law-abiding San Francisco, a Vigilance Committee. The sheriffalty was vacant. The mayor had resigned, assigning as

SAN LUIS OBCISPO. 485

his motive his incapacity to preserve order. No justice of the peace had qualified. A county judge re mained, fully determined to maintain the law: but not a constable was there to execute a warrant. The treasurer and county clerk alone stood over this universal wreck of unfilled office as fitting emblems of a costly system of anarchy. At this juncture General Clark was called upon to bring a small detachment of troops with him to Santa Barbara, the people urging that the mere appearance of the military would carry sufficient moral suasion without resort to arms. The request was complied with and confidence restored.

According to The Works of HUBERT HOWE BANCROFT (1887) - Vol. XX Chapter "History of California", page 16: "One of the companions of [Vicente] Gomez: "a fiend in human form, thief and assassin, who is said never to have spared nor failed to torture any man, woman, or child of Spanish blood that fell into his hands"] bore the illustrious name of Fernando Cortes, 'de muy mala fama en toda la republica,' but of whose Californian experience nothing is known. Another was Joaquin Solis, 'principal agente de Gomez, de muy mala conducta, voz general ser ladron,' who acquired fame as leader of a revolt in 1829, described in chap. iii. of this volume, as did also in lesser degree in the same affair another companion, Antonio Avila, condemned to death for murders and robberies in Puebla, but pardoned on condition of exile to California. Another of the band was FRANCISCO BADILLO, sentenced to 10 years of presidio work in chains, or to be shot where he might be put to work. In 1835, the time having expired, Badillo was set at liberty, but remained in the country. (Dept St. Pap., Ben. Mil., MS., lxxvi. 20-2) In 1833 he had been charged with a new robbery. (Id., lxxiv.44) He was married in 1830 to his mistress at Santa Barbara. (Carrillo (Jose), Doc. Hist. Cal., MS., 26) He at one time kept a monte bank at Santa Barbara, and Manuel Castro once found him concealed under the table, and stealthily reaching out to steal his own money, merely, as he said, to keep in practice! After a long career as cattle thief, he was finially lynched about 1860, his body with that of his son being found one morning hanging to a tree with the feet very near the ground. A little granddaughter wept bitterly because the cruel Americans allowed her grandpa to die when a little earth under his feet would have saved him! Another son known as Six-toed Pete [Pedro "Pete" Mathias Badillo from his first wife Petra] escaped across the frontier. (Alvarado, Hist. Cal., MS., ii. 251-3; Streeter's Recol., MS., 159-63)"
According to the book "The Decline Of The Californios, A Social History Of The Spanish-Speaking Californians, 1846-1890", by Leonard Pitt, University of CA Press Berkeley & Los Angeles, 1966 pgs 179-180: "Two years later similar bad blood existed in Santa Barbara, as both Californios and gringos again took the law into their own hands. In fact, the Californios never felt more vengeful than on August 24, 1859, when they learned that the lifeless forms of Francisco Badillo, aged sixty, and his son, aged sixteen, were hanging from an oak in Carpenteria, 13 miles down the coast [El Clamor Publico (Los Angeles) Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 22, 1859]. Some forty or fifty of them mounted up and raced to the scene and, upon hearing the old man's two teen-aged boys describe the gruesome hanging, went after the culprits, members of the Nedever family. As a matter of record, the Californios had never wasted much love on Badillo, an unreconstructed Mexican convict who had sold cattle to both armies in 1847, had once faked a theft upon himself, and recently had been suspected of cattle theft. Of Badillo and his son, Juan Alvarado said, "blood will tell!" Nonetheless, the Barbarenos would not lightly tolerate a lynching by Yankees. They caught up with suspect George Nedever [George "Stockton" Washington Nidever, a partial cripple], tore him from his horse, stabbed him, pumped bullets into him, and had all but killed him when the sheriff arrived [there was no official sheriff in Santa Barbara in 1859] and took him to safety. The officer arrested John Nedever [father], close kin of the suspect, put him under a mixed guard of Californians and Yankees, and had the grand jury arraign him as a murder suspect. Judge Joaquin Carrillo set bail at $20,000. Young George, however, who miraculously hung onto life, successfully established his innocence. This led to the arrest of his assailants, Guillermo Carrillo (one of the judges's relatives), Francisco Leyba [Leyva], Eugenio Lugo, Jose Maria Gutierrez, and Manuel Zurita. The grand jury, composed of Californios, Mexicans, Yankees, and a few Frenchmen for good measure, weighed the evidence carefully for five days and then freed all prisoners without indictment. The legal score satisfied both sides, until a new vigilence committee of Irishmen and Americans decreed George Nedever's attackers "dangerous to the well-being of society" and gave them a stipulated time to get out of town. Lugo, Dominguez, Gutierrez, and Felipe Badillo [older son of Francisco Badillo] fled as ordered. Fortunately, these were the final scalps delivered to Judge Lynch in Santa Barbara."
Per an article sent to me from Dorothy Oksner, Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society regarding RANCHO PECHO Y ISLAI [Map #49, San Luis Obispo], owned by Francisco Badillo: "In 1825, there arrived in California, as one of a group of convicts dispatched there from Mexico during the year, on Francisco Vadillo, or Badillo. Apparently, once here, he behaved himself; he married, and in 1843 petitioned for a tract of land formerly used by Mission San Luis Obispo, known as Pecho y Islai, citing eighteen years' residence in California. Badillo submitted diseno with his petition, which was approved in April of 1843. In October following, Justice of the Peace Mariano Bonilla administered the juridical possession and measurment for Badillo, reporting, "they began to measure from the Arroyo del Pecho along the coast northwest in the Arroyo of Islai, both its banks being included, distant one hundred and seventy-five cordeles of one hundred varas each. In said point was fixed, designating the boundary in that direction, thence measuring easterly up the Arroyo of Islai to the end of the Canada of the same name at the Sierra twenty cordeles and said place was marked; thence along the ridge of the Sierra, southeast one hundred and eighty-three cordeles to the source of the Arroyo del Pecho, marking this point with a cross as boundary with Don Miguel Avila; thence measuring westerly down the Canada and Arroyo of the Pecho, twenty-nine cordeles, to the point of beginning....." Three months later, Badillo sold the rancho to a partnership of James Scott and John Wilson, who also purchased the adjoining Rancho Canada de los Osos, and in 1845, the combined property was re-granted to Scott and Wilson, to whom it was subsequently confirmed. The surveyed Rancho Pecho y Islai extended down the coast from Point Buchon nearly to Point San Luis. The Montana de Oro State Park now occupies approximately the northern one-fifth of the tract. The "Expanation" [map of Rancho Pecho y Islai] may be translated as follows: A. Canada and Arroyo of Pecho, boundary with the land of Don Miguel Avila. [Pecho Creek]; B. Canada of the Thieves; C. Pasture and Arroyo of the same; D. Islai Creek and spring; E. Beach; F. Summit of the mountains, boundary with the land of Don Victor Linares."
The following information from Alex Grzywacki, volunteer for the Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society & Vice Commander (Graves Registration Officer) Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, William T. Sherman Camp #28 Santa Barbara County, California and Project Researcher for the lost graves of the men who served during the Civil War with the 1st Battalion Native California Calvary, Company C: "The small cabin which Francisco lived in was located north of Carpenteria Avenue, off Lindan Avenue, in Carpenteria. The cabin was razed when Hwy 101 was paved. The hanging tree was kicked by school children for many years as they walked to school. Per Burial Register #1517 Santa Barbara Mission Archive-Library Padre Jaime Vila gave a "church" burial to Francisco & Eduardo Badillo (unknown which church or cemetery). It would appear possibly they were buried in the nearest Catholic cemetery, which would have been Montecito: "The year 1859 day 26 August, I gave church burial to the dead bodies of Francisco Badillo, originally from Mexico, married, about 75 years old, and Eduardo Badillo, son of Francisco Badillo and Rafaela Garcia. Both father and son were hanged in Carpenteria the 23rd day of the same month. Signed, Fr. Jaime Vila" [Note: this priest was not a Franciscan but a diocesan priest who would have traveled to Carpenteria to give the burial rites]
Father: Ramon Badillo b: ABT 1769 in San Juan de Teotiguacan, Nueva Espana
Mother: Maria Gregoria Ruiz b: ABT 1771 in San Juan de Teotiguacan, Nueva Espana
Marriage 1 Maria Petranila Garcia b: 04-29-1815 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Married: 06-11-1830 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Children:
Has Children Pedro "Pete" Matias Sr. Badillo b: 06-24-1827 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Has Children Maria Tomasa Jacoba Micaela Badillo b: 12-29-1830 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Marriage 2 Maria Rafaela Garcia b: 10-1814 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Married: 09-05-1835 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Children
Has Children Jose Felipe Badillo b: 09-10-1835 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Pvt. Jose Felipe Badillo 1835-1874
Has Children Maria Dominga de Jesus Badillo b: 12-1836 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: 01-10-1911 in San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA
Has No Children Francisco Felipe Jr. Badillo b: 10-25-1837 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: AFT 1852 in Montecito, Santa Barbara Co., CA?
Has No Children Maria Rafaela Badillo b: ABT 1838 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA?; Death: AFT 1870[157]
Has Children Maria Genoveva de Jesus Badillo b: 01-03-1839 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: 05-24-1925 in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles Co., CA
Maria Genoveva de Jesus "Geneva" Badillo Thomas
Has No Children Maria Celsa Badillo b: 04-07-1840 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA, d: AFT 1860
Has No Children Maria Carolina Encarnación Badillo b: 03-26-1842 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA, d: 10-13-1845 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Has No Children Eduardo Antonio Badillo b: 06-16-1843 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: 08-24-1859 in Carpenteria, Santa Barbara Co., CA lynched with his father
Has No Children Jose Maria Martín Badillo b: 10-08-1844 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: AFT 1860
Has No Children Felipe de Jesus Badillo b: 02-04-1846 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: 12-04-1899 in Santa Barbara,
Has No Children Luis Gonzaga Badillo b: 06-21-1847 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: 08-12-1848 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA
Has No Children Luis Gorgonia Badillo b: 08-12-1848 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA d: AFT 1850
Has No Children Maria Tomasa Carolina Badillo b: 12-21-1849 in Mission Santa Barbara, Alta CA; d: AFT 1881
Has No Children Victor Juan Badillo b: 1851 in Mission Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Co., CA; d: BFR 1860 in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Co., CA
Has No Children Maria Virginia Badillo b: 08-04-1855 in Mission Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Co., CA; d: BFR 1860 in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Co., CA
Has No Children Isaaco Badillo b: ABT 1856 in Mission Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Co., CA; d: AFT 1860
Sons of Badillo in the Civil War[edit]
  • Felipe Jesus Badillo, 1846-1899
    • Born 4 Feb 1846, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
    • Death 4 Dec 1899 (aged 53), Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
    • Burial Calvary Cemetery, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
    • Felipe de Jesús Badillo y García was born at Santa Bárbara, Alta California, México, and baptized at the Presidio Chapel February 5, 1846 (BP Baptisms 01716, ECPP). He was the son of Francisco Felipe Badillo y Ruíz (1789-1859) and his second wife María Rafaela García y Ayala (1814-1902). His father first married María Petra García y Ayala (April 25, 1815 - December 28, 1831) at the Presidio Chapel June 11, 1830 (BP Marriages 00160, ECPP). After she died he married her older sister at the Presidio Chapel September 5, 1835 (BP Marriages 00205, ECPP). Felipe de Jesús became a citizen with the transfer of sovereignty in 1848. He enlisted as a private alongside his older brother, José Felipe (1835-1874), at Santa Bárbara July 25, 1864. He was mustered into Company C, 1st Battalion, Native California Cavalry. Private Badillo was posted to Fort Mason, Arizona Territory, from September 1865 to January 1866. He returned to California and was mustered out with his company at the Presidio of San Francisco April 2, 1866. In 1870 he appears in the census as a laborer living in the Santa Bárabara household of Wiliam Runk, blacksmith. Felipe was living in Santa Ynez when he filed for a Civil War veteran's pension November 28, 1894, and received application No. 1,162,092. He was still single when he died. Initially, he was buried in Cieneguitas Cemetery December 5, 1899, but in 1938 his body was transferred to Calvary Cemetery.
  • Pvt. Jose Felipe Badillo
    • Birth 10 Sep 1835 Mission, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
    • Death 22 Jul 1874 (aged 38) Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
    • Burial Cieneguitas Catholic Cemetery La Patera, Santa Barbara County, California, USA
    • Plot Unknown Memorial ID 55304419 ·
Per Huntington.org Baptism Records, http://missions.huntington.org/BaptismalData.aspx?ID=1177:

Jose Felipe Badillo was baptized Mission Santa Barbara Presidio 10 September 1835 #01118. Father stated as Francisco Badillo, origin Mejico and mother is stated as Rafaela Garcia. Godparents are Quirina Cordero and Tomas Garcia. Officiant and Recorder is Antonio Jimeno.

Per 1850 U.S. Federal census Jose Felipe Badillo is living in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, born abt 1837 California Son
Per 1860 U.S. Federal census Felipe Badillo is living in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California, born abt 1836 California Son
Per Army records regarding the widow's pension, Maria Antonia Cota married Felipe Badillo 18 July 1864 in Santa Barbara, California by Rev. James Vila, witnesses were Antonio de la Guerra y Noriega and Altagracia Roco.
Civil War Service Records Record:
Name: Felipe Badillo
Company: C
Unit: 1 Batt'n California Native Cav.
Rank - Induction: Private
Rank - Discharge: Private
Allegiance: Union
American Civil War Soldiers Record:
Name: Felipe Badillo ,
Enlistment Date: 25 July 1864
Distinguished Service: DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
Side Served: Union
State Served: California
Unit Numbers: 24 24
Service Record: Enlisted as a Private on 25 July 1864
Enlisted in Company C, 1st Battn Native Cavalry Regiment California on 25 July 1864.
Mustered out Company C, 1st Battn Native Cavalry Regiment California on 02 April 1866 in :Presidio, San Francisco, CA
[NOTE: Jose Felipe and his brother, Felipe de Jesus Badillo, enlisted on the same date and were discharged on the same date]
Per 1870 U.S. Federal census Felipe Badillo is living in Township 2, Santa Barbara, CA, born abt 1834 California Head Married Day Laborer, spouse name Maria A.
U.S. Veterans Gravesites, ca.1775-2006:
Name: Felipe Badillo
Service Info.: Pvt US Army Civil War
Cemetery: LA Patera Cemetery [Cieneguitas Cemetery]
Cemetery Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93103
"Per the Santa Barbara Mission Archive Library [Death BK #2, Page 8, #B-068] regarding the Cieneguitas Cemetery of identities and burials of known veterans of the Mexican and Civil War who lived or died in Santa Barbara: Felipe Badillo was buried 23 July 1874, age 39 years. There is a military marker [memory stone] at Cieneguitas Cemetery."
Civil War Pension Index: General Index to Pension Files, 1861-1934:
Name: Felipe Badillo
State Filed: California
Date Filed: 11 May 1892
Widow: Meria A. C. DeBadillo [Maria (Tomasa) Antonia Cota de Badillo]
Note: This is found in the State of California, Santa Barbara, County of Santa Barbara paperwork regarding the Pension of Felipe Badillo to Maria A. Cota Badillo Solomon:

"The undersigned Pastor of the Catholic Church of Santa Barbara certifies that on the Second Book of Burials of the parish of Santa Barbara on page # 8 and with with number 68 is found the following record: On 23 of July A.D. 1874 I gave Ecclesiastical burial to the remains of Felipe Badillo, aged 36 years, married with Maria Antonia Cota, who died on the previous day and been administered the Sacraments. The above is a correct translation of the original in testimony and witnesses thereof. I have hereonto set my hand this the 3rd day of May A.D. 1892. Rev. James Vila"

[NOTE: Jose Felipe Badillo enlisted with his younger brother in Santa Barbara on 25 July 1864. http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=68026582]
For information on COMPANY C, 1 NATIVE CALIFORNIA CAV, see: http://www.militarymuseum.org/1stNatCavCV.html
Michael Redmon, What Is the History of the Badillo Affair? Tensions Erupt Between Californios and the New American Arrivals, Santa Barbara Independent, Sunday, October 4, 2009[edit]
John Marion Nidever[edit]

Rancho San Juan Capistrano del Camote[edit]

304, 260, S. D., 577. Tomas Herrera and Geronimo Quintana, claimants for San Juan Capistrano del Camote, 10 sitios of 4,428 acres each, in San Luis Obispo county, granted July 11th, 1846, by Pio Pico to T. Herrera and G. Quintana; claim filed August 14th, 1852, rejected by the Commission December 26th, 1854, and dismissed for failure of prosecution August 8th, 1860. [158]: Appx, 42  13.7 miles SE of Shandon, California
  • San Juan Capistrano y el Camate. Two men, Trineo Herrera and Geronimo Quintana, were the grantees. In 1847, they built two houses near the center of the tract; they also planted wheat, barley and some fruit trees. At one time, they had 400 head of cattle on the place. Their title was later declared invalid, because it was dated July 11, 1846- four days after the conquest of Monterey by the American Forces. [159]


U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: San Juan Ranch, 35°30′46.07″N 120°12′17.53″W / 35.5127972°N 120.2048694°W / 35.5127972; -120.2048694
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: San Juan Creek, 45 mile long tributary of the Estrella River.
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: San Juan Valley,
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Estrella River, Heads northeast of Shandon, at the confluence of Cholame Creek and San Juan Creek, flows west-northwest to the Salinas River southeast of San Miguel and 12.8 km (8 mi) north of Paso Robles.
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Camatta Canyon a Valley that Heads in the La Panza Range, trending north-northwest to San Juan Valley 7.2 km (4.5 mi) southeast of Shandon.
The mouth of the Camatta Canyon is at 35°35′55.7″N 120°20′12.4″W / 35.598806°N 120.336778°W / 35.598806; -120.336778 Elevation: 1125/343; source 35°27′56″N 120°17′58″W / 35.46556°N 120.29944°W / 35.46556; -120.29944 Elevation: ?/?
The Canatta is a canyon with a creek running into the San Juan so-called river about 6 miles from the Rancho. There was/is a trail coming down the Canatta from the San Luis Obispo area. The mouth of the Canatta is at 35°35'55.7"N 120°20'12.4"W or thereabouts. [160]
Camatta Canyon or Camatta Creek is called "the Camate" by Walter Murray in his account of the murder of John Gilkey by two men of Pio Lenares' gang, in Myron Angel's History of San Luis Obispo County. The place of his ranch, 6 miles from the San Juan Ranch, is now within the bounds of the Camatta Ranch. John Gilkey's ranch on the Camate (Camatta Creek) was somewhere between the Camatta Ranch Airstrip and a point 1.5 of miles above it and about 2 miles north of the Camatta Ranch, the only section of the canyon or creek within 6 miles of the San Juan Ranch. It is also on the route southwest toward San Luis Obispo from where the gang came from and passed by going back. Gilkey had hosted the gang, posing as musteneros, the night before they attacked the San Juan Rancho, and he was killed afterward to silence him.
Camatta Ranch[edit]
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Camatta Ranch, Elevation: 1568/478, 35°25′52″N 120°17′15″W / 35.43111°N 120.28750°W / 35.43111; -120.28750
Camatta Ranch from farmstayus.com
[10]from lazyarrowadventures.com
Lazy Arrow Outdoor Adventures is run on the 32,000 acre, cattle and exotic animal, Camatta Ranch in San Luis Obispo County. Ranging from Chaparral, Oak and Grey Pine tree studded hills, to picturesque open fields of grass and wildflowers, the ranch offers folks an abundance of opportunities to enjoy all that the land has to offer. The management of the 250 exotic animals and their habitat has been an integral part of the ranch's operation. The Camatta Ranch dates back to Mexican land grant days and was put together in 1846. The current owners purchased the ranch in 1978. Sharing the outdoors and the ranching way of life is a number one priority for the ranch. Step back in time, to where the buffalo still roam and let Lazy Arrow create a memory making adventure for you!
Legumes show success on Central Coast rangeland


Camatta Ranch Airstrip[edit]
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Camatta Ranch Airstrip, Elevation: 1358/414, 35°28′26″N 120°18′21″W / 35.47389°N 120.30583°W / 35.47389; -120.30583
74CN Camatta Ranch Airstrip, Paso Robles, California, USA
MURDER OF JOHN GILKEY BY THE GANG.
I will now relate a trifling episode in the San Juan Capistrano tragedy. At the Camate, six miles from that place, lived Jack Gilkey, a hunter, well known in Tuolumne and San Joaquin Counties, and a man as far as known here, without a vice. His only fault was, being a gringo, or huero, that is, having a light skin. When this band of murderers left the scene of their guilt they went to his place. He was hoeing in his field. The Huero, Rafael, rode up near him, and unseen by him let his pistol drop; then, dismounting, pretended to find it, and made the remark: "What a fine pistol I have found!" Jack went up to him to see, and the villain then fired at him. He missed, but another of the gang, Desiderio Grijalva, came behind and put a ball through his head which killed him instantly. It is supposed that he was killed because he knew them, as they had shared his hospitality the day previous. They knew the murder would be discovered; that parties would go in pursuit; that Jack would, like an honest man as he was, tell whom he had seen, and that they would be detected. Hence his untimely end.[161]: 296 
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Camatta Creek was a stream that Heads in the La Panza Range, trending north-northwest to the valley of San Juan Creek 7.2 km (4.5 mi) southeast of Shandon. mouth Elevation: 1125/343, 35°35′55″N 120°20′24″W / 35.59861°N 120.34000°W / 35.59861; -120.34000, source Elevation: ?/? ,35°27′56″N 120°17′58″W / 35.46556°N 120.29944°W / 35.46556; -120.29944
San Juan Ranch under the current ownership of John and Brenda Stephenson specializes in the production of purebred, registered Gelbvieh beef cattle and world-class performance quarter horses. San Juan Ranch consists of over 44,000 acres of rolling grassland found in California's Coastal Mountain Range and is situated midway between the Pacific Ocean and the fertile San Joaquin Valley in eastern San Luis Obispo county.
San Juan Ranch has a long history of livestock production dating back to the era of Mexican land grants. The earliest accounts of San Juan Ranch extend back to 1843 when Antonio Herrera made his way west from Taos, New Mexico, and settled the ranch. The bountiful grassland, seasonal creeks (including San Juan Creek), and abundant springs, created prime grazing conditions for Herrera to raise several thousand sheep. Following California's admission into the Union in 1850, Herrera was unable to perfect his land patent and lost control of the property. The property transferred into public ownership and, once surveyed, it was sold to private investors ranging in price from 25 cents to $1.25 an acre. In 1874 a Canadian by the name of Robert Flint purchased the headquarters of San Juan Ranch, as well as acreage extending up San Juan Creek, and moved onto the ranch. Flint grazed cattle throughout its rolling hills and cultivated crops on the bottomland property. Over time, Flint acquired additional property, expanding his holdings to 58,175 acres. Upon his death in 1892, Flint's two sons inherited the property and continued its tradition of livestock production until 1898 when they sold the property to a German immigrant, Henry Wreden.
Wreden, Sr. died in 1931 and his two sons continued operating the entire ranch. In 1941 just before the death of the eldest son, Henry II, San Juan Ranch was divided equally amongst the six remaining Wreden heirs into parcels ranging from 9,000 to 15,000 acres. Eventually, one-by-one, the six tracts of land that made up the original San Juan Ranch were sold and drifted into different ownership.
In 1998, John and Brenda Stephenson purchased an 8,300 parcel of land that included the original San Juan Ranch headquarters, the original adobe homestead on San Juan Ranch, as well as a sweet spring used by Herrera to water his sheep in the mid 1800's. With their acquisition of this land, the Stephenson's retained rights to the name San Juan Ranch and its associated brand. Over the past seven years, with determined persistence, the Stephenson's have reassembled a substantial amount of the original San Juan Ranch. Through several more acquisitions, the Stephenson's have expanded their holdings by an additional 25,000 acres, bringing the present-day San Juan Ranch to over 44,000 acres. It is estimated that the Stephenson's have acquired three of the six tracts of land divided amongst the Wreden heirs in 1941. It is the Stephenson's desire to reassemble San Juan Ranch in its entirety and preserve the property's rich and historic livestock production.
Southern District Court Number 260
Commission Case Number (Hoffman): 304
Land grant: San Juan Capistrano del Camote (San Luis Obispo Co.)
Claimant: Tomas Herrera, et al.
Geronimo Quintana[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/José María Quintana

José María Quintana and Tomás Herrera led a detachment of 30 New Mexicans and other Mexicans in the small army of Manuel Castro

Bankroft, [162]p. 363 n.? "... Alvarado, Hist. Cal., MS., v. 256-8, says the army was organized in three divisions or companies of over 30 men each: 1st, veterans under Gabriel de la Torre; 2d, militia under Jesus Pico; 3d, Mexicans and New Mexicans under Herrera and Quintana."


Ranchos granted S. Juan Capistrano del Camote, 10 1., 1846, T. Herrera and G. Quintana. Bankroft,[162] p. 637 n.?

Oct. 23d, Gen. Flores appoints Manuel Castro comandante of brigade for operations in the north, with Francisco Rico as second in command. Castro, Doc., MS., ii. 147. [162], p.321 n.?

Americans at Natividad: Co. G, Bluford K. Thompson, capt.; D. A. Davis, 1st lieut; James Poock, 2d lieut. Charles Burroughs, capt. [162] pp.357-


Castro led that force northward to harass the force of Freemont by guerilla war, cutting off supplies and reinforcements, to delay and oppose when an opportunity offered, the advance of Freemont southward from Monterey. They were engaged in the November 16, 1846 Battle of Natividad. [162], pp.357-372 637 n.?


On Sunday, the 15th of November, Captain Charles Burroughs, a newly arrived immigrant who had taken an active part in recruiting, arrived at San Juan Bau- tista from the Sacramento with about 34 men and a drove of several hundred horses. The same day there arrived Captain Thompson with about the same num- ber of men from San Jose, and all camped for the night at San Juan. Knowledge of their presence, and especially that of the horses, was promptly for- warded to Castro's camp on the Salinas. It was also on the 15th that Thomas 0. Larkin set out with one attendant, William Matthews, from Monterey for Yerba Buena. He had previously sent his family there for safety, and had just received from his wife a letter makins^ known the illness of his child, ton^ether with a message from Captain Montgomery, who de- sired an interview. Larkin had no suspicion of dan- ger, and stopped for the night at Los Verjeles, the rancho of Joaquin Gomez, sending Matthews on to San Juan, and intending to follow him next morning.

But news of his trip reached Castro's camp,^*^ and Chavez conceived the project of capturing the consul. The other officers, while admitting the advantage of such a capture, seem to have opposed the act as likely to make known their presence prematurely and pre- vent the success of their main purpose; but Chavez either overcame their fears, or, as some say, undertook the enterprise without their consent; and at any rate, he appeared about midnight at Gomez's rancho with a dozen men. Larkin was roused from sleep, obliged to dress in haste, and carried on horseback as a pris- oner to the Salinas camp; but he was treated with the greatest kindness by all the Californian officers from the beginning to the end of his captivity. The plan was to utilize the possession of so important a man in later negotiations for a truce, exchange of prisoners, surrender, or escape from consequences of broken paroles, as circumstances might require. They also tried at first to induce the prisoner to aid their attempt on San Juan by writing letters to put the garrison on a false scent; but Larkin refused to write; and they in turn refused his proposition to be ex- changed for Pablo de la Guerra and others under arrest at Monterey. On the 16th the whole force started northward in four divisions, Larkin being taken along closely guarded. The plan, as he under- stood it, was for a small party to attack San Juan in the night, and by a retreat to draw out the garrison in pursuit, to be cut off by the main body.^^

As had been feared, Larkin 's capture resulted in making Castro's presence known to the Americans. So far as can be determined from the complicated and contradictory testimony. Captain Thompson started from San Juan early on the 16th for Monterey, to consult with Fremont, accompanied by a small guard and leaving the rest of his men in camp. He seems to have taken a short cut; while Captain Burroughs with all his men and horses, set out a little later by the main road. At Gomez's rancho Thompson not only learned what had happened there in the night, but saw and pursued ineffectually two scouts who had been sent by Castro to make observations. Fail- ing to capture these, Thompson sent a warning to Burroughs and hastened back to San Juan to bring up his men. Meanwhile Burroughs reached the rancho, learned what had occurred, and sent out a party of six or eight scouts southward into the plain to learn the enemy's whereabouts and numbers. ^^

The Californians advanced northward, Joaquin de la Torre with a dozen horsemen as scouts in advance. Then came the vanguard under Castro, followed by Chavez's company, with Larkin in charge, while Rico commanded the rear guard, including a party in

charge of horses and munitions under Sergeant Ld- zaro Soto. It was perhaps 3 o'clock p. m., or even later, when the advance arrived at the Natividad rancho and met the American scouts. These were the men, six to ten in number, who had been sent out by Burroughs before Thompson's arrival. They included George Foster, often called captain, John (or James) Hayes, the two Delaware Indians, Tom Hill, and James Salmon, and several Walla Wallas. I think they had been in the vicinity several hours. On seeing the foe, two or three of the Indians fled to the rancho to give the alarm, while the rest posted themselves in the encinalito, or little grove of oaks, close at hand, where they were presently attacked by Torre, and completely surrounded as soon as Castro and Chavez came- up. The fight at the grove lasted an hour, according to the estimate of Larkin, who was a spectator. The consul was desired to go to the Americans and induce them to surrender; but refused to do so unless he could offer a safe retreat to San Juan or Monterey, to which Castro would not consent. The riflemen behind trees had an advan- tage notwithstanding the disparity of numbers against the horsemen with their few ineffective muskets. Lieutenant Chavez and Alferez Juan Ignacio Cantua were badly wounded,^^ and probably two or three Californians were killed, to be scalped by the Indian warriors. But Foster, riddled with musket-balls, at last fell dead at the foot of the tree that had pro- tected him; and Hayes was disabled by serious wounds in the thighs. Then the main body of the Americans appeared in sight; 25 or 30 men were left

68 NATIVIDAD AND SANTA CLARA.

to besiege the few remaining scouts; Rico's rear guard was moved up; and the Californian army, about 65 strong, was drawn up on the plain to the right or east of the grove, to meet the enemy.^^

When Thompson arrived with reenforcements from San Juan, after the scouts had been sent out but be- fore the encinahto fight began,^^ there arose a discus- sion as to what should be done. Thompson and many of the men in both companies favored an advance to attack the Californians; but Burroughs with much reason hesitated to incur the needless risk of engag- inof in a conflict which misfht result in a loss of his horses and the failure of all Fremont's plans. The controversy became heated as time passed on, and taunts of cowardice were flung at the captain by the irresponsible volunteers, Thompson, a reckless fire- eater, becoming extremely violent in his remarks.^® If any further incentive was needed, it came presently in reports from the Walla Walla scouts of what was going on at Natividad.^' ' Detaching fourteen men to guard the horses in Gomez's corrals, and committing 369

to their care a field-piece found at the last moment to be unserviceable for the fight, Burroughs gave the order to advance, and the little army of about fifty men began their march, perhaps half an hour or more after the encinalito fight had begun.

The Californians were superior in numbers and were skilful horsemen; but their weapons were a miscella- neous collection of improvised lances, reatas, ineffective escopetas, and pistols, with powder for only a few dis- charges of the fire-arms. The Americans were, most of them, but indifferent riders; but they were well armed with rifles and had plenty of ammunition. Coming in sight of the enemy, Burroughs' men advanced rap- idly over the plain. Castro's men fired their muskets at long range, doing no harm. The Americans, halt- ing, discharged their rifles, and at once charged upon the foe at full speed, with wild shouts, in a manner more creditable to their valor than to their discipline, each man for himself, with Captain Burroughs in ad- vance on his gray charger ^Sacramento.' The charge was a blunder like that committed at San Pascual a little later, and with similar results. ^ The Californians feigned flight, in accordance with their usual tactics ;^^ but presently turned to attack their pursuers, as they came at full speed over the plain in disorder and armed with empty rifles. At the same time apparently the 20 or 30 men at the grove rushed up to attack the Amer- icans on the rear or flank.-^^ Some writers describe what followed as a desperate hand-to-hand fight, last- ing from ten to twenty minutes; but this is shown by the results to be an exasfoferation. In such a conflict a large number of Americans must have fallen. But

^^ Indeed, 30 or 40 of them ran away in good earnest, according to Larkin, who was still a spectator. These were probably men who were serving against their will. During the fight, Lorenzo Soto, in his wrath at seeing a relative fall, rushed upon Larkin to kill (or scare?) him, but L. saved himself by backing his horse behind others ! L. was, however, compelled to change ani- mals successively until he was reduced to a *$1 horse and $2 saddle.'

^' Henry Marshall, Statement, MS., 2-3, was wounded by a lance in this f)art of the fight, which he describes more fully than any other, being fol- uwed by Lancey. 'E. C. K.' also mentions this movement, stating that 2 Americans were killed and one wounded. [162] pp.363-369

370 NATIVIDAD AKD SANTA CLARA.

I suppose that only the foremost pursuers, and a few of Castro's men, came actually to close quarters for a very brief period. The brave Burroughs, however, leading the charge, fell dead, pierced by a pistol- bullet;^^ two or three others were killed; and several were wounded. Very soon, however, the Americans fell back into a more compact body; some of those in the rear, who had either reserved their fire at first or had time to reload, fired upon the advancing foe, killing and wounding several; and Castro's men again fled.^^ The Californians remained in sight until night- fall, and may have indulged in some charges and evo- lutions at a safe distance; but there was no more fighting, and at last the enemy disappeared in the distance. Larkin describes the fight as having lasted some twenty or thirty minutes, and says the Califor- nians disappeared in successive detachments. The Californians say that the Americans finally dis- mounted and took refuge among the trees, which is not unlikely; and that they retreated because they had no possible chance of success against the rifles, especially as they had no more powder. Captain Thompson withdrew his force to Gomez's rancho to bury his dead, care for the wounded, and make prep- arations for defence, since a renewal of the attack

^•' 'E. C. K.' says: 'He fell headlong from his horse, his unloaded rifle in hand, shot down by a swarthy New Mexican, in the act of turning upon him.' 'K.' says the dashing 'hidalgo rode up abreast, and flourishing a flag in one hand, with the other sent his bullet through our leader's body.' Chris- tian Chauncey, an eye-witness, tells us that Burroughs was shot by 'Three- fingered Jack,' who wished to get his horse and saddle, though the horse es- caped. S. F. AUa, Aug. 8, 1853. Lancey identifies the 'swarthy New Mexi- can' with 'Three-fingered Jack, 'as Bernardino Garcia, the murderer of Cowie and Fowler at Sta Rosa in July. According to Sta Cruz Times, Torre waa the man who killed Burroughs ; Alvarado says it was Juan de Mata Boronda; and Swasey, who gives one of the best accounts of the battle, is positive that it was Manuel Castro himself. Clearly it is not known who fired the shot. Swasey notes that B. had in his pocket a packet of letters for men at Mon- terey, the corner of each being cut off and blood-marked by the ball.

^^ It is said that Burrouglis had at first ordered every alternate man to fire; but in the excitement little attention was paid to the order. Thompson, however, induced some of his men to reserve their fire, and was thus able at last to repulse the enemy. Wm M. Boggs, in Napa Beijister, May 4, 1872, following Gregson — see also Gregsoii's Statement, MS., 4-5 — says that the arrival of Weber with reenforcements put an end to the fight ; but this ia only a confused reference to Thompson's arrival at an earlier hour.

KILLED AND WOUNDED. 371

was feared. Tom Hill, with perhaps another Indian named Mcintosh, was sent to Monterey with a mes- sage for Fremont, and is said to have had a fight on the way, in which he was wounded. ^^

The Americans lost at Natividad four or five men killed, including Burroughs, Foster, Ames, and Thome ;^^ and five or six wounded, including Hayes, Hill, Marshall, William McGlone, and James Cash. At least, these are the losses reported ; but it is possi- ble that they were more numerous, though the Cali- fornians doubtless exaggerate in their narratives.^* Foster was buried at the foot of the tree where he fell ; the others were interred at Gomez's rancho, and a salute fired over their graves. The Californian loss was perhaps about the same as that of the Ameri- cans, though really little is known about it beyond the wounding of Chavez and Cantua at the grove. That so few were killed on the American side is accounted for by the short duration of the fight at close quarters; but that the rifles did so little execution, especially at

22 The Delaware's arrival is noted (incorrectly ^as on the morning of the 16th) in Coltoii's Three Yearn, 96-7; also his fight on the way, in wliich he met 3 Californians, killing one with his rifle, another with his tomahawk, while the third fled. Swasey implies that Hill's wound was received in the fight before he started for Monterey, from the fragments of a bullet. Lancey has it that he got a lance through the hand from the Indian he tomahawked on the way. 'E. C. K.' says Charles Mcintosh and an Indian were sent to Monterey. See also Californian, Nov. 21, 1846, for adventures of the Walla Walla messengers.

^^ ' Billy the Cooper ' is mentioned by several authorities as having been killed. His real name was not known; but he was possibly the man called Thome by ' E. C. K.' and others.

24 « Pioneer ' (John A. Swan), in reminiscences called out by * K.'s ' article, Savage, Doc, MS., iii. 20 et seq., was personally acquainted with the killed and wounded, and many others who took part in the fight, and he thinks the loss was heavier than reported. 4 killed and 5 wounded is ' E. C. K.'s 'state- ment. Larkin says 4 killed and 2 or 3 wounded, perhaps not including the grove fight; and again he says there were 10 or 12 killed and wounded on each side. Gomez states that 4 dead and 9 wounded were brought to the rancho, 6 more dead found and buried at the grove, and 3 bodies found later by the people of Natividad. Jos6 Ant. Alviso, Campanade Natividad, MS., son of the owner of the rancho, who claims to have first informed Castro of the presence of the Americans at S. Juan, says 4 Amer. were killed and 4 wounded. Rico says that in the main fight he saw 8 or 9 Amer. killed, and heard of more, besides those killed at the grove. In a report of the time, Castro claimed to have killed 21 of the enemy. Fernandez, Doc., MS., 53. Pico says the Amer. lost 2 officers and several soldiers killed. Flores in Dec. reported that 11 Amer. had been killed

372 NATIVIDAD AND SANTA CLARA.

the grove, where the enemy came near enough to rid- dle Poster's body with musket-balls, is remarkable;, and, indeed, it is not unlikely that the loss may have been greater than represented. From a dozen to twenty was the estimate of the Americans, who of course had no means of knowing the truth.^^ The dead were probably buried at Alisal rancho. Lieu- tenant Chavez was cared for secretly at some of the ranchos, and finally came to Monterey in January, where for a long time he eluded the vigilance of offi- cials, largely by the aid of prominent ladies.^^ The Californians after leaving Natividad dispersed for the most part as they advanced southward. Rico with a small party hastened with Larkin to the capital, where Castro also made his appearance later with 25 or 30 of his army. Though the Americans were the attacking party, and were content to remain on the defensive after the fight, yet the result was practically a victory for them, since the Californians were forced to abandon their projects of seizing the horses and harassing the battalion by a guerrilla warfare.^^

Frdmont and his men left Monterey November 1 7th as soon as the news arrived from Los Verjeles. He

2^ Alviso says the Cal. lost 4 wounded. Rico says he lost 4 killed and 4 wounded, besides several killed before at the grove. Loss about same as the Amer. according to Alvarado. Vallejo gives the loss as 3 killed and 4 wounded; including Vicente Soto and Bautista Garcia. 3 killed and 5 wounded according to Castro's report. Mrs Ord says 2 killed. Inocente Gar- cia, Hecho-^, MS., 97-8, says his son Bautista was wounded; also heard from a fugitive at S. Luis that a cholo and a cook from S. Luis and several from Monterey had been killed. Pico says several of his own men were killed and wounded. Nidever, Life, MS., 129-30, says an Italian cutthroat named An- tonio was killed on the Cal. side. Larkin says 3 Californians were killed, besides Jos6 Garcia from S. America; and 7 wounded. Gomez says the Walla Wallas scalped 4 Californians.

2'"' Many stories are told of Chavez's adventures in trying to avoid arrest. Once be was concealed in bed between two women, which prompts Bev. Wal- ter Colton, Three Years, 145, to wickedly quote a verse from Don Juan. See also Oi^d, Ocurrencias, MS., 152-4; Gomez, Lo Que Sabe, MS., 95-6. Lancey, Cruise, 151, tells us Chavez was taken on board the guard-ship at Monterey and had his wounds dressed.

^^ Besides the references already given on the Natividad affair, see Honolulu Friend, iv. 190; Martin's Narr., MS., 35; Osio, Hist. Cal, MS., 479-80; La- rios^ Vida, MS., 23-4; Amador, Mem., MS., 170-2; Upham's Life Fremont, 242-5; Taylor^a Eldoradoy i. 194; and many of the county histories.

MARCH OF THE BATTALION. 373

made some expeditions in different directions in search of such parties of the enemy as might still be lurking in the district; but found no Californians, and in four or five days united his forces at San Juan, where he remained till the end of November. Some parties of recruits joined the force there, and one from the Sac- ramento did not arrive until the army had started southward. At San Juan the organization of the bat- talion, as already described, was completed; and on the 29th the army started on its march to cooperate with Stockton against Flores. The march was for the most part uneventful, and requires no extended description. Bryant's diary is in print, and is supple- mented by many other narratives more or less com- pleted^ The rains of an extremely wet season had begun, and progress was consequently slow and diffi- cult along the muddy way. The old grass was spoiled by the rain, and the new was not sufficient to keep the horses in strength. Many of the animals had to be abandoned on the way, and still more could barely carry their saddles without the riders, so that a large part of the march was performed by the men on foot. Luggage was carried by pack-mules. Beef was almost the only article of food, cattle being driven along with the army and killed at each halt as required. Many of the men were ill, but only one death occurred. The route was up the San Benito, over the hills to the Salinas, up that valley and past San Miguel to San Luis, where they arrived the 14th of December.

There is no reason to doubt that Fremont and his officers exerted themselves to prevent disorders and outrages on the march, and with a high degree of

2® Bryant\'i What I Saw, 365-91 ; itinerary of dates and distances in Grigs- hy^s Paperfi, MS., 9-12; weather record in Frdmont^s Geog. Mem., 41-2. Other narratives will be mentioned in later notes on special points; but the follow- ing may be named as not requiring further mention, though some of them are accurate enough: *S'. F. Star, Jan. 9, 1847, copied in other papers; S. F. Alta, Dec. 18, 1852; Martin's Narr., MS., 3G-8; Lancey's Cruise, 15G-G5; Tuthill's Hist. Cal., 200-3; Upham's Life Frdmont, 24:2-9; Dice. Univ., yiii. IGO; Cutts* Conq., 160-2; Honolulu Friend, iv. 190; Yolo Co. Hist., 20; and several other local histories.

374 NATIVIDAD AND SANTA CLARA.

success, considering the unfavorable circumstances. There was some complaint and insubordination among the men and subaltern officers, requiring a court-mar- tial for the trial of certain offenders on December 7th. ^^ The trail of Castro's retreating force was crossed; and on the 8th two Californians were arrest- ed, as were several later. An Indian servant of Jesus Pico was taken on the 12th, and next day shot as a spy after trial. The evidence against him has never been made public, but the act was doubtless an un- justifiable compliance with a bitter popular feeling in the army. On the same day the ranch o of Ojitos was plundered, its buildings being burned by a scouting party.^*^ At San Luis Obispo it was thought there might be an armed force, and the place was accordingly surrounded and taken by a sudden assault on the 1 4th in the rainy darkness of night; but only women, chil- dren, and non-combatants were found.^^

The house of Pico, the former commandant, was

^^Bryant, 371. Swasey, Cal. 1845-6, MS., 21, mentions James Savage as one of the worst malecontents, and says that several officers were reduced to the ranks, there being also several desertions. Swasey, p. 24—5, notes that on one occasion shots were heard in advance, and the men were found engaged in a battle with grizzly bears, of which 26 were killed. Boggs, in Napa Reg- ister, May 4, 1872, notes a mirage by which a madrono tree was made to ap- pear a large force of the enemy. Also in Id., June 1, 1872, is described a practical joke in which the bugler, Butler, was made to blow his morning blast and rouse the camp, mistaking the moon for the sun.

"^^ Pico, Acont., MS., 70, says the Indian, named Santa Maria, had been sent out by him to watch the Americans. It is generally stated that papers were found on his person, perhaps communications to the enemy. H. Jose Pio- neer, Jan. 27, 1877. Paso Robles is mentioned by several as the place where he was arrested. Swasey says the shooting of the Indian was opposed by many of the officers, but it was deemed unsafe to disregard the feelings of the undisciplined men. Janssens, Vida, MS., 197, says that Fremont farther south mentioned the different outrages as the acts of detached parties, whom he could not control. Serrano says Los Ojitos was burned because the owner had two sons in the Californian army; also that the bell-ringer of San Luis was threatened with death for having rung the vesper bells, and soon died of fright. Gonzalez, Mem., MS., 42-3, denounces these acts as cowardly, and notes that an American tried to mount a wild colt and was killed, probably an error.

^^ Swasey, Cal. ^4^-6, MS., 21-2, graphically describes the amusing scenes of this night assault, including Capt. Sears' valiant charge over adobe walls into a sheep corral. He also notes that many were made ill by eating rav- enously of the pumpkins and frijoles found at San Luis. There have been re- ports that the inhabitants were surprised at a ball, but this seems to have no foundation in fact. See Bryant, ^ll:, Jansaens, Vida, MS., 193; Pico,Acont,f MS., 71; Lancey's Cruise, 160.

[162]pp 370-374



The Quintana Family...Abiquiu, New Mexico and San Luis Obispo County, California (1540-1950)
Abiquiu in earlier times had been established as an outpost along with several other towns to protect the province. It was constantly under attack by warring nomadic tribes who apparently felt that the land should have been theirs. Gregorio had a son, Francisco Estevan Quintana, born 1801 in Abiquiu. Estevan married Maria Dolores de Luna of Abiquiu in 1823. They had a son Jose Maria in 1824. It is believed Maria Dolores died giving birth to Jose.
Estevan Quintana (1801-1880) In 1826 Estevan remarried to Maria de Guadalupe Lujan (1809—1884). They moved to Taos, New Mexico. They had five children while living there. They were Maria Prudencia, Pedro de Jesus, Maria Manuela, Manuel de Jesus and Gregorio Trinidad. In the 1840s nomadic Indians constantly raided the Albuquerque—Taos areas. ...(1) Estevan removed his family to Abiquiu until he was granted a land patent in the San Bernardino area east of San Gabriel, California. They moved to San Luis Obispo probably about 1844.
Geronimo Quintana was born circa 1810, at birth place ?, to Quintana and Quintana.
was born in NM Territory.
Geronimo had 2 brothers: Antonio Quintana and one other sibling.
Geronimo married Maria Tomasa Quintana (born Tenorio).
Maria was born circa 1824, in [New Mexico Area], Nueva España.
They had 5 children: Abundo Quintana, Maria J. Quintana and 3 other children.
Geronimo passed away in After 1860, at age 50 at death place, California.
Documents of Geronimo Quintana
Geronimo Quintana in 1850 United States Federal Census
Geronimo Quintana was born circa 1810, at birth place, New Mexico.
Geronimo married Maria Quintana.
They had 4 children: Abundo Quintana and 3 other children.
Geronimo lived in 1850, at address, California.


The Biography of Francisco Estevan Quintana (1801--1880) and Maria de Guadalupe Lujan (1809--1884) by Dona ld Rivara, Copyright January 2, 2009 by Don Rivara
José María Quintana was the eldest child of Francisco Estevan Quintana and his wife María de Guadalupe Luján. He was born in December of 1824 somewhere in New Mexico according to the 1900 U.S. Census. Also known as Gerónime [pronounced hay-ROH-nee-may], José María was a young man of twenty-one, when he and Tomás Herrera, probably his godfather, petitioned the Mexican governor of California for a land grant, and, on July 11, 1846, they were given the San Juan Capistrano del Camote Rancho in eastern San Luis Obispo County. [A camote is Spanish for a variety of sweet potato, but some books state that it was the name of an Indian village] That December John C. Fremont’s army of 430 arrived in San Luis Obispo. José María Quintana and Tomás Herrera led the small army of thirty Californios in their surrender to Fremont. [Hubert Howe Bancroft’s Bancroft’s Works, Volume XXXIV, p .
In 1854 José María and Tomás deeded away six tenths of the rancho. In these transactions, recorded in Deed Book A, pages 87,100-101, the partners deeded six of their ten “ganado mayores” to a William Carey Jones of San Francisco, who immediately deeded half of his interest to Albert Packard “in consideration of his taking charge of the cause during my absence, and assisting in the cause as may be necessary.” Signing as a witness to the transactions were John C. Fremont and José de Jesus Pico, whom Fremont almost executed in 1846. This appears to be the case of an attorney [William Carey Jones] using an agent [Albert Packard] to win portions of ranchos for representing cash-poor Californios at the U.S. Land Commission hearings. Fremont’s role in this is suspicious. Perhaps he received kickbacks for persuading rancheros to agree to these arrangements. Suspecting this to be true, I plugged in the name “William Carey Jones” into the Internet. On the Internet is reference to a document written by Jones in 1851 entitled “Subject of Land Titles in California” written in 1851 with William M. Eddy. The full title of the work was “Report to the Secretary of the Interior, Communicating a copy of the report, Carey Jones, special agent to examine the subject of land titles in California.” A special agent of the government gaining title to ranchos through mediaries smacks of corruption. Yet later I discovered that Jones was also a son-in-law of U.S. Senator Thomas Hart Benton of Missouri, which means that he was Fremont’s brother-in-law.
After the above transaction, José María was listed in the 1854 tax assessment as owning no land, only $500 of personal property. His tax was $7.50.
The 1860 Census shows José María living alone near his brother Pedro’s family. He was listed as age thirty-six and as a farmer. Again in the Great Register of Voters of 1871, he is listed as a farmer. In the 1874 Assessor’s List, José María was assessed on improvements on public land, value $75 [a homestead being processed ?]; 3 tame horses & 2 tame mares; total value $140; tax assigned: $3.55. Apparently the city assessed separately because he was shown to own Lot 3 in Block 45 in San Luis Obispo.
The following is probably an account of José María. From: Protected Valley—The Story of Santa Margarita, by Virginia Williams, 1966, page 25:
"...Mr. Quintana had a stable behind Mr. J. W. Smith’s “Blacksmith Shop and Watch Repair.” At these stables Mr. Quintana auctioned horses at various times. One day a fellow brought in twenty-four horses and mules with harnesses to be auctioned. As advertised, it promised to be a great day for bargains. It probably would have been but for the fact that one of the would-be buyers discovered it was his own stock he had come to bid on. Fortunately, for the seller, the days of being hanged for horse stealing had passed a few years previous. Mr. Quintana was out of pocket for feed and care, but possibly a little wiser."
About 1875 José Maria left his family in San Luis Obispo and returned to New Mexico, settling at Pojoaque, Santa Fe County, New Mexico, the general area where his mother had been born and where he had probably been born. He is stated as living there in 1880 when his father’s estate was filed for probate. He married a young widow named Benigna E. Garcia in 1884. Benigna, born in February of 1859, was thirty-five years younger than her husband. At the time of their marriage, he was fifty-nine and she, twenty four. Together they had a daughter Sarafina, born October 1888, when José María was sixty-three.
When his father died in 1880, José María did not receive any land in his father’s will. He was given a pension, $50 per month, to be paid by Pedro Quintana since Pedro was given the share of land that would have gone to José María.
In the census of 1900, enumerated on June 19, 1900, Jose María was living in Precinct #7 of Española, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. He was listed as age seventy-six, married 16 years, and able to read and write but was not able to speak English. Benigna was listed as age forty-one, born Feb. 1859 in New Mexico, having given birth to seven children with two living. Since she had married José María when she was just twenty-four, some of the deceased children were likely his. Also living with the couple were their daughter Sarafina, age 11, born October 1888 in New Mexico; José María Sánchez, grandson, born August 1897, age 2; Ramona Gomez, age 8, servant, born April 1892 in New Mexico.
José María died at the age of eighty-four on 5 April 1909, at Ranchitos de San Juan, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico Territory. The following year in the 1910 Census taken on April 28, his wife Begnina was listed in the household of her son, Doloritos Garcia, in Precinct 1, Pojoaque Pueblo. Doloritos lived with his wife and seven children.[163]
Francisco Estevan Quintana’s married María de Guadalupe Luján, 3 April 1823, in San Ildefonso, Santa Fe County, New Mexico. Their first child, José María Quintana, was born in December of 1824, but no record has been found of his baptism at either San Ildefonso or Abiquiú. The Quintanas may have lived somewhere else at the time of the child’s birth. Soon after their marriage, Estevan took his bride home to Abiquiú. They are shown as godparents there 16 November 1823 for Diego Martín Vigil.
The Quintana’s first child, José María Quintana, was born in December of 1824, but no record has been found of his baptism at either San Ildefonso or Abiquiú. The Quintanas may have lived somewhere else at the time of the child’s birth. In the mid-1820’s that the Quintanas moved from the Chama Valley to the Taos Valley, northeast of Abiquiú. This was probably due to the opening of the Santa Fe Trail connecting the merchants of Missouri with the markets of New Mexico. Because there is a five-year gap between children, it is possible that the Quintanas lived somewhere else other than Taos, Abiquiú, or San Ildefonso, during that time, but any children born during that gap died as children because they do not show up in later records. Not long after Pedro’s birth, however, the family appears to have returned to the Taos Valley.
Probably it was our Estevan who appears in the records of the Bexar Archives in San Antonio, Texas. One entry is a receipt for horses sold by Estevan Quintana to S. Lopez on 12 September 1825, at the Rancho de Agua Nueva. An entry from Lampazos, Texas, in the archives states that Andrés Cárdenas and Estevan Quintana on 22 November 1826, deserted a licensed trade caravan with property of the caravan [probably their share of the food]. At that time travelers had to carry a license to be on the road. Without this, they were presumed to be bandits and subject to immediate execution. What probably occurred was disharmony among the members of the caravan, and Cárdenas and Estevan decided to risk traveling alone. That late in the season, they probably had already sold their livestock in Texas and were anxious to return home quickly, unhampered by the slow-moving caretas of the merchants. It was likely his experience with these merchants that led him to a dual vocation of being a stockman and a trader.
It was in the mid-1820’s that the Quintanas moved from the Chama Valley to the Taos Valley, northeast of Abiquiú. This was probably due to the opening of the Santa Fe Trail connecting the merchants of Missouri with the markets of New Mexico. Estevan may have journeyed to Missouri to trade, but we have no evidence of this. The Quintanas’ eldest daughter, María Prudencia Quintana, was born 12 November 1827 and was baptized at the San Fernando de Taos Church. After Prudencia’s birth there is an eight year hiatus before another child of theirs was baptized there. On 2 February 1833, a son, Pedro de Jesús María, was baptized at the church in San Ildefonso, where Guadalupe’s family resided. Because there is a five-year gap between children, it is possible that the Quintanas lived somewhere else other than Taos, Abiquiú, or San Ildefonso, during that time, but any children born during that gap died as children because they do not show up in later records. Not long after Pedro’s birth, however, the family appears to have returned to the Taos Valley.
After Prudencia, three more children were baptized at the San Fernando de Taos Church: María Manuela Quintana, born 12 May 1835; Manuel de Jesús Quintana, born 27 September 1837; and Gregorio Trinidad Quintana, born 20 February 1840. At Gregorio’s baptism, his parents were said to be residents of San Francisco del Rancho. The godparents were José Martín and María Dolores Córdova.


In 1829 the “Old Spanish Trail” was opened between New Mexico and Los Angeles, California. Traders began annual caravans, traveling in groups for safety from Indian attacks. About the same time, the California missions were decommissioned and the vast mission lands were opened to private ownership. Antonio María Lugo obtained the large Rancho San Bernardino and its estancia buildings, formerly part of the Mission San Gabriel. Juan Bandini was granted the nearby Rancho Jurupa from the former San Gabriel lands. Bandini and Lugo were eager to attract settlers. Both needed men skilled in fighting Indians to protect their ranchos from marauding. Lugo offered 2,200 acres to would-be settlers, the land to be settled in common with ownership still residing with Lugo, a common practice on the Mexican frontier. In 1838 a man from Abiquiú, Santiago Martínez, became the first Abiqueño to settle there, between present-day San Bernardino and Colton. Over the next few years, other Abiqueño families began arriving.
Estevan continued to combine his stock raising with a career as a merchant. On September 24, 1839, Francisco Esteban Quintana was issued guia #185, a permit to conduct business and a basis of taxing merchants. His guía permitted him to take six bundles of domestic merchandise to California for sale. He traveled with the caravan of 1839, arriving in Los Angeles about the first of December. [Santa Fe National Historic Trail: Special History Study, Appendix 1, taken from Roll 21, #334]. His journey took him over the Old Spanish Trail through Central Utah, through what is now Las Vegas, Nevada, and thence to Los Angeles.
In California, Estevan sold his merchandise and then left to explore what lay north up the El Camino Real. In San Luis Obispo County he came across Petronilo Rios in the Salinas Valley. From Rios he purchased two leagues of land in early 1840. This land included the present-day site of Paso Robles. It was called the Ranch of the Hot Waters [Rancho de las Aguas Calientes]. This land had formerly belonged to the Mission San Miguel. [In Deed Book A, page 28, San Luis Obispo County, CA, it states that Estevan had purchased the land in 1840][In 1852 he would sell this land back to Rios].
Estevan returned to New Mexico in the spring of 1840 and reunited with his family. He would not have been home when Guadalupe gave birth to a son, Gregorio, on February 20, 1840 in the Taos Valley. He would meet his new son upon his arrival home.
Now making more money as a merchant than as a stock-raiser, Estevan moved his family back to Abiquiu, which lay on the trail to California from Santa Fe. The threat from the Republic of Texas, which was committed to annexing New Mexico, probably influenced Estevan’s decisions over the next couple of years. We first find Estevan and Guadalupe back in the Chama Valley, on 20 October, 1840, as godparents at the baptism in Abiquiú of five-day-old Antonio José Quintana, a Ute Indian slave/servant of theirs. A child newly-born was not a captive, but was probably born to one of their young female slave/servants. As usual in these births to slave girls, the father is listed as “unknown.” Usually one of the men of the family was the unmentioned father. The Quintanas were shown as residents of the village of El Rito, but the baptism took place at Santo Tomás Apostól Church in Abiquiú, the nearest church.
The Quintanas must have been prospering because Santo Tomás Apostól Church record shows that on 3 March 1841, they baptized yet another slave/servant that they no doubt had purchased from her captors or a trader. She was named María Antonia Quintana and was twelve years old. Estevan and Guadalupe served as her godparents.
That fall Estevan prepared to leave El Rito for California with Santiago Martinez and other Abiquiú families headed for the Rancho San Bernardino. Estevan seems to have been resolved to request a grant of land for himself and to set himself up as an hacendado with peones residing on his land in the Lugo fashion.
Estevan apparently had become enamoured of Calfornia during his 1839 trip. There were several good reasons for moving to California. One was the perennial raids by Indians in New Mexico, which threatened the Quintanas’ lives and their prosperity. In California Indian attacks would be fewer and less vicious. Also, the rich grasslands in California could greatly increase the Quintana’s livestock herds. Another factor making New Mexico life less tolerable was the tyrannical rule of Governor Manuel Armijo, the most corrupt governor in New Mexico’s history. Perhaps more pressing was Texas’ claim to New Mexico and the threat of an invasion.
At San Francisco del Rancho, the village south of Taos where the Quintanas had attended church, two Anglos, who would one day become prominent in Southern California, operated a trading post. They were William Workman [1799-1876] and John Rowland. Both were married to native women and were naturalized Mexican citizens. Workman and Roland seem to have prospered in Taos, but politics soon made life difficult. In 1840 the Republic of Texas named Workman and Rowland agents, perhaps without their prior knowledge, to represent Texas’ interests in annexing New Mexico. Although they did not apparently accept this role, Workman and Rowland’s identification with the Texans was tantamount to treason.
As tensions increased, Mirabeau Lamar, the President of Texas, without congressional approval, sent an expedition of volunteers, military, and merchants carrying 21 wagons of trade goods to Santa Fe to persuade the people of Santa Fe to abandon their Mexican citizenship and join the Republic of Texas. The expedition was poorly planned and suffered many hardships. When the soldiers finally arrived in Santa Fe, they were promptly taken prisoner, stripped naked, and marched down the Jornada de Muerto to Chihuahua. They were not released until 1842, after Lamar had left office.
Meanwhile Rowland and Workman formed a party of some forty whites that left New Mexico in September 1841. Arriving in Abiquiú, the group was joined by Santiago Martinez and his group, which included Francisco Estevan Quintana. The party traveled the Old Spanish Trail, arriving in Los Angeles on 5 November 1841. The Rowland and Workman expedition left its legacy as the first American emigrant party to enter Southern California from an eastern-based land route. The Bartleson-Bidwell party arrived in Northern California from Missouri at the same time.
The San Bernardino Valley apparently appealed to Estevan because he traveled to Monterey, the capital of Mexican California, in January of 1842, to request a land grant there on land that did not belong to Antonio María Lugo. He passed through San Luis Obispo, traveling the El Camino Real. In the book The Old Spanish Trail, by LeRoy and Anne Hafen, pp. 219-222 there is mention that twelve pages of applications to settle in the San Bernardino Valley were charred beyond reading in the San Francisco fire of 1906. The index book survived, however, as did the petition of Francisco Estevan Quintana presented to Governor Alvarado. The petition was prefaced with a statement that the Justice of the Peace of Los Angeles on February 12, 1842, had given permission to Quintana to “separate from the assembling company of New Mexican traders and return to his province in due time and to transact such business as is agreeable to him. The same permission is given to the others who wish to follow said Quintana.” The petition was expressed as follows:
"Most Excellent Señor [Governor Alvarado],
I, Francisco Estevan Quintana, Mexican by birth, appear before you in the form provided by law and say: that for myself and in the name of my companions and their families, being desirous soon of settling down, we would like to establish ourselves in this country, so fertile and advantageous. That we have not done so already is due to our uncertainty about obtaining lands; but finding vacant a tract of land bearing the name “San Bernardino,” somewhat east of San Gabriel, we have decided to bring hither our families; and in order to do so, we pray Your Excellency to grant us the land existing there to form a colony, subjecting ourselves to all of the laws of colonization, and it being understood that we solicit land in San Bernardino that is unoccupied. What we ask for is two leagues of grazing land.
Praying Your Excellency will decide in my favor, I am, Most Excellent Governor, Francisco Estevan Quintana.
Monterey, January 18, 1842"
Governor Juan Alvarado responded with
"Whenever the petitioner brings to San Bernardino a sufficient number of families to occupy it, I will grant this petition with the understanding that he will be required to take such lands as remain vacant after a portion of it has been granted to various individuals of the city of Los Angeles whose petitions are now pending…..Alvarado"
Probably accompanied by several associates, Estevan returned to Los Angeles, Records show that he left for New Mexico on February 12, 1842. [Records of the Old Spanish Trail Association][11]
While their father was enroute home, on March 18, 1841, José María Quintana and his sister María Prudencia Quintana were godparents in Abiquiú at the baptism of José Melitón Ocaña, son of Ramón Ocaña and María Serafina Ortíz.
With permission to select a land grant in the San Bernardino Valley in California, Estevan and his family began making preparations for the difficult move. They probably had to sell land and some of their stock. They would have to wait until the spring of 1843 so there would be enough grass along the trail to feed their large herd of livestock.
Meanwhile, José María Quintana and his mother, Guadalupe Luján, were godparents on September 13, 1841, in Abiquiú for José Rafael Casados, age 7 days, son of José Julián Casados and María Ysabel Montoya. While the family was preparing to leave for California, they took time to baptize Pascual Quintana, an Indian with no age given, on February 6, 1843, in Abiquiú with Francisco Estevan Quintana as godfather and María Guadalupe Luján as godmother. Presumably this was another of their slaves. Still living in the Jacona-San Ildefonso area were Guadalupe’s father, Joaquín Luján, and her maternal grandmother, Francisca Atencio, then eighty- two. Her mother may have still been alive also at that time, but by the time of the 1850 Census, she had died. The father and grandmother, however, were still living in 1850.
In the spring of 1843 the Quintana family crossed the Old Spanish Trail to make their new life in California. They brought at least some of their Indian wards with them. The Quintanas and nine other Abiquiu families who accompanied the trade caravan left Abiquiu and headed toward the Four Corners area, following the San Juan River. From there they headed northwest deep into central Utah, crossing the Grand River and then Green River north of where they flow together. They then turned southwest through the heart of the Wasatch Mountains and crossed into Nevada below Sevier Lake. Las Vegas, Nevada, history shows that Estevan’s party stopped there on their way to California. The area was called “Las Vegas de Quintana” for many years, possibly named for Estevan’s party. From Las Vegas, the party crossed the Mojave Desert below Death Valley in what is now San Bernardino County, California. The end of the trail for the group was at Agua Mansa, the settlement near present-day Colton, California, that had been established a couple of years earlier by former Abiquiú, New Mexico residents.
Along the trail, Estevan’s grown children, Jose Maria, 19, and Prudencia, 15, herded the livestock. Pedro, who was ten, probably assumed some of the burden as well. It was probably in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, that tragedy struck. A landslide of rocks disgorged and tumbled down a mountain killing young Manuel Quintana, who was almost six years old. He was buried there along the trail, and with great grief the family was forced to leave behind his lonely grave in the middle of the wilderness.
Arriving in the San Bernardino Valley, the family probably stopped briefly at Agua Mansa. They would have attended church at the San Gabriel Mission. The Quintanas were unsatisfied with the situation in San Bernardino, probably due to reneging on the part of the Lugo family to favorable land arrangements they had made with the New Mexican immigrants. The Quintanas were there only a short time. Estevan continued northward with his family and livestock to his land in San Luis Obispo County.
On March 6, 1846, Estevan and Guadalupe Quintana were godparents for Juan Antonio, “nino de casa,” [a house boy] age three. Clearly the Quintanas were continuing the Mexican system of Indian child slavery. Whether this was a Chumash boy or the son of an Indian girl they had brought with them from New Mexico is unknown.
The Quintanas had lived on their rancho for two or three years when the Mexican War broke out and John C. Fremont arrived in the fall with his conquering host. Jose María Quintana and Tomás Herrera led the “army” of thirty Californios who marched out to meet him and surrender. Herrera, also a New Mexican, had a very close relationship with the Quintana family. He and Estevan’s son José María obtained together a land grant east of Paso Robles called San Juan Capistrano del Camote.
Fremont tried to reassure the group that their lives could continue without disruption. The California government before the Americans came had been chaotic, and the government of Mexico unresponsive to the needs of its remote province. The ties with Mexico would not be missed, but certainly there was an uneasiness about what life would be like under these aggressive new masters.
Just as life was beginning to settle down from the war in 1848, there was a massacre at the nearby former Mission San Miguel in which ten members of the Reed household were killed by a gang of thugs. It is likely that some of Rancho de la Agua Caliente men were in the posse to hunt down the murderers.
Right on top of this, the report of the gold discovery began an invasion from all the places near to California. A flood of Sonoreños from the Mexican province of Sonora came up the El Camino Real and by ship hundreds of Chilenos. The territory of Oregon was drained of its manpower. It appears that Estevan took advantage of the gold rush to sell his livestock and merchandise. The family does not appear in the 1850 Census. The likely reason being that they were at the mines.
The Quintanas maintained a town home in San Luis Obispo. It was one of the row of adobe homes about 25 square feet in size that lined what would become Chorro Street next to the mission. They had been the dwellings of soldiers who guarded the mission in the earlier days.
In 1849, after the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo which ended the Mexican War, a constitutional convention was called in Monterey. A transitional form of government was created. An alcalde [mayor] of San Luis Obispo in 1845 in the last years of the Mexican period, Estevan was voted in again to the post on August 1, 1849, The total number of votes was twenty-nine---there were few people in San Luis to vote at the time. Estevan decided few issues of any import. Many of the records, written in Spanish, survive of this period. He was articulate, and his son-in-law, Miguel Serrano, was mentioned frequently. Miguel managed the rancho operations while Estevan tended to his business.
Wallace V. Ohles, in his The Lands of Mission San Miguel, Word Dancer Press, Fresno, CA, 1997, page 74, states:
Esteban Quintana was a prominent citizen of San Luis Obispo; he served as an alcalde in 1845 and 1849. The assessment roll of real estate and personal property for 1851 lists lots and improvements in San Luis Obispo at $275, and personal property at $2,836. During the 1850’s the San Luis Obispo post office was moved from a small adobe building on the corner of Monterey and Chorro streets to the Murray adobe opposite the mission. In 1860 it was moved into an adobe, owned by Quintana, on the northwest side of Monterey Street above Chorro...
On 20 August 1851, Estevan was the high bidder at the sale of Lot No. 6 in Block No. 14 of San Luis Obispo. This lot was twenty-one yards wide and twenty-six yards deep. [Deed Book A, page 8] Block 14 is the Block bordered by Monterey, Chorro, Palm, and Morro. Apparently this was his lot on the northeast corner of Chorro and Monterey, where he later built the Quintana Building. This early investing in town lots and later building on them was probably how Estevan was able to survive the terrible two-year drought of the 1860’s when nine tenths of the livestock on the Central Coast died.
On the 23 of November of the same year, 1851, Estevan purchased land bounded by the Arroyo de los Alisos, the Cerro de Islay, the lands of José María Villa, those of Henry A. Tefft [who would drown in the ocean soon afterwards] and those of Estevan himself. It was sold to him by Francisco Salgado and Miguel Trujillo. [Deed Book A, page 9] This greatly expanded the land Estevan owned. This was probably before the above purchase.
The 1852 California State Census was taken with the Quintanas still on the Paso Robles site. Their daughter Prudencia and her husband Miguel Serrano are shown living with them with no children:
Estevan Quintana, 57, farmer, born Mexico [Should be New Mexico][He was 51]
Guadalupe Quintana, 40, female, born Mexico [New Mexico]
Jose M. Quintana, 28, farmer, born Mexico [New Mexico]
Pedro Quintana, 18, farmer, born Mexico [New Mexico]
Maria Jesus Quintana, 5, female, born CA
Jesus Maria Quintana, 7/12, male, born CA
Miguel Serrano, 35, farmer, born Mexico [New Mexico]
Prudencia Serrano, 25, born Mexico [New Mexico]
[There was a language problem with the census taker and the Quintanas.]
On 3 October 1852, Estevan sold for $300 to Petronilo Ríos the “Rancho de La Agua Caliente,” [Ranch of the hot water] two leagues of land or two “sitios de ganado mayor” [about 8,656 acres]. This was the same land that Rios had sold him in 1840.
On 11 December of 1852, Baptiste García of San Luís Obispo sold to Estevan Quintana all the land and buildings designated as “The Vineyard” [La Viña]. This lay adjacent to Mission San Luis Obispo. The land probably had been the site of a mission vineyard; thus the name. This land today encompasses all of the eastern part of San Luis Obispo. It included an adobe home called “La Loma de la Nopalera,” [Hill of the Nopales Cactus Orchard]. Behind the adobe was acreage planted to the nopales cactus, which Hispanics ate and still eat as a vegetable. It is unknown how large this ranch was, but it had to have been large enough to graze the substantial herd of livestock Estevan had brought with him. [La Vista, V1 N4, Jan. 1970, by Alonzo Dana;][San Luis Obispo County Deed Book “A,” pages 77-79] Some of these nopales are still there in 2005, although the area behind the adobe is being subdivided. The La Loma Adobe is located at 1590 Lizzie Street. It is the oldest house still in existence in San Luis Obispo County, although it is in poor condition. According to the Dana article, the house was built in 1782 by Indian servants of a Spanish supervisor, and it once served as a trading post. If the date of the building is correct at 1782, it was built ten years after the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. The elevated location of La Loma provided an excellent view in the direction of the mission, the cluster of adobes that surrounded it, and the valley.
The agreement shows that there was a stone fence or corral on the property. This land was apparently adjacent to the land Estevan already owned. [Both transactions are on San Luis Obispo County Deed Book A, page 28][A sitio de ganado mayor was a square league that measured 5,000 varas on each side, which equaled 4,338.68 acres. A criadero de ganado mayor was one quarter of the sitio, or 1,109.67 acres. A sitio de ganado menor was two thirds of a sitio de ganado mayor, or 2,959.12 acres. A criadero de ganado menor was one third of a sitio de ganado mayor, or 1,479.56 acres. Sometimes called “a Spanish yard,” the vara was equal to thirty-three inches in California and New Mexico, but varied a bit elsewhere.]
There were two buildings on the La Loma adobe site, one being the adobe. In the other, Estevan may have operated a general merchandise store. In the file of county civil litigation now housed in the county museum, there is an undated lawsuit in the 1851-1853 file entitled Estefan Quintana vs. Urbano Cárdenas. Estevan alleged that in 1847 he had given Cárdenas considerable merchandise to sell for a commission, presumably at the more distant ranchos, and that Cardenas had sold the merchandise but refused an accounting or to pay Quintana. Written by Cárdenas is a list of the following merchandise he claimed to have received from Estevan, for which Estevan was suing him.
In 1853 at a hearing of the U. S. Land Grant Commission, Estevan’s claim that La Viña had been granted to him by the Mexican government was denied for lack of evidence that it had ever been granted. He had petitioned January 15, 1853, to ascertain his claim to La Viña. His petition stated that on January 4, 1842, Juan B. Alvarado, Constitutional Governor of the Californias, granted to him a tract of land containing one square league of land situated near the ex-mission of San Luis Obispo. He asserted that the grant was made in accordance with the Law of Colonization of August 18, 1824 and the Mexican Executive Regulations of 1828. G.B. Farwell stated the opinion of the commissioners that, in short, that the claim was rejected for lack of evidence that the land was granted. Other commissioners were R. August Thompson and Alphons Felch. George Fisher, Secretary of the Commission, transcribed the proceedings. [Grant 863 Viña 292 SD; BD.513 in the Bancroft Library, University of California at Berkeley. This archive item is a “Summary of the Transcript of Case No. 513 of the Land Grant Cases. Francisco Estevan Quintana, Claimant vs. The United States, Defendant”] There is no existing evidence that the Mexican governor allowed Estevan to switch the location of the land upon which he was to settle. Apparently the person from whom Estevan had purchased La Viña did not have a legal title and this petition was a ruse to keep the land he had paid for.
In 1854 Estevan was assessed for “a number of small lots in and about San Luis Obispo,” value $2,260; personal property $10,180. No mention is made of his ranch land. His tax bill was $186.60.
It was probably problems with the Land Commission that encouraged Estevan in 1854 to exchange a portion of La Viña rancho for 3,166 acres of the 3,506.33 acre Rancho Potrero de San Luís Obispo, which lay on Stenner Creek about five miles northeast of the old mission. The exchange was made with Doña María Concepción Boronda de Muñoz, one of the prominent Boronda family of Monterey County, CA. On 4 September 1837, she had married a French ship captain, Olivier Deleissigues, at the Mission San Juan Batista. In 1842, probably because he was not yet a Mexican citizen, the couple petitioned for a land grant in San Luis Obispo County in Chona’s name. They were granted the Rancho Potrero de San Luis Obispo. Olivier Deleissigues died in 1849. She then married a younger man, José María Muñoz, who had immigrated from Mexico. Muñoz, an attorney, later became a judge and was prominent in San Luis Obispo affairs until he was reportedly lost at sea in 1874 when the ship on which he was traveling sank. The son of José María and Concepción Muñoz, Benjamin Muñoz, was the policeman in San Luis Obispo for many years before moving to Oakland. He was married in 1883 to Antonia Serrano, a granddaughter of Francisco Estevan Quintana. Doña Chona’s grant of the Potrero was well documented. Estevan would have no trouble securing title to it. Muñoz, being an attorney, could better navigate through the Land Commission channels to secure title to La Viña. Estevan paid Dona Chona “Sien bacas descosidas en su ganado...y quinientos voragas” [a herd of one hundred cows and 500 varagas] The meaning of “varagas” isn’t clear. The land was to include the site of the La Loma de la Nopalera. In turn, the Quintanas received the Boronda-Muñoz home on Potrero. [San Luis Obispo County Deed Book A, pages 78-79, 87]
The San Luis Obispo Register of Brands shows that Estevan Quintana registered his brand in 1851. His wife, Guadalupe Luján, had her brand registered on April 23, 1857. Pedro Quintana’s was registered on May 22, 1854. José María Quintana registered his on May 7, 1855. Both María Jesús and Jesús María Quintana registered brands on November 10, 1857. In the year 2000, a man in San Luis Obispo owned many of the family branding irons. He collected branding irons of the area.
The California gold rush brought many unsavory characters to the state. In the 1850’s San Francisco resorted to a vigilance committee to rid itself of a troublesome criminal element. It cleaned out San Francisco, but the criminals took to the El Camino Real and waylaid travelers and committed various other crimes. By 1858 the situation was so bad in San Luis Obispo County that the citizens got together and formed a vigilance committee themselves. Among the members of the committee were Estevan’s friend Tomás Herrera, Dolores Herrera [son of Tomás Herrera and Estevan’s son-in-law]; Miguel Serrano [also Estevan’s son-in-law]; Manuel Serrano, [Miguel’s brother]; G. F. Sauer [whose brother would later wed Estevan’s granddaughter, Guadalupe Herrera], and Estevan Quintana himself. This committee was very active in bringing local criminals to justice. Stories can be read in the History of San Luis Obispo, by Myron Angel.
Although Estevan was respected by most American people, an element of racism can be detected in the newspapers and early histories. The Californios deeply resented their conquerors and were not quick to inform on or help capture outlaw Californios.

Besides their home on the Portrero, the Quintanas maintained a home in town. An 1855 deed on page 105 of Book A of the San Luis Obispo County deeds makes reference to Estevan owning a home on Chorro Street north of the Mission. The deed isssued to Nicolas Carbio was described as being on “the western side of Choro St.; fronting thereon 10 varas and running back 5 varas more or less to the graveyard of the Church and lying between the house of Augustin Garcia on the south, called the Lafaette house, and the house of Estevan Quintana on the north. The houses of García and Carbio separated his home from an adobe that Estevan later owned on the northwest corner of Monterey and Chorro streets, the site where the Plaza fountain and the statue of Father Serra sit today in front of the Mission.

Myron Angel says in his 1883 History of San Luis Obispo
“The pastoral era of Southern California was brought to a close by two disastrous seasons called “The Great Drought,” which affected the state in 1863 and 1864. During the preceding year there had been such unprecedented floods that the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys were turned into an inland sea 250-300 miles long and 20-60 miles wide. Thousands of cattle and other livestock perished and possibly a fourth of the state’s taxable wealth was destroyed.”
“On the southern ranges, the damage done by the rains was inconsequential compared to the appalling losses caused by the two succeeding years of drought, when the grasslands reverted to the desert, the earth became iron, and the sky turned to brass. Livestock died by the thousands on the sun-baked ranges; carcasses lay in heaps about the dry water holes and sand-choked springs; and the whole country from north to south was almost depopulated of cattle.”
Most of the great ranchos were destroyed by the drought, but Estevan survived the catastrophe still a rich man due to his business and real estate interests.
On 2 April 1873, Estevan acquired 68/100 acres from Miguel Borgues, Lot 3, Block 45 in San Luis. It was recorded on 19 November 1873 upon the request of José María Quintana. [Deed Book “E,” pages 302-303] On the same day Estevan deeded the lot to his son José María. This lot today is in the block of Palm Street adjacent to the Southern Pacific tracks bordered by Mill Street on the north, Palm Street on the south, Ida Street on the east and the tracks on the west. This lot is the second lot to the east of the tracks. Presumably this is where José María lived while in town. The railroad would not come for another twenty years.
In 1874 Estevan purchased most of the 4,379.43 acre Rancho San Bernardo from the Canet family of nearby Morro Bay. He paid $3,000 cash, 300 heifers, and 100 mares. This ranch was for his son Pedro. It was willed to Pedro, but Pedro’s family lived on it immediately after its purchase. Estevan is not known to have lived on the ranch at all.

Besides the new rancho, Estevan had been acquiring lots and building on them in the town of San Luis Obispo. The 1874 Assessor’s List shows that Estevan was assessed for a total of 6,997 acres of ranch land; 3 houses & lots in SLO, value $3,500; 1 house [actually the Quintana Building] under construction by Blás Castro, value $100; 1 lot in SLO, value $25; Rancho Potrero, 3,166 acres, value $1,266.40; part of Rancho San Bernardo, 2,438 acres, value; $1,219; improvements on the Rancho Potrero, value $800; improvements on San Bernardo, value $50; 500 Spanish cattle, 400 Spanish sheep, 10 tame horses, 15 manada [herd] animals [probably untamed horses]; 1 wagon and harness, value $100; furniture, value, $50; total assessed value [not market value], $8,620.40; tax assigned, $280.15, marked “paid.”

In 1874 Estevan constructed a new brick building on the northeast corner of Monterey and Chorro Streets. It was called the “Quintana Block,” but now it is generally referred to as the “Quintana Building.” There he operated a general merchandise store that Pedro ran for him and later inherited. In the 1890’s Pedro remodeled the building, removing the sections that jutted out into Chorro and Monterey streets. After Pedro’s death in 1921, his son Thomas Quintana inherited the building. He hired a cheap but inept contractor to remodel the building and to add a third story to the structure. He then opened it as the “Blackstone Hotel.” Thomas later acknowledged that his remodeling of the building was one of two worst blunders he committed in his life. It was due to be demolished in 2009.

In May of 1875 Estevan contracted with the California Bridge and Building Company to build a new two-story brick building on the site of the old adobe on the northwest corner Monterey and Chorro streets. The building had 52 ½ feet of frontage on Monterey Street and 117 ½ feet of frontage on Chorro Street. The new building would house a new residence for Estevan and Guadalupe on the second floor. They could then look out of their windows onto the front of the Mission. The construction was completed in November of that year. The builders, however, gave Estevan a bill for $501.50 more than the contracted price. He paid them the agreed-upon price only. In turn, the company refused to pay one of their subcontractors, Root, Nieson & Company. This company sued Estevan for the money and the case was found in their favor in the District Court of the First Judicial District of San Luis Obispo. The court decision was appealed to the California Supreme Court. Estevan’s grandson-in-law, Andrew Sauer, and businessman Morris Goldtree signed as sureties that Estevan would pay the $501.50 if the decision was decided in the plaintiff’s favor. Estevan’s lawyer was from the firm of Graves, Wilcoxon, and Graves. Case, #5502, was decided on appeal in favor of the subcontractors. A summary of the case, prepared for the Supreme Court, is housed in the Special Collections Department of the Kennedy Library at California State Polytechnic University. Estevan lost the case on appeal.

Now ensconced in his upstairs apartment in his new building, Estevan donated his old home on Chorro Street to Tadeo Amat, Bishop of Monterey, by deed in the middle 1870’s [Deed Book “F,” pages 353-354], presumably for the proposed eastern extension of the mission church.

On January 11, 1877, the Quintanas lost their granddaughter, Guadalupe Herrera de Sauer, age twenty-three. Her death was probably caused by childbirth, but, if so, the child did not survive. Guadalupe was buried in the increasingly populated Quintana Plot at the cemetery.

In March of 1878 Estevan’s foot had become ulcerated. He was told that amputation was necessary. At least half of amputations of younger, healthier persons resulted in death in that era, so Estevan made out his will carefully and then underwent the operation. These deeds, executed at the time of Estevan’s crisis were recorded with the county clerk:

Deed Book “J,” page 539, Estevan Quintana to Luis Gardello, 5 November 1878

Deed Book “J,” page 316, Pedro Quintana to Luis Gardello, 5 November 1878

Deed Book “L” or “J,” page 539, Guadalupe Quintana to Estevan Quintana,

22 March 1878

Deed Book “L,” page 54, Estevan Quintana to Guadalupe Quintana, 22 March

1878

Among these deeds was the sale of Estevan’s new brick building on the northwest corner of Monterey and Chorro streets, no doubt because he could not navigate the stairs to his upstairs residence. It is unknown where in San Luis Obispo Estevan lived during the last two years of his life. It is known that he was seen walking around town on his wooden leg conducting his business. That is stated in his obituary.

At age seventy-seven he surprised everyone and probably himself by surviving the operation. He proudly sat for a photograph prominently displaying the healed leg stump about a year after the surgery. But the bout had severely weakened him; he was an old man, and death came the following year. He died August 4, 1880, the day before his seventy-ninth birthday. His obituary appeared in the Saturday, August 7, 1880 issue on page 1, column 3 of the San Luis Obispo Tribune:

On Wednesday lastMr. Francisco E. Quintana died at his residence in this city at the advanced age of eighty years less one day[sic]. Mr. Quintana has resided in SLO nearly, if not quite half a century. He was a native of New Mexico. He came to this country poor, but by industry and frugality acquired a competency. For a number of his later years Mr. Quintana was afflicted with a diseased leg which incapacitated him from active business, and two years ago he had the limb amputated. His strong constitution and nerve enabled him to undergo the operation, and during the past year he has been able to get about. The funeral took place from the Catholic church, and the remains were followed to the grave by a large number of surviving relatives and sympathizing friends.

Don Estevan’s funeral Mass was held at the Old Mission Church in San Luis Obispo. From there his body was taken to the Old Mission Cemetery. After his burial, the Quintana family adorned the large family plot. Black and white marble tile walkways lead to Estevan’s white marble sarcophagus and the tall obelisks of family members. Although the site has been vandalized and is showing its age, it still is elegant after these many years.

Tomás Herrera[edit]

Tomás Herrera (ranchero)

The Biography of Francisco Estevan Quintana (1801--1880) and Maria de Guadalupe Lujan (1809--1884) by Donald Rivara, Copyright January 2, 2009 by Don Rivara from oldmorrobay.com accessed July 18, 2017
The Quintanas had lived on their rancho for two or three years when the Mexican War broke out and John C. Fremont arrived in the fall with his conquering host. Jose María Quintana and Tomás Herrera led the “army” of thirty Californios who marched out to meet him and surrender. Herrera, also a New Mexican, had a very close relationship with the Quintana family. He and Estevan’s son José María obtained together a land grant east of Paso Robles called San Juan Capistrano del Camote.
The California gold rush brought many unsavory characters to the state. In the 1850’s San Francisco resorted to a vigilance committee to rid itself of a troublesome criminal element. It cleaned out San Francisco, but the criminals took to the El Camino Real and waylaid travelers and committed various other crimes. By 1858 the situation was so bad in San Luis Obispo County that the citizens got together and formed a vigilance committee themselves. Among the members of the committee were Estevan’s friend Tomás Herrera, Dolores Herrera [son of Tomás Herrera and Estevan’s son-in-law]; Miguel Serrano [also Estevan’s son-in-law]; Manuel Serrano, [Miguel’s brother]; G. F. Sauer [whose brother would later wed Estevan’s granddaughter, Guadalupe Herrera], and Estevan Quintana himself. This committee was very active in bringing local criminals to justice. Stories can be read in the History of San Luis Obispo, by Myron Angel.
[1] José María Quintana was the eldest child of Francisco Estevan Quintana and his wife María de Guadalupe Luján. He was born in December of 1824 somewhere in New Mexico according to the 1900 U.S. Census. Also known as Gerónime [pronounced hay-ROH-nee-may], José María was a young man of twenty-one, when he and Tomás Herrera, probably his godfather, petitioned the Mexican governor of California for a land grant, and, on July 11, 1846, they were given the San Juan Capistrano del Camote Rancho in eastern San Luis Obispo County. [A camote is Spanish for a variety of sweet potato, but some books state that it was the name of an Indian village] That December John C. Fremont’s army of 430 arrived in San Luis Obispo. José María Quintana and Tomás Herrera led the small army of thirty Californios in their surrender to Fremont. [Hubert Howe Bancroft’s Bancroft’s Works, Volume XXXIV, p.



In 1854 José María and Tomás deeded away six tenths of the rancho. In these transactions, recorded in Deed Book A, pages 87,100-101, the partners deeded six of their ten “ganado mayores” to a William Carey Jones of San Francisco, who immediately deeded half of his interest to Albert Packard “in consideration of his taking charge of the cause during my absence, and assisting in the cause as may be necessary.” Signing as a witness to the transactions were John C. Fremont and José de Jesus Pico, whom Fremont almost executed in 1846. This appears to be the case of an attorney William Carey Jones using an agent Albert Packard to win portions of ranchos for representing cash-poor Californios at the U.S. Land Commission hearings. Fremont’s role in this is suspicious. Perhaps he received kickbacks for persuading rancheros to agree to these arrangements. Suspecting this to be true, I plugged in the name “William Carey Jones” into the Internet. On the Internet is reference to a document written by Jones in 1851 entitled “Subject of Land Titles in California” written in 1851 with William M. Eddy. The full title of the work was “Report to the Secretary of the Interior, Communicating a copy of the report, Carey Jones, special agent to examine the subject of land titles in California.” A special agent of the government gaining title to ranchos through mediaries smacks of corruption. Yet later I discovered that Jones was also a son-in-law of U.S. Senator Thomas Hart Benton of Missouri, which means that he was Fremont’s brother-in-law.

After the above transaction, José María was listed in the 1854 tax assessment as owning no land, only $500 of personal property. His tax was $7.50.

In 1856, at the age of twenty-three, he married María Pía de la Luz Herrera, thirteen, a daughter of Don Tomás Herrera and Doña Refugio Martinez. His sister Manuela was already married to Luz’s brother Dolores. The witnesses to the marriages were Rosa Herrera and Federico Wickenden. There were to be other family intermarriages with the Herreras. In Hispanic America, girls commonly married at thirteen. Men were usually in their mid-twenties when they married.
Francisco Estevan “Frank” Quintana was born February 11, 1865, nr. San Luis Obispo, CA, the son of Don Pedro and Doña Luz Quintana. He was baptized March 4, 1865. His godparents were Tomás Herrera and Refugio Martinez, his maternal grandparents. He was named after his Quintana grandfather.

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results of my search for the HERRERA land grant[edit]
Phil: [Phil Van Camp?]
Here are the results of my search for the HERRERA land grant. There is a lot

of information here, reading between the lines!

I looked at Film 0,978,888, California Land Records from the Surveyor

General's Office. Subtitle State Archives--Spanish Records, v. 1.

Item 1 is an Index to Spanish Archives by Patent.
Item 2 is an Index to Spanish Archives by Surname.
Looking in Item 2, under the surname HERRERA, I found the following entries.

(Note: I have modified the format so it's easier to post as an email.) "O" indicates a transcribed copy of the original document. "T" indicates an English translation of the transcribed copy.

First HERRERA entry:

O - 8- 106 T - 8 - 106 Petitioner: Herrera, Tomas and Residents

Name of area petitioned for: Laguna San Luis Obispo
County: San Luis Obispo
Document type and reference number: Unclassified expediente #261
On Film 0,978,897, volume 7 of translations of unclassified expedientes # 1 -
  1. 315, p. 106, I found the following information, which I am paraphrasing.

(If you would like me to copy and send you these documents, just let me know.) Tomas HERRERA is identified as "Alcalde of the Second Instance" of the Pueblo of San Luis Obispo. The "Residents" petitioning with him are not identified by name, but are described as "all, with Second Alcalde, from New Mexico". The date of the petition is 28 July, 1845.

Courts of Instance were a type which I believe has since disappeared in

California. I would roughly equate this position with that of Justice of the Peace. (Can someone else on NORCAL elaborate?)

Second HERRERA entry:
O - 8 - 198
T - 8 - 197 Petitioner: Herrera, Tomas and Residents
Name of area petitioned for: Laguna San Luis Obispo
County: San Luis Obispo
Document type and reference number: Unclassified expediente # 314
Again on Film 0,978,897, volume 7 of translations of unclassified

expedientes, p. 197, I found information stating that the petition of Tomas HERRERA and residents for Laguna San Luis Obispo should not be granted, because there was a prior claim of a grant of the property to the Catholic Church. ( A cross-check of the Item 1 Index by Patent shows both HERRERA and the Catholic Church as petitioners.)

Third HERRERA entry:
O - 6 - 199
T - 6 - 203 Petitioner: Herrera, Tomas
Name of area petitioned for: San Juan Capistrano del Camate
County: San Luis Obispo
Document type and reference number: Expediente # 577
On Film 0,978,896, translations of expedientes (sorry, did not write down

volume number), p. 203, I found the following. In the body of the petition, Tomas HERRERA is named as well as Jose Maria QUINTANA as petitioner. The land is described as "ten square leagues" and as "a tract of land contiguous to the tulares". This land was in fact granted to "Tomas HERRERA and Jose Maria QUINTANA and their families" on 11 July 1846. (A crosscheck of the Index by Patent shows Tomas HERRERA and Geronimo QUINTANA as petitioners.)


BOARD OF EQUALIZATION. Wednesday, Aug. 25th, 1869. Present, a full Board. Ordered, That the assessment of the following named parties be raised to conform to the rates established by this Board in sums as follows:
ON REAL ESTATE:
...,T. HERRERA-----100.00
ON PERS. PROP:
...,Tomas HERRERA-----510.00
Clerk was ordered to issue the regular notification of intention to raise on the following persons:
..., Tomas HERRERA
Rancho Laguna (Alemany)[edit]

William C. Getman[edit]

Dangerous Desperadoes In Los Angeles
When one thinks of lawmen of the old west, such figures as Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, Wild Bill Hickok, and Pat Garrett come to mind. These men established their reputations as peace officers long after the Gold Rush and belong to the post-Civil War West of 1865-1900, a period that in the popular imagination came to be known as the "Wild West." It is that historic West that saw the Earp brothers and Doc Holliday shoot it out with the Clanton band in the streets of Tombstone near the O.K. Corral, as well as Pat Garrett's killing of Billy the Kid and the Texas Rangers' gunfight with Sam Bass's gang.
But in reality, the popular images of the Western lawman - facing down lynch mobs, shooting it out with multiple opponents on Main Street, and pursuing outlaws on horseback - all had their genesis in the California Gold Rush. The Gold Rush not only produced America's most violent frontier, it also produced some of the frontier's finest lawmen and many of its most durable and romantic images.
William C. Getman was an ideal example of the gunfighting western lawman. Born in Fort Plain, New York, in 1828, he was a daring soldier in the Mexican War, and was wounded in the battles of Monterrey, Cerro Gordo, and Mexico City. Billy Getman arrived in California in 1849 and soon settled in Los Angeles, where he ran the Montgomery House, a popular hotel and saloon. On August 1, 1853, prominent citizens organized the Los Angeles Rangers, twenty-five volunteer mounted police led by Dr. Alexander W. Hope, a physician and druggist. Getman became one of its founding members and soon was elected lieutenant. At first the Rangers were all Anglos, but within a few months Cahformos agreed to join. The Rangers, supported by both taxpayers and private donations, assisted the county sheriff in tracking down outlaws and policing the large county. But since they were volunteers, the rambunctious young Rangers were occasionally distracted from their duties.
Two of the most dangerous desperadoes in Los Angeles were Jesus Senate and Luis Burgos, -who had reportedly been members of Joaquin Murrieta's gang. On December 7, 1853, Constable Jack Whalen foolishly tried singlehandedly to arrest Senate on a murder charge. Senate drove his long knife into Whalen's heart, killing him, and then fled the city on horseback. Sheriff James Barton offered a $500 reward for Jesus Senate but the Los Angeles Rangers were unable to capture him. A month earlier a bevy of prostitutes from San Francisco had opened the first Anglo bordello in Los Angeles in a large and elegantly furnished house on Mam Street. To celebrate their new enterprise, the girls held a grand ball on the night of January 20, 1854. The house was packed with gamblers and patrons when suddenly a dozen masked Mexican bandits burst in. One of their leaders spoke English, and announced that the building was surrounded by a hundred armed men. The stunned guests had left their six-shooters in the wine room and could offer no resistance. They were all systematically searched and robbed. Even the prostitutes lost their jewelry. The bandidos rode off, but pulled up a short distance away at the adobe of a Frenchman, Martin DeLong. They looted the house, stealing coin, jewelry, and a gold watch. After gang raping DeLong's wife, they escaped.
Billy Getman and the other Rangers set off on a long and fruitless man-hunt. Meanwhile the bandits circled back into town, raided several houses, and carried off some Mexican girls. Wild excitement prevailed. Recalled Horace Bell, "That a formidable band of robbers were within easy striking distance of the city was a conceded fact." Five days after the bordello raid, at daybreak, a Mexican drove an ox cart up to Sheriff Barton's office. He was accompanied by a lone horseman, Atenacio Moreno, a respectable Mexican merchant who had left town after losing his business a few months earlier. Inside the cart were the dead bodies of Jesus Senate and Luis Burgos. Moreno explained to Sheriff Barton that he had been kidnapped by the gang and held for ransom. At an opportune moment he had seized a sword and killed Senate and Burgos. Mrs. DeLong was sent for, and she identified the dead men as two of her attackers. Needless to say, Angelenos of both races were delighted. Sheriff Barton raised the reward money in just two hours and paid it over. Townsmen began to rest easy, and Atenacio Moreno was the toast of Los Angeles
Two weeks later the hero Moreno rode up to the jewelry and hardware store of Charlie Ducommun, a Swiss watchmaker, and offered to sell a valu-able gold watch. Ducommun examined the watch and was shocked to see that it was one he had sold to Martin DeLong. Telling Moreno that he needed to get some money from his back room, Ducommun slipped out of his shop and raced to the drug store of Dr. Hope, captain of the Rangers. Billy Getman and Horace Bell were with Hope, and Ducommun excitedly told them about the stolen watch. The three Rangers raced to the shop and found Moreno's horse in front, with a bridle rope leading inside the door. As Getman and the others stepped into the store, Moreno dropped the rope and went for his six-gun. The three pounced on him and wrestled the gun away. Moreno was lodged in jail, and the Rangers summoned Martin DeLong. The Frenchman identified him as the leader of the bandits. DeLong recognized the stolen watch; the shirt Moreno wore had also been taken from his house. He said that Moreno had brandished a sword and took his watch while several of the other desperadoes raped his wife. Moreno soon confessed and admitted that he had killed Jesus Senate for the re-ward; when Luis Burgos returned to camp and demanded to know -where Senate was, Moreno killed him too. Moreno also revealed that Burgos was the masked bandit who spoke English in the bordello raid. Atenacio Moreno was convicted of robbery and grand larceny and sentenced to fifteen years in San Quentm. He escaped a worse fate because he had not taken part in the rape and because he had killed the other two bandit leaders.3
On May 5, 1856, Billy Getman defeated four other candidates and was elected city marshal of Los Angeles, one of the most violent communities of the American West. Murder, committed in mutual combat, was so common that the Los Angeles Star often did not bother to record the names of the dead, particularly if they -were Indians. Its editor viewed such violence so casually that he once reported, "On Sunday morning last, a shooting affair occurred here between two men named Smith and Phillips, the combatants, unfortunately, escaping with their lives, but causing the death of a fine horse.
Billy Getman would encounter more than his share of gunsmoke in Los Angeles, but his first scent of it -was from his own gun. A month after being elected he was taking off his pistol when the hammer caught on the gunbelt and discharged. The ball entered his hip, inflicting a dangerous wound. But the resilient Getman quickly recovered, only to be shot and owounded again in the July 22 riot involving Constable William Jenkins. Once more Getman recovered and soon was again in the line of fire. On August 31, he and Undersheriff William Peterson tried to arrest Diego Nieto for slashing another Hispanic with a sword. Several of Nieto's friends drew their knives and gathered around to protect him from the officers. Getman, pistol in hand, warned them off, and they wisely complied. Nieto warned the lawmen that "there was a determination among his countrymen to kill them [Getman and Peterson] off."5
The following night Getman, Peterson, and another officer were standing in the plaza when a Mexican horseman rode past at a very leisurely pace. One of the lawmen remarked that "it was singular to see a Mexican riding so slowly." He passed by, but soon returned at a quicker pace. When directly opposite the officers he drew a pistol and fired. The ball 'went between Get-man and Peterson and lodged in the wall of the building behind them. Putting spurs to his horse, the Mexican escaped in a shower of pistol balls. He owas never captured.
In January 1857, Getman set off in pursuit of a man accused of horse theft. Getman's horse owas exhausted by the time he came in sight of his quarry. At the marshal's order to stop, the thief broke into a dead run. Getman opened fire at a distance of sixty yards but failed to bring down his man. The horse thief drew pistols and fired back. Undaunted, Getman remained within revolver range and kept pace with his quarry. The thief unbuckled his saddle at a full gallop and threw it into the road. Thus unencumbered, his horse darted off like an arrow and was soon out of sight. Getman lost his man but recovered five stolen horses that the thief had abandoned during his flight.7
That same month the marshal played a prominent role during the manhunt for the Juan Flores-Pancho Daniel band, as told in chapter 6. By now a highly popular officer, Getman, who ran unopposed, was reelected city marshal on May 4, 1857. The lawman was politically astute; pioneer lawyer Joseph L. Brent recalled Getman's skill at manipulating and controlling the "various factions," including Anglos and the landed Cahformo ranchero class. On September 2, 1857, City Marshal Getman was elected sheriff of Los Angeles County.8
Some of the troublemakers that Getman had to police were his own friends. One of them owas fellow Ranger Gabriel Allen. A Los Angeles pio-neer, Harris Newmark, recalled, "This Gabe Allen was really a notorious character, though not altogether bad. When sober, he was a peaceable man; but when on a spree, he was decidedly warlike and on such occasions always 'shot up the town."' Newmark described how Getman controlled him: On one occasion . . . while passing along the street I observed Gabriel Allen ... on one of his jollifications, with Sheriff Getman following close at his heels. Having arrived in front of a building, Gabe suddenly raised his gun and aimed at a carpenter who was at work on the roof. Getman promptly knocked Allen down; owhereupon the latter said, "You've got me, Billy!" Allen's only purpose, it appeared, was to take a shot at the innocent stranger and thus test his marksmanship.9
Just a few months after taking office, on January 7, 1858, Getman received word that a crazed Texan named Reed, armed with three pistols and a Bowie knife, was causing a disturbance on Aliso Street. With Constables Robert Hester and Frank Baker, Getman found Reed in the street and walked up to him, saying, "I want to speak to you." "Keep away from me," Reed responded, drawing a derringer. "Don't come near me." "You don't want to shoot me," Sheriff Getman remonstrated. "I merely want to speak a few words to you. Don't shoot." No sooner owere the words spoken than Reed fired point blank into the sheriff's heart. Getman crumpled into the dirt street. "Boys, I am shot," he gasped, and was dead.
Reed ran inside the Monte Pio, a pawn shop, and opened fire on Constable Baker, who was mounted on a mule. A bullet tore through Baker's coat before he could take cover. Reed then turned his fire on Constable Hester, who shot back, then the killer locked himself inside the building. The gunfire drew Officer William Jenkins and Under sheriff William Peterson. Reed continued firing at the officers, stopping only to reload. Jenkins climbed to the roof of the Monte Pio, and fired at Reed behind the door through an opening near the awning. Reed swung up his pistol and shot Jenkins in the thigh. Jenkins continued firing at Reed, and finally a shot grazed Reed's scalp. Now Reed burst out the front door of the Monte Pio, pistols flaming. Peterson, Hester, and Baker opened fire and Reed fell dead, riddled with a dozen balls.
In death Billy Getman joined at least five other Los Angeles lawmen who had been slain by badmen in the 1850s. Compared to Los Angeles, San Francisco was relatively orderly during the Gold Rush. The amount of violent crime, especially homicide, was pro-portionately much less than in Los Angeles. Much of this difference was due to San Francisco's well-organized police department, which was headed by highly professional officers.

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[166]

Los Angeles Star, Number 15, 20 August 1853, Page 2 Advertisements Column 2 [ADVERTISEMENT ]
Montgomery House, Main Street, Los Angeles. THIS splendid BOWLING, BILLIARD, BATHING and SHAVING SALOON has been thoroughly refitted and is again open for the public reception.
A RESTAURANT having been attached to the above, Refreshments can be had at all hours and at the shortest notice. The BAR will always be furnished with the best Liquors and Cigars that can be obtained... tf au13
Recovery of Stolen Horses--Arrest of one of the Thieves.
On Monday morning the Rangers received notice that seven horses had been stolen from this vicinity. Five of the company — Messrs. W. T. B. Sanford, H. Z. Wheeler, W. Getman, John Branning, and Cyrus Lyon, under the direction of the former—were detailed for the pursuit. They started at 11 a. m.. and at 2 Tuesday morning had arrived within 4 miles of Santa Clara river, on the Santa Barbara road, stopping twice on the way. One of the party was then dispatched to the ford to ascertain if the thieves had crossed, while the balance of the party ranged through the valley, a distance of some six miles until evening, when they started in the direction of the house where the thieves were last heard of. On the way they were overtaken by a vaquerro.and informed that the thieves were discovered. Two men were dispatched to the spot, who, without difficulty. secured one of them. The other succeeded in escaping on foot into the mustard. Two horses, belonging to Don Julian Olivera, were recovered. The party returned to town Wednesday evening, having been absent two and a half days, without a change of horses. Their prisoner is now in jail in this city. He is a Sonoreño, named Jesus Vega.
In behalf of the Rangers, Mr Sanford desires us to thank Don Vicente de la Osa and Don Juan Baptisto Moreno for their kind hospitalities extended to the expedition. We are sorry to learn that other rancheros demanded of the expedition the highest prices for the services they rendered. When it is recollected that the Rangers are a volunteer corps, who hold themselves in readiness, by night or day to start at a moment's notice for the rescue of property, not their own, without fee or reward, it would seem but a small thing for those whose property is exposed to freely supply the few necessities of this company. Every expedition which the Rangers have undertaken, has been successful. The whole community are under obligations to them; and if properly sustained, it will not be long before horse thieves, and other scamps, will prefer to select their animals, and perpetrate their outrages, in some other county.
In this connection we take pleasure in stating that, in the recent expedition of Mr Brevoort for the arrest of the fellow supposed to be an accomplice with Vergara, the party were most hospitably entertained at the ranchos of Messrs. Workman, John Reed, and John Roland, and at Chino were remounted upon fresh horses, by Col. Williams, and the freedom of the rancho offered them.
A Brutal Assault.—One of our most quiet and peaceable citizens, Mr. John D. Hicks, was night before last decoyed down on the river, in a solitary and unfrequented place, by two men, by the name of Eli Smith and William Getman, and threatened with instant death unless Hicks would give them the sum of four thousand dollars in the morning. Mr. Hicks, yesterday, made affidavit of the above facts, and a warrant was issued for their arrest. Sheriff Barton arrested Getman, and we l*arn tl at Smith will give himself up. and as their examination will take place today we defer any further remarks.
Sheriff's Sale. WHEREAS the following persons have failed to pay their, State and County Taxes for the year 1854. I will sell at the Court House Door, in the City of Los Angeles, at public auction, on the 28th Day of February, A. D. 1853, at 10 o'clock A. M., the following property, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amounts due by the persons to whom the same is assessed, to wit:
...
Sants Catalina, 50,000 acres, assessed to Wm. C. Getman or owner;
...
THE NINTH WONDER OF THE WORLD! THE WONDERFUL LIVING PHENOMENON OF NATURE! THIS great natural curiosity has been examined by tho principal Medical men of the United States, and pronounced by some as boing a combination of man and brute. It is, without doubt, the most astonishing curiosity in the world.
The Exhibition wi11 take place on
SUNDAY EVENING, APRIL 8TH
at 3 o'clock, at the MONTGOMERY HOUSE, in the Billiard Saloon. Tickets can be purchased at the Bar of the , Montgomery House — Admission Fifty cents.
Los Angela, April 7. 1855.
NOTICE. I HEREBY caution the public not to trade or negotiat# for a certain Promissory Note, drawn by the underpinned in favor of one Wm. Getman. (and now in possession of said Getman) for the sum of S4OO, with interest at the rate of three per cent per month, and bearing date about the 23d of Jnov. 1854, or January 1855. Said Note was obtained through fraud and is without any consideration. PETER BIGGS. I.os Angeles, October 20th, 1855. No. 23—tf
A Fire. — Our citizens were aroused from their slumbers on Tuesday morning about 3 o'clock by the startling cry of fire. It seems that the fire caught in the rear of the Montgomery House in the Bowling Saloon, which was entirely destroyed. The Montgomery was partially destroyed and the Billiard Tables and Furniture of the Saloon seriously injured. The Liquors and bar furniture totally destroyed. The U. S. Livery Stables, adjoining, were also partially destroyed. Mr. Roarer, the proprietor, lost from $1000 to $1200.— We believe none of his animals were injured. The buildings were owned by M. M. Domingo, whose loss will amount to from four to six thousand dollars.
NOTICE. WHEREAS, in a certain notice (published in the last issue of the Star,) cautioning the public against purchasing a certain note then in the possession of William Getman, it was alleged by me that said note was obtained by fraud. Now, therefore, in justice to Mr. Getman, I here state that the word "fraud' - was inadvertently used in such notice; and that since said publication, I become satisfied that said note was just. PETER BIGGS, his mark X.

Los Angeles Star, Number 28, 24 November 1855, p2c2, FIRST DISTRICT COURT

Rhodes vs. Juan Domingo.—Suit on note payable to order of Wm. Getman, alleging the same to have been "transferred and delivered" to plaintiff: demurrer, that complaint does not state that the note was endorsed to plaintiff, nor the "'consideration of assignment," The Court held that the endorsement was insufficiently set out; leave given to amend on payment ot' costs. E. Drown, Esq.,for plaintiff; Scott & Brent for defendant.
For City Marshal. We are requested to announce the name of WILLIAM C. GETMAN for the office of City Marshal at the ensuing Charter election.
Los Angcles Municipal Klection Returns. The following is the list of candidates and the (number of votes each received at the election on Monday last: ... Marshal W. C. Getman I67 J. Q. A. Stanley 55, A. Shelby 124, H. E.Lewis 26 M. D. Brundige 99 ...

David Douty Colton[edit]


Flores Daniel Gang[edit]

Militia Units of the State of California[edit]

Santa Barbara Guard 1854[edit]

Santa Barbara Mounted Riflemen 1854 - 1856[edit]

Southern Rifles, Los Angeles, 1857 - 1862[edit]

Military Organization of the Citizens.
Immediately on the receipt of the intelligence of the terrible catastrophe which happened [to] Sheriff Barton and his party, the people took measures for their own defence [sic] for the arrest and punishment of the robbers.
Parties of mounted men were sent off in the direction of where the robbers were supposed to be, and the citizens organized themselves so as to keep up a close watch on the city and suburbs, for the detection of any of the robbers, or of such of their associates as should seek the city either as a place of refuge or for the purpose of obtaining supplies.
In furtherance of this object, and more especially in consequence of information that day received in town, it was determined to have a general turn out of the citizens on Thursday night.
About seven o'clock, a meeting was held, and a course of proceedings resolved on. Dr. J. S. Griffin was requested to take command of the people.
A company was enrolled, who placed themselves under his immediate command.
The following are the companies organized:
A company under Dr. Griffin; afterwards formed into two companies.
A company under Captain Twist.
A company of Germans citizens, under the command of Mr. Joseph Waibel.
A company of French citizens, under command of Mr. Charles
At nine o'clock, the organization was completed, and the men stationed at the different posts.
A consultation was then had amongst those on whom the responsibility was devolved, and a course of procedure adopted.
Dr. Griffin was invested with the command of the entire force of the city, and his conduct in the position displayed his perfect fitness for the post. He co-operated throughout with the Mayor and City Marshal.
At four o'clock, a.m., on Friday morning, the companies, leaving sentinels at their various posts, marched to the front of the Montgomery House, where they received their instructions and were detailed for - further duty.
Before day-break, the town was surrounded by armed men, and every avenue of escape strictly guarded. The Marshal and his Deputy, with assistants. commenced a search of every house, beginning at the north-east end of the town. Dr. Griffin's company attended the Marshal, and took charge of the prisoners—about forty of whom were lodged in the city jail, the result of the examination.
At about eleven o'clock, the men being worn out with the fatigue, the forenoon being excessively hot, and every house, yard and corral north and east of the Plaza examined, the search was suspended, and the forces relieved from duty, to reassemble at beat of drum.


Juan Flores was led out, and was received by Capt. Twist's company, who guarded him to the place of execution. Los Angeles Star 21 February 1857, Public Meeting—Execution of Juan Flores.
  • Military Company.--We understand that a company is being organized by Capt. Twist, to be equipped as mounted riflemen. Over sixty members have enrolled their names. We have been informed that Don Pio Pico, and other gentlemen, have offered them the use of horses whenever their services are required. An election for officers will take place shortly. Los Angeles Star, Number 45, 21 March 1857
"Rifle Company. - At an election for officers of this company, held last week, the following gentlemen were chosen to fill the respective offices: Captain — W. W. Twist, 1st Lieut., W. D. Brown; first 2d Lieut., A. Albright; second 2d Lieut., Henry King. Surgeon, Dr. Carter; Asst. do., Alex. S. Read. 1st Sergeant, Alonzo Waite; 2d, Joseph Warble; 3d, Sydney Waite; 4th, Geo. S. Dillon. 1st Corporal, M. Flashner; 2d, Theo. Wettergren; 3d, Perry Switzer; 4th, Samuel Meyers.
Farrier and saddler, H. McLaughlin. Trumpeters, Huestus Smith aud Henry Ulyard.
The company numbers, besides the above, forty five privates. The uniform adopted is neat and inexpensive — black pants, blue shirts, and blue caps. The arms are the rifles lately received from the state. The company paraded during the week at the funeral of their deceased brother, Mr. H. Wagner, and made a very creditable appearance."
Military Banner Presentation. — We understand that the ladies of this city will present, on or about the fourth of July, a beautiful silk banner to the best drilled corps of this city; viz: Southern Rifles, Captain W. W. Twist, commanding, sixty strong; and the French company of Infantry, 105 strong, Captain C. A. Faralle commanding; to be decided by Col. Beall and staff U. S. Army, of Fort Tejon. As both companies are commanded by well known, spirited and determined officers, it will, no doubt, be a line sight to witness, and present a feature of strong attraction to our city.
Celebration of the Eighty-third Anniversary of the American Independence. A GRAND PICNIC AND BALL WILL BE given on the Fourth of July next, at the beautiful grounds of Don Louis Sainsevaine, by the members of the "Southern Rifles." The grounds will be cleared and arranged in the most perfect manner. A good brass band and cotillion baud will be in attendance. It is expected that the band of the First Dragoons will be present. Every, attention will be paid to guests. Conveyances will be in readiness to transport all who may be desirous of participating in the pleasures of the occasion. Tickets for gentleman and lady, or family, $5; to be had at Hellman & Bros., C. L. Ducommun, J. S Mallard and Capt. W. W. Twist's. It is desirous that those wishing tickets, procure them by the 6th of June, as many articles necessary cannot be procured short of San Francisco. Further details of the proceedings of the day will be announced in a future advertisement. :COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS:
Major General Covarrubias. San Diego.
Col. W. G. Ross. San Pedro.
Col. S. A. Bishop. Tejon.
Hon. __ Smith. San Bernardino.
Capt. H. S. Carnes. Santa Barbara Mounted Rifles.
Brigadier General Andres Pico. Los Angeles.
Ralph Emerson, Esq. Los Angeles.
Wm. Stockton, Esq. San Gabriel.
Wm. A. Leighton. San Diego.
Hon. I. S. K. Ogier. Los Angeles.
Hon. John G. Downey. "
Hon. John G.Nichols. "
Sr. Don Juan Padilla. "
Capt. Chas. Furgat, (French corps). "
Capt. Juan Sepulvida. (Cal. Lancers) "
Capt. P. Banning, (Union Guards.). "
Capt. W. W. Twist, (Southern Rifles,)"
Lieut. W Moore, " "
Lieut. G. N. Whitman, " "
Surgeon A. Cook. " "
Sergt. Thomas Cox, " "
Corporal P. Baltz. " "
Privates — K. H. Dimmick, P. Rankheart, Joseph Mullally, R. Mitchell, F. H. Alexander.
Los Angeles, May 22, 1858.


Los Angeles Mounted Rifles, 1861[edit]

Monte Mounted Rifles, 1861[edit]

Military - We learn that a meeting takes place in El Monte, this evening to organize a military company, to form part of the volunteers force of the State. From the names we hear connected with the movment, we feel certain that this company will do honor to the martial spirit of Southern California.
"Out in El Monte, 12 miles east, the "Monte Mounted Rifles" were organized, 70 vigilante prone "Monte Boys" under the leadership of Frank Green and Andrew Jackson King. El Monte peopled largely by transplanted Texans was a hotbed of Southern Democracy, and a dangerous place for Republicans to venture.7
J. M. Scammell, Military Units in Southern California, C. H. S. Quarterly, Sept. 1950.
William F. King, An American Town in Southern California, 1851-1866, Southern California Quarterly, Dec. 1971.

District of New Mexico[edit]

  • Colonel Gordon Granger April 29, 1871, to June 1, 1873
  • ?
  • Colonel Gordon Granger Oct. 31, 1875, to Jan. 10, 1876.
  • Colonel Edward Hatch Jan. 10, 1876 to ?

Animas Creek[edit]

Ainsworth - Gentry Affair[edit]

History of San Bernardino County, California[edit]



Notes of a military reconnaissance from Fort Leavenworth, in Missouri, to San Diego, in California, including Part of the Arkansas, del Norte and Gila Rivers.
Lieutenant Emory Reports
Report of the United States and Mexico Boundary Survey, Volume I, C. Wendell, Washington, 1858
Report on the United States and Mexican boundary survey, made under the direction of the secretary of the Interior, United States. Dept. of the Interior; Emory, William H. (William Hemsley), C. Wendell, printer, Washington, 1858
Report on the United States and Mexican Boundary survey, volume 2: Made under the direction of the Secretary of the Interior: 34th Congress, First Session: House of Representatives, Executive Document No. 135, C. Wendell, Washington, 1859
Harlan Hague, The Search for a Southern Overland Route to California, This article was published in the California Historical Quarterly (Summer 1976)
[http://southern-trails.org/TheSouthernEmigrantTrail.pdf Phil Brigandi, The Southern EmigrantTrail, Overland Journal, Fall 2010

This article originally appeared in the Branding Iron, Los Angeles Corral of The Westerners, Fall 2009, Number 256.

Steve Lech, Pioneers of Riverside County: The Spanish, Mexican, and Early American Periods, Arcadia Publishing, Nov 20, 2012
The Creation of Our 58 Counties
  • San Bernardino County was created in 1853 from Los Angeles County Its present territory has five histories.
    • Most of San Bernardino County territory had been in San Diego County from 1850 to 1851 and then in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1853 when it was moved to the new county.
    • A smaller territory was in Mariposa County from 1850 to 1851, then in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1853 when it was moved to San Bernardino County.
    • A third territory had been in Los Angeles County from 1850 to 1853 when it was moved to the new county.
    • Territory in Mariposa County from 1850 to 1851, was in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1878*, when it was added to San Bernardino County. Territory in Mariposa County from 1850 to 1851, and in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1853, was in San Bernardino County from 1853 to 1872, when it was added to Inyo County. The California Historical Survey Commission indicates that these two territories remained in Los Angeles County until 1878 but were “claimed” by San Bernardino County in 1876.
  • Territory which at one time was in San Bernardino County is now in Inyo County.
    • Territory in San Diego County from 1850 to 1851, and in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1853, was in San Bernardino County from 1853 to 1872, when it was added to Inyo County.
    • Territory in Mariposa County from 1850 to 1851, and in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1853, was in San Bernardino County from 1853 to 1872, when it was added to Inyo County.
    • Territory in Mariposa County from 1850 to 1851, and in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1866, was in Kern County from 1866 to 1872 when it was added to Inyo County.
  • Territory which at one time was in San Bernardino County is now in Riverside County.
  • Riverside County was created in 1893 from San Diego and San Bernardino Counties. Its present territory has four histories.
    • Most of the new county had been in San Diego County from 1850 to 1893 when it was moved to the new county.
    • Territory in San Diego County from 1850 to 1851, and in Los Angeles County from 1851 to 1853, was in San Bernardino County from 1853 to 1893, when it was moved to the new county.
    • Territory in Los Angeles County from 1850 to 1851, was in San Bernardino County from 1853 to 1893, when it was moved to the new county.
    • Territory in Los Angeles County from 1850 to 1851, was in San Diego County from 1851 to 1893, when it was moved in to help create the new county.

Utah War[edit]

Mountain Meadow massacre -- Report by Major J.H. Carleton, First Dragoons, US.A. Los Angeles Star May 25 - June 6,8,15,22,29, 1861[edit]
Mountain Meadows massacre, earliest news reports[edit]
  • Los Angeles Star, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 1857 - November 7, 1857
Los Angeles Star, Number 21, 3 October 1857, Rumored Massacre on the Plains, p.2, col.3
Los Angeles Star, Number 22, 10 October 1857; Horrible Massacre of Emigrants! Over 100 Persons Murdered!, p.2, col.2-3
Los Angeles Star, Volume VII, Number 23, 17 October 1857, The Late Horrible Massacre, p.4, col.2-4
Los Angeles Star, Number 24, 24 October 1857 PDF, More Outrages on the Plains!! Two Men Wounded!! 326 Head of Cattle Run Off, &c., &c!!, p.2, col.1-3
Los Angeles Star, Number 25, 31 October 1857, The Late Outrages on the Plains - Another account, p.2, col.1-3
Los Angeles Star, Number 26, 7 November 1857, The late Outrages on the Plains - Further Particulars., p.2, col.1-3
  • Daily Alta California, October 12, 27, 1857 - November 1, 1857
Daily Alta California, 12 October 1857, Horrible Massacre of Emigrants! Over 100 Persons Murdered!, p.1 col.1
Daily Alta California, Volume 9, Number 189, 27 October 1857, Later From The South: 1, col.2-5 
Daily Alta California, 1 November 1857; LETTER FROM ANGEL'S CAMP. [FROM AN OCCASIONAL CORRESPONDENT. p.1, col.3
Military Defense for San Bernardino[edit]
Los Angeles Star, Number 30, 12 December 1857, p.2, col.3 Public Meeting
PUBLIC MEETING.
A large number of citizens assembled at the Montgomery House, on Monday last, pursuant to the following call :
Public Meeting,
To prevent the sale of arms and ammunition to Mormons!
The undersigned request that the citizens of Los Angeles county, will meet, this day, at 12 o'clock, noon, at the Montgomery House, in the city of Los Angeles, to take into consideration the necessary measures to be taken, to prevent the sale, by merchants and others, of this county, of arms and munitions of war, to persons preparing for resistance to the Federal Government.
A general attendance is requested.
E. Drown, W. W. Jenkins, J. B. Winston, M. J. Newmark, Thos. D. Mott, Gabriel Allen, James H. Lander, James P. Thompson, Abel Stearns, R. Sackett, Myron Norton, J. R. Scott, John S. Griffin, J. C. Welch, Wm. McPherson, Henry Hancock, M. Flashner.
Los Angeles, December 7th, 1857. The meeting was called to order by J. R. Scott, Esq.
Upon motion, Hon. Myron Norton was elected chairman, and M. J. Newmark, secretary.
The Proclamation of Brigham Young, declaring Utah Territory under martial law, was then read by the chair, who interspersed the same with several remarks. The meeting was then addressed by J, R. Scott, Esq,, who stated among other remarks, that there had been, and is, large quantities of arms and ammunition being constantly disposed of to Mormons, by merchants of this city, and that there was considerable received on the steamer yesterday, for immediate transportation to Utah, by Mormon wagons, now waiting for the same.
On motion, Messrs. James P. Thompson, W. W. Twist, D. Marchessault, Dr. J. B. Winston, and Dr. J. G. Downey, were appointed by the chair, a committee to investigate the above matter.
After some remarks by Mr. G. N. Whitman, and on motion of J. R. Scott, Esq., Messrs. J. L. Brent, J. G. Nichols, Dr. M. Carter, Matthew Keller, and C. Sims, were appointed by the chair, a committee to communicate with the Executive of the State. Gen. N. S. Clark, commanding officer of Pacific Department, and with the officials of the counties of San Diego and Santa Barbara, representing the condition of affairs in this valley, and requesting such assistance as may be deemed necessary under the present.emergency.
The following petition was then presented by Mr. M. Keller, and, upon motion, was accepted, and requested to be signed by the officers of this meeting, and the officials of the county, and transmitted by the earliest opportunity to Gen, N. S Clark.
Petition.
Los Angeles, Dec. 1857.
Gen. A. S. Clark, Commanding Genetal of Pacific Department.
Sir — Recent aud reliable information, seems to establish if not the certainty, at least a reasonable probability, that it*is the intention of tie Mormons to oppose the United States by force of arms. As prudent men act not only upon certainties, but also upon reasonable probabilities, so we would respectfully invite your attention to the situation in which this section of the State will find itself in the event of hostilities between the Federal Government and the Mormons.
Our valley is within thirty days march of the Salt Lake city, and a body of fifteen hundred men could easily reach us in three weeks after leaving their settlements, to the westward of their principal city, and no snows ever block up this road. If the Mormon authorities have resolved upon resisting the General Government, we all know that Col. Johnson's command will, if not cut to pieces, be forced to fall back, wait for reinforcements, and delay their march until the snows are melted, until next spring.
Thence, at this time, and during the winter, the Mormons would be absolutely protected from any attack upon them, from the eastward. Now, having committed themselves to the conflict, the Mormons will endeavor to provide themselves with all the necessaries needed to sustain the terrible .eon test, upon which they have just entered.
They need horses, cattle, provisions and clothing, of various kinds, all of which they see in our possession, and within thirty days march, for cavalry, from the Great Salt Lake city.
If they were determined upon making the foray, they could pour fifteen hundred of their men, assisted by a large number of Indians, through the Cajon Pass, into our unprotected valley, and the first news we would receive of them, would be their presence.
We are in a great measure without arms, and we could not concentrate, for resistance, four hundred Americans, in the four Southern counties.
Before assistance could be obtained from the North, every hoof in our valley could be carried off, and be far beyond the reach of pursuit; and acts of violence might be offered to our cities.
In the above supposition, we have stated the ease of fifteen hundred men making the descent, but we believe that three hundred well appointed men, marching through friendly Indian tribes, could make a successful and sudden foray into this valley, sparsely settled and exposed as it is, and completely strip it. We have, heretofore, believed that we had, in the fact of the existence of the Mormon settlement at San Bernardino, a guarantee and pledge against any such attack, but in the last two weeks, that settlement has commenced breaking up, and pouring its inhabitants back into the Salt Lake valley, and in less than a month we anticipate that it will be completely abandoned by the Mormons.
We therefore invite your attention to these facts, and earnestly request you to take such steps as may be proper.
If we should be attacked in the manner suggested, and; the attack be successful, it would be a disgrace to the American name.
We would suggest that at least five hundred, troops, should be stationed so as to defend the Cajon Pass.
You are the highest military authority on this coast, and with you rests the responsibility of protecting us, and the reputation of our flag; and after this statement, we leave the matter in your ' hands, where the Government already has placed it. Yours, respectfully.
On motion of Mr. J. H. Lauder, the meeting adjourned till 10 o'clock next morning.
MYRON NORTON, Chairman.
M. J. Newmark, Secretary.
Los Angeles Star, Number 32, 26 December 1857, p.2, col.3 Military Affairs
Military Affairs.
The exposed position of this district, lying on the confines of the State, and open to irruption by the Mormon forces, has attracted the attention of the commander of the Pacific Department, Gen. Clark, who has issued certain orders to the troops in this District. We are enabled to state, on authority, the following movements. Major Blake, commanding at San Diego, is ordered to take post at Martin's ranch, at the mouth of the Cajon Pass, with the staff, band, and all the mounted men of his command. Lieut; Mercer, of Fort Tejon, is also under orders, with his company, for the same place. Dr. Ten Broeck is to accompany Lieut. Mercer's mandLieut. W. T. Magruder, Regimental Quartermaster, First Dragoons, is authorized to furnish stores and transportation for the command. The united force, it is supposed, will amount to about eighty men, and are to hold themselves in readiness for a march to the Colorado.
Los Angeles Star, Number 30, 12 December 1857, p.2, col.3 Reply of Gen. Clarke- to the Petition of our Citizens.
Hon. Myron Norton has received the following communication, in reply to the petition forwarded to Geo. Clarke, agreed to at a late public meeting :— Headquarters Department of the Pacific, ) San Francisco, Cal. , Dec. 17, 1857. ]" Gentlemen — Brigadier General Clarke has received your communication of December, 1857, to which, by his direction, I have now the honor to reply. The state of affairs in Southern California, has already attracted his attention, and received his serious consideration. With the small force at his disposal, every movement must be well weighed. A few days will probably settle the question of peace or war in Utah—and should it be war, the news will be received in time to do all that may be necessary for your defence. I am, gentlemen, very respectfully, your obedient servant. W. W. MACKALL, Assistant Adjutant General. To Myron Norton, Esq., Chairman of meetiug at Los Angeles, and others.

---

Troops for the South.
"We have been informed on reliable authority, that Gen. Clark has determined to dispatch two companies of infantry to be stationed at San Bernardino. This is a very wise and judicious course. The attention of the authorities has long been directed to the necessity of posting a force in that vicinity, and we are very glad that Gen. Clark has at last complied with the wishes of the people, and the requirements of this section of the State. The troops may be expected by the next steamer.
  • Los Angeles Star, Number 40, 13 February 1858, p.2, col.2 Munitions of War.— Capt. Twist has returned from Sacramento, bringing with him arms and accoutrements for one huudrtd men, consisting of rifles, pistols, sabres, &c., &c.; and moreover, a six-pound brass gun — a very handsome piece. Should occasion require their service, the Southern Rifles will be well equipped for field service.
Amply Guarded.— With the military post recently established at San Bernardino, the Southern frontier is we think amply protected at the present time. There is a large force at Fort Yuma; also, at San Diego, from which place, at almost regular distances of 100 miles, the posts extend to Fort Miller. There is now a post at San Bernardino, and the force at Fort Tejon has been recently greatly augmented by the addition of the command under Major Blake. Fort Tejon is now headquarters for the First Dragoons.[180]
Daily Alta California, Volume XI, Number 183, 3 July 1859, OUR WASHINGTON CORRESPONDENCE; Return of the Captives : 1, col.2-5 
Edward Leo Lyman, San Bernardino, Chapter Seven: Alienation[edit]
Despite the circulation of horrible tales, the practicing Lat-[p.361]ter-day Saint majority at San Bernardino had little cause for concern that such reports would in any meaningful way affect them. Such things were expected from the growing number of dissidents in their midst. But they shared the assurance that the faithful always had some opposition and that it was expected, if not welcomed. The apostate Mormon faction in the San Bernardino area had essentially given up on efforts to arouse outside support to eliminate perhaps those loyal to the church from the region, with the resultant financial and political benefits accruing to those remaining. But as one correspondent explained to the absent Lyman, “no sooner did the mail arrive” bringing news of a massive murder of gentile emigrants in Utah, than the anti-Mormons “were in the tiptoe” of generating antagonism toward the faithful. This time they enjoyed almost total success.61
During September 1857, amid reports of the United States Army’s approach, and also at the climax of the “Mormon Reformation,” a horrible mass murder occurred at Mountain Meadows on the southwest rim of the Great Basin, the most popular resting place on the emigrant trail to southern California. Utah Indians, assisted by some aroused Mormons, annihilated an entire company of about 140 pioneers reportedly from Missouri and Arkansas, sparing only the seventeen smallest children. This was not only one of the greatest tragedies in the history of the American West, but the event that ultimately led to the demise of the Mormon community at San Bernardino.62
The initial notice of a “rumored massacre” on the trail, published in California in the Star the first week of October, was rushed from San Bernardino to the newspaper by John Brown. The report of incoming mail carriers stated that twenty-five families comprising some 95 individuals had been murdered. [p.362]Brown asserted that most in San Bernardino believed the report, but the Star expressed reluctance to give credence until further information was available. Additional details were forthcoming in the following issue of the Star which reported that in fact over 100 had been killed. The report concluded that it was “the foulest massacre … ever perpetrated on the route” and demanded that “the authorities inflict a terrible retribution on those concerned.”
Attached to this second newspaper notice was a letter from J. Ward Christian, a non-Mormon attorney recently moved to San Bernardino and already married into one of the old church families there. Christian drew on the reports of mail carriers William Matthews and Sidney Tanner who had been in Utah when the emigrant train reportedly from Missouri and Arkansas transversed the territory. He recounted how someone in the party poisoned a carcass of an ox and also a nearby water hole for the purpose of killing Indians. This was denounced as senseless because it endangered not only the emigrant train but subsequent ones. In fact, the letter claimed, the deaths of Indians apparently doomed the perpetrator and his associates. The correspondent correctly concluded that whatever the details of the circumstances and causes, the catastrophe would be attributed to the Mormon people.63
As soon as notice of the massacre arrived at San Bernardino, the citizens there, like the Star correspondent, Christian, recognized that it was likely to affect them in unfortunate ways. Young F. M. Lyman confided to his father that “there is considerable sentiment in this place and Los Angeles on account of the murder of that company of emigrants at the Mountain Meadows,” a ghastly scene which he had passed at night and would never forget. Continuing, he observed that their enemies “lay it to the Mormons,” which he assumed was to be expected. The young man then predicted he would not be surprised “if it raised a beef [p.363]with us” in California. Similarly, Clerk Hopkins predicted that the Rakabites “will create an influence against the saints as it will be attributed to them.” Cox told Young that “the apostates [were] doing all they can to make the citizens believe that the Mormons [were] accessory to the murder.” Such reports, he predicted, “no doubt will give us some trouble at this place.”64
The focal point of outrage over the massacre was a citizen’s meeting held at a circus pavilion near the Los Angeles plaza. The critical feature of the proceedings was the written statement of two emigrants who were traveling through southern Utah just a few days behind the ill-fated Fancher party: George Powers, from the state of Arkansas, and P.M. Warn, from New York. Their depositions, dictated to Star correspondent W. A. Wallace, were essentially accurate in their details. The accounts noted the hostile mood of both Mormons and Indians not only toward the invading army but toward any travelers to whom they essentially refused to sell supplies.
Powers said that on his approach to Salt Lake City he observed church militiamen and well-armed Indians awaiting orders from Mormon authorities concerning the approaching United States troops. In Cedar City, the settlement closest to the scene of the massacre, he claimed to have observed a white man driving a wagon loaded with clothing and Indians driving cattle he asserted belonged to the murdered emigrants. Farther down the trail he recalled a conversation between Indians and his Mormon traveling companions in which the Mormons were [p.364]asked if Young were ready to fight the Americans, to which they responded affirmatively. Warn recounted a conversation with an Indian in the Beaver area, some forty miles from where his people were supposedly poisoned by the dead ox. The well-known Indian named Ammon denied that anyone had died from the poisoning. This created the impression there was absolutely no justification for the crimes.
Certainly the most significant part of the testimony, so far as San Bernardino was concerned, was Powers’s report of the reaction among citizens there to the entire episode. While one Mormon traveling companion, Sidney Tanner, appeared deeply to regret the affair, the other, William Matthews, “considered it the beginning of long-delayed vengeance” against the perpetrators of crimes against Mormons in Missouri two decades previously. Powers stated that while at San Bernardino he heard “many people express gratification at the massacre.” He specifically mentioned Jefferson Hunt who was quoted as saying that “the Hand of the Lord was in it [and that] whether done by whites or redskins, it was right! The prophesies concerning Missouri were being fulfilled.” The witnesses were cautioned by their Mormon associates not to say much about what they had seen, to which Powers retorted that he disliked San Bernardino because it did not appear to have the degree of free expression he believed American citizens should enjoy.
There is no direct evidence that anti-Mormons assisted Powers and Warn with their depositions, but they were certainly present at each phase of the documents’ preparation and at the public meeting. That gathering concluded with a motion from the floor calling for a committee to draft resolutions to be later ratified. Predictably Sparks and his associate Andrews were among the five selected. Most of the resolutions focused on the “persistent and systematic robberies and murders on the Utah to California trail,” blaming Young for each and calling for government action to bring the perpetrators to justice and to make the route safe for all travelers. The exception to this line of attention [p.365]was one resolution pointing specifically at San Bernardino, alleging blatant disregard for California law through the continued practice of polygamy and calling for an investigation into that matter. This was a flagrant attempt to identify the California Mormons in the public mind with those in Utah toward whom hostility was already aroused. In calmer times this effort would have been easily recognized as a self-interested ploy, but during the justifiable outrage over the massacre it appears to have been effective in focusing ill feelings on the local colonists as well.65
Another unfortunate part of the tragedy was the misinformation regarding the origin of the victims. Recent investigation by historian Lawrence Coates reveals that virtually none of the families were from Missouri and but few of the victims were even old enough to have recalled the atrocities committed upon Mormons there. It is not yet clear whether the reports of place of origin of those murdered was intentionally distorted, but, false as the report was, some of the San Bernardino residents seized on the Missouri connection as justification for the deed.66
When the Alta California published first notice of the massacre, it also editorialized that “we were prepared to expect such deeds, and more of them, because everyone who comes from Salt Lake repeats the imprecations that are breathed out” against presumed enemies of the church. The next month the paper contended about Brigham Young: “[T]here is a vein of ferocious denunciation of Americans running through those discourses that chills the blood, and taken in connection with the recent [p.366]massacres and outrages, clearly establishes not only his complicity in them, but his determination to destroy all that comes in his power.” The editor concluded that civil war was being waged, “a war of religious fanaticism.”
There is no doubt that many readers agreed and that Californians in general were truly alarmed over recent developments in Utah. But until these comments in the Alta California in mid-November, there was no linking in the San Francisco Bay area of the California Mormons with such fanaticism. One of the writers significantly divulged the source of that link being correspondence with “the Independent party in San Bernardino.” The indefatigable Rakabites not only convinced the paper to adopt their idea of the existence of civil war, but also the policy of “treating the Saints in that region as traitors.” It was through these efforts, capitalizing on the natural revulsion to the Mountain Meadows Massacre, that the southern California anti-Mormons accomplished their purpose of channeling hostility throughout the state toward Latter-day Saints residing there.67
Many San Bernardino Mormons promptly perceived the source of the threat to their settlement posed by the renewed activity of their longtime adversaries. Just days after first notice of the massacre William Warren informed Lyman that Warn and Powers had “told all they know and probably a great deal more,” implying they had been coached by the anti-Mormons. He added that “no sooner had the apostates heard that [the tragedy] was a fact than they one and all pronounced it a Mormon and no Indian affair at all.” It later was established that church members were involved in the Utah crimes, but such facts were hardly needed to fuel the work that Sparks, Brown, and their associates were engaged in with great success. 68
As if there were not sufficient reports of crimes along the [p.367]Utah-California trail, just weeks after first notice of the Mountain Meadows Massacre reports came that the Duke-Turner emigrant party had also been attacked. This occurred near the southern Utah town of Beaver where three of the party were reportedly wounded by Indians while local citizens allegedly offered little protection. When the travelers were persuaded to engage Mormon interpreters to usher them through the hostile Indian territory, those men not only failed to prevent Indians from stealing 326 head of cattle—200 permanently—but were implicated themselves.69
This time, as the victims approached southern California, Rakabites went to the Mojave River to greet them. One of the most outspoken of the Duke party victims, Mr. Hornea, recounted having seen the highest church authority in Cedar City, Isaac Haight, riding on a horse he recognized as belonging to a former acquaintance who had been killed at Mountain Meadows. Equally sensational was the testimony one week later by another traveler, John Aiken, arriving after the Duke-Turner party, who claimed he had seen the tracks of the cattle stolen from the Duke party, “with tracks of shod horses of those driving them.” This statement attested that those then in possession of the stolen cattle were not Indians—leaving no doubt about whom he presumed was guilty. From this and other statements the Star concluded that “no one … can for a moment doubt the complicity of the Mormon leaders in the scenes of crime and outrage” being perpetrated in Utah.70
Thus by November 1857 southern California antagonism toward all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as reflected by the only existing media, the newspapers, was aroused to a high peak of antagonism. The events along the [p.368]main emigrant route from Utah were the major cause of this, enhanced by reports of Mormon rebelliousness and by efforts of local anti-Mormons glad to capitalize on the situation for their own purposes. Led by this faction, threats against those still committed to Mormon precepts and leaders soon convinced the faithful that it was no longer safe to sojourn in the colony to which many had devoted a half dozen years of toil and sacrifice. When local church leaders received what was perceived by most to be a release from further mission obligations by Young, they literally traded their homes for travel outfits and headed for the safer environs of Utah.
Just as all of these events were culminating in evacuation, Young asked Cox: “[W]hen have you or any other persons known me to pursue a policy compelling the people to sustain me to their injury?”71 With the benefit of hindsight of historical analysis, one is compelled to reply that in the instance of San Bernardino and its possible future as a viable branch of Mormondom, the church leader’s policies and pronouncements were instrumental in sealing its fate. It is true that laying personal blame usually oversimplifies a more complex causal framework. It is certainly too much to blame Brigham Young directly for the Mountain Meadows Massacre. However, his treatment of many Utah territorial officials, his often defiant attitude toward the U.S. government, and his hostility toward many gentiles, particularly during the current year, were all underlying factors causing the army to be dispatched to Utah. The excitement generated by the threatened invasion deeply affected subsequent events. While it was legitimate to seek the spiritual rejuvenation of the people through the Mormon Reformation, the hostility toward outsiders, along with the intolerance of nonconformity and apostasy in Utah, particularly when it led to unpunished mistreatment of the unfavored, were to a large extent within the realm of Young’s [p.369]control. Likewise, the numerous sermons by him and his close associates, justifiable to those initiated through knowledge of past persecutions, often appeared tantamount to treason to numerous outside readers, many of whom might otherwise have been sympathetic toward Utah citizens facing invasion by soldiers. Young would not have been so effective as the great leader of Mormondom for three crucial decades if he had possessed sufficient tact to allow people to become complacent, but in the case of the future of San Bernardino, his lack thereof was a significant factor in the demise of the colony.
Notes
61. William Warren to Amasa M. Lyman, 16 Oct. 1857, Lyman Papers.
62. Brooks, Mountain Meadows Massacre, 69-96.
63. L. A. Star, 3, 10 Oct. 1857.
64. Hopkins-Jensen, 1, 3 Oct. 1857; F. Marion Lyman to Amasa M. Lyman, 4 Oct. 1857, Lyman Papers; William J. Cox to Amasa M. Lyman, 7 Oct. 1857, Lyman Papers; San Francisco Daily Evening Bulletin, 17 Oct. 1857, the same day as the Alta’s evidence of contact by the San Bernardino anti-Mormons, wrote “the blood of American citizens cries for vengeance, virtue, Christianity and decency require that the blood of incestuous miscreants who have perpetrated this atrocity be broken and dispersed.” See p. 366.
65. L. A. Star, 10, 17 Oct. 1857. The editor concluded that the testimony of Warn and Powers exhibited “a deplorable picture of the working of Mormonism which, if correct show the leaders of this sect to be actuated by the most atrocious designs towards their fellow-citizens of the Union.”
66. Lawrence G. Coates, The Fancher Party Before the Mountain Meadows Massacre (privately printed, 1992), 13-49, established the number killed at 114, with seventeen children spared.
67. San Francisco Alta California, 12 Oct., 12 Nov. 1857.
68. William Warren to Amasa M. Lyman, 6 Oct. 1857, Lyman Papers.
69. L. A. Star, 24, 31 Oct. 1857; Brooks, Mountain Meadows Massacre, 114-16, 118-19, 121-22.
70. L. A. Star, 24 Oct. 1857; Hopkins-Jensen, 27, 31 Oct. 1857.
71. Brigham Young to William J. Cox, 5 Nov. 1857, Young Papers.

Doctors in San Bernardino 1851 - 1856[edit]

San Bernardino always had at least one physician. During the peak of population in 1856-57 there were at least three—Burrus, Sinclair and McIntyre—along with Andrews, who mainly limited his practice, as was common at the time, to operating a drugstore. Each of these doctors was in considerable demand treating accident and illness victims, including a young boy whose arm was torn by a caged mountain lion. Doctor Burrus sewed the wound using bee’s wax on the thread. He may have felt some responsibility in that case since he had at one time owned the animal. On occasion Burrus served as a dentist, although that was not his particular training. Dr. Alma Whitlock arrived in the city in 1857 to commence the first professional dental practice in southern California. John Brown, in his later recollections of “mediumistic experiences,” mentioned two spiritualist cures, [p.309]including the healing of his old friend James Waters of hydrophobia.70 [179]: 308–309 
70. Crosby Journal, 4 Feb., 10, 20 Dec. 1855; 10 Jan., 4 Mar., 18 Aug. 1856; Lyman Journal, 27 May 1854; F. M. Lyman to A. M. Lyman, 30 Jan. 1856, Lyman Papers; An Illustrated History of Southern California (Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1890), 492; John Brown, The Mediumistic Experiences of John Brown, the Medium of the Rockies (Des Moines: Moses Hull & Co., 1887), 76-9.
Dr. Ira Burrus[edit]
Another serious accident in the summer of 1853 had a more pleasant ending. On 13 August Jefferson Hunt’s adult son Marshall caught his foot in the working parts of a threshing machine, tearing his lower leg off almost to the knee. Dr. Ira Burrus was summoned, and, with Amasa Lyman witnessing and the young [p.99]man held by his father, the amputation was completed with only whiskey as an anesthetic. The doctor aimed to save the knee joint but confided to Lyman that he not only expected to perform an additional amputation farther up the leg, but predicted the patient would probably not survive the week. Lyman noted that the boy appeared to be unusually free from pain. Jefferson Hunt was reputed to possess a gift of healing to which the recovery would have been attributed, although if faith saved the boy, he apparently did not acknowledge it. He would be excommunicated prior to the demise of the San Bernardino colony. “Marsh” would use a peg leg the rest of his long life.23
Following this incident Dr. Burrus continued to be in considerable demand. Later that year he treated two of Lyman’s own children. But in the case of Francis Marion, whose illness was said by the father to be “inflammation of the brain,” it was the spiritualist ministrations of John Brown which patient and practitioner acknowledged to have affected the cure.24
Louisa Barnes Pratt had occasion, apparently by assignment from the bishop, to nurse several emigrants who had met with mishap on the desert crossing. A Mrs. Franklin was brought to her home after being shot through the arm and having traveled five weeks with no medical attention. The wound was “in terrible condition,” but through Dr. Burrus’s skill and Sister Pratt’s care the woman recovered, despite her apprehension at being treated by Mormons. Even before the grateful woman departed, a young man near the point of death from poison desert berries was brought to them. Shifts of “watchmen” kept a fire and lights burning throughout the night as the boy fought for his life, a [p.100]battle which two companions, apparently employees of a Mormon freighter, John Reese, had failed to win. After several weeks the patient was strong enough to wait on himself. Eventually, he found work, allowing him to repay Sister Pratt for her care. From that time on she recalled that he “always appeared grateful for what [she] had done for him.”25
23. Lyman Journal, 12, 15, 18 Aug. 1853; Hopkins-Jensen, 13 Aug. 1853.
24. Lyman Journal, 28 June, 2 July 1853; John Brown, The Mediumistic Experiences of John Brown, the Medium of the Rockies (Des Moines: Moses Hull & Co., 1887), 76-79.
25. Louisa B. Pratt Diary, in Carter, Heart Throbs, 8:303.
It is impossible to assess the immediate impact this experience had on Lyman. The week after he returned to the fort he preached on the subject of “spiritual communications,” though it is not known just what he said. Since the official church organ, the Deseret News, had earlier in the year denounced spiritualism, particularly the writings of the then-popular Andrew Jackson Davis, it is doubtful that he would have openly endorsed such doctrines. Two weeks later, in a letter from Lyman and Rich to Young and associates, they reported that “we have had some curious manifestations under the head of spiritual communications, by working table, tipping and writing,” but they concluded “the people are generally satisfied that God is not in the whirlwind or the storm … . ”
While there is little direct evidence that Lyman further dabbled with seances at San Bernardino, his devoted son, Francis Maron Lyman, later surmised that his father continued with the spiritualists in secret while publicly opposing it. “Marion’s” memoir of the perod, reconstructed years later with the assistance of his own and his father’s correspondence, recalled the elder Lyman reading Davis’s works. He deduced, from is father’s diary entry for 11 March 1855 about a night interview with Dr. Burrus and Bishop Tenney, that the gathering was actually “one of the many that was mischievous” for the doctor was allegedly a bad man and “Bro. Tenney was a spiritualist medium of the pronounced kind.”
Most vivid in the younger Lyman’s experience was the time several months prior to his father’s Mill Creek seance when, as a [p.119]twelve-year-old, Marion lay on the verge of death. John Brown recalled in his book on “mediumistic experiences,” written as an old man, being taken by his guiding spirit to the Lyman home. Noting that the boy’s parents and others expected his demise, the healer performed a simple ritual then assured the loved ones that recovery was imminent. Three decades later, as a high official in the Latter-day Saint church, Marion wrote Brown to acknowledge the seemingly miraculous healing, which, he attested, his mother also tearfully recalled.
Brown attested that while he never before had been to the Lyman residence, he had often visited Lyman’s office. There he claimed to have written for Lyman and used his “clairvoyant power to enable him to communicate with his friends,” presumably those departed mortality. This corroborates Marion’s recollection of Amasa’s spiritualist activity.
The older Lyman did not see his encounters with spirits as undermining his faith or effectiveness as a church official. But in the eyes of his fellow apostles and the First Presidency, this would have indicated a serious flaw in his character and commitment to the church. Charles Rich held no sympathy for such dabblings and probably reported hearing rumors of Lyman’s involvement to Young, which would have contributed to some general authorities’ alienation from Lyman.52
52. Hopkins-Jensen, 15 Aug. 1853; Amasa M. Lyman and Charles C. Rich to Brigham Young, 1 Sept. 1853, Young Papers; Brown, Medium of the Rockies, 76-79; Loretta L. Hefner, “Amasa Mason Lyman, the Spiritualist, Journal of Mormon History 6 (1979): 75-87; Loretta L. Hefner, “The Apostasy of Amasa M. Lyman,” M.A. thesis, University of Utah, 1977, 98-121; Ronald Warren Walker, “The Godbeite Protest in the Making of Modem Utah,” Ph.D. diss., University of Utah, 1977, 110-47.
Unquestionably the bitterest divorce contest was that of attorney Quartus Sparks and his estranged wife, Mary Hamilton. The former church leader had allegedly kept a mistress named [p.284]Jane Coburn, also reportedly a former Mormon, for most of a year. When his wife sought divorce, he counter-sued, alleging she had been “too free in the company with one Dr. Beems,” probably Burrus. The trial is said to have featured such explicit language that women hesitated to attend, while some of the male jurors regarded the proceedings as “considerable sport.” Although Sparks mounted an elaborate defense, he was found guilty and failed to prove a case against his wife.
The trial involved a fight over property, including a newly completed house in the city. Judge Hayes ruled against Sparks and ordered his mistress arrested for keeping items belonging to Mrs. Sparks. “Armed to the teeth,” she fought desperately against those sent to apprehend her. She was taken to Los Angeles for detention. In the spring of the following year it was rumored that Sparks was seeking to take his children away from his former wife who had subsequently remarried a man named Hunt. Cooperative townspeople helped hide the children until the danger passed.41
41. Richard Hopkins to Amasa M. Lyman, 3 June 1856, Lyman Papers; Hammond Journal, Crosby Journal, 6, 9 June 1856; William McGary Journal, 9, 10 June 1856, Addison Pratt Family Papers, LDS archives; L.A. Star, 21 June 1856; Hayes, “Scrapbooks,” XCIV, Bancroft Library, contains the judge’s copies of letters from Sparks and his wife to each other, in which the errant husband seemingly attempts to intimidate his wife out of prosecuting him for adultery by citing rumors about her.
96 Dr. Ira Barrus or Burrus or Barrows

In 1856, Mrs. Mary Holland Hamilton Sparks (wife of the scandalous Quartus Strong Sparks) had an affair (or at least was “overly intimate”) in San Bernardino CA with Dr. Ira Burrus or Barrus, a Mormon (from Boston?); see Edward Leo Lyman, San Bernardino: The Rise and Fall of a California Community, (Signature Books: Salt Lake City, 1996) Chapter 4, p.159: 159 

[Amasa] Lyman may have been perceived as careless in associating with such men as Clark Fabin, James W. Waters, Alexander Kier, Dr. Ira Burrus, and Dr. Woodville M. Andrews. Each of these church members would eventually oppose [apostle Charles C.] Rich. Lyman’s own son, Francis Marion, while himself an apostle, recalled that at the time in question his father associated with “bad men,” specifically Burrus who would soon be implicated in a sensational divorce case as having been overly intimate with Mrs. Quartus Sparks.17
17. J. H. Rollins to Amasa M. Lyman, 3 Mar. 1856, Lyman Papers; Francis M. Lyman Journal, “Number Zero,” 11 Mar. 1855, cited by Loretta L. Hefner, “Amasa Mason Lyman, the Spiritualist, “Journal of Mormon History 6 (1979): 79, who explains the journal was actually a personal memoir written around 1885 using the father’s journals as a partial basis; Richard Hopkins to Amasa M. Lyman, 1 July 1856, Lyman Papers.
[Lyman, San Bernardino, Chapter 4, p.192] The spring and summer of 1856 must have been lonely for Rich, so far as ranch affairs were concerned. He frequently expressed hope that his actions would not displease Lyman. Although nothing indicates that Lyman ever demonstrated anything but support, he did hear from friends that his presence was more needed than ever. William Warren, a faithful Latter-day Saint, hesitantly confided to Lyman in August that he was “anxious to hear you preach once more.” Although Rich was a “very good man,” Warren explained, he lacked the ability to express himself as well as his partner could. Lyman was also perhaps more diplomatic in dealing with problems that constantly arose in the settlement, including the calls for continued contributions for ranch repayment. But it was clearly not him Brigham Young wished to supervise San Bernardino affairs at that time.73
73. Rich to Lyman, 2 Mar. 1856; Ira Burrus to Amasa M. Lyman, 3 Feb. 1856, Lyman Papers; William Warren to Amasa M. Lyman, 8 Aug. 1856, Lyman Papers.
County of San Bernardino, The People of the State of California to IRA BURRUS. Greeting: "Y0U are hereby summoned to be and appear before me, Alden A. M. Jackson, a Justice of the Peace within and for the Township and County of San Bernardino, at my office in the city of San Bernardino, on Tuesday, the sixteenth day of September A. D. 1856, at 10 o'clock A. M., to answer the complaint of Lyman, Rich, Hopkins & Co., who seek to recover of you the sum of forty-two 32-100 dollars, balance due on book account together with interest and costs of suit. And take notice that if you fail to appear and answer as required, the said plaintiffs will take judgment for the said sum of $42 32-100, with interest and cost of suit. Given under my hand at my office in the city of San Bernardino, this 8th day of September, 1856. ALDEN A. M. JACKSON, Justice of the Peace. In Justice's Court, County and Township of San Bernardino. February 8th. 1857. Lyman, Rich, Hopkins & Co. plaintiffs, vs. Ira Burrus, defendant. Having heard and considered the affidavit of Jas. H. Rollins, on behalf of the above named plaintiffs, it is hereby ordered, that service by publication be made on Ira Burrus, the above named defendant, by publishing the summons and a copy of this order in the Los Angeles Star, a newspaper printed and published in the county of Los Angeles, at least once a week for the period of six weeks. ALDEN A. M.- JACKSON, Justice of the Peace. A true copy. Attest: " ALDEN A. M. JACKSON, Justice of the Peace. San Bernardino. March 28, 1857.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, County of San Bernardino, The People of the State of California to IRA BURRUS. Greeting: Y0U are hereby summoned to be and appear before me, Alden A. M. Jackson, a Justice of the Peace within and for the Township and County of San Bernardino, at my office in the city of San Bernardino, on Tuesday, the sixteenth day of September A. D. 1856, at 10 o'clock A. M., to answer the complaint of Lyman, Rich, Hopkins & Co., who seek to recover of you the sum of forty-two 32-100 dollars, balance due on book account together with interest and costs of suit. And take notice that if you fail to appear and answer as required, the said plaintiffs will take judgment for the said sum of $42 32-100, with interest and cost of suit. Given under my hand at my office in the city of San Bernardino, this 8th day of September, 1856.
ALDEN A. M. JACKSON, Justice of the Peace.
In Justice's Court, County and Township of San Bernardino. February 8th, 1857. Lyman, Rich, Hopkins & Co. plaintiffs, vs. Ira Burrus, defendant. Having heard and considered the affidavit of Jas. H. Rollins, on behalf of the above named plaintiffs, it is hereby ordered, that service by publication be made on Ira Burrus, the above named defendant, by publishing the summons and a copy of this order in the Los Angeles Star, a newspaper printed and published in the county of Los Angeles, at least once a week for the period of six weeks. ALDEN A. M. JACKSON, Justice of the Peace. A true copy. Attest: ALDEN A. M. JACKSON, Justice of the Peace. San Bernardino. March 28, 1857. apll

The State Register and Year Book of Facts, 1857[edit]

Office______________|Name________________|Term Exp.________|Salary________|
County_Judge_______|Daniel_M._Thomas_____|Ap'l_1858________|__________$500|
District_Attorney______|Ellis_Eames__________|Oct._1857________|___________200|
County_Clerk________|R._R._Hopkins________|_______"_________|Fees__________|
Sheriff_____________|Robert_Clift___________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Treasurer___________|Samuel_Rolfe_________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Assessor____________|J._H._Rollins_________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Surveyor____________|A._Stoddard_________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Coroner_____________|Moses_Harris________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Pub._Administrator____|Joseph_Mathews______|_______"_________|__"___________|
Sup't._Com._Schools__|H._A._Skinner_________|_______"_________|______________|
Supervisor__________|Wm._J._Cox___________|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|
Supervisor__________|Cornelius_Jansen_______|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|
Supervisor__________|B._F._Taylor___________|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|

--- p.301

"Attorneys.—San Bernardino: Ellis Eames and A. A. M. Jackson."
"Physicians.— San Bernardino: W. M. Andrews (I), D. R. Deckey, William Mclntyre, J. W. Smith, L. H. Snead; - Jarupa: A. S. St. Clair" (I) [Addrews a druggist, Burrus missing, ostracised for his role in the divorce of Sparks and wife?, Sinclair = St. Clair]

--- p.302

Los Angeles Star, Number 19, 19 September 1857, p.2,col.2, Election returns — San Bernardino County[edit]

County Judge: A. D. Boren (I)
District Attorney: Samuel Serrine (left for Utah, replaced by appointment by S. R. Campbell)
County Clerk: W. S. Warren (left for Utah, replaced by appointment by ?. Dunlap)
Sheriff: James S. Raser (later abandoned office for Utah, replaced by appointment by Joseph Bridger)
Treasurer: Samuel Rolfe vs M. Katz(later abandoned office, replaced by appointment by Marcus Katz)
Assessor: James H. Rollins vs A. S. St. Clair (I), (later abandoned office for Utah, replaced by appointment by J. W. Mitchell)
Surveyor: Arvin Stoddard
Coroner: D. R. Dickey vs Chas Cunningham
Pub._Administrator: William A. Barton
Sup't._Com._Schools: H. H. Skinner
Supervisor Dist. 1: Daniel Stark v D. G. Weaver (I)
Supervisor Dist. 2: Joseph Thorn
Supervisor Dist. 3: Louis Rubidoux (I) Vs C. Jansen

Post Office, D. N. Thomas ---

Mormon Exodus[edit]

  • Edward Leo Lyman, San Bernardino: The Rise and Fall of a California Community, Signature Books, Salt Lake City, 1996 [179]
Edward Leo Lyman, San Bernardino; Chapter Eight: Exodus and After[edit]
Early in the 1860s a Utah missionary destined for Hawaii, Walter Murray Gibson, soon to establish his own feifdom there and prove himself anything but submissive to church authorities, reported to Brigham Young that the old anti-Mormon group at [p.420] San Bernardino still called the Rackabites had “pledged themselves especially not to permit a Mormon elder to speak” in the old settlement. But, Gibson stated, with the encouragement of the “well-disposed, but lukewarm,” brethren, such as Seeley, John Metcalf, and John Garner, he attracted a large crowed to hear his sermon delivered 13 January 1861. He described the town as a mix of “apostate infidel Mormons, spiritualist Mormons, Josephite Mormons and a few … vacillating saints” who certainly no longer agreed on religious matters but on many occasions, when fully cooperative, could generate 230 votes, sufficient to win most county elections.
Gibson reported that “the violent apostates in this place [were] almost exclusively from Australia,” who complained of having been deceived by their missionaries in the disposal of their property prior to emigrating to California. Gibson asserted that if even a portion of the allegations were true, there had been some “great rogues” among them as missionaries, singling out Augustus Farnham as the focal point of the most bitter denunciations. While most of these converts moved on to Utah and blended into the mainstream, about a dozen families remained in San Bernardino and never again affiliated with the church. Besides the “cupidity and extortion” of missionaries, Gibson specified the “chief grounds for apostacy [sic]” to be the Mountain Meadows Massacre and the supposed Utah church’s “departure from ‘old Mormonism.'”
Among the others Gibson singled out for special comment were Charles Hill, incorrectly described as a former missionary to the Society Islands, who with Quartus Sparks was reportedly the leading figure among the spiritualists. The correspondent considered Thomas Tompkins, who had in fact been a missionary to the Society Islands, as “ringleader of the apostate infidels and most bitter devil against all peaceable saints.” This does not fit with other descriptions of “Uncle Tommy,” although he had recently returned from Utah, probably with some disillusionment toward the leaders. Another person Gibson criticized was Ad-[p.421]dison Pratt, whom he called “a basely delinquent Mormon,” supposedly because of his domestic difficulties. Pratt reportedly confessed he had contemplated journeying to Beaver, Utah, to reunite with his wife but had been dissuaded by longtime associate Tompkins. Gibson concluded by saying the city was “the dark corner of the state,” while acknowledged to be physically “the loveliest natural spot in California.” He cited drunkenness and vagabondism, along with the rampant apostasy, as the basis for these conclusions.74. Walter M. Gibson to Brigham Young, 9 Jan., 16 Feb. 1861, Young Papers; William J. Cox to Brigham Young, 7 Nov. 1857, Young Papers; U.S. Census, San Bernardino County, 1860; Marjorie Newton, Southern Cross Saints: The Mormons in Australia (Laie, HI: Polynesian Cultural Center, 1991), 145, mentions Farnham not allowing Mormon passengers to go ashore when their ship stopped at Tahiti. As near as can be determined, there were about a dozen Australian families remaining at San Bernardino, including Allen, Arbon, Hawker, Cadd, Humphrey, Cochrane, Rawlings, Barton, Knight, McIntyre, and Mapstead.

---

With the abandonment of the Mormons, including resignations of most county officials, there was considerable dispute over the manner of replacement and even when accomplished, petty quarrelling persisted in politics. In a special meeting citizens agreed to sustain Dr. Smith as the state assemblyman, even though he probably could not have been reelected after most of his supporters had departed. One of Smith’s first acts was to introduce legislation to allow a longer time for tax collection. When Sheriff Joseph Bridger, nephew of the famous mountain man, completed his task, he submitted a document twelve feet long of names of delinquent taxpayers, most of whom had moved to Utah. In August 1858 Mayor G. S. Chapin resigned, necessitating an early election, to which some looked forward with anticipation because of the new tradition in town of “plenty of whiskey” during the election campaign. Not long thereafter the citizens saw fit to disincorporate the city. When the county elections were held that fall, several of the most important offices were garnered by former Mormons, such as A.D. Boren as county judge, U. U. Tyler as assessor, and James W. Waters as public administrator.81 L. A. Star, 26 Dec. 1857, 27 Mar., 24 Apr., 24, 27 July, 21, 28 Aug., 11 Sept., 31 Oct. 1858; San Francisco Alta California, 14 Mar. 1858, reported only 118 voters when Chapin was elected. An Illustrated History of Southern California (Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1890), 420.


Los Angeles Star, Number 29, 5 December 1857, p.2,col.2 exodus of the Mormons and real estate[edit]

The exodus of the Mormons from San Bernardino, is giving an opportunity to those who are desirous of fixing themselves permanently, in one of the most desirable localities in the State, to accomplish their wishes under the most favorable circumstances. That our readers may judge for themselves, we give some items of sales recently made. One tract of eighty-two acres, that cost $10.50 per acre, fenced with a good picket fence, which cost two dollars per rod, the entire tract under cultivation, with good ditches for irrigation, was sold for $500. One lot of two and a half acres, in the city, with a good dwelling house, blacksmith's and wagon maker's shops, out houses, and one hundred and fifty fruit trees, forty of which are bearing, was sold for $300. Another tract, containing 600 acres, under fence, on which were 7,500 grape vines, and was assessed last year it $10,000, sold for $1,500. A tract of 300 acres, under fence, having 500 peach trees, in fruit, and 55 0 young trees, assorted fruits; a good distillery, which cost $17,000; a flouring mill, with two run of stones ; a saw mill; all in first rate condition, with unfailing water power, was sold for $6,000. This property cost not less than $75,000. The titles to all this property is unexceptionable. There cannot be less than one hundred improved farms, with comfortable dwellings, now for sale in that county.

Los Angeles Star, 12 December 1857p2c3 PUBLIC MEETING[edit]
Petition.
Los Angeles, Dec. 1857.
Gen. A. S. Clark, Commanding General of Pacific Department.
Sir — Recent and reliable information, seems to establish if not the certainty, at least a reasonable probability, that it is the intention of the Mormons to oppose the United States by force of arms. As prudent men act not only upon certainties, but also upon reasonable probabilities, so we would respectfully invite your attention to the situation in which this section of the State will find itsell in the event of hostilities between the Federal Government and the Mormons.
Our valley is within thirty days march of the Salt Like city, and a body of fifteen bonded men could easily reach us in three weeks alter leaving their settlements, to the westward of their principal city, and no snows ever block up this road. If the Mormon authorities have resolved upon resisting the General Government, we all know that Col. Johnson's command will, it not cut to pieces, be forced to fall back, wait for reinforcements, and delay their march until the snows are melted, until next spring.
Thence, at this time, and during the winter, the Mormons would be absolutely protected from any attack upon them, from the eastward. Now, having committed themselves to the conflict, the Mormons will endeavor to provide themselves with all the necessaries needed to sustain the terrible contest, upon which they have just entered.
They need horses, cattle, provisions and clothing, of various kinds, all of which they see in our possession, and within thirty days march, for cavalry, from the Great Salt Lake city.
If they were determined upon making the foray, they could pour fifteen hundred of their men, assisted by a large number of Indians, through the Cajon Pass, into our unprotected valley, and the first news we would receive of them., would be their presence.
We are in a great measure without arms, and we could not concentrate, for resistance, four hundred Americans, in the four Southern counties.
Before assistance could be obtained from the North, every hoof in our valley could be carried off, and be far beyond the reach of pursuit; and acts of violence might be offered to our cities.
In the above supposition, we have stated the ease of fifteen hundred men making the descent, but we believe that three hundred well appointed men, marching through friendly Indian tribes, could make a successful and sudden foray into this valley, sparsely settled and exposed as it is, and completely strip it. We have, heretofore, believed that we had, in the fact of the existence of the Mormon settlement at San Bernardino, a guarantee and pledge against any such attack, but in the last two weeks, that settlement has commenced breaking up, and pouring its inhabitants back into the Salt Lake valley, and in less than a month we anticipate that it will be completely abandoned by the Mormons.
We therefore invite your attention to these facts, and earnestly request you to take such steps as may be proper.
If we should be attacked in the manner suggested, and the attack be successful, it would be a disgrace to the American name.
We would suggest that at least five hundred, troops, should be stationed so as to defend the Cajon Pass.
You are the highest military authority on this coast, and with you rests the responsibility of protecting us, and the reputation of our flag and alter this statement, we leave the matter iu your hands, where the Government already has placed it. Yours, respectfully.
On motion of Mr. J. H. Lander, the meeting adjourned till 10 o'clock next morning. MYRON NORTON, Chairman. M. J. Newmark, Secretary.



In the election of September 5, 1857, James H. Rasor was the winning candidate. Election results appear in the minutes of September 14, 1857, although the spelling of the last name is questionable. The last vowel appears to be an “i,” albeit without a dot, or perhaps an “e.” Shortly afterwards, on December 5, 1857, the minutes show that J. H. Rasor “tendered his resignation,” which was accepted by the board. This time when the clerk entered the sheriff’s name in the book, he wrote the second vowel more like an “e.” In writing about the events of this period in the local newspapers, Judge Horace C. Rolfe (who was the district attorney for the period in question), used the “Rasor” spelling, as did Edward “Leo” Lyman in his book, San Bernardino: The Rise and Fall of a Community. We may never know how Rasor’s surname actually is spelled, but at least my research uncovered his hitherto unknown first name.
According to Horace Rolfe, Sheriff Rasor did not actually tender a resignation. Rolfe claims that Rasor, who was the ex officio tax collector, simply abandoned his office―without submitting any tax-collection records ― and returned with the Mormons when they were recalled to Utah. This caused some serious accounting problems; it was not known who, if anyone, had paid their taxes during Rasor’s brief time in office. This was the beginning of some economic turmoil, which continued for the next few years.
At their meeting on December 5, 1857, the Board of Supervisors appointed replacements for the sheriff and other abandoned offices. Joseph Bridger was named to replace Rasor. Instead of the usual two - year term for these offices, the appointments were scheduled to end with the 1858 elections, when the resigned, or abandoned, local offices would be added to the slate of state and federal offices.
The 1858 election results were given in the September 13 minutes (Minutes Book A, p. 10). The winner of the race for sheriff was James W. Mitchell. Trouble was brewing, however; about five months later, on February 8, 1859, the following was written in the minutes in a dominant hand:
“Ordered that the District Attorney Commence Suit against James W. Mitchell, Sheriff and his sureties for the amount of delinquent Taxes.” (Minutes Book A, p. 24)
Note in the chart above that only two officials received a salary, and those figures were for the entire year, not monthly. The other officers subsisted on fees, and these were grudgingly given.
A special meeting was called for the purpose of appointing a replacement for Mitchell, and on February 26, 1859, V. J. Herring was named to be sheriff of San Bernardino County (Minutes Book A, p 27). Herring served until the election of 1859, which was held on September 7th. Successful candidates were declared in the minutes of September 19, 1859 (Minutes Book A, p 51). C. W. Piercy was the winner for the Office of Sheriff, but he would not fulfill his two-year term. In the November 1860 state election, Piercy ran for assemblyman and won the seat.
Piercy had to resign as sheriff in order to run for the Assembly, and William Tarleton was appointed to take his place. This selection was announced in the October 27, 1860, minutes (Minutes Book A, p 99). Tarleton evidently already had been associated with the office, as he had received warrants in the previous months for services as sheriff (probably undersheriff) and for boarding prisoners.
The 1860 election included the Office of President of the United States, and it took place in November. The results were announced in the minutes of November 12, 1860, and Anson Van Leuven won the sheriff’s slot. Van Leuven served out the remainder of what originally was Piercy’s term.
Los Angeles Star, Number 32, 26 December 1857: 2, col.1  San Bernardino[edit]
San Bernardino.
The exodus of the Mormons was not complete at the last accounts. Some thirty or fifty families still remained. It is estimated that some 250 wagons had started from that town for Utah. Probably 1200 persons were in these trains. Of these, many were from the northern section of the State who obtained their "fit-out" at that place. These parties took with them not less than from ten to fifteen tons of power, two or three thousand guns, revolvers, &c., and other warlike articles in proportion. Some persons had some six or eight pieces. San Bernardino is being rapidly filled up by families from the Monte, who have purchased lots in the city. The property has generally been disposed of at one-half, and one-fourth of the present value of the Improvements. Much ill feeling exists between the Mormons remaining and the "Independents." A meeting of citizens was held on the 16th inst., at which about 100 persons were present. The unlovely names of "liar." &c., were exchanged with some freedom. The meeting voted to hold another election in the county, being dissatisfied with the filling of the vacancies caused by resignations of Mormons, by the Supervisors of the county. How this is to done legally was not explained; another meeting was to be held on the 19th. The new comers did not appear to side with either party.
Los Angeles Star, Number 35, 9 January 1858: 2, col.3  From San Bernardino; Troops for the South[edit]
From San Bernardino.
The recent mandate from the Mormon Prophet for all the faithful to come to Zion, has caused a exodus from this county, which has, finally, caused the ranch to change owners. This sale has been effected. There were remaining, of what might be termed public lands, that is, lands not occupied by settlers, about 25,000 acres, in the possession of the firm of Rich, Lyman, Hanks & Co., on which, mortgage was held by Pioche, Bayerque & Co. This mortgage has been purchased by Messrs. Conn, Tucker, Allen and Coopwood, thus transferring to them the ownership of this magnificent estate. The original purchase by Lyman, Rich & Co. contained about 38,000 acres, the amount between that and the present purchase having been taken up by settlers. This land is known to be unsurpassed for every purpose, a very large tract being peculiarly suited for vineyard purposes, with an abundance of water. lots are now for sale, to suit purchasers, and an excellent opportunity is thus offered to procure property at reasonable rates.

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Troops for the South.
We have been informed on reliable authority, that Gen. Clark has determined to dispatch two companies of infantry to be stationed at San Bernardino. This is a very wise and judicious course. The attention of the authorities has long been directed to the necessity of posting a force in that vicinity, and we are very glad that Gen. Clark has at last complied with the wishes of the people, and the requirements of this section of the State. The troops may be expected by the next steamer.
Los Angeles Star, 30 January 1858: 2, col.1  San Bernardino County.[edit]
San Bernardino County.
We understand that the vacancies in the various county offices, caused by the exodus of the Mormons, have recently been filled by the proper authorities, and that the following gentlemen have been appointed to fill the respective offices: A. D. Boren, County Judge; [E. K.] Dunlap, County Clerk; Joseph Bridger, Sheriff; S. R. Campbell, District Attorney; Marcus Katz, County Treasurer ; J. W. Mitchell, Assessor and Collector. The city organization is still incomplete.
Los Angeles Star, Number 2, 22 May 1858 : 2, col.1  San Bernardino city elections[edit]
San Bernardino.
The Court of Sessions convened on the first Monday of the month. Present Judge A. B. Boron; Lucian Woodworth and Thomas Dickey, Associates. The Grand Jury returned five indictments, three for grand larceny, one for assault with intent to kill, and one for murder. Richard Potter, indicted for grand larceny, (horse stealing,) two charges, was found guilty and sentenced to two years imprisonment in the State Prison. Wm. Nichols, horse stealing, guilty — two years in State Prison. A. J. Cole, horse stealing, guilty — two years in State Prison. The case of Heath for the murder of an Indian was again brought before the Grand Jury and postponed, with other business — the Grand Jury having been compelled to adjourn in consequent of the illness of one of the members. The case of E. Snyder, for killing an Indian will come before the District Court at the present term.
The term of the District Court, for San Bernardino, commenced on Monday, Judge Hayes, presiding. There is not much business before the court. The indictments presented have all been quashed for illegality, There has been quite a large business transacted in the horse stealing line, lately, in this county but the exertions of the officers and the prompt action of the court, has checked the movement in that line. Sheriff Bridger is an active and efficient officer, and at great cost to himself pursues the thieves and brings them to justice. This has had the effect of ridding the county of some notorious thieves.
The crops in the valley are looking well. A great breadth of barley has been sown, with a good deal of wheat, which has come up well and is in a luxuriant condition. Corn planting is just commencing. The valley is settling up rapidly — Mr. Waters who purchased the Yukipe ranch, arrived from Mariposa county this week, with his family and stock. He intends to cultivate a portion of it and set out a vineyard, but it will be principally occupied as a stock ranch. Two other families came with Mr. Waters, and six or eight more are on their way. The fruit crop promises well — the season has been propitious, and an abundant harvest may be expected.
M. Jacobs has removed to the American Hotel where he will in future dispense the good things of life to the hungry. He provides an excellent table.
An election for city officers took place las' week, which resulted as follows. Mr. Chapin was re-elected Mayor:— Mayor—G. S. Chapin. Marshal —W. D. Kirk. City Attorney—H. E. Half. Assessor —S. Rolt'e. Treasurer—R. F. Walkinsliaw. Common Council—John Brown, D. Dixon, W C. I. Morse, C. S. Kingston, N. Vise.
Los Angeles Star, Number 18, 11 September 1858, San Bernardino Election Returns, p.2, col.1[edit]
"San Bernardino Election Returns.
Through the kindness of Mr A. J. King, of San Bernardino, and Mr. L. M. Jacobs, of this city, we have been furnished with the following returns of the election in San Bernardino county:—
For Judge Supreme Court— Baldwin, 502 : Curry 10.
Controller— Melony, 495 ; Gunn, 10.
District Judge— Hayes. 323 ; Sims, 193.
County Judge— A. D. Boron, 247; A. Parks. 185.
Assembly— G. N. Whitman, 235; Smith, 130; Sparks, 87; Wozencrnft, 33; Vise. 10.
County Clerk— J. W. Greenwade, 141; V, J. Herring, 120; D. H. Rogers, 90; E. K. Dunlap, 75; J. J. Webb, 46; A. A. M. Jackson 34.
Sheriff- J. W. Mitchell, 260; W. D. Kirk, 250.
District Attorney— A. H. Clark, 354; Eames, 61; Campbell 46; Rolfe, 31.
Treasurer— M. Katz, 291; R. Walkin&haw, 104; Dickson, 64.
Public Administrator— James W. Waters, 172; John Francis 9.
Assessor— U. U. Tyler, 228; Weaver, 199; Morrow, 68.
School Superintendent— Thomas Freeman, 200; Wm. Stout. 34.
Surveyor—C. E. Fost r, 141; McHenderson. 81.
Coroner —Sanders. 252; Bougliton, 68; Cunningham. 17; •Sanchez. 17.
For a copy of the above, we are also indebted to our friend, Mr. F. J. G. Margetson.
Livingston's United States Law Register, and Official Directory, June, 1859[edit]
"San Bernardino County,"
"County Clerk — J. M. Greenwade,
"District Attorney - A. H. Clark
"Sheriff - Jas. W. Mitchell (later replaced by V. J. Herring)
"Treasurer - Marens Katz
"Assessor - U. U. Tyler
"Coroner - J. T. Harvey
Sup't._Com._Schools: J. A. Freeman
Supervisor Dist. 1: E. H. Thomas
Supervisor Dist. 2: George Garner
Supervisor Dist. 3: C. Jansen
The State Register and Year Book of Facts for the Year 1859[edit]
Office______________|Name________________|Term Exp.________|Salary________|
County Judge________|A._D._Boren_________|Ap'l 1863________|__________$500|
District Attorney______|A._H._Clark_________|Oct. 1860________|________400|
County Clerk________|J._M._Greenwade_____|_______"_________|Fees__________|
Sheriff_____________|James_W._Mitchell___|_______"_________|__"___________|
Treasurer___________|Marens Katz_________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Assessor____________|U. U. Tyler_________|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|
Surveyor____________|C. E. Foster________|_______"_________|Fees__________|
Coroner_____________|J. T. Harvey________|_______"_________|__"___________|
Pub._Administrator___|James W. Waters_____|_______"_________|__"___________|
Sup't._Com._Schools__|J. A. Freeman_______|_______"_________|_____________|
Supervisor__________|E. H. Thomas________|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|
Supervisor__________|George Garner_______|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|
Supervisor__________|C. Jansen___________|_______"_________|P'r_d'm_______|

--- p.361

"Attorneys.—San Bernardino: S. R. Campbell, A. H. Clark, B. Coopwood, W. Pickett, H. C. Rolfe and J. Sparks.
Physicians.—San Bernardino: W. M. Andrews, D. R. Deckey, "W. Mclntyre, J. W. Smith, L. H. Sneed and O. M. Wozencraft."

--- p.362 new dr in bold, A. S. St. Clair no longer appears at Jarupa

Chaos and Corruption[edit]
  • Sheriff Rasor did not actually tender a resignation. Rasor, who was the ex officio tax collector, simply abandoned his office―without submitting any tax-collection records ― and returned with the Mormons when they were recalled to Utah. This caused some serious accounting problems; it was not known who, if anyone, had paid their taxes during Rasor’s brief time in office. This was the beginning of some economic turmoil, which continued for the next few years.
  • Sheriff Joseph Bridger appointed to replace Rasor by the Board of Supervisors at their meeting on December 5, 1857, along with the other abandoned offices. Instead of the usual two - year term for these offices, the appointments were scheduled to end with the 1858 elections, when the resigned, or abandoned, local offices would be added to the slate of state and federal offices.
  • Failures of Sheriff James W. Mitchell and his replacement:
The winner of the race for sheriff was James W. Mitchell formerly the appointed Assessor and Collector. However; about five months later, on February 8, 1859, the following was written in the minutes in a dominant hand:
“Ordered that the District Attorney Commence Suit against James W. Mitchell, Sheriff and his sureties for the amount of delinquent Taxes.” (Minutes Book A, p. 24)
  • A special meeting was called for the purpose of appointing a replacement for Mitchell, and on February 26, 1859, V. J. Herring was named to be sheriff of San Bernardino County (Minutes Book A, p 27). Herring served until the election of 1859, which was held on September 7th. Successful candidates were declared in the minutes of September 19, 1859 (Minutes Book A, p 51). C. W. Piercy was the winner for the Office of Sheriff, but he would not fulfill his two-year term.
  • James M. Greenwade was elected clerk in the 1858 elections to replace the appointed Clerk.[181]

The Affair[edit]

Los Angeles Star September 24, 1859[edit]
Saturday, September 24, 1859
Death of Hon. D. C. Broderick (In a duel with the former California Cheif Justice David S. Terry)

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"Disturbances at San Bernardino
"We regret to find that the bad feeling which in our last publication, we noticed as existing in the above city, has since then broken out into acts of violence and blood shed. Such animosities are to be deprecated, arising as they generally do, from some trivial and unimportant cause. In the present instance, a disagreement arises between two citizens, leading to a personal conflict, in which neither party is injured; thereupon the friends of each take sides, and the affair is made to bear the proportions of a contest, in which the existence of the entire community is at stake. To keep up the excitement, aid is invoked from a distant locality, and we regret to find men in this county lending themselves to prolong the excitement, and exhibiting a willingness to imbrue their hands in the blood of their neighbors. Such conduct is deeply reprehensible, and for the honor of our country, we hope never again to hear of such an occurrence.
"On Tuesday last, a collision occurred, resulting in the wounding of three or four persons, one of whom we regret to hear, is in a dangerous condition.
"We hope the authorities of the county will act with some approach to firmness and common sense, and put an end to these disgraceful exhibitions. The people at large not only take no interest in these miserable squabbles, but look on the participants with horror and disgust; whilst a few men, by their lawless acts, are bringing disgrace upon a whole community.
"As to the cause of the outbreak, we know nothing, and care less. We wish to see violence repressed, and its instigators, abettors and participants, severely punished."
"SAN BERNARDINO, Sept. 20th, 1859. A shooting affair came off here to-day, in which several were wounded - David Coopwood, wounded in the arm, the ball passing through to the shoulder blade; Bethel Coopwood, wounded in the leg, wrist and mouth; Frank Green of El Monte, wounded in the back; Mat Welsh, received a slight wound. None of the wounds are considered dangerous. There were from sixteen to twenty shots exchanged. All is quiet now."
"---"
"Dueling, shooting and killing generally, seem to be epidemic in our state, just now. At San Andres in Calaveras county, we regret to see our freind Dr. Goodwyn has been killed, in a duel with Mr. Jeff Gatewood, of the same place; cause, a political dispute. In Placerville, a Mr. Browne commenced an attack on some gentleman sitting in the parlor of a hotel who happened to be conversing with his wife, and kept on shooting till he brought down his unarmed and unresisting victim. And in San Bernardino there was a general field day of it, in which thirty or forty shots were discharged; we hope, without loss of life."
NOTE: This shooting occurred just after the duel between Judge Terry and Senator Brodrick, and this story appeared on page 2, with the news of the Terry-Brodrick duel on page 1 and notice of the death of D. C. Broderick and of of the arrest of Judge Terry in San Joaquin County for the death of Brodrick, just below it on the bottom of page 2. col. 1.
Daily Alta California, 27 September 1859[edit]

The Los Angeles correspondent of the Daily Alta California visited San Bernardino soon after the event and reported what had happened in some detail naming the instigators Dr. Gentry and Dr. Ensworth [Ainsworth] and named the Monte as the town in Los Angeles County that had sent men to intervene:

In my last letter I gave you an account of a rumor that was current in this place of a difficulty having taken place at San Bernardino. Your correspondent had occasion to visit that section of the country since, and on his arrival, found matters in a very disorganized state. It appears that a difficulty took place between Dr. Gentry and Dr. Ensworth [Ainsworth], the former narrowly escaping being shot dead, the ball cutting part of the flesh from his forehead. The friends of Gentry raised a cry of Mormonism, and sent for reinforcements of guns and men to the Monte, which was readily granted. When the assistance arrived, the friends of both parties prevailed on the Monte party to return, which they did after a good deal of persuasion. The second day after, a man named Frank Green and Bethel Coopwood met on the street, when they commenced firing at each other. In less than five minutes, friends, of each party came up, armed with rifles, shot guns, pistols, &c. Upwards of fifty shots were fired from houses and the open street. The Mormon party, as the friends of Gentry call them, being defeated, three of their number being badly wounded. Their names are Bethel Coopwood, David Coopwood, and a man named Walsh. It is believed one of the Coopwoods will die from the effects of his wound. On the other side, Frank Green is the only one known to be wounded. The most intense excitement prevailed, stores all closed and business suspended. The authorities were unable to stop the proceedings. Some of the people made application, I am informed, to Lieut. Clarke, commanding a company of United States soldiery, for assistance, but of course that officer could not grant the request. It is but just to state here, that the friends of Dr. Ensworth deny that there is any such thing as Mormonism in the difficulty; the opposing party say there is. ... S.
Elliott, History of San Bernardino County, 1883[edit]
95
"CIVIL WAR ON A SMALL SCALE
A difficulty occurred in the fall of 1859, in the town of San Bernardino, that for a time assumed the proportions of a civil war on a small scale. There were two rival physicians in the place, Dr. Thomas Gentry and Dr. Ainsworth. They met one

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96
day at the stable at present occupied by Kenniston & Brazelton, and Ainsworth fired at Gentry. Gentry beat a hasty retreat and sent word to his friends at El Monte that he was “he was corralled by Mormons.” This statement is positively denied by all the survivors of the affair with whom we conversed, on either side. It was mearly a personal affair; but Gentry's friends at El Monte responded to his call, and came a hundred strong to capture the town if necessary. They were led by a rough named Frank Green. On reaching San Bernardino, and learning the true condition of affairs, the better portion of the invaders (about fifty) returned home. The rest remained bent upon doing mischeif if it were possible.
Ainsworth and his friends intrenched themselves in an old adobe house on the corner west of the South Methodist Church.+ Night came on and the enemy did not appear. As soon as darkness veiled their movements, the Ainsworth party, well armed with rifles and revolvers, spread through the cornfield around the house. At a late hour the Green party was observed advancing towards the house. Every man in the party of defense now lay down before the fence, with the muzzle of his gun drawing a deadly bead upon the enemy. The El Monte party formed in line of battle on the opposite side of the road, as quietly as possible. Their confusion, however, was great upon finding that their operations had been observed, and they retreated ingloriously. The pluck was taken out of them as a body, but Green, Jim Greenwade, and the Sea boys, remained and finally did some damage, shooting David Coopwood in the thigh. Taney Woodward also bravely tackled the ruffian Green, the men emptying their revolvers at each other at short range. Coopwood was shot by Green on the 21st day of September, 1859.
Lawless disorder prevailed for many days. United States troops were encamped at the time on the banks of the Santa Ana River, three miles from the town, but they never interfered, presumably because they were never called upon by the authorities."

+ "on D St. south of 3rd St." 1872 to 1887, 237 D St.

South Methodist Church location[edit]

The San Bernardino County Sun from San Bernardino, California · Page 14] "on D St. south of 3rd St." 1872 to 1887

Just at the close of the Rev. Mr. Frazee's ministry in 1872 the church began meeting in the North Methodist Church, located on D St. south of 3rd St. where the Suverkrup Lumber Co. now stands.+ With the Rev. B. F. Coulter as pastor and the Rev. Mr. Thomas as an evangelist during meetings in' the Odd Fellows hall, three converts were added in 1874. ... Before the 1887 reorganization under the Rev. Mr. Blake and the move to a lodge hall at 3rd St. and Arrowhead Ave. (then C St.), the church purchased an acre of ground on E St. where the Christian Science church now stands. In 1888 the church moved the old South Methodist Church from 450 5th St. to the E St. property. This became the church's first home after 20 years of moving about.

+ 237 D. St. [182] ---

The Christian Science Church was organized December 31, 1893, under the name of First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Bernardino, California, and was duly incorporated under the State laws of California four years later. Prior to this time, those interested in Christian Science held Sunday service in private homes, until the increasing number made it necessary to rent a public hall. In February, 1904, property on E Street, between Seventh and Eighth, of 59 feet frontage was purchased for 82,500; in February, 1913, an additional 65 feet at $50 per foot was bought. On October 10, 1916, ground was broken for the erection of a church edifice. John Brown, James Boyd, editors, History of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties: With Selected Biography of Actors and Witnesses of the Period of Growth and Achievement..., Western Historical Association, 1922, p.184 736 E St.

---

"Two physicians, Dr. Gentry and Dr. Ainsworth happened to encounter one another at the Kenniston & Brazelton Stable. Both men held strong public views on the "national argument", Ainsworth being an abolitionist, while Gentry a strong supporter of slavery. More than likely the "heated" discussion ensued, and gunshots were fired. Neither man was hit, but Dr. Thomas Gentry put out the call to his friends in El Monte for help, under the false pretense that “he was corralled by Mormons”. One hundred men, led by Frank Green, set out for San Bernardino. The men from El Monte arrived and Gentry’s lie was plainly revealed as such. Seeing this as nothing more than a personal feud between Gentry and Ainsworth, half the “Monte” boys turned back for Los Angeles.
Ainsworth and his men chose to martial in a old adobe home that was on a corner, west of the South Methodist Church. As night fell on the 21st, they left the confines of the adobe and formed a line of battle in a surrounding cornfield. Under the cover of darkness, Green and his “Monte” boys drew up a battle line of their own, trying to quietly advance on the opposing force. Under an extremely strong defense, Green's men broke, retreating back into the night.
Roundly defeated, the majority of the remaining “Monte” invaders melted away, leaving only a small core, which included Frank Green, Jim Greenwade, and two brothers named Sea. Dr. Gentry's "army" had virtually faded away.
The next day, Gentry was told that his enemy was searching for him. He and what remained of his supporters, decided to finish off what was started the night before. Neither party had to wait long. One found the other, and a hail of gunfire erupted between the warring factions. David Coopwood, one of Ainsworth’s men, was the only fatality, he being shot in the thigh by Green. Coopwood's son would later seek out and murder Green for the death of his father.
The town was thrown into a state of complete disarray. Enraged, the few men left from El Monte began terrorizing the town, using the abolitionists and recent "battles" with them as an excuse. San Bernardino's sheriff, “Rube” Herring, was unable to control the lawlessness. A detachment of U.S. Army soldiers were encamped nearby on the banks of the Santa Ana River, but for some reason were unable or unwilling to assist in putting down the violence.[183]
An illustrated history of Southern California, Lewis Publishing, Chicago, 1890[edit]
  • An illustrated history of Southern California, Lewis Publishing, Chicago, 1890 [184] : 419–420 
421
In the fall of 1859 there took place in the town of San Bernardino a difficulty of local origin, that had somewhat the aspect of a civil war on a small scale. There were in the place two rival physicians, Dr. Ainsworth and Dr. Thomas Gentry. They met one day at a livery stable, and Ainsworth returned fire on Gentry, who fled, and sent word to his freinds at El Monte, that he was "corraled by Mormons." Impartial testimony on either side goes to show that the affair was purely personal, and that no faction or party question was concerned. But Gentry's friends at El Monte rallied to his summons, and led by a rough named Frank Green, they set forth, 100 strong, prepared to capture the town if necessary. On arriving at San Bernardino, and learning the circumstances as they actually existed, the more rational of the invaders, comprising about one half of the party returned home, but the rest remained, being in a frame of mind disposed toward disorder.
Ainsworth and his friends had entrenched themselves in an old adobe house on the corner west of the South Methodist Church. As night came on, with no indications of the approach of the hostile party, the to-be-besieged, who were well armed with rifles and revolvers, went forth and dispersed themselves of the cornfield surrounding the house. It was not until a late hour that Green's gang was seen approaching the house, upon which all the party of defense lay down, leveling their guns upon the enemy. The party from El Monte formed in line of battle on the opposite side of the road as quietly as possible, but they retreated
420
in confusion and disorder on perceiving that they were under the eyes and the guns of the foe. As a body they were demoralized, but certain individuals remained and caused some disorder and bloodshed. Jim Greenwade, Frank Green and the Sea brothers were thus persistant, Green shooting David Coopwood in the thigh. The ruffian Green was bravely attacked in his turn by Taney Woodward, and the two men emptied their pistols at each other at short range.
This fracas took place on September 21, 1859. For days thereafter San Bernardino was a scene of lawless disorder. There were United States troops encamped on the banks of the Santa Ana river, three miles from town, but they did not interfere, probably because they were not called upon by the civil authorities. The sheriff was powerless to quell the mob, until at last he made a general call for all citizens to unite and drive out the intruders. This being done, peace and quiet, law and order, prevailed for a long time after.
Green subsequently met a violent death at El Monte, slain by a man whose father he had killed.
  • Francis, "Frank" Green was shot to death in Los Angeles. Suspected were A. B. McDaniel and Francis Taylor. McDaniel was held to answer, while charges against Taylor were dismissed. Disposition of McDaniel unknown. [185]
MEMOIRS OF MARCUS KATZ, Written in the 1890's. published, 1907 (Guinn, Excerpts), 1969[edit]
  • Norton B. Stern, ed., MEMOIRS OF MARCUS KATZ — San Bernardino Pioneer, Volume 1, Issue 1, October, 1969
"In 1858, I was appointed county treasurer by the Board of Supervisors. In 1859, I was elected county treasurer, re-elected in 1861, re-elected in 1863, defeated in 1865.
In the year 1858 the Mormons received orders from their leaders to return forthwith to Salt Lake, expecting that they would have to fight the United States troops to prevent them entering the city.
All faithful members of the church left San Bernardino in hot haste, selling their property at a sacrifice. The bulk of the remaining property belonging to Lyman and Rich, was sold in a lump to William A. Conn, Tucker and Allen, at a very low figure, Yucaipa Valley included. After a short time, many of the Mormons returned to this place, frightened at the sight of Uncle Sam's brass, buttons.
However, after the Mormons had practically left the county, a new immigration set in, chiefly from Texas. Then "The ball" commenced and "the band played on." Quarrels, fights, and general disorder ensued with killing and shooting. On one occasion a pitched battle took place on the corner of 4th and C Streets between two hostile factions,. These were the Coopwood and Green factions. About twenty men were engaged in the conflict. A sharp fusillade was witnessed, lasting about twenty minutes. One David Coopwood was wounded, but subsequently recovered.
Green, the leader of his faction and a desperado, later walked through the streets, gun on his shoulder and revolver at his side, defying the officials as well as any citizen to touch him. He denounced the Coopwood faction as a set of cowards, all except that "little devil," saying which, he pointed at Taney De La Woodward. "That little devil understands the business," he said. The Coopwood brothers returned to Texas, the place from which they had come. Green also left the coun­try. It is needless to say that some of these newcomers were very excellent people, but unfortunately they were greatly in the minority.
Politically, socially and morally, the place was ruled chiefly by a set of corrupt politicians, gamblers and despera­dos, with the sheriff as their main leader. The district attor­ney was the deputy villain. He openly declared he would get even with the county. He was successful in his commendable enterprise, but shortly afterwards left the county of his own free will. He changed the election returns of V. J. Herring, county clerk, in favor of James Greenwaite, who proved to be the most efficient county clerk San Bernardino ever had. He drove the Board of Supervisors, three in number, out of the courthouse at the point of a cocked pistol. The Board at a glance understood the situation and allowed no grass to grow under their feet. They rushed for the door and out onto the street."
Ingersoll's century annals of San Bernadino County, 1904[edit]
  • Ingersoll's century annals of San Bernadino County, 1904, coined the term Ainsworth-Gentry affair to describe the affair. It also claimed the following account of it was that of an eve-witness and participant of it, giving new details, including a suggested motive for Dr. Gentry to initiate an attack on Dr. Ainsworth, which is also described. It includes the number of friends who came to the aid of Ainsworth, and gives the location of the adobe house they took him to and the number of days they kept him there and implies the time that Green's party terrorized the citizens and defyed the authorities. It also introduces that the Green party attempted to use the old cannon from the Fort Benson incident against the adobe house but were thwarted one of the defenders. It also gives details on how the Green party attack on the adobe was thwarted. It seems to gloss over the shootout on the street the next day, and credits sheriff, R. V. Herring, with finally organizing the citizens to drive the Green party out.
"343 HISTORY OF SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY
One of the most noted instances of disregard for right or law occurred in 1859 and is known as "The Ainsworth-Gentry affair." An eve-witness and participant describes it thus: "San Bernardino at this time had two physicians, one of whom was union in sentiment, the other a southerner. This fact, mingled with a feeling of professional rivalry and perhaps with other causes not made public, produced a rancor which finally led Dr. Gentry to attack Dr. Ainsworth with a horse whip. Dr. Ainsworth seized the whip and struck his assailant in the face. The next day. Gentry, on meeting his rival, fired his pistol at him. Ainsworth escaped the shot by dodging, and returned the fire — but no one was hurt. Gentry collected his friends and they began to make serious threats against Ainsworth. The friends of the latter determined to protect him and eight young men armed themselves,"

---

"344 HISTORY OF SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY
removed Ainsworth to an old adobe house on the corner west of the South Methodist church and there kept guard over him for two or three days. The Gentry party sent word to El Monte that the Mormons had attacked them, and about fifty men from that settlement armed themselves and rode over to San Bernardino. On learning that the Ainsworth party were simply protecting their man, the better class of these visitors returned home. But a few of the more lawless under the leadership of a desperado — one Green, remained and paraded the streets, firing their guns, terrorizing the citizens and defying the authorities. They loaded the old cannon which had looked so formidable in the Fort Benson affair and hauled it into place, announcing their intention of burning clown the house where Ainsworth was in hiding and shooting his guard. One of the guard succeeded in reaching the cannon unnoticed and spiked it with a rat-tail file. When the attacking party became too aggressive the guard prepared to fire. Word was passed to "save fire and shoot low" — and the most of the attacking mob suddenly vanished. A few shots were exchanged, however, and one of the Ainsworth party. Bethel Coopwood, was wounded in the shoulder.
The sheriff, R. V. Herring, was finally compelled to call upon the citizens generally to aid him in restoring order, and the intruders were driven out and sent home."[186]: 343–344 
Ainsworth's Guards[edit]

"...eight young men..."[187]: 343–344 

  • Coopwoods 2-3 brothers
Coopwood Bethel 32 M . Lawyer 5,000 2,000 Alabama
Coopwood David 28 M . . . . Alabama
Coopwood Benj. F. 37 M . Farmer 500 300 Tennessee
  • Woodwards 1-3 Father in Law, Brothers in Law to B.Coopwood
Woodward James B. 56 M . Laborer . . N. Jersey ?
Woodward Raymond DeLa M. 24 M . Constable 500 200 N. Jersey (Taney?)
Woodward W. DeLa Monthena 21 M . Farmer 200 200 N. Jersey ?
  • Welch, Mat 1 (L.A.Star) or "a man named Walsh" (D. Alta California)
  • Wixom Family 1-3 Father and brothers in Law to Ainsworth
Wixom Nathan 53 M . Farmer 1,700 500 N. York
Wixom Willard A. 23 M . Blacksmith's App. 800 200 Illinois . . .
Wixom Nathan J. 18 M . Laborer . 50 Illinois

---

Boyd & Brown, History of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, 1922[edit]
  • John Brown, James Boyd, Editors, History of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, 1922:

"One of the notable events of these exciting days occurred in 1859, and has been known locally as "The Ainsworth-Gentry affair." As described by an eye-witness in Ingersoll's Century Annals of San Bernardino County, is occurred as follows: "San Bernardino County at this time had two physicians, one of whom was Union in sentiment, the other a Southerner. This fact, mingled with a feeling of professional rivalry and perhaps with other causes not made public, produced a rancor which finally led Doctor Gentry to attack Doctor Ainsworth with a horse-whip. Doctor Ainsworth seized the whip and struck his assailant in the face. The next day Gentry, on meeting his rival, fired his pistol at him. Ainsworth escaped the shot by dodging, and returned the fire— but no one was hurt. Gentry collected his friends and they began to make serious threats against Ainsworth. The friends of the latter determined to protect him and eight young men armed themselves, removed Ainsworth to an old adobe house on the corner west of the South Methodist Church and there kept guard over him for two or three days. The Gentry party sent word to El Monte that the Mormons had attacked them and about fifty men from that settlement armed themselves and rode over to San Bernardino. On learning that the Ainsworth party were simply protecting their man, the better class of these visitors returned home. But a few of the more lawless under the leadership of a desperado —one Green, remained and paraded the streets, firing their guns, terrorizing the citizens and defying the authorities. They loaded the old cannon which had looked so formidable in the Fort Benson affair and hauled it into place, announcing their intention of burning down the house where Ainsworth was in hiding and shooting his guard. One of the guards succeeded in reaching the cannon unnoticed and spiked it with a rat-tail file. When the attacking party became too aggressive the guard prepared to fire. Word was passed to 'save fire and shoot low'—and most of the attacking mob suddenly vanished. A few shots were exchanged, however, and one of the Ainsworth party, Bethel Coopwood, was wounded in the shoulder." The intruders were driven out when Sheriff V. J. Herring called upon the citizens to aid him in restoring order." [188]: 148 


Heritage of the Valley, San Bernardino’s First Century, 1939[edit]
  • George William & Helen Pruitt Beattie, Heritage of the Valley, San Bernardino’s First Century (Oakland: Biobooks, 1951), p. 317
LSU/PUC Libraries search for Heritage of the Valley, San Bernardino’s First Century
Author: Beattie, George William, 1859-1949?
Title: Heritage of the valley; San Bernardino's first century, by George William Beattie and Helen Pruitt Beattie; with a foreword by Henry R. Wagner.
Published: Pasadena, CA : San Pasqual Press, 1939.
Description: xxv, 459 p. : plates, ports., maps (1 fold.) facsim. ; 25 cm.
Note: "An intensive study of the San Bernardino valley ... from the coming of the white man on to about the end of the sixties."- Pref.
Bibliog.: "List of references": 427-439.
La Sierra University; 4500 Riverwalk Pkwy, Riverside, CA 92515 United States
LOCATION................CALL #..................STATUS
LSU Main Stacks......F868.S14 B23.........AVAILABLE
Misc. Recent articles[edit]
"A good portion of the new influx of 1857-8 was from El Monte, a squatter town settled largely by Texans. These ex-frontiersmen were self-reliant but restive under too much law and order. From a strictly temperance town San Bernardino changed overnight to a typical frontier village.
"WHISKY POINT
"The downtown corner of 3rd and D Sts. became nicknamed "Whisky Point" when four saloons blossomed there. Some of the new folks were prone to shoot first and ask questions later.
"One of them was a dentist named G. T. Gentry, from El Monte. The town already had one dentist, Dr. A. Ainsworth. Before long Gentry was accusing Ainsworth of belittling his professional status or whatever passed for that in the fighting Texan's vocabulary.
"One sunny afternoon Gentry was doing a bit of two fisted drinking at Whisky Point when he noted Ainsworth driving past in a buggy. Gentry stepped outside and emptied hrs revolver at the disappearing Ainsworth. No bullets hit man, buggy or horse.
"That didn't end the feud by any means. Gentry challenged for a duel. Ainsworth ignored the challenge. Then Gentry sent to El Monte for friends, They came on horseback and proceeded to shoot up the place. Ainsworth took refuge in a relative's home on E St., midway between 5th & 6th. That was the B. F. Coopwood home.
"TOWN PLAZA
"At night Gentry's Texans repaired to Pioneer Park, then known as the town plaza, and started for the house. Coopwood had alerted friends who deployed in the corn of Coopwood's adjacent garden.
"When the Texans started across E St. a half dozen guns barked. The Texans retreated, all the way back to El Monte. Where Gentry went no one seems to know.
"The affair appears typical of the rough days immediately following the Mormon recall. "Rube" Herring, the ex-mountain man turned justice of the peace, later assessor and school superintendent, was moved again, this time to become sheriff.
"Herring was disgusted. For a day and a half he tried to raise a posse to drive out the El Monte horsemen. He couldn't get a half dozen who would stand up to fire. Herring resigned as sheriff.

In 1860, San Bernardino was not a shopper's paradise. Its three general stores offered no more than what the residents needed. But when it came to entertainment of the bawdy sort, the city was a virtual goldmine. From the red-light district to "Whiskey Point," residents and travelers visiting downtown could quench almost any thirst. Shoppers seeking the usual fare patronized Lewis Jacob's and Calisher's general stores, both on Arrowhead Avenue near Fourth Street, and Lewis Ankers, on West Third. Other establishments included James A. Brazelton's livery stable, a feed store and Miller's and Pine's hotels, along with innumerable saloons, which changed owners overnight.

George A. Atwood, who came to the city at age 7 in 1860, owned the adobe at 234 West Fourth St. bearing his name (razed "by mistake" by city crews in 1975) later recalled: "San Bernardino was but a little town when we arrived here. I remembered they claimed about 500 people altogether, Mexicans, Indians and whites. "The business of the town was little and was mostly done on four corners; Fourth Street and Arrowhead Avenue, which was then known as C street; the corner of Third and Arrowhead; the corner of Third and D and the corner of Fourth and D. Between these corners there were some scattered buildings, but very few.

"One corner, Third and D, was known as 'Whiskey Point' There was a saloon where the Bear Market (later owned by Billy Berk, who renamed it the 'Market Spot') now stands, and one across the street where the Towne Allison drug store now stands." Stage line depots were on both sides of "Whiskey Point," along with a cluster of saloons all within easy reach of miners and loggers returning on the stage from the desert and mountains. The corner was a hangout for men down on their luck, sharpies, drunks and prostitutes. It also served as a sort of outdoor lyceum, or sounding board, for disgruntled citizens and would-be . politicians, who could get up on the proverbial soapbox and speak their piece. But now and then things got a bit flaky.

"I remember well," continued Atwood. "When some other boys and I were playing on D Street, between Third and Fourth streets, when we heard a noise and uproar down on the corner of Third and D. "We looked down that way and saw a lot of men running out of the saloon. They all seemed to be afraid; some of them were trying to hide around the corner. Presently a couple of men ran out into the street. They pulled their revolvers and went to shooting. "When the smoke cleared away, two men were lying dead in the street. We boys traveled back in the opposite direction. There wasn't much excitement over the shooting, because that was a common occurence. "We had no city officers at that time and no city government. Of course we had a county sheriff. His time was spent mostly in running after horse thieves and wild Indians ... He let the town take care of itself."

South of "Whiskey Point," on D Street, was the red-light district, started shortly after the Mormons left in 1857. According to local historian was the red-light district, started shortly after the Mormons left in 1857. According to local historian Martha Gaines Stoebe, "It grew and prospered for years. It was a lively and colorful part of town, with hurdy-gurdy music at 2nd and D Streets, saloons open day and night, and poker games in progress at all times." The accompanying photograph of a street parade in San Bernardino in 1887 shows Knights of Pythias marchers turning left from Third Street onto North D, directly in front of "Whiskey Point." Across the street on East Third is Meyerstein & Son drygoods on the corner with George M. Cooley hardware to the immediate left. Looming up in the right background is South D Street.

The first shots in one of San Bernardino's most celebrated gun battles the Gentry-Ainsworth affair were fired just around the corner from "Whiskey Point" on a scorching summer's day in September 1851. The feud was between two local physicians; A. Ainsworth, a Northern sympathizer and G. Thomas Gentry, a Texan, ardent secessionist and pro-slavery advocate. It all started when Gentry, becoming incensed during a hot political argument, struck Ainsworth with his horsewhip, only to have the latter snatch the whip away and lash him across the face. The following day, Gentry emerged from the "Old Corner Saloon" on North D and fired his pistol at Ainsworth, who was passing by on the street. In turn Ainsworth drew his own weapon and fired back, but neither was hit. By now Gentry was thoroughly chagrined by his inability to do Ainsworth in and sent word to some of his Texan friends living at El Monte that he had been "corraled by Mormons" in San Bernardino and needed help immediately if not sooner. Meanwhile, Ainsworth and about eight of his friends already had been warned about Gentry's actions and holed themselves up in a house owned by Bethel Coopwood across the street from Lugo (now Pioneer) Park. When the El Monte "vigilantes" arrived and discovered the whole episode was a personal affair between the two men, most of them returned home. The rest, numbering almost 50 and led by Frank Green, milled about in the park, drinking and carousing until darkness fell. Then, hoping to surprise their opponents, they dismounted and quietly advanced toward Coopwood's residence. But the Ainsworth party, by now secreted in a tall cornfield surrounding the house, had just watched the Texans' every move. As Green and his cohorts crossed E Street, the crackle of small-arms fire filled the air. Before the skirmish ended, four persons were wounded, including Coopwood, who was shot in the shoulder. The Texans, extremely vulnerable in their exposed position, quickly withdrew and the mini-civil war was over as far as Gentry and Ainsworth were concerned. Green and a few other Texans remained in San Bernardino for several days, riding through town and terrorizing residents, while the sheriff was off "chasing wild Indians."

Today "Whiskey Point," once coveted by wild and desperate characters, is occupied by the downtown offices of Pacific Savings Bank. And, if there are any would-be politicians still hanging around, they probably can be found within the confines of the City Hall standing just a few yards away to the West. Fred Holladay Is president of the City of San Bernardino Historical and Pioneer Society.




street parade turn left off Third Street onto D, in front of 'Whiskey Point.'

Thomas Gentry/G T Gentry/Thomas J. Gentry (1828-1863)[edit]

  • Thomas Gentry [190]
  • G T Gentry[189]
  • Thomas J. Gentry (1828-1863)
    • Thomas J. Gentry "Some contemporary writers have identified Dr. Gentry as “Thomas” Gentry or “G.T.” Gentry. We believe this to be a misidentification, which may have originated with the prolific publisher of California history, Wallace W. Elliott. Elliott’s “History of San Bernardino and San Diego Counties, California”, published in 1883, relates the story of the Ainsworth-Gentry Affair and identifies the two physicians as “Dr. Ainsworth” and “Dr. Thomas Gentry”. (Wallace Elliott, occupation “Publisher”, age 47, born New York, can be found in the 1880 census living in Oakland, Alameda County, California.) Elliott did not specifically source his identification of Dr. Gentry as “Thomas” Gentry, and it is puzzling since the surviving newspapers of the time reviewed to date did not identify the two parties. In fact, Elliott was writing of an incident occurring 24 years earlier; his lack of an identification of Dr. Ainsworth’s first name suggests a possible verbal source who had no recollection of Ainsworth’s first name and an inaccurate recollection of Gentry’s first name. Another possibility is that Elliott found a Thomas J. Gentry[3] in the San Bernardino Assessor records and made an assumption. Regardless of the circumstances, this identification of “Thomas” Gentry appears to have been carried forward by many subsequent writers of the Affair, who may have used Elliott’s work as source. "[191]
      • 3. Thomas J. Gentry was the third husband of Mahala Jane Mackey Burns Ellington Gentry Hicks whom she had married 22 Sep 1855 in El Monte. Although she claimed to be a “widow” in the 1860 census, suggesting Gentry had died, a divorce record of August 2, 1860, found by Lyn Killian at the Huntington Library in the Los Angeles County Court Records, indicates Thomas J. Gentry had abandoned Mahala in 1858 and was living in San Bernardino, pursuant to an entry for him in the 1863 San Bernardino County Assessor Roll. No information has been found to date to indicate Thomas J. Gentry was a physician.[191]
    • Title: Mahala Gentry Divorce
    • Description: Source: Huntington Library; Los Angeles County Court Records. Acquired by Dorris Lyn Killian San Bernardino...
    • Attached To: Thomas J . Gentry (1828-1863)
  • Thomas Gentry [184] [192]
    • United States Census, 1860; T Gentry; 1829; W; M; Ky ; H Nance, M Steadman, H L Steadman, W Hash; Deamond Springs Township, El Dorado, California, United States; Household ID 164
      • Household Gender Age Birthplace
      • H Nance M 34 Ill
      • W Hash M 29 Ill
      • H L Steadman F 20 Wis
      • M Steadman F 1 Cal
      • T Gentry M 31 Ky

---

  • Sanderson Gentry 1833 Kentucky San Salvador Township San Bernardino California
  • Eliza J Gentry 1835 Missouri San Salvador Township San Bernardino California
  • Cristopher C Gentry 1850 Missouri San Salvador Township San Bernardino California
  • Wm H Gentry 1852 Utah Ty San Salvador Township San Bernardino California
  • Sarah E Gentry 1856 Utah Ty San Salvador Township San Bernardino California
  • Sanderson G Gentry 1858 California San Salvador Township San Bernardino California
Mahala Jane Mackey[edit]
  • Mahala Gentry 1826 Alabama Aswza Township Los Angeles California
    • Elias Gentry 1845 Texas Aswza Township Los Angeles California 15 Burns
    • James Gentry 1846 Missouri Aswza Township Los Angeles California 14 Burns
    • Sarah Gentry 1847 Texas Aswza Township Los Angeles California 13 Burns
    • Daniel Gentry 1849 Texas Aswza Township Los Angeles California 11 Burns ?
    • Thomas Gentry 1852 Texas Aswza Township Los Angeles California 8 Ellington
    • George Gentry 1854 California Aswza Township Los Angeles California 6 Ellington
    • John Gentry 1856 California Aswza Township Los Angeles California 4 Gentry
    • Valentine Gentry 1858 California Aswza Township Los Angeles California 2 Gentry

Daniel Burns KIA in Mexican War, James Ellington from Louisiana killed in Monte 1854, Thomas J. Gentry Married in 1855 abandoned her 1858, divorced for abandonment 8/1860.

Born in Alabama, USA on 17 Aug 1825 to Thomas Mackey and Sarah Murphree. Mahala Jane married Daniel Burns and had a child. Mahala Jane married James Ellington. Mahala Jane married Thomas Gentry. Mahala Jane married Homer Blair Hicks and had 3 children. She passed away on 7 Jun 1901 in Ca San Diego Oceanside.

Married THOMAS GENTRY, 1855 MONTE

Notes DIED Oceanside: age 75

_FA1 DATE 1835 PLAC Navarro, ,TX age 10: Move from AL w/parents.

_FA2 DATE 1854 PLAC CA: Move from TX: Tahachapi Cemetery:

EVEN TYPE Census 3 DATE 1850 PLAC Navarro, ,TX Hd 25 Wd AL 750: 10/12/1850

EVEN TYPE Census 8 DATE 1900 PLAC San Diego, , CA M/L 74 Wd Aug 1825 TN KY SC:

EVEN TYPE Census 4 DATE 1860 PLAC CA: LA: Hd 34 Farmer -/1000 AL: 271/27/187/181: Asuza Twp 7/23/1860

EVEN TYPE Census 6 DATE 1880 PLAC CA: LA: Hd 54 Wd Keep House TX KY AL: 34/34/290/291: El Monte Twp 6/23/1880SOURCE: (1) Deven Lewis dlewis@@earthlink.com 5/2/2000

CA: Los Angeles: 1860 Census: 271/27/187/181: Asuza Twp 7/23/1860 GENTRY, Mahala: Hd 34 Farmer -/1000 AL: GENTRY, Elias: Son 15 School/Day Labor TX: GENTRY, Sarah: Dau 13 School TX: GENTRY, James: Son 12 School MO: GENTRY, Daniel: Son 11 School TX: GENTRY, Thomas: Son 8 School TX: GENTRY, George: Son 6 School CA: GENTRY, John: Son 4 CA: GENTRY, Valentine: Dau 2 CA:

CA: Los Angeles: 1880 Census: 34/34/290/291: El Monte Twp 6/23/1880 HICKS, Mahala J: Hd 54 Wd Keep House TX KY AL: HICKS, Mary: Dau 18 S CA GA TX: HICKS, Lee R: Son 16 S School CA GA TX:

CA: San Diego: 1900 Census: 186/6A/112/112: Oceanside San Luis Rey Twp 6/8/1900 HUBBERT, Benjamin F: Hd 29 m13 Jun 1860 R/W Farmer Owns TX GA GA: HUBBERT, Mary E: Wf 28 m13 2/2 Jul 1861 R/W CA GA TN: HUBBERT, Mary E: Dau 12 Jul 1887 R/W School CA TX CA: HUBBERT, Ethel A: Dau 11 Sep 1888 R/W School CA TX CA: HICKS, Mahala J: M/L 74 Wd Aug 1825 TN KY SC:

My g.g.grandmother, Thomas' daughter Mahala Jane Mackey, married a Daniel Burns in Robertson County, in 1844. He is believed to have died in the Mexican-American War about 1848. In the 1850 Navarro Co. census, I find Mahala Burns (as a widow, I'm sure) from Alabama with her Burns children and "Sarah McKey", age 55. I believe that this is the correct age, for Sarah, placing her birth in 1795 or 1796. I suspect the 1835 memorandum should have given her age as "39" instead of "29".

In 1851, Mahala Mackey Burns, married her second husband, James Ellington. In 1854, they caught a wagon train to El Monte, CA, where he was murdered shortly thereafter - I have the Los Angeles Star issue containing the story. She would marry two more times, the last being my g.g.grandfather, Homer Blair Hicks, a Georgian.

Is there any chance that Sarah Ward Murphree could have been part Cherokee? My problem is this: our family verbal history is that Mahala was 1/2 Irish and 1/2 Cherokee, and she looked it (I have a photo of her). I'm close to proving that Thomas was Scottish and both parents were definitely from Scotland, if I'm looking at the right line. Deven Lewis

By Deven Lewis July 13, 2002 at 02:56:06]

We are trying to determine if James Ellington, who was married to Sina Huff and lived in Ellington, MO, is the same James Ellington who was married to my gggrandmother (James was her 2nd husband); James was murdered by bandits in El Monte, CA on Sept. 21, 1854, shortly after arriving there from Texas.My gggrandmother, Mahala Jane MacKey, married a James Ellington in McLennan County, TX on January 26, 1851 (the McLennan Co. marriage records misspell Ellington as "Ellenton"). Mahala had inherited a portion of her late father's property in Hill County, TX and sold her share in March of 1845, when we believe she and James left for CA, arriving and establishing a ranch in El Monte, CA (known as "Little Texas"). Mahala had two sons, Tom Ellington b. 1852, before the couple left TX, and George Ellington b. 1854. (Mahala went on to marry a Thomas Gentry in El Monte, CA; after his death, she married Homer Hicks in El Monte, CA).

According to a story we've heard, James Ellington, who was married to Sina Huff, left for the California gold rush via Texas and took some of his children from his marriage to Sina with him, however, the children later returned to MO. This James is also said to have been murdered in CA in 1854.

In the 1850 census (2 years before the marriage of James to Mahala) we find a listing on the next page over from our Mahala MacKey Burns:

E. Ellington43, b. MO, Blacksmith
L.A.17, b. MO
Jno. 16, b. MO
Joseph 8, b. MO

From: Dardev@aol.com Subject: Mackey/McKey Date: Sat, 9 Sep 2000 11:27:42 EDT

Hello All:

I'm looking for Mackey/McKey in Hill Co. and Ellis Co. - the family's property was along the Brazos River just south of Whitney. Related names: Sevier, Weaver, Wright, Boiles, Foreman, Burns, Ellington. Here's an abbreviated chart:

1 Thomas Elias Mackey b: 1795 in Kentucky d: 1836 in Robertson's Colony, present-day Hill County, Texas (near Whitney) m. Sarah Murphree b: May 17, 1796 in Pendleton District, South Carolina d: August 17, 1871 in Ellis County, Texas
..... 2 Elizabeth Mackey b: December 13, 1822 in AL d: December 24, 1915 in Milford, Ellis Co, TX
.......... +George Wallace Sevier b: April 11, 1812 in Overton County, Tennessee m: April 17, 1840 in Robertson Co, TX d: March 01, 1866 in Milford, Ellis County, Texas
.............. 3 Thomas Sevier b: 1841 d: 1855
.............. 3 John Sevier b: 1844 in Texas
.................. +Kate Blundell m: 1870
.............. 3 Elizabeth Catherine Sevier b: 1846 d: 1932 in Memphis, Texas
.................. +Jack Mabrey m: 1866 in Milford, Texas
.............. 3 James Valentine Sevier b: 1847
.............. 3 Sarah J. Sevier b: 1848 d: June 04, 1937 in Milford, Ellis County, Texas
.................. +James Blundell
.............. 3 George Washington Sevier b: January 31, 1850 in Milford, Ellis Co. TX d: February 10, 1939 in Milford, Ellis Co., TX
.................. +Sarah Jane Steele m: November 23, 1875 in Hill County, Texas
.............. 3 William Pitman Sevier b: 1852 in Milford, Ellis Co., TX d: 1931 in Whitney, Hill Co., TX
.................. +Virginia Hines m: 1886
.............. 3 Nancy B. Sevier b: 1854
.............. 3 Brett Sevier b: 1855
.............. 3 E. H. Sevier b: 1856
.............. 3 Jane E. Sevier b: 1860
...... 2 Elias Mackey b: 1823 in Tennessee
.......... +Mariah Wright b: 1823 m: Abt. 1847 in Texas
.............. 3 Thomas Mackey b: 1848
.............. 3 Elias Mackey, Jr b: 1849
.................. +Sarah Weaver m: Abt. 1879 in Hill County, Texas
.............. 3 Mary Mackey b: 1851
.............. 3 James Mackey b: 1855
.............. 3 Benjamin Mackey b: 1858
.............. 3 Mahala Jane Mackey b: June 1859 in Hill County, TX d: November 16, 1947 in Reeves Co., TX
.................. +Thomas Fisher Ingle b: Jan 10, 1852 in Cherokee Co, TX d: Oct 24, 1935 Auburn, TX
...... 2 Mahala Jane Mackey b: August 17, 1825 in Alabama d: January 07, 1901 in Tehachapi, CA
.......... +Daniel Burns b: Abt. 1825 m: February 24, 1844 in Robertson Co., Texas d: Abt. 1849 in Robertson County, Texas
.............. 3 Elias Burns b: 1845 in Texas
.............. 3 James Burns b: 1846 in Texas
.............. 3 Sara Burns b: 1847 in Texas
.............. 3 Dan Burns b: 1849 in Texas
...... *2nd Husband of Mahala Jane Mackey:
.......... +James Ellington m: Jan 26, 1851 in McLennan Co., TX d: September 21, 1854 in El Monte, CA
.............. 3 Thomas Ellington b: 1852 in Waco, Texas
.............. 3 George Ellington b: 1854 in El Monte, California
...... *3rd Husband of Mahala Jane Mackey:
.......... +Thomas I. Gentry m: Sep 22, 1855 in El Monte, CA d: Bet. 1858 - 1859 in El Monte, CA
.............. 3 John Gentry b: 1856 in El Monte, California
.............. 3 Valentine Gentry b: 1858 in El Monte, California
...... *4th Husband of Mahala Jane Mackey:
.......... +Homer Blair Hicks b: 1823 in Greene Co., Georgia m: August 08, 1860 in El Monte, CA d: 1886 in Agua Dulce, California
.............. 3 Mary Hicks b: July 15, 1861 in El Monte, CA d: March 02, 1907 in Oceanside, CA
.............. 3 Robert E. Lee Hicks b: July 14, 1863 in El Monte, CA d: March 12, 1939 in Tehachapi, CA
.................. +Martha Jane Hufstutler b: June 27, 1867 in El Monte, CA m: August 10, 1883 in El Monte, CA d: March 30, 1955 in Los Angeles, CA
...... 2 Nancy S. Mackey b: 1830 in Alabama
.......... +Unknown Boiles m: Abt. 1846 in Navarro County, Texas
.............. 3 Amanda Boiles b: 1847
...... *2nd Husband of Nancy S. Mackey:
.......... +Augustus L. Foreman b: 1827 in Tennessee m: May 03, 1849 in Navarro Co, TX Abt. 1855
...... 2 Ferreby M. Mackey b: 1831
Deven Lewis
dardev@aol.com

Franklin Gentry[edit]

Frank Gentry / community.ancestry.com.au[edit]
  • THE AINSWORTH-GENTRY AFFAIR – Will the real Dr. Gentry please stand up? By Deven L. Lewis Research by Dorris Lyn Killian and Deven L. Lewis, Tuesday, Nov 3, 2015 [191]
    • The "Dr. Gentry" of the Ainsworth-Gentry Affair of 1859 has sometimes been misidentified as "Thomas Gentry" (who had lived in the cities of El Monte and San Bernardino, California, at the time of the Affair). The attached piece is offered in an attempt to correctly identify "Dr. Gentry" as Franklin Gentry of Arkansas, who was a well-known physician and politician of El Monte. read more
    • Franklin “Frank” Gentry was a physician, "He had attended medical school at the University of Louisville in 1850-1851...Medical School Alumni Database, University of Louisville
      • GENTRY | FRANKLIN | UL | 1851, [UL = University of Louisville]
      • "I did find Dr. Gentry in the announcement for the years 1850-51, and it shows he attended but did not graduate. This was not uncommon. He was listed as being from Arkansas (no city or town) and his preceptors were “Williams & Burt” ...
      • Note: Williams & Burt were two physicians in the city of Washington, Hempstead County, Arkansas, per the 1850 census, where John S. Burt, age 31, born Arkansas, occupation physician, was living in the household of Richard P. Williams, age 33, born Indiana, occupation physician.[191] (Other student physicians listed from his period studied for two or three years. This would seem to indicate Gentry had only a very limited medical knowledge.)
    • [He] made his way to California by 1854. He became known for his Democrat/ Confederate sympathies through his presidency of the “Democracy for El Monte” organization and for his spectacular involvement in the capture of the Flores Gang, the outlaw gang that had murdered Los Angeles County Sheriff James Barton and his deputies. But his name is missing from the local history of what may have been his most notorious act. Our research leads us to say with reasonable certainty that Arkansan Franklin “Frank” Gentry was the Dr. Gentry of the unfortunate Ainsworth-Gentry Affair in San Bernardino in September of 1859.[191]
Thomas J. Gentry[edit]
  • Thomas J. Gentry "Some contemporary writers have identified Dr. Gentry as “Thomas” Gentry or “G.T.” Gentry. We believe this to be a misidentification, which may have originated with the prolific publisher of California history, Wallace W. Elliott. Elliott’s “History of San Bernardino and San Diego Counties, California”, published in 1883, relates the story of the Ainsworth-Gentry Affair and identifies the two physicians as “Dr. Ainsworth” and “Dr. Thomas Gentry”. (Wallace Elliott, occupation “Publisher”, age 47, born New York, can be found in the 1880 census living in Oakland, Alameda County, California.) Elliott did not specifically source his identification of Dr. Gentry as “Thomas” Gentry, and it is puzzling since the surviving newspapers of the time reviewed to date did not identify the two parties. In fact, Elliott was writing of an incident occurring 24 years earlier; his lack of an identification of Dr. Ainsworth’s first name suggests a possible verbal source who had no recollection of Ainsworth’s first name and an inaccurate recollection of Gentry’s first name. Another possibility is that Elliott found a Thomas J. Gentry[3] in the San Bernardino Assessor records and made an assumption. Regardless of the circumstances, this identification of “Thomas” Gentry appears to have been carried forward by many subsequent writers of the Affair, who may have used Elliott’s work as source. "[191]
    • 3. Thomas J. Gentry was the third husband of Mahala Jane Mackey Burns Ellington Gentry Hicks whom she had married 22 Sep 1855 in El Monte. Although she claimed to be a “widow” in the 1860 census, suggesting Gentry had died, a divorce record of August 2, 1860, found by Lyn Killian at the Huntington Library in the Los Angeles County Court Records, indicates Thomas J. Gentry had abandoned Mahala in 1858 and was living in San Bernardino, pursuant to an entry for him in the 1863 San Bernardino County Assessor Roll. No information has been found to date to indicate Thomas J. Gentry was a physician.[191]
Pike County Archives and History Society[edit]
Franklin Gentry / ancestry.com/genealogy/records/franklin-gentry[edit]
Born in Clark County now Pike County, Arkansas, USA on 24 Jan 1826 to William Gentry and Jane Narrid Norrid. He passed away on 24 Apr 1864.
Family Members
Parents
William Gentry 1788-1857
Jane Narrid Norrid 1792-1852

---

Daily Alta California, 11 December 1855[edit]
"LATER FROM THE SOUTH

Arrival of the Senator. [by the Pacific Express.] The steamer Senator, Capt. A. M. Barns, arrived from San Diego and intermediate ports, last evening about half-past eight o'clock. The following is her passenger list, for which we are indebted to Mr. Harney. the clerk. (included Messer, Gentry) [193]

Los Angeles Star[edit]
  • The high profile “Dr. Gentry” of the 1850s was Dr. Franklin “Frank” Gentry, who had close ties to many of the well known men of El Monte/San Bernardino through the “Democracy of El Monte” organization for which he was elected President in 1856. In the Los Angeles Star newspaper, September 13, 1856 edition, it was reported that the “Democracy of El Monte” had elected new officers: Dr. F. Gentry, President; B. Coopwood, Vice President; and A.J. King, Secretary:
Los Angeles Star 13 September 1856, p.2, col.2; Democracy of El Monte[edit]
... the following gentlemen were elected officers: President, Dr. F. Gentry ; Vice President, B. Coopwood; Secretary, A. J. King.
“On Thursday, September 11th, a respectable meeting of the Democracy of El Monte township, was held at the office of C. O. Cunningham, Esq. On motion of Capt. E. Hunter, the following gentlemen were elected officers: President, Dr. F. Gentry; Vice President, B. Coopwood; Secretary, A. J. King. On motion, of B. Coopwood, Capt. E. Hunter, B. F. Coopwood, F. Gentry and A. J. King were . appointed a committee to draft resolutions and report immediately, wherefore, the following were submitted and unanimously adopted. Resolved, That we, the Democracy of El Monte Township, heartily approve of the nominations for President and Vice President made by the National Democratic Convention at Cincinnati, 1856. Resolved, That we endorse the Platform and resolutions of said Convention. Resolved, That we will cheerfully support the nominees for State and County officers at the next general election, and that we will use all honorable means to defeat our opponents, under whatever name they may assume, more especially those who style themselves Black Republicans. DR. F. GENTRY, President,. A. J. KING, Secretary.”4
  • 4 The reference to “Black Republicans” was a reference to Republicans who were supporters of black equality and of Abraham Lincoln’s platform. The Republican party had been formed in 1854, thus the timing of Democracy for El Monte’s statement concerning Black Republicans was an expression of their strong allegiance to the South. [14][191]
Los Angeles Star, Number 19, 20 September 1856, p3c3[edit]
"Lexinqton, Sept. 18th, 1856.
"Editor "Star,"
"Dear Sir: Pursuant to notice, the Democratic Club of this place, met to-day, (Thursday) at 1 o'clock P. M. The object of the meeting was explained by Dr. F. Gentry, President of the club. C. Sims, was then called upon to address the club, who responded in an able and patriotic address, discussing the political issues of the day. Afterwards, Capt. E. Hunter, of this place was loudly called for, who took the stand and address ed the meeting with a few but very appropriate remarks."[194]
Los Angeles Star, Number 23, 18 October 1856 p.2 col.4; Election of Delegates[edit]
"Election of Delegates.
On Monday last, in pursuance of the call of the 1 County Central Committee, a primary election was held in the various precincts of the county, - for delegates to the Democratic County Convention to be held in this city to-day. The following gentlemen were elected in their respective precincts of Los Angeles.— Myron Norton, H. N. Alexander, John Ward, E. Drown, B, Dryfus, F. Bachman, George Hanson, D. Marchesseault, P. N. Madigan. George Carson. J. B. Winston, Ignacio del Valle, Antonio F. Coronel, Augustin Olvera, (Tomas A. Sanchez, Felipe Lugo, Ignacio Ybarra. El Monte — David Lewis, Bethel Coopwood, Ben. Barton, Frank Gentry, A. J. King, E. B. Tyler, D. R. Dickey, W. W. Maxy. £ San Gabriel—W. M. Stockton, J. P. Bums, Daniel Sexton."
  • Barton Road [195] Dr. Benjamin Barton [196]
  • Delegate Ben Barton was a physician from South Carolina, practicing in Alabama and Texas until he came to California in 1854.6 Ben Barton
Dr. Ben Barton was born on June 8, 1823 in Greenville, SC. He studied medicine in Kentucky and practiced in Alabama and Texas until he came to California in 1854. He resided in El Monte and Northern California until he came to San Bernardino in 1857. He purchased 100 acres of property known as "Old San Bernardino Mission" from Lyman and Rich for $500. In 1858 Barton built an adobe at C and 4th streets where he started San Bernardino's first drug store. He was also the postmaster. The following year he sold this property and gave up practicing medicine to give his full attention to ranching. He was elected to the assembly of the state in 1861 and 1862. He died January 1, 1890.

(Dr. Barton and Dr. Gentry were probable partners of the Barton & Gentry partnership referenced in the June 18, 1859 edition of the Los Angeles Star concerning a Grand Jury investigation of the books of San Bernardino and the determination of the incompetency of the Board of Supervisors. Among the list of various payments made are these two entries: “Barton & Gentry, for oil and turpentine, furnished for jail, $62.50" and "Barton & Gentry, for oil and turpentine, $60.50".)7 LA STAR 1859 06 18

443 Barton Benj. 37 M Physician S. Carolina
443 Barton Eliza 33 F Missouri
443 Barton John 5 M California
443 Barton Hiram 4 M California.
443 Cutherton John 25 M Laborer Virginia
443 Hart Hiram 17 M Laborer Missouri

---

110 Barton John P. 26 M Druggist 2,000 S. Carolina
Los Angeles Star, 7 February 1857, p2, col.1-3, Pursuit and Capture of Flores Daniel Gang[edit]
Dr. Frank Gentry was linked again to Bethel Coopwood, as well as to C.O. Cunningham and W.W. Maxy, in the newspapers of the times concerning the 1857 capture of the Flores Gang. The Gang had murdered Los Angeles County Sheriff James Barton, Constable Charles Baker, Deputy Charles Daly, and Constable William Little outside of San Juan Capistrano. Barton and his men had been after the Gang for their criminal activities throughout Southern California since 1855, which included robberies and shooting ranchers and their families. Former Mexican Governor Pio Pico’s brother, General Don Andres Pico, took charge of forming a large posse to go after the Flores Gang following the murder of Sheriff Barton and his men. The posse was divided into smaller posses, according to the Los Angeles Star, February 7, 1857 edition story entitled “Pursuit of Robbers”; two of the smaller posses were led by “Dr. Gentry” and “B. Copewood”. Dr. Gentry’s participation is well documented in the article, and it was none other than Dr. Gentry’s posse that actually captured Flores and a number of Gang members at one point, however, Flores ultimately escaped, and was recaptured 24 hours later by other men.
  • Los Angeles Star, Number 39, 7 February 1857, p2, col.1-3 PDF Articles detailing the Pursuit and capture of members of the Flores Daniel Gang. Mention of Dr. Gentry and B. Coopwood as leaders of two groups of the El Monte party involved. Coopwood especially for the assault up the mountain to dislodge Flores and his men. Gentry's party mentioned as the ones that first captured Flores and two other men, but by neglect of a sentry let Flores and his men escape that night.
The Pursuit of the Robbers.
The various companies having returned from their search iu the mountains, we give the following reports of their operations:
THE MONTE COMPANY — ARREST OF THE ROBBERS. This company started out on Tuesday, the 26th ult., twenty-six in number. On arriving at San Juan, got information of the party of robbers in the mountains, and started, out in pursuit. About twenty miles north of San Juan, received an express from Don Andres Pico and went to his assistance, as he was guarding a canon in which the robbers were concealed. On Friday evening, the united parties saw them on the top of a mountain, and made arrangements for their capture, which resulted in the arrest of three, Flores and two others, and the escape of three. The party remained at this place two nights and a day, then divided into three parties, Don Audres taking the Californians, Dr. Gentry one part of the American company and Mr. Copewood the other. The parties continued the search, and at about ten miles distance from their former action, came in sight of the robbers who had escaped. They again ran for another hiding place, a chase ensued for about three miles, several shots were exchanged—there being only four men in close pursuit — finally, the balance of the party came up, surrounded the robbers, who seeing their position, laid down their arms and surrendered. Flores had Barton's gold watch; and from the party were taken two double barreled guns, one musket, two navy revolvers, one five-shooter, two knives, and other plunder.
ESCAPE OF THE ROBBERS. Having secured the principal men concerned in the murder of the Sherrif's party, the company turned homeward, and arrived at the ranch of Don Theodocio Yorba, about five or six miles from the place of capture. Here they camped for the night, expecting to meet the remainder of the party — tied the prisoners and placed a guard over them. About twelve o'clock, from the negligence of the guard, the prisoners effected their escape. Shots were fired alter them, but in vain. Expresses were sent out for the other companies who shortly after arrived, and a general search was made. The party returned to the Monte and were making preparations for another expedition, when on Wednesday evening, they received intelligence of the re-arrest of the principal prisoner.
The search was long and harassing, the men being compelled to travel or watch day and night, with little food for themselves or fodder for their horses.

---

The California Company.
On Monday, the 26th ult., Don Andres Pico started from town with nineteen Californians, the men armed with lances. At the Rancho of Don Pio Pico obtained twenty-five other men, but not having sufficient arms for the whole number, selected thirty-five men, and started for San Juan. At the Rancho of Don Jose Sepulveda got five more men, and at San Juan obtained eleven men, making in all, a company of fifty-one men.
On the arrival of the party from the Monte at San Juan, they joined the Californians, and Don Andres held a consultation with them as to the plan of operations. His suggestions were adopted, and the two companies acted in concert throughout the whole affair. By the aid and influence of Don Andres, a party of Indians, numbering forty-three men, under their captain Manuelito, of the Potrero, was secured, by whose aid the mountain passes were effectually watched and guarded.
The first step taken was to send Indian spies into the mountains, to find the camp of the robbers. One of the runners returned before dark same day and reported that the camp was situated at the head of the Cañada de Santiago. A second spy came in during the night and reported to Don Andres that he had conversed with one of the band, Antonio Ma.Varelas, (Chino) who sent word to Don Andres to place his men in a certain position, and he would be sure to catch the whole gang. The moon, however, going down at an early hour, prevented the execution of the plan. Early next morning, the party marched to the place designated, but as they were taking up their position, Flores crept to an overhanging rock, observed the movement, and commenced a retreat into the mountain fastnesses. Don Andres then charged up the mouutain after him. Flores driving Chino before him, with his gun leveled on him. The Chino was prevented by Flores from joining the Californians, till the arrival of Dr. Gentry's party of Americans, when being engaged in arraying his men, Chino effected his escape to Don Tomas Sanchez. Shots were exchanged by the parties, but at too great a distance to take effect.
Flores and his men climbed up a very high peak of the mountain on horseback, and two went up afoot. Don Andres disposed his men along the side of the mountain, so as to guard the robbers, and dispatched a runner for the Americans who were encamped in the Trabujo Pass. On their arrival, they divided into two parties—that under Dr. Gentry guarding the mountain, while the other, under Mr. B. Copewood, made the attack.
The mountain to which the robbers had fled was almost inaccessible, even on foot, and while the Americans were ascending the hill, Juan Flores, Jesus Espinosa. and Leonardo Lopez slid their horses down a precipice to a kind shelf about fifty feet below, where they abandoned them and escaped down a precipitous ledge of rocks, about 500 feet high, by aid of the brush growing on its side. Thence, they took refuge in the adjacent mountain, making their way through dense chapparel on foot.
Francisco Ardillerro, attempting to escape down the mountain, was captured by Gentry's party.
Juan Silvas. fearing to make the desperate leap with Flores and his two companions, and knowing that he could not evade the guards, gave himself up to the Californians.
When the company left the scene of the attack It was sundown; they went to the foot of the mountain and encamped and learned that night from Chino that Francisco Daniel, Andres Fontes, Santos (since shot at the Mission), and the Piquinini had gone to Los Angeles.
Next morning, a party under Don Tomas Sanchez started for the city with the Chino as a guide to point out their hiding place. The remainder of the party kept up a strict guard on the various mountain passes.
Don Andres returned to San Juan, obtained the assistance of the Indians and scoured the mountains.
Dr. Gentry's party discovered the trail of Flores and his associates, pursued it and came in sight of them, when the robbers attempted to evade them by hiding in a cave in the cañada. From this, they fired on their pursuers, wounding one of the party, Francis Goddard. Seeing that they were at last caught, and overpowered by numbers, they made no further attempt to escape, and surrendered. They were conveyed to the rancbo of Don Theodocio Yorba, where they effected their escape, as elsewhere related.
When Don Andres Pico left the camp for San Juan, he gave the charge of his troop to Don Juan Sepulveda. On obtaining the Indians, he sent an express for his own troop to unite with Copewood's command, and scour the hills and the Canada of Santiago, while the Indians should climb the mountain peaks.
That night the companies united, then forming a band of 119 men, including the lndians. An express arrived from Dr. Gentry that he had captured the fugitives.
The San Juan company were then dispatched below the San Joaquin rancho to guard the mountains and intercept the retreat of Daniel and the Piquinini, who were expected to come out there.
Next morning, the remainder of the command started to join Gentry. When on the road, they were informed of the escape of the prisoners. Don Andres, not wishing to risk the safety of his prisoners, hung Silvas and Ardillero. He then divided his forces and diligently searched the whole country from San Juan to the Los Angeles River.
The party was out on this harrassing duty eleven days, and underwent great hardships.
Don Andres Pico furnished sixty horses for the party and procured a large number from other rancheros.
Don Jose Sepulveda drove a band of horses into the mountains, as a depot for the company, and supplied the whole force with beef.
CASUALTY.
We regret to have to state that Jose Antonio Serrano, Mayor Domo of Don Pio Pico and a most reliable and trustworthy man, had his thigh broken by his horse falling from the precipice, when in close pursuit of Flores.
Two horses of the company were killed by falling from the cliff.

---

Mr. Thompson's Party.
On Thursday week this party started for San Gabriel, as stated in our last publication. There were twenty-seven men in the company, under the command of James Thompson, Esq; Stopped first night out at San Gabriel Mission, and stood guard there ; during the night, heard of three men, with pack animals, having gone to Rincon, and went in search of them, passing through by the back of the first range of mountains, and coming to Bodega cañon. At this point received reinforcements; sent a command of ten men to San Fernando; others to Cahuenga to get forage for animals and guarded the roads with balance. It was supposed that during the night some five or six persons had come along the road, and seeing the guard from a distance, or being informed by spies, retreated.
Next day, camped at Rancho del Encino and guarded the road. Next day marched about fifteen miles from that station and camped. Here the company was joined by a command of U. S. troops from Fort Tejon. Mr. Thompson placed ten of the soldiers with two of his own men at San Fernando Pass; ten soldiers with two others, at Simi Pass; ten of his own men at Scorpion Ranch, and thirteen of his own men on the main Santa Barbara road.
ARREST OF FLORES.
On Tuesday last, Juan Flores came to the Simi Pass in search of water; two soldiers who were placed on watch behind a rock quietly stepped up behind him and with their guns leveled and cocked ordered him to stop, which he immediately did and dismounted. At this time, he was without arms, had not even a pocket knife, was mounted on a very poor horse, and had only a little dried beef on his saddle behind him. He was questioned as to who he was, where he was going, where he had come from, &c. &c. In reply to which he stated that his name was Juan Gonzales Sanchez, that he belonged to and had come from San Fernando Mission, that he was out hunting horses, and that he was going no further. He was then carried to camp, where he was recognized by Don Pancho Johnson, who was of the guard, as Juan Flores, the noted robber and murderer, he was of course secured.
THE COMPANIONS OF FLORES.
About an hour after the arrest of Flores, two other men came up to the Simi Pass with about fourteen horses. They were challenged by the guard in front and at once took to flight through the Pass. Here Mr. Thompson had placed two men, telling them that the fugitives must pass that spot. Neglecting the caution of the commander, the men had left the post in search of forage for their horses, unfortunately at the time when their presence was required. The Pass not being guarded, the two men, of course companions of Flores, made their escape, as there were no horses to pursue them. The sergeant in command of the soldiers fired after the fugitives, and it is supposed he struck one of them. A horse ridden by one of them returned to camp, but he was utterly worn out and unfit for further service. It is supposed the bandit left him and climbed the mountain afoot. The other robber was well mounted and made his way easily over a most difficult and dangerous route.
RECOVERY OF HORSES.
In addition to the horse with saddle and bridle which came to camp and the band of horses in possession of the latter fugitives, Mr. Thompson recovered six horses which had been stolen the previous night at Cahuenga.
Flores stated to Mr. Thompson that he did not know who the men were, nor anything of the horses. That he, Espinosa, and Lopez, had escaped from the guard at Santa Ana on Sunday night— that they then separated, and he had not since seen them. That he had stolen a horse, saddle and bridle at Santa Ana, or near there, on which he escaped and reached the Mission of San Fernando, where he caught the horse he was riding when taken. He requested Mr. Thompson to bring him to town, so that he might have the benefit of a clergyman, make confession, and write to his mother—and then he was ready for his fate. Flores that he was not the captain of the gang, but that Pancho Daniel was; Flores was wounded in the right arm, which he stated was done when he and the two others escaped from the Monte party, by leaping over a precipice, his own gun exploded by the shock of his fall, or by coming in contact with the rocks.
ARRIVAL OF FLORES.
On Thursday afternoon Mr. Thompson arrived in town, bringing Flores along with him in his buggy. During the journey he maintained his coolness and self-possession, but when he arrived at the jail, and saw the crowd of people, his firmness gave way, and he begged Mr. Thompson not to leave him but walk with him to the jail. His wish was complied with and he was at length lodged in prison and heavy irons placed upon him, to await the action of the people.
PURSUIT OF DANIEL.
Mr. Thompson, having heard that Daniel had been at Cahuenga on Wednesday, where he had purchased crackers and sugar, started off in pursuit, and scoured the country till dark, but without meeting with him.
MORE BOBBERIES. In the early part of the week, a report reached this city, that a gang of robbers had made a descent on certain ranches in Santa Barbara county, and carried off over 100 head of horses from Moore's ranch, San Cayetano, and the Sanchez on Santa Clara river.

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The Affair at the Mission.
Having seen in the Clamor Publico of Saturday, January 31, a false account of the events of the Thursday preceding at Sau Gabriel, we deem it necessary to give a correct statement of facts as they were:—
On Thursday morning, Messrs. Cyrus Sanford, Gifford, and Totten were proceeding towards the Mission. Near the Rancheria, they saw coming towards them, on the same road, Mr. Wm. M. Stockton, riding side by side with a Mexican; at the same time, there was another Mexican approaching from one side, at right angles with the road, as if to cut off and meet Stockton and his companion. This man had left the Mission in company with the man who was with Stockton, but had separated just outside, taking different roads, running nearly parallel. On seeing Stockton overtake the Mexican on the lower road, his companion apparently cut across to join him. As he approached, Sanford's party coming up at the same time, Stockton seeing that the Mexican coming up was armed and of a suspicious appearance, called out, "look out for that man, he's a thief." In the meantime, Stockton, after coming up with the Mexican on his road, hailed him, and the following conversation occurred.
Stockton asked him, where he was going? He answered, "To Don Julian's house." Mr S. replied, "there is no Don Julian living about here." The stranger retorted, "yes, there is, he's a Mexican." Stockton answered, you're mistaken, for I know all the Mexican houses about here, and there's no such man." The Mexican then said, "Well, if you know so much about it, why do you ask?" and turned his horse towards Stockton, who avoided him. At the same time, Sanford, on hearing the call of Stockton to look out for the other man who was coming up, sheered his horse towards him, at which both the strangers put spurs to their horses, and drew their pistols. Sanford and his companions, with Stockton, gave chase, others joining them, but all except to Stockton and Sanford, being poorly mounted, could not get near enough to be of service.
At the time of the running fight, Diego Navarra was seen running mounted upon a fine white horse, endeavoring to unite with the Mexicans. He was hailed, and told to come back, which he heard and refused to obey, but was overtaken at least two miles, perhaps three miles, from his house, upon which, it is represented in the Clamor Publico, he was putting "brea" and when asked why he did not stop when hailed, he said one of the men who was running and shooting at Mr. Sanford owed him a little money, and he was going to meet him to get his pay. He was asked, what was the name of the man, but would not give it. In the fight, Mr. Sanford had his horse shot three times, twice in the breast and once in the neck. One of the Mexicans, being closely pressed, and having exhausted all his shots, left his horse and took to the swamp, in the rear of the mill of Mr. Courtney. The swamp was immediately fired by Mr. Van Deusen and others, when the Mexican was discovered buried up to his neck in the mud. At this time, Mr. King, of the Monte, arrived, and seeing the villain, called to him to come out and surrender, which he refused, when Mr. K. dispatched him with his rifle. Now, a general search took place, and a large number of suspected persons were taken prisoners—among them, Pedro Lopez and Juan Valenzuela. A jury of twelve persons was appointed by the citizens assembled, among whom were some natives, and a fair and impartial trial was given them; in proof of which, a largo number were released. Navarra was proved to be a man of general bad character, and dangerous to be permitted to live in any peaceable community, and to bo connected with thieving parties. Juan Valenzuela is an old offender. His participation in several robberies.and attempted burglaries, and finally being guilty, only a few nights before, of stealing sheep, was proved. Pedro Lopez was proved guilty of having, only a short time ago, stolen a mule and selling the same to a Mr. Hamilton, a poor man, who lost by the operation §120. Beside this, he never was known to work, maintaining himself by cock-fighting and cattle-stealing.—
Each, of. these men was sentenced to die, and they were executed. The story of one of them falling dead in the arms of his wife, never had any truth in it, but is one of that class of articles which has too often, for the last year, appeared in that incendiary publication, called the El Clamor Publico. -
Thompson's Company.
The citizens haying determined to make a thorough search for the band of robbers who infested the county, enrolled several companies, as stated in our last, the command of one of which was entrusted to James Thompson, Esq.. This company was intended for hard service in the mountains, and a more fitting choice of a commander could not be made. With patience and. perseverance, and an untiring energy, he continued the search, until his efforts were crowned with success. The disposition i of the men at his command, as will be seen from the report of his company, was such as to render the escape of the fugitives impossible ; and had certain of the men remained at their posts, as they should have, the two robbers who are now missing, would be with their leader, Flores. It is much to be regretted that men who volunteer their services for duty of this nature, will not implicitly obey the orders of their commander.
Mr. Thompson's company, however, have done good service, and we think it would be well for the county if their organization were continued for some time to come. The expense of maintaining them will be more than compensated by securing protection to life and property, and establishing peace and tranquility throughout the county. By this means, travel on the roads will be rendered safe, and the cattle and other property on the ranches secured from depredation. Such a course would be highly proper — indeed, it is necessary, and we doubt not will meet with the cordial approbation, the hearty support and co-operation of the people at large.

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Names of the Robbers.
We have been furnished with the following lis and description of the robbers:
Juan Flores, now in jail;
Jesus Espinosa ;
Santos, (killed at the Mission,) un tuerto*, Sonorense; [*One-eyed]
Leonardo, (Mejicano) un chapo pelon*; [*a hairy chap]
These four were convicts escaped from the State Prison.
Guerro Galiado, alias Piquinini;
Francisco Daniel. Sonorense;
Andres Foules. (media Indio);
Antonio Ma. Tarelas;
Juan Catabo, alias Juan Sauripa, alias Juan Silvas;
Francisco, alias Guerro Ardillero.
The two latter were executed by the Californian company.

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Found Hanged. — On Friday, as Mr. Getman was out on patrol, he discovered, about two miles from the Nietos, two bodies evidently of Mexicans hanging from a tree, suspended by a rope. They had been sometime dead. It was stated to him, that another body was lying in a canon, a short distance off, shot with lead and buck shot.

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Investigation.
The result of the proceedings to break up the band of robbers who had located in this county, was, to lodge in jail fifty-two prisoners. An investigation into their several cases has been going on during the week, and is still pending. When closed, the testimony will be submitted to the people for iheir action.

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U. S. Troops.—The troops from Fort Tejon under the command of Lieut. Magruder, who marched here on the request of the citizens, did good service for the people. They were placed as follows, to intercept the retreat of the robbers, — ten men, under Lieut. Pender, in the San Fernando Pass, and ten men, under Sergt. Walker, in the Simi Pass. This arrangement was also made at the request of the citizens of Los Angeles.
Accident to Jose A. Serrano. — We beg to direct attention to the fact that this gentleman has sustained severe injury while in the service of the people of this county. His wound was bandaged and he was brought to town by Dr. Welsh, and is now under the medical attendance of Dr. Griffin. We hope measures will be adopted to give the unfortunate sufferer a substantial token of the appreciation of his services by the people for whom he risked his life.
Los Angeles Star February 14, 1857[edit]
  • “Statement Concerning Chino”
That the Dr. Gentry of the February 7, 1857 article was Dr. Frank Gentry is supported by a Star article 7 days later, concerning the involvement of a boy named “Chino” in the capture of the Flores Gang. The boy was affiliated with the Gang and had given information to Pico regarding the Gang’s whereabouts in exchange for his own life. Whether or not Chino should be spared was apparently a hot topic among the outraged citizens; in the February 14, 1857 edition of the Los Angeles Star appears an article entitled “Statement Concerning Chino””, which begins:
“The following document has been handed us for publication, and we readily give it a place. It will be seen that the particulars stated therein respecting the boy Chino are the same as we published last week, with the addition, that Don Andres Pico and Don Tomas Sanchez, to induce the boy to give them information concerning the hiding place of the robbers, promised him his life. This has been a subject of controversy among our citizens during the week, but now that the fact has been authoritatively vouched for, we hope all dissension or difference of opinion will cease…”
The above is followed by the statement of Frank Gentry, Bethel Coopwood, C.O. Cunningham, and W.W. Maxy as witnesses to the fact that the boy, Chino, had been a valuable informant and that Pico’s promise to spare Chino’s life in return for the information should be honored.10 In other words, “Dr. Gentry” and “B. Copewood” of the Los Angeles Star article of February 7, 1857 were “Frank Gentry” and “Bethel Coopwood” of the Los Angeles Star statement of February 14, 1857, calling upon the citizens to honor Pico’s promise to spare Chino - Gentry, Coopwood, Cunningham and Maxy having had firsthand knowledge of the boy’s value.
10 [15]; [16]; Los Angeles Star Newspaper editions cited.]
Statement Concerning Chino
The following document has been handed us for publication, and we readily give it a place. It will be seen that the particulars stated therein respecting the boy Chino are the same as we published last week, with the addition, that Don Andres Pico and Don Tomas Sanchez, to induce the boy to give them information concerning the hiding-place of the robbers, promised him his life. This has been a subject of controversy among our citizens during the week, but now that the fact has been authoritatively vouched for, we hope all dissension or difference of opinion will cease. On the assurances of the gentlemen above referred to, Chino gave reliable information, and it is even stated, further, that without his aid or information, the robbers could not have been discovered. Such being the case, there should not, in our opinion, be the slightest hesitation in endorsing the promises made to him. It is due also to the gentlemen who were in charge of the parties, both Californians and Americans, that their action should be sanctioned by the people, and that the pledges made should be maintained in all their breadth and fullness.
We have been informed that a statement would have been laid before the public by Don Andres Pico regarding the matter, but for indisposition. We do not think this at all necessary, for we are fully satisfied with the facts as set forth in this document, and are well assured that the people will unanimously sustain the gentlemen above named in the course which they have pursued, more especially aa it has so signally subserved the interests of the people. The following is the statement alluded to:—
Lexington, Feb. 12,1857
Upon arriving at San Juan, we found Don Andres Pico with a company of forty-five men, who left Los Angeles for that place, for the purpose of capturing the murderers who killed Sheriff Barton Little, Baker and Daly.
We there had an understanding with Don Andres Pico, in relation to our further movements in capturing the robbers. Pico was to start out spies to find where the robbers' camp was, as we had strong reasons to believe that they were still in the vicinity of San Juan. The spies were sent out, and one of them returned about sundown and reported to Pico, and he immediately informed us that the camp had been discovered. We immediately resolved on our course of action. Both Californians and Americans started to the places designated, which were about twenty miles north of San Juan, and about ten or fifteen miles apart. As Don Andres Pico was on the way to the place designated for him, he met another spy who informed him that he had also found the camp of the robbers, and had had a talk with Chino, whose life Don Andres Pico and Thomas Sanchez had promised, through the spy, to save, on condition that he would divulge their plans and point out to them all the men that belong to the force, give their names and descriptions. Pico then went on to where the spy had directed him to go, where he found the robbers. He charged on them; they fled to the top of a very steep hill; he immediately started an express to the Americans; they got the express in a short time after it started; the Americans marched to the place to Pico's party. As soon as the Americans came in sight, two of the robbers came down and gave themselves up. Chino was one of them. Previous to his coming off the mountain, Pico and Sanchez assured him that they would keep their promise with him. When the Americans arrived, he was in possession of Pico's men. That night Chino proceeded to give the names and descriptions of all who belonged to the company of the robbers. Next morning Sanchez with a company of Californians, Maxy, Cunningham and Keller, started to Los Angeles with Chino, for him to point out the houses that they were in habit of visiting. They went to Los Angeles, and searched the houses diligently, but the robbers had left before their arrival. They then returned to the camp with him, as that was their orders.
The Americans, considering themselves equally bound in the promises made to Chino by Pico, left him in the charge of Pico, that he might dispose of him according to the promises made. We deemed it honorable to fullfil the promises that Pico had made to the boy.
Don Andres Pico, in every action was honorable, and acted in good faith towards the Americans, and we are in honor bound to sustain him in the steps that he has taken. We also consider the citizens of the Monte firmly bound to sustain us in every step necessary to be taken in apprehending and punishing the robbers, and that the citizens of Los Angeles were likewise pledged to sustain us.
Our promises with Chino have been fulfilled, and we are now under no obligations to him whatever.
Frank Gentry.
Bethel Coopwood.
C. O. Cunningham.
W. W. Maxy.[197] : 2, col. 2 
  • Statement concerning Chino signed by Frank Gentry, Bethel Coopwood, C. O. Cunningham and W. W. Maxy

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From San Bernardino.
Our correspondent informs us, that immediately on the intelligence reaching that city of the murder of Sheriff Barton and his party, a company was organized to search the country for the perpetrators of that horrid deed, and that the utmost vigilance was exerted to arrest them but without success. Farming operations were proceeding, but the want of rain was much felt. Matters in general proceeding peaceably, as usual.[197]: 2, col. 1 

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[From our Extra of Tuesday.] Expedition to Santa Barbara —Execution of two men.
On Tuesday, the 2d of February, a party, consisting of five persons, started out on an expedition to Santa Barbara. Two of the party were left at the Mission of San Buenaventura, and the others went on to their destination. Information was given to tbe people at the Mission that certain of the gang of robbers would arrive that night in town, and men were stationed to guard the approaches and a spy sent to reconnoitre. Shortly after, two men approached, riding on a horse, and on meeting the spy, asked him if there was any excitement in town, to which he answered there was not and they continued their course, in conversation with the runner. When arrived within the line of ambuscade, the spy, a Californian, called out. " Here they are, take them, - ' at this they both leaped from the horse and ran. The party in ambush fired after them, but did not shoot them; they then gave chase, and succeeded in taking one of them—the other made his escape. The man arrested proved to be Jesus Espinosa, one of the gang who murdered Sheriff Barton and his party. He was tried by the people and condemned to death. He was accordingly executed. Previous to which he made a confession of his participation in the crimes charged against him. On the return of Mr. E. H. Ruebottom and party from Santa Barbara, they proceeded to the house of a man named Berreyessa, whom they arrested and brought to trial. It appears this man had been tried and found guilty of a murder, in Santa Clara county ; had been ordered to be executed, and that he had been actually hung up, but being cut down before life became extinct, the body was given over to his friends who effected his resuscitation, The mark of the rope still remained on his neck. Since then, he committed another murder. These facts having been proved satisfactorily, he was also condemned and executed. On their return to town, and when about fifteen miles from San Buenaventura, they discovered a man in a rather suspicious position, and acting as if wishing to evade detection. He was arrested, brought to town, and lodged in jail, but as nothing has as yet been elicited to inculpate him, we decline giving his name.[197]: 2, col. 4 

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List of Executions.
The people having taken the administration of justice into their own hands, the death penalty has been inflicted on the following persons : —
1. Juan Catabo, alias Juan Sauripa, alias Juan Silvas.
2. Francisco, alias Guerro Ardillero.
3. Jose Santos.
4. Diego Navarra.
5. Pedro Lopez.
6. Juan Yalenzuela.
7. Jesus Espinosa.
8. Encarnacion Berryessa.
Three others, names unknown.
Besides these, Juan Flores, the captain of the gang, is in custody, awaiting execution. Making in all twelve persons, whose lives had been devoted to robbery and murder.[197]: 2, col. 4 

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Letter of Rev. Father Serrano, enclosing Confession of Espinosa. [TRANSLATION.]
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. I, Domingo Serrano, Curate of the Catholic Church in the Mission of San Buenaventura, having heard the confession of Jose Jesus Espinosa, native of Monterey River, aged about seventeen or eighteen years; and considering the benefit, which may result to the numerous unfortunates who are imprisened upon suspicion of robberies and murders recently committed in or about Los Angeles, by divulging some part of the confession, and having under consideration at the same time, that it might serve to quiet and tranquilize the feeling of the community which is much excited by the belief of numerous secret companies or societies, aud having taken into consideration the before mentioned, I have accordingly with deep solicitude labored to obtain his consent in the presence of witnesses, that I might reveal a part of what I had heard in confession, and that it all might be substantiated by him as true; and believing it to be the most advisable, I have made it in writing, and after reading, was signed by the culprit, the witnesses and myself, which is as follows: —

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Confession of Espinosa.
I, Jose Jesus Espinosa, fully convinced that after a few hours I shall have ceased to exist, and shall appear before the "presence of God, to give a strict account of all the actions of my life, most truthfully say—that we, the thieves and murderers, are but ten persons, namely : Antonio Maria Vareles, or Chino; Andres Fontes, Juan Catabo, Juan Flores, Santos Santiago Silvas, Leonardo Lopez, and the remaining one which I only know as the "Ardillero," and who I confess is innocent, as he joined us after we had committed all the crimes. I also affirm, that our organizntion dates back one month, or little less, in which time we have committed four murders near San Juan, and one murder in that place. We have stolen from three stores in San Juan, taking away goods and money, which with that taken from the murdered persons, I think might exceed $120, and about ten horses. This is the truth, which I sign with a cross be fore my name, as I cannot write. JOSE JESUS ESPINOSA.[197]: 2, col. 4 

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Daily Alta California, Volume , Number 45, 15 February 1857 p.2, col.4, INTERESTING LETTER FROM LOS ANGELES. NEWS OF THE PAST FORTNIGHT--FULL ACCOUNT OF THE ARREST AND EXECUTION OF THE ROBBERS[edit]
... At length the three robbers wen discovered, and taken prisoners by the Monte company. It was their intention to bring the six prisoners into town, guarded by the Indians, Pico and the Monte, 190 strong, and on arriving here, to form a circle, and hang them all before the people, (He sent in word that he would be here to-day with them.- Thinking the Monte men would watch more effectually over them than his own people, he placed them in custody of the Monte men, who have a reputation for being savage.) They tied the hands of two of them, while they allowed Flores to have the use of his bands, because be was wounded in the wrist. They arrived at Leodaca Yorba's night before last, and retired. The three robbers slept under one blanket, and untied each others hands. About ten o'clock, they broke away, and had got an hours start before their absence was discovered.
They made ineffectual search. Word was seat back to Andres, who tore his hair, swore a thousand carajos, seized his two remaining prisoners, marched them back into the canyon, and hung them to the branches of a tree, where they now remain. The ears are on exhibition at the Montgomery. Thus three of the desperadoes are at liberty, through the carelessness of the guard; and we lose the spectacle of hanging, which in these dull times we need to keep up a healthy circulation of the vital parts.

.... 4th. Clouds, clouds; the wind southerly; a sprinkling, and the air cool. Today the escape of Flores is all the rage; Indeed it was an outrage. How glad everybody is that it happened with the Monte men — those frontier savages, who nave spent their whole lives fighting Indians! Thus, the other day they came in here to see what we slow moving citizens were doing! Monte is not popular just now, because just at the moment when they were desired to be ferocious, they took a freak of being kindhearted.

[This article seen by the whole state, had to have been a great humiliation to the Monte and Gentry was in charge of the Monte posse, at the time. This must have dashed his political prospects in the Monte and may been the cause of his move to San Bernardino, later that year as the Mormon Exodus began.]

Los Angeles Star, Number 41, 20 February 1858, Execution of Thomas King and Luciano Tapia.[edit]
Execution of Thomas King and Luciano Tapia.
The above individuals, convicted of the crime of murder in the first degree, at the term of the District Court in the month of December last, underwent the extreme penalty of the law on Tuesday, in pursuance of the seutence passed on them by the Court. Thomas King was convicted of the murder of Lafayette King, in this city, on the 26th September; and Luciano Tapia was found guilty of the murder of George Pflugart, at San Juan, in this county, in the month of January, 1857. The execution took place in the jail yard, in which a number of citizens had assembled. The Southern Rifles were on duty within the yard, and I the California Lancers aud French Company were I drawn up on the outside. Shortly after two o'clock, the prisoners were led from the jail, attended by the Very Rev. Father Raho and Rev. Father ____; at the foot of the scaffold the Rev. gentlemen engaged in prayer with and on behalf of the condemned, and were deeply aflected, especially Father____, with the awful solemnities of the occasion. On the conclusion of the religious service, the prisoners were led upon the scaffold by Sheriff Thompson and Under Sheriff Peterson, and took their seats on chairs provided for them. The Sheriff then read the warrants for the execution, which were afterwards read in Spanish by Mr. Peterson. Luciano Tapia then stood up and addressed a few words to his countrymen, (Sononanians) advising them to take warning by his fate — and to leave this country, as it was no place for them —, adding that he was called on to suffer for crimes perpetrated by others. Thomas King then came forward and addressed the people. He said:—
"Gentlemen, I have but a few words to say. I am about to die, condemned for the wilful muri dor ot a man in the Montgomery saloon, in the mouth of September last. There is no use saying anything more on that subject now. 1 need not Iry to exculpate myself from that charge, for they have adjudged me guilty. None but God and myself knew my intentions- aud God knows that I did not willfully kill that man. But these is no use in saying anything more about that. We have all to die sometime, but I am to die now> and in this manner. If I have offended any one, I beg he will forgive me, as I now heartily forgive any one who may have offended me. Geutlemen, I beg of you to pray for me—remember me in your prayers to God."
The officers then approached the prisoners, and made the preparations for the closing scene. During this time the prisoners were receiving the exhortations of the clergymen, and joined fervently in the sacred services. King audibly engaged in prayer to God—saying, "Lord Jesus into thy hands I commit my spirit"-"Lord, receive my soul" — "Christ have mercy upon me," &c., &c. The prisoners were calm and collected, and in their addresses spoke in a firm tone. Tapia smoked a cigarrito while on the platform, aud threw it away only when the officers proceeded to secure his arms. When all was ready, the fatal rope adjusted, and a cap placed over the face of each, the Sheriff drew the bolt, the platform fell, and the bodies swung from the beam. A few convulsive struggles, and the vital spark fled. Immediately after the bodies were suspended. Father Raho addressed a few earnest and affectionate remarks to the assemblage in Spanish and English. He advised all to take warning by the awful example now before them, reminding them that all must die, and pressing upon them the necessity of so living in the love and service of God; that when their great change shall come they may be prepared for the enjoyment of the heavenly glory. After hanging fully half an hour, the bodies were cut down, placed in coffins and carried to the Court House, from which they were shortly after conveyed and buried. A considerable number of people collected on the hills commanding a view of the jail yard.
Los Angeles Star, Number 16, 27 August 1859; All Adventure p.2,col.2-3[edit]
All Adventure.
Upon a day in January, 1857. the town of Los Angeles was fearfully excited — James R.Barton, the Sheriff of the county, with a posse, had pone towards San Juan to arrest a band of robbers who were depredating there ; a flying messenger had brought the intelligence that about fifty miles from the Pueblo the Sheriffs' posse had been attacked by the robbers, and the Sheriff and every one of his men, except two or three, had been killed. Poor Barton, a more gallant man or truer officer never died in defence of the right. His name will long be a household word in this county, significant of all that is noble in man. The truth was fearful, but rumor doubled its intensity. It was said that the baud of robbers numbered over a hundred well armed desperado s; that they were nearly all Mexicans; that they threatened extermination to the Americans, but protection to the native Californians; aud in flue a war of races was about to commeuce.. Suspicion aud fear engendered mistrust, and the American population was almost persuaded that duty to themselves required them to look upon themselves as in a hostile country. Immediately W. C. Getman, the City Marshal, who, in one short year afterwards attested by his blood his devotion to the duties of the same office, iu the honorable discharge of which poor Barton had gallantly fallen, raised a party of armed meu and sallied out in pursuit of the enemy. But iu the meautime, rumor added a hundred lold to every event, and the general alarm increased. It was even believed that the city itself was in danger. The American residents at night gathered together, and the cheeks of the women grew pale at hearing the whispered reports of threatened danger. U. 3. troops were sent from Fort Tejon to assist iu defending the town.
At this critical juncture, a portion of the Californians, under Andres Pico and Tornas Sanchez, came forward and pledged themselves to the pursuit and destruction of the robbers. They marched rapidly forward to San Juau, raising the country as they passed, and reached there with upwards of a hundred men. The Monte, that true and staunch -American settlement, as was its wont, sympathised with the public misfortune. Its citizens, leaving their homes, braved the inclemency of winter, and were soon eager in pursuit of the 1 murderers of Barton. The American and Californian companies, consisting of nearly two hundred men, met at San Juan, and after consultation soon determined upon their plan.
Twenty or thirty miles from San Juan run two parallel ranges of mountains, with an intervening valley. In these mountains it was ascertained that the robbers had taken refuge. It was determined that the American company should enter one eud of this valley whilst the Californians should enter the other, and thus upon meeting in the middle, the whole valley would be swept. Slowly and painfully these gallant volunteers pursued their wearisome march. The dim starlight but obscurely showed them the deep ravines and the steep ascent of the road that led to the robbers' den. The Californians reached the appointed spot first, and stopped in front of a ravine in which they discovered the trail of the enemy.
As the curtain of day lifted, amidst its twilights and shadows were dimly seen the forms of some of the robbers upon the high hills overhanging the Californians. A fight immediately commenced, but the Californians had but few fire-arms, while the robbers were each armed with a pair of six-shooters, with extra cylinders, and a double barrel gun. Three of the robbers were here captured. The Americans, hearing the firing, pressed forward rapidly, and soon reached the scene of the fight, and gallantly charged up among the foremost Californians.
There could only now be discovered three robbers perched high up on the sides of the mountain, concealed, whenever they wished, behind chemisal. The ascent to this mountain was sharp and long, apparently inaccessible to horse and difficult for man. The robbers, hiding themselves in the brush, would every now and then rise and rapidly fire and then disappear.
It was evident that the only way to attack them was to leave the horses, ascend the mountain by crawling, and exposing themselves to the concealed fire of whose number could not be actually ascertained. Many were of the opinion that it would be certain death to attempt the ascent, and that it would lie better to surround the I mountain, which was separate somewhat from the main range, and starve out the enemy. In the midst of the debate, Tomas Sanchez sprung from his horse, took off his spurs, and exclaimed, "I am ready to ascend the mountain, even if but one man will follow me." There wad a moment's pause, when that gallant gentleman. Bethel Coopwood, of the Monte, who had thrown aside a crutch to mount his horse in this pursuit, stood beside Sanchez, saying, "Though I am lame you will not be ahead of me." Six other volunteers joined these two, and they commenced their perilous ascent, each one bravely struggling for the lead. The eyes of the whole command watched their ascent. Now they pass the most exposed point — now they stand where the robbers last fired — still they continue their upward course. At last they reach the summit of the mountain — still no shot was fired, no enemy was seen. Upon the opposite side, the mountain abruptly descended two hundred feet, and it was evident that nothing but a bird could safely descend there. What had become of the enemy? They seek the trail, and it conducts them to the brink of the steep precipice, when the mystery is solved. The robbers had tied their riatas and r-carfs together, and securing one end on the top of the mountain, had boldly 6wung themselves over the yawning precipice—with what fortune it could not be told, as the riatas seemed to have broken half way down, and the bottom was covered with a scrub oak growth.
What was to be done? It was determined to pursue the robbers down the precipice. Having but one rope along, which, attached to the riatas of the robbers, was not long enough to descend at the same point, it was necessary to find a place still lower down the mountain, to make the descent. One was found, the ropes were attached, and still the end wanted near twenty feet from the sandy bottom. Still it was resolved to pursue their course. What recklessness. It was necessary to descend one by one, then to fall twenty feet, so that on reaching the bottom, staggered by the fall, the rash pursuer would fall an easy prey to the enemy, who might be hidden under the very tree near which he would fall. The rope was securely fastened, when was seized by Tom Sanchez, courting the fatal risk, if risk there be. His six-shooter was in his belt. His bare knife between his teeth, and thus grasping with both hands the rope, he commenced his perilous descent. At first the sloping earth aids him a little, and now he swings fully over the yawning chasm. The gentle morning breeze bears him to and fro, and whirls him round. Now he has reached the end, and now he lets go; the dull sound of his fall is heard by his anxious companions above, one of whom, already, without waiting to know the result, is now repeating his daring feat. One by one the gallant volunteers, Americans and Californian, reach the bottom, but they find that the robbers, fearing to meet men of such daring, had fled, leaving a broken gun.
* * * * *
The result of the death of poor Barton, was the destruction of the most formidable banditti that ever infested the Southern country, over fifteen of whom were executed for their crimes. [198] : 2, col.2-3 
Los Angeles Star, 18 June 1859, Report of the Grand Jury of San Bernardino[edit]
Report of the Grand Jury of San Bernardino
San Bernardino. Jane 14tb, 1859. The committee appointed by tbe Grand Jury to examine the condition of the books of the Auditor and Supervisors, on examination of such, are fully satisfied the Board of Supervisors are incompetent for the office which tbey now hold. In the first place for neglect of duty, in not making a proper examination of the minutes of each meeting, and in signing of the same. Secondly, in a wasteful expenditure of the public funds, in allowing extravagant claims, such as compensation to school trustees; three individuals in one district have received one hundred and eighty dollars. There being eight school districts is the county, it would take fourteen hundred and forty dollars to pay said Irusteese. Thirdly, that moneys have been drawn from the county treasury, amounting to over one thousand dellars, which should have been funded. All of which we respectfully submit to the Grand Jury for action.
List of warrants illegally drawn, after the funding of the County debt: -
April 30th, 1859 — Drawn in favor of E. H. Thomas, $136; Cornelius Janson, $153; J. M. Greenwade, $87; George Gardner, $42.50; Wm Tarleton, $225.25. May 2d — A. D. Boren, $81.66; J. M. Greenwade, 162.l8; R. R. Pierce, for services as school superintendent, $50; R. R. Pierce, for services as Justice of the Peace, $117; S. R. Campbell, for services as District Attorney pro tem, $40; we find, also, that there has been drawn some eighty-five dollars more. All of which should have been deducted out of District Attorney's salary; Wm. Pickett, for services as District Attorney, pro tem, $30; Barton & Gentry, for oil and turpentine, furnished for jail, $62.50; H. G. Sherwood, per Mills, for constable's fees, $19; James W. Wilson, for services as Associate Justice,$20; William Morse, per Mills, constable's fees, $8; E. H. Thomas, services as school trustee, $60; B. F. Matthews, do $60; B. C. Boren, do $60.
Total, $1404.59.
The above three trustees, being in one district, have drawn $180. The Grand Jury will take notice that all school trustees are equally allowed, in the same ratio. There being eight districts the county has to pay the nice small sum of fourteen hundred and forty dollars per annum out of the county funds. We also wish to present to you that there has been paid for repairs on the county jail, for guarding prisoners, and for prisoners board, as follows:
J. W. Mitchell, for material furnished for jail, and work done, $336 33; L. F. Alpleey, guarding prisoners, $167.90; J. W. Mitchell, guarding prisoners, 114; Wm Taleston, services and expenses on jail, $209.34; J. Shiller, board for prisoners, $64; L. F. Alpley. bringing prisoners from Los Angeles, $32.50; J. L. Smith, painting jail roof $18.50; J. H. Wagner, guarding prisoners, $12; Barton & Gentry, for oil and turpentine, $60.50.
Total, $1014 47.
The committee appointed by the Grand Jury to examine the condition of the Treasurer's office, beg leave to report that, so far as they have examined the accounts of the several "funds," they find the same imperfectly kept, errors for and against the Treasurer. Balances in the several accounts appear forced, the books not exhibiting the different balances, as the items of receipts and disbursement would show. We also find moneys belonging to one fund used for another, and owing to want of time, could not obtain the correct state of the finances of the office. The committee find the following orders and warrants paid illegally:
583, county warrant, paid A. H. Clerk, for Jan. Feb. and March, services as District Attorney, $100 ;584, county warrant, paid A. H. Clark, do month March, $83; paid M. Katz, for funding debt, $61; paid Geo. Garner $42.50, without warrant; Cornelias Jansen, $153, without warrant; E. H Thomas, $136, withont warrant.
Among the improper nets, we find $86.15 used for county indebtedness, from funds belonging to other funds. The school fund we find deficient $66.68. The funds belonging to the interest account has been used for the jail indebtedness, $182.50.
The cash reported on hand, belonging to the different funds, is $2006. All of which is respectfully submitted to the Grand Jury for action,
Report of the committee on public buildings: — We beg leave to report in relation to tbe jail of this county, that we regard it as being pefectly worthless, In its present condition, for a jail; and that the foundation of said jail is not good, and that it will cost more to repair it than it will cost to build a new one, and that it will not be near as good, nor as substantial, as a new one would be, properly conducted, even at the same cost that it will require to repair the present one.
J. W. SMITH, Foreman of Committee.
The foregoing report was adopted, all the members being present. WM. A. CONN. Foreman.

---

Los Angeles Star, 6 August 1859, Proceedings of the Democratic Convention, at San Bernardino[edit]
"Proceedings of the Democratic Convention, at San Bernardino.
"At 2 o'clock, the meeting was called to order by the chair, when the committee on delegates reported the following named gentlemen as delegates for the different precincts, who were duly elected by acclamation:
"... DISTRICT NO. 2.—William Levick, Frank Gentry, A. S. Beard, A. Wolff, G. S. Chapin, Q. S. Sparks, James H. Johnson, Jasper Willson.
"The other candidates were nominated by acclamation as follows: For Clerk—James M. Greenwade. For Sheriff—C. W. Purcey. For Treasurer—F. W. Walkinshaw. For District Attorney—Samuel R. Campbell. For Coroner—Frank Gentry.
Minutes Book of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors.[edit]
  • Successful candidates were declared in the minutes of September 19, 1859 (Minutes Book A, p 51). [199]: 46 
The election was Sept. 7th. The official results were announced and recorded on Sept. 19th.
Hostilities between the doctors began on the 17th with the attempted whipping of Ainsworth by Gentry and the second incident of the shots exchanged on the morning of the 18th, the Monte posse was sent for then and came on the 19th and left but the Green remnant made an attack on the house on that night and the final shootout occured on the 20th. It would seem Dr F. Gentry had an idea he had lost the election by the 17th and perhaps was taking it out on his hated rival.
Dr. F. Gentry took out a $614.14 loan two days after the announcement of the election results on 21st day of September, 1859. This was also the day after the shootout on the streets of San Bernardino between the Green (Gentry) and Coopwood (Ainsworth) factions.
It would seem Gentry may have had financial problems, that winning the office of coroner might have been ment to fix. He must have realized his political career was ruined in both San Bernardino and El Monte. In the first town by the taint of corruption exposed by the grand jury but more certainly because of the violence he unleashed on the town. Both those deeds would have also could have had a fatal impact on his San Bernardino business and on his partner Dr. Barton who had much more to loose. It seems their partnership was dissolved and he is never mentioned in the histories about that business. Dr. Barton, ceased practicing medicine and left the pharmacy to be run by his brother.
In the Monte he must have found contempt and disregard toward him by the influential Monte men after they found they had been lied to by Gentry about the "Mormons" who had "corraled" him, who turned out to be the admired Bethel Coopwood and his two brothers and their local friends and relations, protecting their friend Ainsworth from threats and attacks begun by Gentry and his frieinds.
Gentry's wanderings in the next month can be traced in the register of the Bella Union Hotel, as he wound up his affairs, then left for Arkansas.


---

Los Angeles Star, 24 September 1859, Election Returns of San Bernardino County[edit]
"Election Returns of San Bernardino County.
"...
"County Clerk — J. M. Greenwade, 273; J. W. Wilson, 304 ; Webb, 2.
"Sheriff — C. W. Pearcy, 251; A. VanLuven, 239; C. L. Kingston. 45 ; V. J. Herring, 49.
"District Attorney — S. R. Campbell, 309 ; B. Coopwood, 278.
"Treasurer—M. Katz, 289; R, F. Walkinshaw, 248 ; Ellis Eames. 28.
"Coroner -- F. Gentry 248; Dr. Cunningham 286"
"...
"Superintendant of Public Instruction -- Robbins 302, J. S. Waite 214.
"...
"For a Territory, 421; Against a Territory, 29
Dr. Gentry after the Affair[edit]
Dr. Gentry disappeared from the Los Angeles County records not long after the Affair, which may have made it difficult for Elliott and other later writers to fully identify him. But the Los Angeles Star newspaper gives us a clue as to Gentry’s whereabouts. In the December 15, 1860 Star edition, the County of Los Angeles, District Court of the First Judicial District, noticed Frank Gentry and Robert Tweedy as the defendants in the matter of P. Kyle vs. Gentry and Tweedy. Gentry and Tweedy were noticed to answer Kyle’s complaint with respect to a $614.14 debt claimed to be owed to him by the defendants. Within the notice is the remark that Frank Gentry’s reputed place of residence at the time was Antoino [sic], Pike County, Arkansas.12 In fact, in the 1860 federal census a Frank Gentry can be found living in Antoine, Clark County, Arkansas,13 with an occupation of “Physician”. Although the age of this Frank Gentry is shown as “26” in that census, family trees at Ancestry.com and a family Bible14 reflect him as “Franklin” Gentry, born in 1826 in Arkansas, a son of William Gentry (b. 20 Apr 1788, South Carolina, d. 22 Mar 1858, Clark County, AR) and Jane Narrod. The John Gentry and wife Polly listed on the line directly above Frank Gentry in the 1860 census record cited are believed to be Frank’s brother, John H. Gentry, and John’s wife, Polly Ann Wilson.15
12 Los Angeles Star, Number 32, 15 December 1860
13 The current city of Antoine, located in the southeast corner of Pike County, was not incorporated until 1890. Pike County was created from Clark County in 1833. An 1855 rare historical map of Clark County is said to reflect the historical town of Antoine ([17]), thus it appears the Antoine of the 1850s was in Clark County, not Pike. The listings for Antoine in the 1860 census can be viewed by searching for both Pike and Clark counties, although the handwritten county name on the census record is “Clark”.
14 The Richard Clark Gentry Bible entries were printed in the Pike County Archives and History Society publication “Gems of Pike County Arkansas”, Spring 1996 Edition, Vol. VII, No. 2, which can be viewed at [18], beginning at the bottom of page 7-57.
15 [19]
Arrivals at the Bella Union Hotel[edit]

In the month following the affair, Frank Gentry seems to have lived elsewhere than San Bernardino, often in the Bella Union Hotel according to its register published each week in the Los Angeles Star. On October 15th, he registers first as being from the Monte. Next on October 21st, from San Bernadino, and lastly from Cucamongo.

These are the last entries about F. Gentry being in Southern California, in the court papers mentioned below he is found to have moved to Antoine, Arkansas, perhaps by steamer from San Pedro to San Francisco to Panama to New Orleans an then by steamboat to Arkansas. He left a large debt of $614.14, plus interest due from Septmber 21, 1859 behind him, a notice of which was posted in the Los Angeles Star for three months and a letter was sent to him in Arkansas. Interestingly this debt was incurred by Gentry on the day after the shootout in San Bernardino occured, September 21, 1859.
Los Angeles Star, Number 22, 8 October 1859, p.3, col.5 Schedule for the coastal steamship SS Senator, Oct. 1859[edit]
The Bella Union register has Gentry there from sometime during the week of the 21st of October. According to the schedule of the steamship SENATOR, Gentry probably left San Pedro for San Diego then to San Francisco on that ship on or about the 23rd of October, 1859. He is never mentioned again in California newspapers, except for in the Los Angeles Star, which were court notices of debt he owed, that date from September to December 1860. They tell that by September 1860 he was known to be living in Antoine Township, Arkansas. The 1860 Census shows him there as of June of that year living in a house next to that of his brother and his wife.
FOR SAN DIEGO
.....AND.......
INTERMEDIATE PORTS.
ON and after the first of April, and until further
notice, the California Steam Navigation Company's
steamship
SENATOR,
T. W. SEELEY..................COMMANDER
Will make THREE TRIPS per month on the
Southern Coast, leaving Pacific street Wharf on
1st, 11th and 20th of each Month,
At 9 o'clock A. M., as follows:
On the 1st and 20th, for SAN DIEGO, via Santa
Barbara and San Pedro (Los Angeles).
On the 11th, SAN PEDRO, via San Luis Obispo
and Santa Barbara.
Bills of Lading will be furnished by the
Purser on board.
For freight or passage apply on board, or at the
office of the California Steam Navigation Company.
corner of Front and Jackson streets.
ap3oly SAM'L J. HENSLEY, President.
P. KYLE, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK GENTRY and ROBERT TWEEDY[edit]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS Angeles. In the District Court of the First Judicial District: P. KYLE, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK GENTRY and ROBERT TWEEDY, Defendants. Action brought in the District Court of the Ist Judicial District, and the Complaint filed in the City and County of Los Angeles, in theofllce of the Clerk of said District Court. The People of the State of California send greeting : To Frank Gentry and Robert Tweedy ; You are hereby required to appeal in an action brought against you by the above named Plaintiff, in our District Court of the First Judicial District, in and for the county of Los Angeles, and to answer the Complaint filed therein, a certified copy of which you are herewith served, within ten days after the service on you of this Summons—if served within this county ; or if served out of this county but within the first Judicial District, within twenty days after the service thereof ; or if served out of the First Judicial District but in the State of California, within forty days after the service thereof; always exclusive of the day of service ;—or judgment by default will be taken against you. The said action is brought to recover of you the sum of Six Hundred and Fourteen Dollars and fourteen cents ($614 14-100) and interest thereon at the rate of three per cent per month (3 per cent.) from the 21st day of September, 1859, until paid, and for costs of suit; and if you fail to appear and answer the said Complaint as above required, the said Plaintiff will cause your default to be entered, and apply to the Court for the relief prayed for in his Complaint. Witness the Hon. Benjamin Hayes. Judge of our District Court aforesaid, the 31st day of August, A. D. 1860. Attest: My Hand and the Seal of said Court, [seal.] the day and year last written. JOHN W. SHORE Clerk.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, County of Los Angelis. it.— On reading and considering the foregoing affidavit of K. Kewen, and it appearing satisfactorily therefrom, that a cause of action in this cause exists against Frank Gentry, one of the defendants, and that he is a necessary and proper party to this suit, and that he has departed from and resides out of this State. It is ordered that service of the summons be made on said Gentry by publishing a copy of the summons in this case, together with a copy of this order, in the Los Angeles Star, a newspaper published in the city and County of Los Angeles, once a week for tho term of three months from the date of publication, and that a copy of tho summons with a copy of the complaint, certified by the Clerk, be deposited in the post office, in the City of Los Angeles, addressed to the defendant, Frank Gentry, at Antoine, Pike County, Arkansas: his reputed place of residence. This done and signed at Chambers, this 27th day of August, A. D. 1860. BENJAMIN HAYES, Dist. Judge. A true copy. Attest .• JOHN W. SHORE, Clerk E. J. C. Kewen Att'y for Pltff.seplm3.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS Angeles. In the District Court of the First Judicial District: P. KYLE, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK GENTRY and ROBERT TWEEDY, Defendants. Los Angeles Star, Number 32, 15 December 1860
Pryor Kyle[edit]
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 8, Number 1154, 4 December 1854, Page 2 Advertisements Column 3
INFORMATION £ WANTED —Of PRIOR KYLE, who came to this State last summer one year ago, from Washington county, Texas. Any person knowing his whereabouts, by sending word to his half brother, JAMES M. KENDRICK, Tehama P. 0., Colusa county, will confer a great favor. -
Los Angeles Star, Number 7, 28 June 1856, Page 2 Advertisements Column 1
STATE-OP CALIFORNIA, County of-Los Angeles, The People of the State of California TO PRYOR KYLE. YOU ARE hereby summoned to appear before me, C. 0. Cunningham, a Justice of the Peace of the Township of El Monte, County of Los Angeles, at my office in the said Township, on the 24th day of July, A. D. 1856, at 10 o'clock A. M. of said day, to answer the complaint of Edward Hunter, who seeks to recover tho sum of sixty dollars ($60) on account. And on failure to appear, judgment will be rendered against you for sixty dollars ($60) and costs thereon. Given under my hand this 21st. day of June, A. D. 1860. C. 0. Cunningham, Justice of the Peace
Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 44, Number 6706, 30 September 1872, Page 2 Advertisements Column 1
DIED.... In Paskenta, September 24th, P. Kyle, aged 55 years.

Tim thfree48@yahoo.com

I am seeking any info on Pryor Kyle born about 1814 in Tennessee. He is buried in Paskenta Cemetery in Corning, Tehama County, California. His gravestone reads 'Pryor Kyle died Sept 24, 1872 aged 58 years'. If anyone has any info on this man it would be very much appreciated.

---

Frank Gentry 1860 Census, Antoin Township, Clark Co., Arkansas[edit]
  • Frank Gentry 1860 Census, Antoin Township, Clark Co., Arkansas, United States, July 7, 1860
    • Hshld_72_John______Gentry_Male_46____White_Farmer____2500_RE_10950_PersEst_1814_Tenn
    • _________Polly_Anne___"___F____38____White_________________________________1822_Ark
    • _________Sarah_J._____"___F_____9____White_________________________________1851_Ark
    • _________Perling______"___F_____6____White_________________________________1854_Ark
    • _________John_C.______"___M_____4____White_________________________________1856_Ark
    • _________Luellen______"___F_____6/12_White_________________________________1860_Ark
    • Hshld_73_Frank_____Gentry_Male_24____White_Physician_1600_RE___350_PersEst_1826_Ark_(age should be 34, census error?)
Roster 19th Arkansas Regiment, Captain William B. Speer's Company[edit]
----Enlisted October 10, 1861 at Antoine, Pike County, Arkansas
Name------------------Rank In-------Rank Out------Comments
Frank Gentry-------------2 Lieut-------2 Lieut-------Resigned 25 July 1862
"Frank Gentry 2d Lieut
Commanding Company
For pay from 10th of Oct. 1861 to 15th of April
1862 , being 6 months and 5 days at Eleven
dollars per month.
For pay traveling from Nothing to
being miles, at ten cents per
mile.
(OPPOSITE SIDE)
Approved
C. L. Dawson
Col. Cmdg 19th Regt"
"The questions asked concerning the requirements of the Conscript Act were answered and complied :with. The requirements of this act called for a reorganization of the regiment and for the men over :35 and under 16 years of age to be discharged upon request.
26
Dawson had judged rightly in that he stood to lose a good many good men. Officers who resigned after :arriving at Little Rock included: ... 2nd Lt. Frank Gentry (A)" [age 35]
"Gentry, Frank, 35, (A), 10-10-61, Antonia, 2nd Lt. Resigned, 7-25-62. p17,26"
death[edit]

Franklin Gentry passed away on April 24, 1864.[200] His may be one of the 9 unmarked graves in the Gentry Family Cemetery.[201] It is located 1.5 miles south of Antoine off County Road 301. It is on private property, behind a gate, in the woods about 100 meters off 301. [202]

Alonzo Ainsworth[edit]

findagrave.com - Alonzo Ainsworth 1831-1865[edit]

1860 Census-------

  • Name: Alonzo Ainsworth
  • Age: 29
  • Birth Year: abt 1831
  • Gender: Male
  • Birth Place: New York
  • Home in 1860: San Bernardino, San Bernardino, California
  • Post Office: San Bernardino
  • Family Number: 104
  • Profession: physician
  • Value of real estate: -
  • Value of personal estate: 400
  • Household Members:
  • Name--------------Age
  • Alonzo Ainsworth (29)Head
  • Elisa E Ainsworth(17)Wife

...........

Family links:
Parents:
Otis Ainsworth (1786 - 1865)
Sarah Franklin Ainsworth (1792 - 1862)
Spouse:
Eliza Ellen Wixom Purciel(1843 - 1909)*
Children:
Olive Jane Ainsworth Gibson (1863 - 1900)*
  • Calculated relationship
Burial:
Pioneer Memorial Cemetery
San Bernardino
San Bernardino County
California, USA
1860 Census Ainsworth, Alonzo wife, neighbors other doctors[edit]
  • CENSUS YR: 1860 STATE: CA COUNTY: San Bernardino DIVISION: San Bernardino City REEL NO: M653-64 PAGE NO: 615
    • 24 143 103 Kinman Nathan 30 M . Livery Stable 700 300 Pennsylvania
    • 25 144 104 Ainsworth Alonzo 29 M . Physician. 400 N. York
    • 26 144 104 Ainsworth Elisa E. 17 F . . . . Illinois
    • 27 145 105 Wixom Nathan 53 M . Farmer 1,700 500 N. York
    • 24 104 75 Hage J.M. 27 M . Physician. . Birthplace is blank.
    • 7 161 116 Whitlock Harvey G. 52 M . Physician. 80 Wisconsin
    • 36 120 86 Wogencraft Oliver 45 M . Physician. . Ohio
    • 17 56 38 Smith D.N. 25 M . Physician. . Ohio
    • 15 151 110 Barton John P. 26 M . Druggist . 2,000 S. Carolina
"In 1852 came to San Bernardino the first physician, Dr. Ira Burris, who was shortly followed by Dr. Ainsworth. The settlement was always very healthy."
This is false, there is no record of Dr. Ainsworth until 1859, when he is involved with the affair. He may have traveled to San Bernardino from Utah with the Wixoms who returned to that city in 1858, after they had left in the exodus in the fall of 1857. He would be married to the daughter of Nathan Wixom by June of 1860 when the census of San Bernardino was taken.
It may be that Dr. Ainsworth had traveled with them on their return journey from Utah when he came West, and began his relationship with the family then or earlier in Utah. Such a close relationship with that Mormon family may have given Ainsworth a competitive advantage over Barton & Gentry, in getting patients from the local Mormon community and their friends, still a not insubstantial force in the community. Also such a relationship might be a professional reason for the hostility of Gentry to him and Mormons in general, and also a reason for the two brothers of Eliza Wixom to be two of his guards during the Affair.
Also if Dr. Ainsworth lived and had his office by the livery stable and near the Wixom family residence at the time of the Affair, it may be why the fight with Gentry occurred near the stable.
Ainsworth and Jackman[edit]
From San Bernardino.
San Bernardino, March 27, 1860. Editor Star — On Thursday night, an express arrived here from the Mojave river, with intelligence of the murder of Thomas S. Williams, Esq. a merchant of Great Salt Lake city. ... Mr. Jackman is lying at Lane's, on the Mojave in a most critical condition. Dr. A. Ainsworth is in attendance on him.
Denth of Mr. Jatkman.
We are indebted to our attentive and valuable San Bernardino correspondent for the following information, forwarded to us "by special express" after the departure of the stage: — [Special Express.] San Bernardino, Thursday Morning, Half past 7 o'clock). Editor Star — It becomes my painful duty to inform you of the demise of Mr. Jackman, who departed this life this morning, at 1 o'clock, a.m. It is just one month to day that Mr. Jackman was wounded by the Indians; during most of the time he has been lying at the residence of Dr. A. Ainsworth, receiving all the assistance that the doctor could afford him. His sufferings for the last two weeks have been great indeed. His remains will be conveyed to their last resting-place to-day at three o'clock. In haste, yours, CIVIS.
" The very next month [March 1860] well-known merchant Thomas Williams and his brother-in-law, Parmeno Jackman, were slain on the Mojave Desert while bringing a train of wagons into California, for the purpose of hauling freight back to Utah.
"Their party, made up of teamsters and a number of passengers, had reached Dry Lake when Williams and Jackman left the train and rode ahead to look for water and forage. They came to Bitter Springs, where they joined with four Paiute Indians who guided them to a grazing area a few miles away.
"Not expecting trouble, since the Indians along the trail had all seemed friendly, the two men had left their guns behind with the wagon train -- an unwise thing to do in the desert under any circumstances, and in this instance a fatal mistake on their part. On their way back to Bitter Springs, the Indians began shooting arrows into them. Helpless without firearms, the men spurred their horses toward the road in an attempt to escape.
"Both men were mortally wounded, but Williams was carried back to camp by his horse and the alarm was raised. A party was formed and went in search of Jackman, and when they found him he was nearly dead from his injuries and the extreme cold. Williams died later that day and Jackman was taken to Lane's for help. "Mr. Williams," the Los Angeles Star reported, "was buried at Bitter Springs, and Mr. Jackman was brought to Lane's ranch on the Mojave, where he receives every care, but his wounds are of such a nature that no hope of his recovery is entertained."
"Dr. Alonzo Ainsworth came from San Bernardino to attend to Jackman, who was "lying at Lane's...in a most critical condition." Mr. Jackman was moved to the home of the doctor, and died there April 19th,[1860] after a month of continual suffering."
  • M. David DeSoucy, San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, Arcadia Publishing, 2006
  • In 1862, the county board of supervisors designated the first official county physician, whose job it was to treat the indigent who were sick. They didn't choose Peacock, but Dr. Alonzo Ainsworth.
  • Roger A. Smith, M.D., Portraits in History: The San Bernardino County Medical Center 1855-1998, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, Ca., 1999
In his book "Portraits in History: The San Bernardino County Medical Center 1855-1998," Dr. Roger Smith provides a detailed account of the gruesome leg amputation, performed on Jefferson Hunt's son, that solidified Ainsworth's reputation as a doctor.
    • This is false, see Lyman, San Bernardino, ch.3, p98-99
"Another serious accident in the summer of 1853 had a more pleasant ending. On 13 August Jefferson Hunt’s adult son Marshall caught his foot in the working parts of a threshing machine, tearing his lower leg off almost to the knee. Dr. Ira Burrus was summoned, and, with Amasa Lyman witnessing and the young [p.99]man held by his father, the amputation was completed with only whiskey as an anesthetic. The doctor aimed to save the knee joint but confided to Lyman that he not only expected to perform an additional amputation farther up the leg, but predicted the patient would probably not survive the week. Lyman noted that the boy appeared to be unusually free from pain. Jefferson Hunt was reputed to possess a gift of healing to which the recovery would have been attributed, although if faith saved the boy, he apparently did not acknowledge it. He would be excommunicated prior to the demise of the San Bernardino colony. “Marsh” would use a peg leg the rest of his long life." 23
"Following this incident Dr. Burrus continued to be in considerable demand. Later that year he treated two of Lyman’s own children. But in the case of Francis Marion, whose illness was said by the father to be “inflammation of the brain,” it was the spiritualist ministrations of John Brown which patient and practitioner acknowledged to have affected the cure." 24
---
23. Lyman Journal, 12, 15, 18 Aug. 1853; Hopkins-Jensen, 13 Aug. 1853.
24. Lyman Journal, 28 June, 2 July 1853; John Brown, The Mediumistic Experiences of John Brown, the Medium of the Rockies (Des Moines: Moses Hull & Co., 1887), 76-79.
---
Ainsworth didn't last long as the county's doctor. The board of supervisors let him go within a year. [203]

Bethel Coopwood[edit]

From San Bernardino.
The recent mandate from the Mormon Prophet or all the faithful to come to Zion, has caused an exodus from this county, which has, finally, caused the ranch to change owners. This sale has been effected. There were remaining, of what might be termed public lands, that is, lands not occupied by settlers, about 25,000 acres, in the possession of the firm of Rich, Lyman, Hanks & Co., on which, mortgage was held by Pioche, Bayerque & Co. This mortgage has been purchased by Messrs Conn, Tucker, Allen and Coopwood, thus transferring to them the ownership of this magnificent estate. The original purchase by Lyman, Rich & Co. contained about 38,000 acres, the amount between that and the present purchase having been taken up by settlers. This land is known to be unsurpassed for every purpose, a very large tract being peculiarly suited for vineyard purposes, with an abundance of water. Lots are now for sale, to suit purchasers, and an excellent opportunity is thus offered to procure property at reasonable rates.

---

---

    • 24 143 103 Kinman Nathan 30 M . Livery Stable 700 300 Pennsylvania
    • 24 104 75 Hage J.M. 27 M . Physician . . Birthplace is blank.
    • 25 144 104 Ainsworth Alonzo 29 M . Physician . 400 N. York
    • 26 144 104 Ainsworth Elisa E. 17 F . . . . Illinois
    • 27 145 105 Wixom Nathan 53 M . Farmer 1,700 500 N. York

---

    • 7 161 116 Whitlock Harvey G. 52 M . Physician . 80 Wisconsin
    • 36 120 86 Wogencraft Oliver 45 M . Physician . . Ohio
    • 17 56 38 Smith D.N. 25 M . Physician . . Ohio

+ Bethel Jr. was 3 months old, not 16.

From San Bernardino. San Bernardino, July 31st. 1860.
San Bernardino, July 31st. .l860. Editor Star:—R Dickey, Esq., Deputy Marshal for this county, has just completed his investigations as census taker, which are extensive and minute, and will show a vastly increased, population over anything of the kind that has ever been returned from, this county. This speaks highly for this gentleman, as to his industry and capability. Mr. F. G. J. Margetson, Deputy County Assessor, has just completed the assessment roll. The following is the assessment of some of our wealthiest citizens: Rains & Carlisle, $43,071; Louis Robidoux, $14,000; Abel Stearns, $9,250 ; James W. Waters. $8,875 ; Estate of Bernardo Yorba, $10,135; Raymondo Yorba, $6,480; Conn, Tucker, Allen & Coopwood, ranch proprietors, $19,455; Dr. B. Barton, $4,480; John Brown, $4,960; A. D. Boren, $4,450; A Quinn, $4,505. Total assessment of the county, $431,501.
More Gold Discoveries.—Mr. Leonard, of this city, was out prospecting in the vicinity of Bear Valley, and struck a quartz vein, which, upon its being tested, has proven to be the richest ore that has ever been discovered in California; the vein is said to be very extensive, and of almost fabulous richness. Rich diggings have also been discovered in the San Jacinto Mountains, twenty five miles south east from this place. The mines at Beat Valley, still yield large amounts of gold. I have seen, during the week, large parcels of dust from this section, and I understand that the miners are all doing remarkably well. The every day discoveries of rich diggings is but the realization of the hopes of many of our citizens, in the mineral resources of this sec tion of country. A number of our citizens have left for the different mining localities in this section du ring the past week, with provisions and tools, intending to working the mines. This is the strongest commendation that can be given of the eligibility of this section as a mineral district. Saturday last was the hottest day we have experienced this summer; the thermometer stood at 107 in the shade. Yours, CIVIS.

On Saturday last a difficulty occurred at the Court House, between Bethel Coopwood and Henry M. Willis, of the origin of which I am not informed. It is to be hoped that the officers of our county will act on all such occasions with some firmness and common sense, and for the honor of our county put an end to such disgraceful exhibitions, arising, as they generally do, from some trivial and unimportant cause. Justices Morse and Tyler have been engaged foi the laßt few days in taking the depositions of witnesses in the case of Wm. A. Conn, contestant, vs C. W. Piercy, respondent. Adios. Civis. ---

David Coopwood[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/David Coopwood 28 M . . . . Alabama 1832 - 1865

iv. MARTHA L. NOWLIN, b. 1832, Tennessee; m. DAVID COOPWOOD, November 24, 1853, Tyler County, Texas. Descendants of Hugh Or Donough Nowlan

COUNTY: San Bernardino DIVISION: San Salvador Township

  • 20 336 270 Coopwood David 28 M . . . . Alabama
  • 21 336 270 Coopwood Martha L. 28 F . . . . Tennessee
  • 22 336 270 Coopwood Stephen D. 5 M . . . . California
  • 23 336 270 Coopwood Martha A. 4 F . . . . California
  • 24 336 270 Coopwood Mary F. 2 F . . . . California

[205]


  • "Terrible Rumor -- We are informed by a gentleman from San Bernardino, that within a day or two an express reached there and reported that the train for Texas, which left about the first of May, composed of families from this county and San Bernardino, had been attacked by Apache Indians, at a place called "Graham's Pass," and that a number of the party were killed, among whom were Benjamin and David Coopwood, late of El Monte, in this county. It was further stated that the whole train was besieged, and that the escape of any was doubtful. We earnestly pray that the report may be groundless."
"Los Angeles News.— From the Star of June 8th, we cull tbe following items:
"A gentleman who had just arrived at Los Angeles from San Bernardino, reported that an express had reached the latter place, who stated that the train for Texas, which left about the 1st of May, composed of families from Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, had been attacked by Apache Indians, at a place called "Graham's Pass," and that a number of the party were killed, among whom were Benjamin and David Coopwood, late of El Monte, in Los Angeles county. It was further stated that the whole train was besieged, and that the escape of any was doubtful.


Bell incident Juan Cortina[edit]
From the Matamoras Ranchero, June 27.

The Bell left Reynosa, with cotton, on the 25th instant, and when about one mile below the Dona Estefena Rancho+, we -- says Mr. ELLIOTT -- were hailed by a party of men, and rounded to. We landed on the Mexican side. Immediately a Captain and squad of men, acting under authority of CORTINA, came on board. They first overhauled and examined the boat's papers, after which a general search for arms was instituted. All the trunks were ransacked. Some arms belonging to passengers were found and taken, as was also a fine saddle belonging to a Mr. COPELAND, of San Antonio. During these investigations and explorations, there was a force on the shore estimated at about 200 men.

Under pretence of going to CORTINA to obtain permission for the Bell to proceed, the Captain left, giving the boat in charge of the squad of soldiers who first went on board with him.

After on absence of about two hours, the Captain returned with orders for the Bell to go up stream and land on the Texas side of the Bio Grande, at the Donna Estefena Ranche.

When about one hundred yards distant from the landing, a fire was opened on the boat from the men on shore. The passengers, supposing that a general massacre had been ordered, commenced leaning into the river, and endeavored to reach the Texas side. Two gentlemen were known to be drowned, viz: Messrs. COPEWOOD and STEPHENSON, of San Antonio; the former is supposed to have been shot while attempting to reach the shore.

The steamer went up to and landed at the Rancho, as directed, when CORTINA and several of his officers came on board. A parley was had with the Captain of the steamer of about thirty minutes' duration. The first question asked by them, was: "Do you recognize the authority of the United States?"

During the parley CORTINA said he would report the case under consideration to the Federal Major-General (supposed to be STEELE) before he could allow the steamer to proceed. This, however, was not exacted, as the following will show: CORTINA returned to the Rancho, and in about half an hour orders were received by the Captain of the steamer to report at the headquarters of CORTINA, which he did, at the Rancho. In a short time be returned with written orders releasing the boat and allowing her to proceed, which she did, without further molestation, arriving at Matamoras yesterday morning.

From the Matamoras Commerce, June 27.

The so-called Libero-Yankee party has had a jolly [???]; but their pranks are at an end.

[???] for awhile!

[???] steamer Belle has escaped a most outrageous and [???] attack, but three innocent victims have been [???]. The steamer Senorita has been captured, and she is now lying on the other side of the Rio Grande, at about six miles up the river. The cotton-has been landed, and the boat is said to be under repairs, or rather paeparations for active war service.

Is that the so pompously promised neutrality?

Is our friend Mr. BROWN, of Brownsville, going to [???]low the enemies of Mexico a certain and easy refuge [???] the limits of his command?

We have been on board the Belle since her return, [???]nd seen several passengers. All agree in branding the attack as the most cowardly act of barbarity ever perpetrated.

CORTINA has not dared to retain the boat captured by his gang. The stern representations of the Captain, who had been called at CORTINA's headquarters, on the other side, succeeded in sparing another crime to this already too guilty outlaw.

CORTINA and his so-called officers go freely in the Yankee camps. It is from the Rancho de Dona Stefana that he issues his orders. From there, too, supplies, victuals and war instruments are daily passed to the Mexican shore.

How long is that state of disorder going to be suffered?

Three persons lost their lives in the affray. One shot, two drowned or kitled in the water by six men posted on board the Senorita, captured previously.

P.S. -- The Senorita and her cargo have been detained provisionally by the American authorities, until the decision of Gen. BROWN. But her load is on the American soil, and it is a very suspicious kind of repair that she undergoes now.

From the Matamoras Ranchero, June 30.

It has been reported to us that CORTINA, in a recent interview with the Federal Gen. BROWN, expressed his intention to give up his opposition to the Mexican Empire, and retire to his rancho, and there remain in peace and quiet. We presume it makes very little difference to the empire whether or not these are his intentions; for the most he has been able to do, so far, has been to harass and annoy, without power to endanger imperial authority. Judging from appearances, it is about time for CORTINA to make up his mind to pursue some less obtrusive employment than he has lately been engaged in.

From the Matamoras Commerce, June 30.

This newly converted guerrilla and ex-Governor of Tamaulipas, who a few days ago became a member of the order of St. Francis, will preach, Sunday morning next, in a church at Brownsville.

The subject of the discourse will be "On the dangers of being a guerrillero in Israel."

The new reverend is said to be thoroughly acquainted with the text.

+ Dona Estefena Rancho = Rancho del Carmen Mona D. Sizer, Texas Bandits: Real to Reel, Taylor Trade Publications, 2004 p.139, headquarters of the Espiritu Santo Grant, Jerry Thompson, Cortina: Defending the Mexican Name in Texas, Texas A&M University Press, Jun 25, 2007, p.13,
Descendents of Don Jose Manuel de Goseascochea And Dona Maria Francisca Xaviera de la Garza y de la Garza


Docket___Name of claimant._________________Nature of claim._____________________________When.______Where.
namber.
-----------------
838|T.J. Teel, administrator of estate________|Killing of Stevenson, by soldiers under Cortina,______|June 1865_|On Rio Grande_|
___|of John Stevenson.__________________|on board steamer Bell, from Reyonsa for Matamoros._|_________|near Matamoros.|
___|_________________________________|Consolidated with #684_________________________|_________|______________|
839|Martha, Stephen, Elfrida and__________|Killing of David Coopwood, on board of steamer______|June 1865_|Rio Grande____|
___|Mary Coopwood, widow and__________|Bell, by troops from Mexican shore.________________|_________|______________|
___|children of David Coopwood.__________|(claim $100,000, dismissed 9/5/1876)______________|_________|______________|
847|Bethel Coopwood___________________|Jeopardy of life caused by Mexican troops firing_____|June 1865_|Rio Grande____|
___|_________________________________|into steamer Bell. (also 3 others for this)__________|_________|_______________|
___|_________________________________|(claim $15,000 ea., dismissed 6/8/1875)____________|_________|_______________|
---
684|Gayiord J. Clarke, administrator________|Seizure of cotton aboard steamer Mejia and kill-__|June 1865|On Rio Grande |
___|of estate of John Stevenson,__________|ing of John Stevenson by forces under General____|_________|near Matamoros.|
___|deceased._________________________|Cortina.__________________________________________|_________|_______________|
___|__________________________________|(claim $175,000, dismissed 3/6/1876)______________|_________|_______________|
Killing of Stevenson, by soldiers under Cortina, on board steamer Bell, from Reyonsa lor Matamoros. June 1865
Killing of David Coopwood, on board of steamer Bell, by troops from Mexican shore.
Bethel Coopwood, Jeopardy of life caused by Mexican troops firing into steamer Bell.

David Coopwood Family, Benj., Bethel, David[edit]

Father: David E. COOPWOOD b: 1798 in Albemarle, Virginia died 1841-1846
Mother: Elfida CREWS b: 1802 in Tennessee

Benjamin F Coopwood[edit]

29 | 152 152 | Benj. F. Coopwood | 28 M W | | Tenn | | C130 |
30 | 152 152 | Eliza A. Coopwood | 24 F W | | Tenn | | C130 |
  • 1860 Census, Benj. F. Coopwood 1823 Tennessee , San Bernardino City, San Bernardino Co., California]
37 83 59 Coopwood Benj. F. 37 M . Farmer 500 300 Tennessee
38 83 59 Coopwood Elisa A. 33 F . . . . Tennessee
Los Angeles Star, Number 15, 18 August 1860 Democratic Meeting at San Bernardino. Bethel and Ben F. pro Breckenridge]
  • 1870 U.S. Census, Benj Coopwood, 47, 1822 in Tennessee, Bexar Co., Texas
Coopwood Benj M 47 TN
Coopwood Eliza F 44 TN
1870 Census "C", Bexar Co., Texas

---

Bethel Coopwood
Descendants of Jean Mousnier de la MONTAGNE (1595-1670); Bethel Coopwood

---

David Coopwood

Delila Coopwood

James Madison (Mat) Welch[edit]

James Madison Welch , PVT Co. C,
Personal Information Birth Date 19 May 1828, Death Date 19 Oct 1894
James Madison Welsch was a Private in Company C. He was a member of Lieutenant Willis's Pueblo detachment.
Sources:
CEMETERY RECORDS
Ramona, San Diego, CA. Buried Ramona, CA.Cemetery.
HISTORY
Written by Waldo Perkins. Born 19 May 1828, Madison Co. IL. Parents: James Fleming Welch and Elizabeth Lawlor Perkins. Married Lucy Welch before 1850. Married Dorcas Cole, Dec 8, 1860, div. Married Malinda Hiltman Case, 16 May, 1866. Died Oct 19, 1894 near Escondito, CA. Buried Ramona, CA.
findagrave.com
Memorial Number 28192561
Ancestral File, Family History Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah
James Madison Welch. Born 19 May 1828, Adams Co. IL. Died 19 Oct 1894, Ramona, San Diego, CA. Parents: James Flemming Welch and Elizabeth Lawlor Perkins. Married ____ Bishop.
The cemetery where the member's grave is located when that location is known and verified.
Ramona, California Cemetery.
Global Positioning System coordinates for the member’s grave site.
N 33 03 549 W 116 51 563
Information obtained from the headstone. The commas used with this heading are to set apart the inscription lines so they can be read as they appear on the headstones.
IN MEMORY OF/ J.M. WELCH/ BORN MAY 19, 1828/ DIED OCT. 19 1894/ MEXICAN WAR VETERAN
James Madison Welch
Birth 19 May 1828 Adams County, Illinois, USA
Death 19 Oct 1894 Ramona, San Diego County, California, USA
Burial Nuevo Memory Gardens Ramona, San Diego County, California, USA
Memorial ID 34684082
From an obituary in the San Diego Union October 24, 1894 we read "Farmer Breaks His Neck Leaping From His Wagon.
James M. Welch, a farmer living on the divide between Santa Maria Valley and San Pasqual grade, lost his life in a shocking manner last Friday night, the 19th inst. He went to Nuevo (now known as Ramona) Friday morning to witness the ball game, and started for home about dark. After going through two gates he lost his way, and after wandering some time, now and then running into a wire fence, he drove his team up a steep and rocky ridge back of the Montecito school house. When near the top of the ridge one of the wheels ran against a rock, and Welch must have thought the wagon was tipping over, as he jumped out to save himself. His foot caught in the rope attached to the brake and held him swinging his head violently downward, where he struck, breaking his neck."
The Rest of the Story
In the summer of 1846 President James Polk of the United States asked Brigham Young and the LDS people to raise a Battalion of 500 volunteers to fight the war with Mexico. James Madison Welch a young 18-year-old non-Mormon joined with 3 of his Latter-Day Saint cousins David M. Perkins, John C. Perkins, and Isaac Carpenter to be a part of the now historic Mormon Battalion. They were assigned to Company C.
Madison (as he was known) became ill half way to San Diego and was assigned to the 2nd Sick Detachment, commanded by Lt. William Willis and sent to Fort Pueblo (Colorado) to winter with more than 100 of the Battalion sick men, women, and children.
The men were discharged from the Army after one year of service on July 4th, 1847. On August 13, 1847 Madison and others departed Fort Pueblo for Fort Bridger Wyoming to meet up with the Latter-Day Saints then traveling from Iowa toward the Salt Lake Valley. When they arrived at Fort Bridger they met up with Jedediah Grant's company which included Madison's Uncle John Vance and other family members.
Madison and others continued eastward however, heading toward Council Bluffs Nebraska and reached the main body of Latter-Day Saints just prior to 15 October 1847.
In June 1850 Madison joined again with several of his family - Ute, William L., and David Perkins and headed west to the Salt Lake Valley in the Warren Foote Company.
Madison married Lucy Taylor in June 1850 in Coucil Bluffs, this marriage ended in divorce.
In 1854 we find Madison in San Bernardino California farming 30 Acres and marrying Malinda Hamilton Case. Malinda was the mother of 6 children from previous husbands. Between 1853 and 1858 they had 5 children of their own. Sometime in 1878 Madison, Malinda, and their 11 children moved from San Bernardino to Fountain Valley in Los Angeles. From Fountain Valley they moved to Modesto and then El Monte and by 1888 had settled in the San Pasqual Valley with an Escondido post office address.
On the 19th of October 1894 Madison "went to Nuevo Friday morning to witness the ball game,and started for home about dark................."
And now, you know the rest of the story.
Son of James Fleming Welch and Elizabeth Lollar (Perkins). He went by his middle name to avoid confusion with his father.
During the Mexican War he served as a PVT in Company C of the Mormon Battalion. Although he was a non-Mormon he had many Mormon relatives and enlisted along with some of them in western Iowa in 1846 when the call for volunteers came.
"Madison" married a Mormon woman, Lucy Taylor (b. 18 May 1830 Crafton, Lorain, Ohio) on June 1850 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. They lived during the 1850s in San Bernardino County, California, but apparently separated with no children.
He married Dorcas (Cole) on November 8, 1860, but the marriage lasted only seven months.
He married a Mormon woman, Malinda Hiltman (Case) in 1864. They had five children together, in addition to six children from Malinda's previous four marriages.
"Madison" worked as a teamster to support his large family. They moved to several locations in California before settling in San Pasqual in San Diego County.
Suffering from rheumatism and poor eyesight he was killed in a freak accident on the San Pasqual grade while returning from a ball game he had attended in Nuevo (now Ramona). On his way home after dark he became lost and when the wagon wheel hit a rock he must have thought the wagon was tipping over. Jumping off to save himself, his foot caught in a rope and he struck his head. He died from a broken neck.
668 7 Welch Jas. 24 Ireland pg00663.txt
REFERENCE: Richard R. Dickey, PO:San Bernardino, HW-Pg#:54; 6 July 1860
==============================================================================================================================================
LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. REAL VAL. PERS VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB REMARKS
==============================================================================================================================================
7 490 402 Welch Jas. 24 M . Laborer . 30 Ireland . . . . . Lived near Greenwade
OUTLAWS ON THE MOJAVE]
MAT WELCH AND JOHN DOYLE LEE
Concurrent with the McBride case was that of two other local Mormons, James Madison (Mat) Welch and Jacob Harris, both accused of horse thievery. The same July 1861 issue of the Star that reported there was "a plentiful crop of convictions for grand larceny of late," also mentioned the new defendants, saying that they had "heard of the name of but one of the latter batch -- one Mat. Welch, who is well known as an old resident of San Bernardino."
Welch had been in trouble before. He and two other men, Henry Roof and John D. Lee, had been involved in a criminal case that was heard before the grand jury in February. Henry Roof was a former San Bernardino County supervisor, and John D. Lee, if it was John Doyle Lee, was later executed in 1877 for the Mountain Meadows Massacre, the only one of the murderers brought to justice.
John Doyle Lee would not have shown his face in San Bernardino County in those days, but his home in southern Utah would have been ideal as a rendezvous for stolen horses coming from California. Several persons named in the subpoena were found guilty of horse stealing in a later case, adding to the likelihood that these men were involved in some criminal activity around the beginning of 1861. The suspicion that Lee was involved led to his indictment in California. Of Course, it is possible that the John D. Lee in the subpoena is an entirely different man. A John D. Lee does appear in Colton many years later.
In the case of Welch, Roof and Lee, the evidence was not strong enough for the grand jury to issue indictments.
THE WELCH AND HARRIS TRIAL
In the trial for Welch's July offense, with codefendant Jacob Harris, one of the witnesses for the defense was Dorcas Cole, who had married Welch the previous November. She had been married twice before, her second husband having been Mat Welch's prior codefendant, Henry Roof.
Interestingly, she testified under the name of Cole, and there is no evidence that she acknowledged any legal binds to Welch in court. Her testimony seems to have been suspect anyway, as one of the instructions to the jury specified, "...if they believe that the testimony of Dorcas Cole has been successfully impeached, they will wholly discard it from their minds in making up a verdict."
The defense called several other witnesses, the reliability of whose testimony must have been questionable, because at least three of them, Peter Sprague, Thomas Emerson and Jacob's brother, Daniel Harris, would themselves be found guilty of grand larceny within months. Others, including Clark Fabun, Riley Morse, Willard Nichols and James Puffer, were close associates of the prisoners.
Since the defendants were found in possession of a stolen horse belonging to George Yager, the case hinged on the testimony of the defense witnesses, many of whom sought to provide alibis for the two men for the time when the crime was supposed to have occurred. The jury -- whose foreman, E. H. Thomas, was a neighbor of many of these people -- apparently struggled over the trustworthiness of the testimony, because the panelists were unable to reach a verdict.
The judge told them to try again, and upon reconsideration they found Welch guilty of petit larceny, for which he received a fine of $250. Harris, who was tried separately, was found not guilty.
As can be seen by these trials, the citizens of San Bernardino were not exempt from prosecution, contrary to the opinion of Major James Carleton that the town's justice system was a travesty owing to what he described as "undue Mormon influence."
He believed it was impossible for justice to be served in predominantly Mormon San Bernardino, complaining that "the county judge is a Mormon, the sheriff is a Mormon, the justice of the peace is a Mormon. In all ordinary trials the most of the jurymen would be Mormons. You can foresee that the administration of civil law by these officers would continue to be, as it doubtless is now, a farce." It is evident, judging from the previous cases and the number of criminals found guilty in the following months, that Carleton's criticism is unjustified.

Taney Woodward[edit]

Taney Woodward = Raymond DeLa Monthena Woodward Raymond De La Montaque Woodward, William De La Montaigne Woodward

1860 CENSUS

CENSUS YR: 1860 STATE: CA COUNTY: San Bernardino DIVISION: San Bernardino City REEL NO: M653-64 PAGE NO: 619 REFERENCE: Richard R. Dickey, PO:San Bernardino, HW-Pg#: 5, 6, 7 June 1860
LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. REAL VAL. PERS VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB
37 55 37 Woodward James B. 56 M . Laborer . . N. Jersey . . . . .
38 55 37 Woodward Mary A. 57 F . . . . Pennsylvania . . . . .
39 55 37 Woodward Raymond DeLa M. 24 M . Constable 500 200 N. Jersey . . . . .
40 55 37 Woodward W. DeLa Monthena 21 M . Farmer 200 200 N. Jersey . . . . .
CENSUS YR: 1860 STATE: CA COUNTY: San Bernardino DIVISION: San Bernardino City REEL NO: M653-64 PAGE NO: 620 REFERENCE: Richard R. Dickey, PO:San Bernardino, HW-Pg#: 6; 7 June 1860
1 55 37 Woodward M. DeLa Monthena 11 F . . . . N. Jersey . X .

1850 census

------
|LINE|_Dwell Famil_|_Firstname_______Lastname_|_Age_Sex_Color_|_Occupation_Real_Va_|_Birthplace_|
| 25 | 133 133 | James B. Woodward | 49 M | Laborer 100 | NJ |
| 26 | 133 133 | Mary Woodward | 37 F | | Penn. |
| 27 | 133 133 | Raymond Woodward | 17 M | Laborer | NJ |
| 28 | 133 133 | Delamontaigne Woodward | 15 M | | NJ |
| 29 | 133 133 | Josephine Woodward | 8 F | | NJ |
| 30 | 133 133 | Margaret Woodward | 3 F | | NJ |
| 31 | 134 134 | George Woodward | 33 M | Stone Mason 600 | NJ |
| 32 | 134 134 | Thomazin Woodward | 36 F | | Penn. |
Los Angeles Star, Number 23, 15 October 1859, p2,col.2 Correspondence.[edit]
Correspondence.
San Bernardino. Oct. 11th, 1859.
... The following gentlemen compose our township officers—Justices, Moses Morse, Alfred Newman ; Constables, Raymond Woodard, Sam Burrows. Yours, CIVIS.
De La M. Woodward was one of the interesting pioneers of the San Bernardino Valley, active in the progress of the county in various capacities. First as a successful farmer, then as president of the Board of Trustees of the City of San Bernardino, he was leading star of the first theatrical troupe of San Bernardino, Harry T. Payne, Edward Peacock, J. A. Kelting, George Mattison, Mrs. Minerva O. Kelting. Mrs. John Miller being the other members of this histrionic aggregation. Ed Peacock was the painter of the scenes, the other members did the carpenter work, while the lady performers prepared the costumes. The complimentary tickets were distributed so generously that the treasurer was not able to meet the demands, so after a brief season the troupe suspended the circuit confined to San Bernardino.
Taney Woodward was active in the literary societies of the city, exhibiting much natural ability in the debates on municipal, state, national and worldwide subjects. He was active in May Day and Fourth of July celebrations. He borrowed a yoke of oxen from John Stutchberry and with Harry T. Payne and George Mattison went up Devil Canyon and brought down the first Christmas tree and placed it in the old adobe school room on Fourth Street, when Mr. and Mrs. Robbins engineered the crowning of the Queen of May. On several Christmas tree festivities he made an ideal Santa Claus. He became one of the active members of the Pioneer Society, served on the various committees with his old friends and associates, filled the office of president two terms, assisted his companions in erecting the pioneer monuments in Cajon Pass to indicate the junction of the Santa Fe and Salt Lake Trails leading into San Bernardino, thence to Southern California.
He had the honor of sending the first telegraphic message from San Bernardino, a copy of which was as follows, with the reply:
"San Bernardino, California, September 18, 1873.
"To A. E. Horton.
"Founder of San Diego.
"The telegraph line from Anaheim to this city has just been completed. As the interests of San Diego and San Bernardino are mutual, we extend to your thriving city the hand of fellowship, hoping that the iron rail may soon connect our flourishing city with the rising metropolis of the Pacific Coast.
"De La M. Woodward,
"President of the Board of Town Trustees."
The reply:
"San Diego, California, .September 18, 1873.
"To De La M. Woodward,
"President Board Town Trustees,
"San Bernardino, California.
"Your telegram just received. Allow us to congratulate you on being thus brought intimately into connection with the world. We appreciate your sentiments with regard to our mutual interests and earnestly await the day when we can return the compliment in person by the railroad.
"Allow us to shake hands through the medium of the telegraph. Our little city by the sea extends to you and to the citizens of San Bernardino her best wishes for your success and future prosperity.
"A. E. HoRTON."
Mr. Woodward married one of San Bernardino's fair daughters. Miss Carrie Craw, daughter of Charles Craw, one of the well-known


690 SAN BERNARDINO AND RIVERSIDE COUNTIES
pioneer freighters of San Bernardino County. They had two daughters, Josephine and Lettie Woodward. The first moved to Pennsylvania years ago, the latter married Frank Keir, one of the popular employes of the Santa Fe Railroad Company, and at this time (1922) lives in Los Angeles. Lettie, as she was familiarly called by her old associates, was one of the most popular young ladies of San Bernardino because of her training the children in elocution, and she herself entertained the Grand Army of the Republic, the Woman's Relief Corps, the Pioneer

Society and on many patriotic and social occasions she endeared herself by her versatility of talents, ainiability and unselfish disposition to a large circle of friends, for whom mother and father entertained just pride.

Sydney P. Waite[edit]

9 198 144 Waite Jas. S. 49 M . Farmer 1,800 500 Maine
10 198 144 Waite Sarah M. 48 F . . . . Maine
11 198 144 Waite Sydney P. 21 M . Miner . 600 Illinois
12 198 144 Waite Theadore 19 M . Farmer . . Illinois
13 198 144 Waite Helen M. 14 F . . . . Illinois
14 198 144 Waite Eliza 12 F . . . . Illinois
15 198 144 Waite Emma 9 F . . . . California
16 198 144 Waite Charles 7 M . . . . California

---

Francis "Frank" Green (1822 - 1867)[edit]

"... a certain Bounty Land Warrant location of one hundred and sixty acres of land, lying and situated on "Rock Creek," supposed to be in San Bernardino county, the same land now occupied by Frank Green, Esq., as a Stock Rancho.
  • Francis (Frank) Green was shot and killed in Los Angeles on December 7, 1867. Two men A. B. McDaniel and Francis Taylor were accused of the deed. McDaniel was held to answer while the charges against Taylor were dismissed. Disposition of McDaniel unknown. "JP 1 1867.12.07, JP 1 1867.12.09, CS0816"[212][213]

James M. Greenwade 1831-1869[edit]

Served on a jury in the San Bernardino County murder trial of J. Johnson Los Angeles Star 8 August 1857 p2c4 Conviction and sentence of James P. Johnston


"County Clerk — J. M. Greenwade, won in the 1858 elections to replace the office holders appointed by the Supervisors during the Mormon Exodus.
"About this time it was that J. M. Greenwade, who held the combined offices of County Clerk, Recorder and Auditor, became dissatisfied with the mode of procedure of the board of supervisors in the transaction of county business, drew his six-shooter and cleared the room of all those functionaries. Shortly after this, the same man, while intoxicated, met Judge Boren unarmed on the street, and, putting a pistol to the Judge's breast with one hand, with the other struck the judge with a stick. Judge Boren retreated to where he could procure a gun, but was then prevented by the outsiders from shooting his county clerk, for which, as he has often expressed himself, he since feels profoundly content."[184]: 421 
Greenwade was with others accused by a Grand Jury report of receiving warrants illegally drawn, after the funding of the County debt, of $87 and $162.l8.
Greenwade lost his reelection bid that September 7, 1859. J. W. Wilson, 304; J. M. Greenwade, 273; Webb, 2.
  • According to an article titled “Temescal White Sulphur Springs” in the Los Angeles Star on August 11, 1860, “Mr. J. M. Greenwade's hotel is only three miles distant, where is a station of the overland mail.
  • Civility married James M. Greenwade on May 1, 1860. Star?


----
  • Jas M Greenwade 1860 Census

1860 Census

Household ID 401
Name Jas. M. Greenwade, Hotel Keeper
Event Place San Salvador Township, San Bernardino, California, United States
Gender Male
Age 29
Race White
Birth Year (Estimated) 1831
Birthplace Kentucky
Civility Greenwade F 20 Missouri
Kaven Greenwade M 1 California
Jacab Sherrar M 30 France, Laborer, $120
Robt Mc Coy M 24 Pennsylvania, Merchant $1000
Page 54
---
  • J. M. Greewade was appointed Postmaster 2 Feb 1861 for Temuscal, San Bernardino County, California. U.S., Appointments of U. S. Postmasters, 1832-1971, Volume 22.


----
"Another enemy of no less formidable character is Mrs. Bettis; bold, determined, and unscrupulous, she combines all the qualities which make a woman one of the most dangerous of enemies and one of the best of friends. Her father, Mr. Rubottom, and brother and nephew, and brother and son, James M. Greenwade, at Temescal, all secessionists, she inspires with her own enthusiasm in the cause. John Rains, at Cucamonga, is another, but lacking all the qualities of the rest, and having but money and the reputation of being wealthy. Such is the state of the county at present." WOTR Letter from Willis to Carlton
  • :Miners' Meeting at Temescal.

Temescal San Bernardino Co., Sept. 6, '60. Pursuant to notice, the miners of Temescal met at the residence of Capt. Hanegar, en masse, at 3 o'clock, P.M., for the purpose of forming such laws as they might deem proper for the future govern rnent and protection ol their interests in said mines ; whereupon 0. D. Gass. Esq.. was called to the chai r; Mr. J. M. Greenwade, Secretary. Mr. Gass explained the object of the meeting in a brief, clear, and impressive manner ; after which the meeting proceeded to business. Whereupon Capt. Hanegar offered the following, which, after some discussion, was unanimously adopted, to-wit ; ART. l. It shall be necessary in order to constitute a legal and valid claim in the mines of metaliterous ores in the vicinity of Temescal—that, any person or persons, being the original discov erers. and taker up of any of said veins of mineral shall first sink a hole, and pile the mineral thus extracted about it, and place a notice in some conspicuous place on the lead or load, and keep or cause the same to be kept thereon, to the best, of his ability. The above shall be deemed valid so long as the party in interest shall, in person or by agent, remain in said Tin district. ART. 2. It is further considered that the best kind of notice is a stake with the claimants' name legibly written thereon. ART 3. Any person selling an interest, who may be the original discoverer, and receive a consideration therefor—or legally the successor there of, shall be entitled to the same rights and privileges of that proportional part he may purchase, so long as be may comply with the requisitions of Art.. 1st, ART. 4. The above shall co into effect from and after publication, and the Secretary is hereby requested to send a copy to the San Bernardino Herald, one to the Los Angeles Star, and one to the Southern News. for publication. The meeting then adjourned sine die. 0. D. GASS, Chairman. J. M. GREENWADE, Secretary. Los Angeles Star, Number 19, 15 September 1860, Miners' Meeting at Temescal, p.3, col.2


---

  • History of Pomona Valley, California, 1920
86
Still another tragedy in this much troubled family came very near to wiping them all out, including the :grandson, Kewen Dorsey. as well. It was some years after the death of his father, when his mother had :married James M. Greenwade and they were living in Cucamonga, not far from the country store which Greenwade :kept. There were the father and mother and three little children. In those days when every one drank, and :holidays were celebrated by drinking "a little more," it came about that Greenwade and a comrade were :celebrating Christmas night in the way they were wont to do, and the celebration continued till New Year's :day, 1869. In all this week from Christmas to New Year's neither of them was quite sober, and both were :threatened with delirium tremens before the spree was over. On New Year's Eve Greenwade went down to the :store with his jug and filled it up at the barrel. Every country store then had its "barrel" for the :convenience of its customers, usually in the back of the store. A dipper hung near by and every one helped :himself, leaving a dime for his drink. So Greenwade filled his jug at the barrel, but with it he mixed some :strychnine, mistaking it perhaps for whiskey, in the hazy state of his mind. Coming back to the house again :he got some glasses, filled them with the concoction, and urged them all to drink. Greenwade himself drank :first, and his little daughter with him, but the mother

---

87
became suspicious and caught the glasses away from the boys before she or they had tasted it. Her :suspicions were at once confirmed, as husband and daughter died on the spot from the poison. Only by a :miracle had Kewen and his mother and his half-brother Jeff escaped the same fate. History of Pomona Valley, California: With Biographical Sketches of the Leading Men and Women of the Valley who Have Been Identified with Its Growth and Development from the Early Days to the Present, Historic Record Company, 1920: 86–87 

Jas W Wilson I[edit]

United States Census, 1860

Household ID 84
Name Jas W Wilson , County Clerk, $475 RE
Event Place San Bernardino City, San Bernardino, California, United States
Gender Male
Age 47
Race White
Birth Year (Estimated) 1813
Birthplace Ohio
Sarah C Wilson F 40 Pennsylvania
Margaret A Wilson F 13 Indiana
Harry E Wilson M 9 California
Edgar D Wilson M 6 California
Thos W Wilson M 3 California
Clarence A Wilson F 0 California
Page 11

A. VanLuven, I[edit]

A. VanLuven, I
C. L. Kingston. 45
V. J. Herring, 49.

S. R. Campbell, District Atty, D[edit]

United States Census, 1860
S. R. Campbell , lawyer , $250
Event Place San Bernardino City, San Bernardino, California, United States
Gender Male
Age 48
Race White
Birth Year (Estimated) 1812
Birthplace Tennessee
Julia Ann Campbell F 48 Kentucky
Saml R Campbell M 17 Missouri , Blacksmith Appr.
James R Campbell M 12 Texas
Mary Campbell F 8 Texas
Household ID 14
Page 2
Samuel R. Campbell, another Texas attorney, came here from Los Angeles and located in 1857. He had been a lawyer of considerable prominence in Texas, a member of the state senate and had taken an active part in public affairs there. Immediately upon his settling in San Bernardino he was appointed district attorney by the board of supervisors to fill an unexpired term. He was well educated and of great natural ability and had he been able to control his taste for strong drink he would doubtless have had a successful career here. In the winter of 1862-3 he started from San Bernardino horseback to go to the western part of the county. It was one of the stormy days of that winter of rain and flood and he was never seen alive again. His horse returned riderless and a few days later his body was found on the plains beyond Slover mountain. Ingersoll's, p.503

M. Katz "Treasurer—I[edit]

M. Katz,
1860 Census
Name Marcus Katz, County Treasurer, $1000 $200
Event Place San Bernardino City, San Bernardino, California, United States
Gender Male
Age 32
Race White
Birth Year (Estimated) 1828
Birthplace Germany
Leah Katz F 25 England
Morris D Katz M 6 California
Grace E Katz F 4 California
Edmund E Katz M 1 California
Household ID 140
Page 18

---

R, F. Walkinshaw, D[edit]

1860 Census
Robt F Walkinshaw, Merchant, 1000 RE 1500 PE
Event Place San Bernardino City, San Bernardino, California, United States
Gender Male
Age 28
Race White
Birth Year (Estimated) 1832
Birthplace Scotland
Thos Walkinshaw M 20 Scotland, Salesman, 800 RE, 50 PE
Household ID 102
Page 13

---

J. V. Herring[edit]

Eliza Persis Russell Robbins Crafts, Fannie P. McGehe, Pioneer Days in the San Bernardino Valley: 31  J. V. Herring was elected assesor in 1853.
"Rube" Herring, the ex-mountain man turned justice of the peace, later assessor and school superintendent, was moved again, this time to become sheriff. First Newspapers Come Into the City, By L. BURR BELDEN (Sun-Telegram Historical Writer), SAN BERNARDINO SUN-TELEGRAM, May 20, 1960, S-7, Copyright (1960), The Sun. Reprinted by permission
LIBRARY NEWS JUNE 2009, By Richard D. Thompson, Librarian, pp.44-47 SHERIFFS OF SAN BERNARDINO 1853-1865]
"Valentine (Rube) J. Herring February 26, 1859 - October 1859. A special meeting was called for the purpose of appointing a replacement for Mitchell, and on February 26, 1859, V. J. Herring was named to be sheriff of San Bernardino County (Minutes Book A, p 27). Herring served until the election of 1859, which was held on September 7th. Successful candidates were declared in the minutes of September 19, 1859 (Minutes Book A, p 51). C. W. Piercy was the winner for the Office of Sheriff,..." Herring lost only getting 49 votes.

See Brothers[edit]

Joseph See



Sarah Elizabeth O'Neal See 1814-1900
John See (1825-1877)
Birth: Mar. 25, 1825; Indiana, USA. Death: Jan. 31, 1877; Los Nietos, Los Angeles County, California, USA
John was the son of Joseph See (1787-1852) of Virginia and Nancy Beatty (1792-abt.1843) of Kentucky. He married Elizabeth Ellen Quick May 26, 1842 in Monroe County, Indiana. After the death of his mother the family moved and settled in Carroll County, Missouri. His father died in 1852 and it was after his death that John moved with his family to California first settling in San Luis Obispo with his brother.
In 1866 he is found with his family living in Los Nietos, Los Angeles, California. John and Ellen had eight known children: Minerva Jane; Richard Wesley; Martha Ann; John W.; George Francis; James Frank; Ellen and Emma See.
I have been unable to find a source for Ellen's death. Other researchers show she died February 4, 1891 in Chino, Los Angeles, California.
John See was 51 years, 10 months and 6 days at his death.
Shot by Dick Perry in Los Nietos.
Burial:
Little Lake Cemetery
Santa Fe Springs
Los Angeles County
California, USA
Plot: Block I, Lot 1, Grave 8
The See family of San Luis Obispo and their origins[edit]
Joseph See and his family left a colorful and often scandalous history as their legacy. A variety of stories within the family portray the Sees as rough mountain folk well remembered for their acts of murder, theft, and bootlegging. However the records left behind also so a pioneer family that established schools, joined the popular fraternal organizations of the day and were often leaders in their community. As a pioneer family in San Luis Obispo county, California they left numerous records concerning their lives and numerous photographs also survive. Joseph See the patriarch of the is family is the son of Joseph and Nancy (Beatty) See of Montgomery county, Kentucky. Joseph Jr. was born in Montgomery county. In the late 1820s early 1830s, Joseph's father headed to Indiana, where it is believed Joseph met and married Sarah Elizabeth O'Neal.
Nothing is known about the O'Neal family. A marriage bond for Joseph and Elizabeth is not found in Monroe county. Elizabeth See's obituary states that she died on her 64th Wedding Anniversary, setting the date of their marriage around the 8th of November 1836 [re: "SLO Tribune" 09 Nov 1900]. Joseph See's brother, who married Elizabeth's sister Leah O'Neal, left record of their marriage in Monroe suggesting that the two brothers met the two sisters in that county; however, there is no record of an O'Neal family in either the tax lists or deeds of the county.
Monroe county, Indiana records find the Sees in that county in the 1830s and 1840s and this is where we first find Joseph and his wife Sarah Elizabeth O'Neal. Monroe County tax lists and deed book of the 1840s document the residency of Joseph See, his brother William and their father Joseph Sr. Tax records dating from 1841, record Joseph Sr. as a land holder in Perry Township with 80 acres valued at $196.00. The largest sized plot taxed in the area for one person is 160 acres. The tax list of 1841, records William See in Salt Creek with only a poll tax and Joseph See Jr. polled in Perry Township. Joseph See is listed again with 40 acres worth, $150.00 on Clear Creek. These small farms may represent improved land, since deeds suggest the men purchased and sold more than is ever found in the tax lists. In 1849, Joseph Jr. and his wife Elizabeth sell off 260 acres of land, liquidating their property for the move West along with their father and many of their siblings. The family moved to Carroll county, Missouri where they are enumerated by the 1850 Census. Both Joseph's father and his brother William die in Missouri leaving wills and documenting Joseph's presence in the area. Sometime between 1852 and 1857 Joseph move West with at least his brother John and his sister-in-law Leah O'Neal See; eventually to make their final journey West to California.
> The obituary of Joseph's granddaughter [Amanda Laird Washburn] who died in 1926 provides an interesting footnote to the See family's journey West. The obituary recounts the wagon train trip and the fact that their train was the first to come upon the remains of the Mountain Meadow Massacre outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. The Massacre had been staged by Mormons, who dressed as Indians, captured a wagon train of white settlers and murdered them. This was done in hopes of keeping emigrants out of the Mormon territory. Amanda had been born in Missouri [re: obit Elizabeth, MO] before the move West and would have had knowledge of the event. It is recorded that the wagon train behind the Meadows Massacre was enroute to San Bernardino, the first stop for the See family. Various sources suggest that Joseph may have emigrated in the same time year as the massacre, making this story plausible. Joseph's death certificate lists his length of residence in California as 48 years which would place his arrival in California in 1857 [note the Mountain Meadows Massacre dates Sept '57]. San Bernardino County deeds establish their arrival by December 1857 which corroborates Joseph's death certificate and fits with the story of the Mountain Meadow Massacre.
> The first stop for the See family was San Bernardino County. By December of 1857 Joseph See, his brother John, and his widowed sister-in-law Leah O'Neal See arrived in San Bernardino County, California and had purchased land. There are three deeds in Joseph's name. The tax lists provide some information on Joseph's activities and wealth holding at this time. In 1858, Joseph is taxed upon 48 acres of farm land and four town lots. Joseph's land was worth $240.00 and the town lots were worth a total of $100.00. In addition to the land, Joseph owned $679.00 of personal property; probably cattle and horses, bringing Joseph's net worth in 1858 to $1194.00. Joseph purchased additional land on the 10th of March 1859 [re: DBD pg. 288]. The tax rolls of 1859 show Joseph with lots number 657 in section B.6 of San Bernardino valued at $130 acres, which indicates he probably sold some of the land. His personal property had increased to $935.00 in that year. The 1861 tax records clearly indicate that Joseph had left the county. Deeds of sale show that Joseph sold two parcels of land in 1858 and Joseph along with his wife Elizabeth sold land to George E. Hubble on the 07th of April 1859, which is the last deed found of Joseph See in San Bernardino County and is probably indication of the time period the family set off for San Luis Obispo.
> The 1860 Census of San Luis Obispo, lists Joseph See as a teamster worth $600.00 in personal property and landless. The move to San Luis Obispo does not appear to have enriched the Sees and Joseph appears to have lost nearly half of his assets. Ten years later Joseph is polled on the 1870 Census with $2,000.00 worth of real estate and $600.00 worth of personal property and is living in the San Luis Obispo township. There is a family story told of Joseph's arrival in San Luis Obispo. It is said that his wife Elizabeth traded a mule and a wagon for See Canyon. There are no deeds to document this tale, but the name remains and indication of the association of the family in this canyon. Early grant records for the region show that See Canyon is one of the few areas not covered by an old Spanish grant and may have been public property. As a new comer to the area, Joseph may have homesteaded/squatted on that area, since no other land was available. Joseph's daughter Rachel and her husband William Calloway are known to have been long time residents of the Canyon and owned 160 acres of the Canyon.
On the 16th of May 1861, Joseph See is one of the first members of the first Masonic Lodge (#148) in San Luis Obispo [re: History of San Luis Obispo County].
Joseph See did not file a Homestead Declaration until the 1st of October 1878 [re: Book A page 263]. However, Joseph does buy and sell land in San Luis Obispo. The first deed is of sale is on the 27th of April 1868 to Thomas Fulton. Joseph buys land in 1872, 1875, and 1876 from G. W. Wallace, A. T. Brians, and Ynocinta P. Avila. Joseph's land holdings and source of income have not yet been fully documented in San Luis Obispo. It is clear he settled in San Luis Obispo and worked first as a teamster and possibly raising stock. One of the records of Jacob See's court/prison files is a letter that mentions Joseph's ownership of 1200 sheep in 1880 [re: Letter, Wm. J. Graves to Governor of California page 2].
There is a good published source of information for Joseph See of San Luis Obispo found in the "History of San Luis Obispo and Environs" which is a compilation of biographies of local citizens paid for by subscription. This book includes a biographical sketch of the life of Louisa See Biggs, Joseph's daughter. Louisa included a brief history of the family, establishing her father's nativity in Kentucky and the route West, which is established by numerous records as well as this sketch. Joseph See is described in this sketch as,
"... a native of Kentucky, who moved to Indiana and from there to Texas, and thence to California, coming with ox teams over the southern route settling first in San Bernardino County. In 1860, he came with his family to San Luis Obispo County and bought land, which was named See Canyon after him. He [Joseph} farmed here for many years. He lived to be eighty eight years of age, and was a very influential and public-spirited man" (page 317). [214]: 317  U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: See Canyon
Census records and death certificates of Joseph and his family confirm most of the above sketch. Since, the biography of Louisa See Biggs was probably written directly from an interview, it seems likely that the sequences and places are correct, though the specific dates may not be as accurate. See Canyon is certainly associated with Joe See; however, no record remains, showing that he ever owned land in See Canyon, though it is clear that his daughter Rachel See did. The part that Louisa Biggs left out of her biography was that See Canyon's reputation mirrored that of the family, as shown by an 1888 news article in a San Luis Obispo newspaper during a time when the See family was at an all time low among public opinion:
"See Canyon bears a very unsavory reputation in this county, an he time has come when no locality should be allowed to degrade itself. There are several sections, or parts of sections, of excellent government land in the neighborhood and if some energetic missionaries could be induced to settle there they might clean out or reform the plague spot. The name now applied does not belong to it, the proper appellation being "San Miguelito," the old Spanish name, from which the name of the grant to Don Miguel Avila was derived. Restore this pretty name and introduce a more refined class of settlers and the locality will become an honor instead of an eye sore to the county. Let it be called San Miguelito valley in the future."
Another article found in the "SLO Morning Tribune" of March of 1893 produces this unflattering article of Joe See after a recent drinking binge:

"Jo See got an unusual load on and his efforts to get out of town were only successful after he had collided with the family carriage of one of our townspeople, and ripped every spoke out of one wheel. Why there were no further disastrous results is a problem as the carriage was full of ladies and children, and it was drawn by a team of spirited horses, but so it was."

The Great Register of 1888 and 1892, both list Joseph as a Kentuckian of fair skin, blue eyes and gray hair, he stood 6'3" with an affected left eye. Two known photographs of him exist, showing a long faced man with a massive curly beard and thick curly hair; his left eye does appear to have been afflicted.
At his death, Joseph owned 400 acres appraised at $2,500.00. Joseph left no will. His original Homestead Declaration list several plots of land around San Luis Obispo township, totaling 171.40 acres. This acreage may be what is referred to in the probate records as the Joseph See Place, a farm totaling about 109 acres which in their old age Joseph and Elizabeth placed in trust allotting their four daughters each parcels. The probate record also list two taxed pieces of land one 157 acres with 40 acres improved and 235 acres with 100 acres improved totaling 400 acres. Joseph's will splits the Joseph See Place into plots of 28.48, 28.48, 20, and 32 acres allotting them to Elizabeth, Nancy, Rachel and Louisa respectively. Another plot of 55 acres is given to Jacob.
Joseph's death certificate, filled out by his son-in-law, Robert S. Rainey, lists Joseph's birth date as the 12 November 1817. Joseph See died on the 19th of August 1905 and his obituary appears in "The Telegraph" of Saturday the 30th of November 1905. Joseph's obituary incorrectly places his birth in Monroe County, Kentucky, obviously confusing Montgomery County, Kentucky (his birth place) with Monroe County, Indiana (the birth place of his children). Joseph death was due to pneumonia aggravated by a fall from his bed and old age [re: obituary]. Elizabeth preceded her husband in death. Though she has no death certificate, an obituary of her death is found in the "San Luis Obispo Tribune" on Friday the 09th of November 1900 and died probably on the 8th. Her obituary records that she died on her 64th wedding anniversary. Her death was due to drinking impure water.
  • See Canyon originally San Miguelito Canyon, the old Spanish name, from which the name of the grant to Don Miguel Avila was derived.
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: See Canyon

s 351509N 1204616W Elevation: ?/? m 351121N 1204253W Elevation: 33/10

1860 Census[edit]
644 34 See____________Elizabeth________17____Missouri____pg00635.txt
644 32 See____________John___________24____Missouri____pg00635.txt
644 35 See____________Joseph__________15____Missouri____pg00635.txt
644 31 See____________Leah____________43____Kentucky____pg00635.txt
644 33 See____________Marshal_______22____Missouri____pg00635.txt
644 36 See____________Sarah J.________11____Missouri____pg00635.txt
---
LN_HN__FN__LAST_NAME_FIRST_NAME__AGE__SEX_RACE_OCCUP._REAL_VAL._PERS_VAL._BIRTHPLACE______MRD._SCH._R/W__DDB_RMRKS
--------------------
31_283_222_See_______Leah________43___F___.____.______800_______850_______Kentucky__________._____._____.____.____.
32_283_222_See_______John________24___M___.____.______._________._________Missouri__________._____._____.____.____.
33_283_222_See_______Marshal_____22___M___.____.______._________._________Missouri__________._____._____.____.____.
34_283_222_See_______Elizabeth___17___F___.____.______._________._________Missouri__________._____X_____.____.____.
35_283_222_See_______Joseph______15___M___.____.______._________._________Missouri__________._____X_____.____.____.
36_283_222_See_______Sarah_J.____11___F___.____.______._________._________Missouri__________._____X_____.____.____.
----
  • Joseph See__b1817_43__San_Luis_Obispo_Co.,_California
  • John See____b1824_36__San_Luis_Obispo_Co.,_California
  • Ellen See___b1825_35__San_Luis_Obispo_Co.,_California
  • Jessie See__b1845_15__San_Luis_Obispo_Co.,_California
  • Richard See_b1846_14__San_Luis_Obispo_Co.,_California
THIS IS AN INDEX SORTED BY LAST NAME.
FOR THE COMPLETE CENSUS INFORMATION, OPEN THE FILE IN THE FILE NAME COLUMN.
======================================================================
PG# LN# LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE BIRTH PLACE FILE NAME
======================================================================
15 4 Su[See] Joseph 43 Ky pg00001.txt
15 5 Su Elizabeth 43 Ky pg00001.txt
15 6 Su Eliza 16 Mo pg00001.txt
15 7 Su Jessie 15 Mo pg00001.txt
15 8 Su Elizabeth 10 Mo pg00001.txt
----
15 14 Su[See] John 36 Ky pg00001.txt
15 15 Su Ellen 35 Ky pg00001.txt
15 16 Su Minerva 16 Mo pg00001.txt
15 17 Su Richard 14 Mo pg00001.txt
15 18 Su Martha A. 12 Mo pg00001.txt
15 19 Su John W. 10 Mo pg00001.txt
15 20 Su James F. 1 Cal pg00001.txt
----
==============================================================================================================
LN_HN__FN__LAST NAME_FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. REAL VAL. PERS VAL._BIRTHPLACE_MRD._SCH._R/W_DDB
===============================================================================================================
4__166_156_See________Joseph________43___M___._____Teamster_____._________600_______Ky_________
5__166_156_See________Elizabeth_____43___F___._____Housekeeper__._________._________Ky_________
6__166_156_See________Eliza_________16___F___._____.____________._________._________Mo_________
7__166_156_See________Jessie________15___M___._____.____________._________._________Mo_________
8__166_156_See________Elizabeth_____10___F___._____.____________._________._________Mo_________


==============================================================================================================
LN_HN__FN__LAST NAME_FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. REAL VAL. PERS VAL._BIRTHPLACE_MRD._SCH._R/W_DDB
===============================================================================================================
14_169__159__Su[See]__John__________36___M___._____Teamster____.__________600________Ky
15_169__159__Su_______Ellen_________35___F___._____Housekeeper_.__________.__________Ky
16_169__159__Su_______Minerva_______16___F___._____.____________._________.__________Mo X REMARKS: Blind
17_169__159__Su_______Richard_______14___M___._____.____________._________.__________Mo
18_169__159__Su_______Martha_A._____12___F___._____.____________._________.__________Mo
19_169__159__Su_______John_W._______10___M___._____.____________._________.__________Mo
20_169__159__Su_______James_F._______1___M___._____.____________._________.__________Cal


----
  • A Richard See killed a man, William S. Duncan, with a shotgun in a dispute over a card game in Gallatin, Los Nietos Township, on March 4, 1871. JP 3 1871.03.04, Star 1871.02.28, News 1871.03.04, Star 1871.03.08, Star 1871.03.15 See fled but was arrested later in 1889. LAT 1889.05.11 [215]
  • SOCAL-L Archives; Archiver > SOCAL > 2000-10 > 0972017651
From: Lester M Powers <lesterps@juno.com>
Subject: Info 1870 L.A.Co, Los Nietos Twp,
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 21:54:11 -0700
LOS NIETOS TOWNSHIP (quote from History of Los Angeles County above): "The township of Los Nietos was erected out of El Monte township, November 4, 1857, and contained (in whole or in part) the following ranchos: -- [table listing ranchos Paso De Bartolo, Santa Gertrudes, Los Coyotes, and Los Cerritos] [new paragraph] The township has an extreme length from north-east to south-west of about twenty-one miles, with an average width of say eight miles from north-west to south-east. About one-half of this area is in cultivation, the remainder being used principally for sheep pasturage. With the exception of the Pico hills on the north-east, and the Cerritos hills on the south-west, nearly the whole township is valley land, generally fit for small grains."
From the map in "Los Angeles in Civil War Days," it looks like Los Nietos Twp. might more or less have extended along the San Gabriel River. Paso de Bartolo was sort of east-southeast of downtown L.A. and bisected by the San Gabriel River. South of that was Santa Gertrudes, and south of that was Los Cerritos and Los Coyotes (Los Cerritos and Los Coyotes were next-door to each other, sharing a commom north-south border, with that border just west of the San Gabriel River. Los Cerritos was directly west of Los Coyotes. Los Cerritos was a few miles north of Signal Hill.)
The History of Los Angeles County book cited above mentions these towns and/or settlements within the Los Nietos Township: Downey City, Gallatin, College Settlement, Old Los Nietos, Pico's Ranchito, and Fulton Wells.

Trans-Mississippi Theater of the American Civil War[edit]

Confederate Arizona[edit]

New Mexico Campaign[edit]

Texan Retreat[edit]

[216] Originally published in El Defensor Chieftain newspaper, Saturday, March 3, 2012.© 2012 by Paul Harden. Article may be cited with proper credit to author. Article is not to be reproduced in whole or placed on the internet without author’s permission.Copyright:By Paul HardenFor El Defensor Chieftainna5n@zianet.com

Independent Companies, New Mexico Volunteer Cavalry[edit]

Jerry D. Thompson, A Civil War History of the New Mexico Volunteers and Militia, UNM Press, Albuquerque, 2015 p.105 Robert M. Morris
Union Regimental Histories from "A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion" by Frederick H. Dyer (Part 3) Regimental Histories, New Mexico Volunteers, pp.1366-1367 at civilwararchive.com accessed February 2, 2017]
Frederick H. Dyer, A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion, The Dyer Publishing Company, Des Moines, Iowa, 1908; (Part 3) Regimental Histories, New Mexico Volunteers, pp.1366-1367
List of New Mexico Territory Civil War units

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James Henry Tevis 1835 - 1905[edit]

Valverde, New Mexico[edit]

Valverde
Otermín described camping at a point that he called El Contadero. It was on the banks of the river across from the ruins of the pueblo of Senecú (Hackett and Shelby 1942:II.203). That description better fits later descriptions of Valverde and the location of the ruins of the hacienda and town of that name, than do later depictions of El Contadero showing it south of Black Mesa and away from the river. The 1773 map by Bernardo de Miera y Pacheco showed an unnamed paraje north of “Mesa de Senecú” which would have been Valverde (Adams and Chávez 1956:268; Marshall and Walt 1984:286)
On 20 November 1780 Anza left the spring of the Apaches, or the “Apache Wood,” and traveled four leagues to Valverde, where he noted the tracks of many horses and people crossing the river. His party rested there the next day before going on five leagues to Fray Cristóbal (Thomas 1932:198). During the nineteenth century Valverde was often noted as the site of a good ford. The paraje of Valverde next appeared in 1805 in a report on vaccinations (Marshall and Walt 1984:286).
The 1819 description of the Valverde Grant noted that it began at the “Ancon de Valverde” on the east bank of the Río Grande, opposite the mouth of the Arroyo de San Pasqual (Bowden 1969:II, 163). There is now a bend in the river adjacent to the Valverde town site and across from the mouth of Tiffany Canyon. Tiffany Arroyo, a name whose origin is in the twentieth century, is across from and slightly south of the ruin of San Pasqual. In 1832, Valverde was described as the ruins of a hacienda on the outskirts of the settlements of New Mexico at the edge of the desert of the Jornada del Muerto (Carroll and Haggard 1942:78-80; Julyan 1996:353).
In 1839, Gregg observed the ruins of Valverde and wrote that it had been founded only 20 years earlier, in some of the richest land in New Mexico, and was deserted due to Indian attacks (Gregg 1933:258). On 30 July 1846, Wislizenus wrote of passing the “ruins of Valverde,” which he described as “the mud walls of a deserted Mexican village,” in an area of sand hills and cottonwood trees within twelve miles to the south of Luis López’s hacienda (Wislizenus 1848:37).
In 1846, Abert identified the river crossing at Valverde and recommended that southbound wagons be taken to the west bank of the Río Grande at Alburquerque and back to the east side at this ford. Abert mentioned and sketched the Mesa overlooking the ruins of Valverde and placed it 15 miles from Fray Cristóbal (Abert 1962:120,125-133). Gibson described his camp near the ruins of Valverde in 1846. It was in a grove of trees near the base of Black Mesa and bore traces of earlier campers. When his unit left Valverde it went six miles around the east side of the mesa to a camp on the south side (Bieber 1935:293-294). Depictions of the Civil War Battle of Valverde confirm that the entire battle took place in the shadow of the Mesa del Contadero (Alberts 1984:42;Hall 1960:84,97).
The paraje north of Mesa de Contadero variously called Contadero or Valverde probably spread along the riverbank and filled the space between the river sand the edge of the hills. Accounts of the Battle of Valverde also include an old riverbed on the east side of the valley but still in its bottom (Alberts 1984:42,46; Hall 1960:84,97). Depending upon the age of that bed, or the possibility that the river bed has changed regularly over the last several centuries, it could be that the segment of the paraje which experienced the heaviest use is much closer to the hills than to the existing river bed. [222]

Issac Lynde[edit]

Fort Conrad, New Mexico[edit]

Fort Conrad (1)[226]
Fort Conrad (1) (1851-1854) - A U.S. Army post established in 1851 by Major Marshall S. Howe in Socorro County, New Mexico. Named for Charles M. Conrad, Secretary of War (1850-1853). Abandoned in 1854. Also known as Hay Camp.

Fort Conrad (1) History

A U.S. Army post established 8 Sep 1851 by Major Marshall S. Howe, 2nd U.S. Dragoons, on the west bank of the Rio Grande near Valverde. Established to control hostile Indians and to protect travel routes.
The post was abandoned on 31 Mar 1854 after the construction of Fort Craig (1) eight miles down river. After closure, the post was used to raise forage for Fort Craig (1) and became known as Hay Camp.
Current Status
Location: Socorro County, New Mexico. Map point is not accurate. Lat: 33.7391112 Long: -106.9169205
Sources:
Roberts, Robert B., Encyclopedia of Historic Forts: The Military, Pioneer, and Trading Posts of the United States, Macmillan, New York, 1988, 10th printing, ISBN 0-02-926880-X, page 523
Hart, Herbert M., Tour Guide to Old Western Forts, Pruett Publishing Co., Boulder CO, 1980, ISBN 0-87108-568-2, page 98-99
Frazer, Robert W., Forts of the West, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman OK, 1965, ISBN 0-8061-1250-6, page 96-98

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Fort Conrad
(1851 - 1854), Val Verde
A Dragoon post on the west bank of the Rio Grande. Possibly originally named Post at Valverde in 1851. Replaced by Fort Craig, this site, renamed Hay Camp, was then later used to raise forage for the new post.[227]

Among the Troops in New Mexico, STATISTICAL REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES, COMPILED FROM THE RECORDS OF THE SURGEON GENERAL’S OFFICE; EMBRACING A PERIOD OF SIXTEEN YEARS, FROM JANUARY, 1839, TO JANUARY, 1855. PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF BREVET BRIGADIER GENERAL THOMAS LAWSON, Surgeon General of the U. S. Army, by Richard H. Coolidge M. D., Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Army, A. O. P. Nicholson, Printer, Washington, 1856, pp.414-419 [228]

Fort CRAIG: Following the valley of the Rio Grande southward, we come successively to the military station at Socorro, and to Fort Conrad, respecting which special reports will be given. Next in order is Fort Craig, at the northern terminus of the Jornada del Muerto, nine miles below Fort Conrad and southward on the river.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT CONRAD.
By Assistant Surgeon E. P. Langworthy: 1853.
Fort Conrad lies in the county of Socorro, New Mexico, 25 miles below the county seat, (Socorro,) on the Rio Grande del Norte. It is situated on a sandy, gravelly mesa, or table-land, which rises abruptly from the grassy bottoms of the river about half a mile west of the Rio Grande. This table-land becomes exceedingly broken as you proceed west from the stream, rising by successive rude steps or grades, till the formation is lost among the range of high mountains that bound the fort on the west, southwest, and northwest. The brokenness of the mesa depends in a great degree upon the washings of rains, and the drifting of the light sand that is almost constantly in motion, on account of the high winds that prevail here almost without cessation. The alluvial low lands, or bottoms of the river, consist, for the most part, of a light-yellowish sand, incorporated to a greater or less extent with a saline matter, that covers the surface of the ground in patches like snow, and presents precisely the same appearance. Where the ground is lower, the soil differs materially, and is rendered very fertile by admixture with humus, and other rich deposits of matter. With the exception of an occasional brackish, saline cesspool, in the flat lowlands, there is never stagnant water, for any length of time, in this vicinity.
The latitude of Fort Conrad is about 33° 34’ 19” N., and the longitude 107° 9’ 39” W.; the altitude above the ocean 4,576 feet. Between this post and Santa Fe there is a difference of altitude, in favor of the latter, of considerably over 2,400 feet, although there is but a little over two degrees difference in the respective latitudes of the places. While at this point we are enjoying the balmy, invigorating atmosphere of spring, so materially the climate differs, the residents of Santa Fé are wrapped up in their great-coats, and shivering over the blazing fagots of pinon and cedar.
This post is to a great extent environed and encompassed by mountains, remote and near, but particularly in a westerly direction. Eight or ten miles east of us, the San Pasqual rears its huge head; at the south, and overlooking the murky waters of the Rio Grande, stands the rugged Fra Cristobal, twenty miles distant; at the west and northwest looms up the extensive and lofty range known as the Sierra San Mateo and Sierra jlIalin. The Saline mountain, near the foot of which lies the Salt Lake, from which the Mexicans procure large quantities of common salt for domestic purposes, is seen, of a deep-blue color, in the southeast; and to the right the northern terminus of the long chain that extends across the Jornada del Muerto, parallel with the wagon trail, ycleped Sierra de Caballo — so called from the northern extremity of the range resembling somewhat a horse, as the name indicates. Socorro mountain, and the Sierra de las Ladrones (Thieves mountain) 25 and 50 miles distant (above), and on the west side of the Rio Grande; and Manzana mountain on the east side, opposite the Ladrones mount, and numerous others, great and small, in various directions, that are nameless, present no peculiar or very interesting feature. They are mainly basaltic, traversed by dikes of trap. These mountains are clothed more or less with timber, and stunted scrub bushes, that relieves their barrenness in a great measure to the eye of the beholder. Unfortunately, I have never been enabled to examine and thoroughly explore the mountainous districts. The physical aspect of the surrounding country is anything but interesting, and I trust I shall not incur the charge of monstrously exaggerating the true facts when I remark that the whole Territory of New Mexico is little else than a great sterile mountainous desert, not calculated for the residence of man in a state of civilization. There are cases, however, in nearly all deserts; and New Mexico does not prove an exception to the general rule.
This post has been established but eighteen months, and therefore its “medical statistics" must necessarily present little that would be satisfactory to an inquiring mind.
Diseases of the digestive organs have been more frequent than any other. The cause of this I am compelled to attribute, in a great measure, to the adulterated, poisonous liquor, both American and Mexican, that is vended to, and drank by, the soldiers in this Territory in great quan~ tities; and, indeed, I may truthfully remark, that many other of the diseases of this command acknowledge, and can be traced to the same immoral source. The whole number of diseases treated in eighteen months, in a command averaging 479, was 562, as follows: 140 in the last quarter of 1851. In 1852, first quarter, 111; second quarter, 131; third quarter, 91; fourth quarter, 50. In 1853, first quarter, 39. Quarterly mean of 1852, 127. Mean of the six quarters, 93. This post is a very healthy one, and comparatively few are sick. In fact, there is no country on the face of the globe, perhaps, that surpasses New Mexico for salubrity and purity of atmosphere, and general freedom from disease. Five deaths only have occurred here, to wit: three from diarrhoea (chronic), one from empyema, and one from acute pneumonia. Six have been discharged on surgeon’s certificate of ordinary disability, for injuries received, &c.
The principal maladies of the country are syphilis, gonorrhoca, rheumatism, and erysipelas. The two first-named, from the shockingly low state of morals here, are very prevalent in both sexes; and, from what I have seen of these diseases, I am of opinion that they are of a more malignant form, and less tractable under treatment, than the same in the States. Erysipelas occurs epidemically oftentimes, and is said to be very fatal in its effects. I have not seen a single case of this disease, and therefore cannot speak ecucathed'rd or advisedly concerning it. The same remedies, with slight modifications, are employed in the two first named maladies that are elsewhere. As far as I can learn, this will equally apply to the treatment of rheumatism and erysipelas. To the simple diet of the Mexican population, much of the health they enjoy can be attributed. This diet is composed of little else than chile colorado (red pepper), atoli or atole (parched corn, sugar, and water), penola, fmybles, parched corn (per se) tortillas, with corn-stalk molasses and chocolate ad libitum. In consequence of the abject poverty of the great mass, animal food is seldom a constituent of their diet. They are ipso facto from necessity, herbivorous or phyticorous in a great degree. But a few weeks since, I treated two cases of bilious fever, both of which had degenerated into the typhoid stage before I was called. One, a Mexican woman, died, as might be expected under the existing circumstances; but the other, an American, whose excess in strong drink had lowered the tone of his system, I effectually cured, principally by the exhibition of large doses of sulph: quinine, as practised, and so strongly recommended by Dr. Robert Dundas, physician to the Northern Hospital, Liverpool, &c.
On account of the dryness of this climate, koino miasmata is not a fruitful source of disease, as in most countries; and I have met with very few fevers the causation of which could be traced to malarious exhalations or sources. Americans, who are subject to that troublesome complaint, ague and fever, in this Territory, I am led to believe have more often brought the germs, the blastemoe of the malady, in their systems from the States, and some exposure here has excited into action, and developed or redeveloped the dormant occult poison.
The waters of the Territory of New Mexico are of a healthy character, generally speaking, although the waters of the Rio Pucrco, Rio de Galisteo, and other small streams that debouch into the Rio Grande, are said to he deleterious to health during a high stage of water. More than 60,000 persons annually drink the water of the Rio Grande and its tributaries; and, from personal experience, I can bear testimony that it is not exceeded by the famed Missouri water for excellence and freedom from insipidity. The Rio Grande at this point wends its way nearly north and south; it is about 300 yards wide, often more, with low banks, which the “oldest inhabitant” has rarely known to be overflown during the great rises, which annually occur in the months of April, May, and June, and which depend upon the melting of the snow in the northern mountains near the source of the stream. This flood, which is at its maximum in May, is in proportion to the amount of snow that has fallen in the mountains during the preceding winter. Like the Missouri, and western rivers generally, the Rio Grande is, at all stages of water, more or less muddy.
The “vital statistics” of the Indian tribes are little known. The chief bands that infest this section of country are the Gila Apaches, Apaches of the Sacramento and White Mountains, and Mezcalero Apaches, and the Navajoes. The Apaches are subdivided into several bands, and perhaps cannot muster, all told, over 600 warriors. The White Mountain and Sacramento Apaches inhabit the valleys and mountain fastnesses east of the Rio Grande, as well as the Mezcaleros; and the Apaches of the Rio Gila the western mountains. The Navajoes live in the country northwest from this point. This tribe is quite numerous; but its exact number is a matter that still remains sub jud'ice. The J icarrilla Apaches, living in the east~ ern portion of New Mexico, are not very numerous, and the governor of this Territory informed me that they had recently entered into a treaty with him to emigrate west of the Rio Grande, and Chacon’s band has already gone. When Mangus Colorado, and kindred spirits of the Apache nation, have been sent to their home in the upper hunting-grounds, and not till then, will the efforts to colonize them prove at all successful. One hundred and fifty Apache warriors have been killed during the past year in the State of Sonora, in forays with the Mexicans; at least I have the authority of an officer of the army who has been stationed among the Apaches at the “Cobres” (Fort \Vebster) for making the statement. Nearly all the Indians in this country speak Spanish; a very few, who have been raised with the Mexicans, read, and even write it.
The nearest settlement here is San Antonita, 12 miles up the river. In 100 miles around there are not over 10,000 Mexicans ; and that may exceed the number, for I have no reliable data to direct my judgment. The Rio Abajo, from here down, for a hundred miles, is not populated at all, or the land cultivated.
The mountain Indians of New Mexico are seldom sick. The healthfulness of this branch of the genus homo is most enviable. Venereal diseases are sometimes found among them, and are often contracted from Mexican women, many of whom are never free from this disgusting malady, and are taken into the tribes, often willingly, more often vi et armis, and adopted as wives and serfs by the band, thus disseminating the seeds of the disease. These savages are subject to opthalmia, which I judge is often the gonorrhoeal variety. Gun-shot and incised wounds are more frequent among them than any other form of injury, as might be supposed from their marauding, belligerent disposition; and indeed, what illness they are subject to principally arises from this cause. Lues venerea and gonorrhoea are about all the diseases that seriously effect the Mexican populace, with the exceptions stated in a previous part of this paper. I regret I can add nothing more satisfactory on this subject.
With the geological formations and peculiarities of this country, in detail, none are familiar. The rocks “crop out” but seldom in this vicinity, and where they do are mainly basaltic, with trap and metamorphic sandstone, the latter of various colors. There are some calcareous deposits occasionally met with, and seams of porphyritic lava traverse the mountains, which are basaltic in character, and of volcanic origin. Fragments of lava, both felspathic and angitic (soorice), strew the earth in the neighborhood of the mountains, as well as the debris of basaltic, amygdaloid, and trap rock, which is everywhere found on the table-lands of the Territory. Gold, mercury, copper, silver, and galena, are found in greater or less quantities in many of the mountainous elevations; and I have no doubt a little Yankee enterprise in this region would develop something important. Extensive beds of copper are known to exist at the Mimbres Mountains (the location of Fort Webster), and were formerly worked; but owing to the depredations of the Indians, active operations were abandoned. The surface of the elevation, where shafts were sunk, is covered with bi-sulphuret of iron (iron pyrites), and sub-oxide of copper (red oxide). The silver mines of the Sierras de los Organos, near Fort Fillmore, are at the present writing being worked, and yield a. fair amount of the metal. The silver is found in the form of a sulphuret (vitreous silver of mineralogists), united with galena. Granitic formations are common in the country.
The site of Fort Conrad (Valverde) has long been famous among the Mexicans for its venomous animals. Here, as elsewhere in Mexico, the centipede, tarantula, scorpion, et id omne genus, live and flourish. It is not uncommon to meet the two first filing athwart the parade, or crawling on the jerga around our quarters. I was surprised when I saw the length and acuteness of the tarantula’s teeth; they are uncovered, and fold under the anterior portion of his body. I have seen, as yet, no one of the command bitten. Each leg of the centipede is armed, and terminated by an acute point, horny in character, which penetrates and poisons the flesh when they crawl on an animal.
The vegetable kingdom in this, as in most parts of the country, is uninteresting in kind, nor is it extensive in variety. Everything in the vegetable world is stunted and deformed—the result of the want of water. I will proceed to present all the information on this subject that I am in possession of.
The Rio Grande is skirted on both sides by cottonwood (populus canade'rwis), generally growing sparsely, very crooked, and dwarfish. There appears to be two varieties, that differ only in the color of the blossom—one being white, the other red. In the bottom land, we find the willow struggling for existence; and in the land lower still, especially where there is standing water, the reed-grass or cane. The grass in the bottoms springs up in patches or clumps, and does not grow very luxuriantly. Immediately here, and in the adjacent region, are found the obione canescens, franseria acanthocarpa, yerba del sapa, of the Mexicans; scrub white cedar; a kind of wild potato, or solanum; but not, I think, the original solanum tuberosum; wild salvia, salicornia, atriplex, iodeodonda (lar'rea Mexicana); a species of acacia; salt grass (Uniola distichophylla), cacti of considerable variety, in shape, size, and kind; tessaria borealis, diotis lanata, dalea formosa, and varieties of mesquite. An evergreen of the genus quercus has been spoken of by some adventurer, and also a new kind of ash and black-walnut; the three latter I have not seen. The summer and winter grama grass furnishes grazing for the herds during the respective seasons, and both varieties are pronounced remarkably nutritious. Among the sandhills may be seen the prosopis glandulosa, riddellia tagetina, pagapaga, and chamisa. Several species of the genus pinus, cedar, and oak cover the mountains, interspersed by black-walnut, and a few other varieties of trees. These trees are not tall or large, as a general thing, and make indifferent lumber in consequence; but a virtue is made of necessity in all things in this desolate pais. Wild timothy, oats, clover, and a plant much resembling wheat, have recently been seen in the mountain cafions and valleys.
Rain seldom falls in this country in any quantities compared with rain in the States. The year 1852 was an extraordinary one for showers in New Mexico, and perhaps more rain fell during the last year than the two previous seasons. The whole amount of water that has fallen since the establishment of this post (18 months) is only 9.86 inches! 8.62 inches of this amount fell in 1852; the monthly mean of the same year was a little over 0.71 inches; the mean of the six quarters above mentioned, 1.64 inch.

The prevailing winds are from the W'., S.W., and N. W., and the atmosphere is seldom in a state of quietude. In consequence of the absence of rain here, artificial irrigation has to be resortei to by means of acequias, factitious canals, or ducts running from the river to the cultivated ground. The acequia is taken out of the river high enough to give the water sufficient elevation to overflow and inundate the land at the pleasure of the ranchero who cultivates the soil. Rain is not at all depended upon. Very little dew falls here; the atmosphere is exceedingly dry. Occasionally, during the winter months, a slight fall of snow occurs; but this is rare, and what falls immediately disappears.

Fort Conrad [229]pp.102,

Following the valley of the Rio Grande southward, we come successively to the military station at Socorro, and to Fort Conrad,.... Next in order is Fort Craig, at the northern terminus of the Jornada del Muerto, nine miles below Fort Conrad and southward on the river.[230] : 414 


The latitude of Fort Conrad is about 33° 34’ 19” N., and the longitude 107° 9’ 39” W.; the altitude above the ocean 4,576 feet. [230] That location 33°34′19″N 107°09′39″W / 33.57194°N 107.16083°W / 33.57194; -107.16083 is located southwest of Fort Craig and must be in error. However 9 miles above fort Craig on the west bank of the river the altitude is close.

Robert Murray Morris Robert M. Morris[edit]

  • Thrapp, Dan L., Encyclopedia of Frontier Biography, In Three Volumes, Vol.II G - O, Index; University of Nebraska Press, A. H. Clark Co., Glendale, 1988, p.1017-1018 Morris, Robert M. p.105 Robert M. Morris
  • Robert Murray Morris from findagrave.com accessed November 5, 2016

Captain James Lawrence Hubbell[edit]

aka Capt. Santiago Hubbell: Jerry D. Thompson, A Civil War History of the New Mexico Volunteers and Militia, UNM Press, Albuquerque, 2015 [231] p.33-35

Born: Salsbury, Connecticut May 26, 1824, with 3 brothers members of Missouri Mounted Volunteers in the Mexican War came to New Mexico in 1846, returned in 1849 and wooed and wed Julianita Gutierrez y Chavez, granddaughter of Fransisco Chavez, 1st Mexican Governor of Nuevo Mexico and the richest man in the New Mexico Territory. Settled at the large family hacienda south of Albaquerque at Pajarito. The house eventually grew to 27 rooms with 3 foot thick walls. He and Julianita had 12 children. He freighted in New Mexico, owning up to 48 wagons, raised livestock and farmed. Was elected sheriff of Valencia County. p33-34, n.109
Capt James Santiago Lawrence Hubbell, findagrave.com
Hubbell Center, Gutiérrez-Hubbell House[232]
Erica Cottam, Hubbell Trading Post: Trade, Tourism, and the Navajo Southwest, University of Oklahoma Press, Sep 22, 2015
No. 3.

Report of Capt. Robert M. Morris, Third U. S. Cavalry, of skirmish near Fort Thorn.

Fort Craig, N. Mex., September 29, 1861.

Captain: In obedience to your verbal order given me at 9 a. in. on the 25th instant, I moved with Companies C, G, and K, Regiment of Mounted Riflemen, to the relief of Captain Minks' mounted volunteers, at Canada Alamosa. I reached that point at 4.30 p.m. I should state that I ordered Captain Hubbell's company to join my command from their camp opposite Panago[Paraje?], which was under the command of Lieutenant Hubbell, the first lieutenant.

Arriving at Canada Alamosa, I found that a number of ponies were too wearied to proceed at any gait. I therefore left Lieutenant Brady (who was too sick to proceed) in charge of the camp, and resumed my march with 101 rank and file on the trail of the Texan force which had captured Captain Minks, marching until 3 a.m. of the following morning, rested until daylight, then proceeded on the trail.

Lieutenant Cooley, of the Second Volunteer Regiment (who acted as my aide de camp), riding in advance, discovered the Texans encamped. I then formed my command to charge, but upon examining their position I saw it was futile to attempt it at that time.

To test their strength I ordered Lieutenant Treacy with his company (C) to take position on their right flank and attack them, whilst I moved forward to attack them front and left. Taking up my position, a single shot was fired. I immediately dismounted and went into action, which lasted an hour and forty-two minutes.

My ammunition running low, I retired a half mile as a feint to draw them out from their intrenchments, but without success. I then turned their right and camped 2 1/2 miles from them, where I remained till 5 p. m.; then I moved up the creek and encamped, where I remained until dark, and then moved back on Canada Alamosa with my wounded, which place I reached at 4 a. m. on the 27th instant.

Although it may appear invidious to mention names where all behaved so coolly and with unflinching bravery, I will state that Dr. Sylvester Rankin and Lieutenant Cooley performed their appropriate duties to my full satisfaction. To the riflemen engaged I cannot but say that they proved themselves by their coolness and bravery men who will sustain their regimental flag under any circumstances.

Lieutenant Treacy's conduct on the field elicited my highest approbation. *

This report is respectfully submitted.

E. M. MORRIS, Captain, Regiment Mounted Riflemen.

Capt. H. R. Selden, Fifth Infantry, Commanding Post.

  • List of casualties shows: Number of wounded in Company C, 3 enlisted men; number of wounded in Company G, 3 enlisted men.[233] : 29–30 

Report of Capt. Bethel Coopwood, Confederate forces.

Dona Ana, Ariz., September 20, 1861.

SIR: In obedience to your order of date September 18, 1861, I started from Camp Robledo on the 22d instant to make a reconnaissance of the country around Fort Craig with a detachment of 112 men, including officers, detailed from Captain Pyron's company, B, and Captain Stafford's company, E, Second Texas Mounted Rifles, and my spy company, as shown by lists from the different companies, hereto annexed; also one man, the Rev. William J. Joyce, of Captain Hardeman's company, A, Second Texas Mounted Rifles.

Having obtlined reliable information that a company of U. S. volunteers had started from Fort Craig to occupy the town of Alamosa, 30 miles from Fort Craig, I marched with all precaution to that place, and on the morning of the 23th instant succeeded in getting between that place and Craig without being discovered. I immediately marched my force into town, and after some skirmishing captured Capt. J. H. Minks, Second Lieut. Metiaze Medina, and 23 privates and non-commissioned officers. In the skirmish 4 of the enemy were killed and 0 wounded. The remainder of Captain Minks' company fled early in the action, and escaped by crossing the river and taking to the mountains.

In the camp of Captain Minks I found an amount of public property, and immediately appointed Lieutenant Poore to take charge of the same; and the duplicate of his inventory, hereunto annexed, exhibits the amount of property taken, except four Sibley tents and a number of saddles and other articles of small value, which were burned by my order, not having transportation for the same. Not having transportation for the prisoners, I administered to 22 of them a strong oath, binding them not to take np arms against the Confederate States during this war unless exchanged, <S:c., and then set them at liberty without arms; but I held Captain Minks aud Lieutenant Medina and one sergeant as prisoners, and deliver them to you to abide your order.

From Alamosa I marched along the river road with the property taken to the place known as E Company Grove, and encamped for the night. On the morning of the 27th, while at breakfast, I was informed that my pickets were running into camp, and, rising to my feet, I saw the enemy pursuing them. In less than ten minutes my camp was surrounded by U. S. troops, numbering about 190. None of the ordinary ceremonies of attack were performed. There being no misunderstanding, we at once commenced business. The firing commenced at 7 o'clock and ended at 11 a. m. The enemy began to retreat before 11, and about that hour fled from the field. I lost 2 men killed, and had 2 severely wounded, each in the arm, besides 6 others slightly wounded, all of which will more fully appear from the list hereto annexed. The enemy removed their dead and wounded as they retreated, so as to evade a discovery of their losses; but, from the number of horses led away with bodies apparently lashed across them, there were 12 or 13 killed, but the number of their wounded could not be ascertained.

The principal portion of the battle was fought with the enemy's force formed in two lines, forming the angle of a square, and my forces formed the same way inside of theirs, my lines being much the shorter. One of my lines was composed of the detachment from Captain Pyron's company and a portion of the detachment from Captain Stafford's company, under the immediate command of Lieutenant Poore, Sergeant O'Grady, and Sergeant Browne. My left line was composed of the detachment from my company and a part of the detachment from Captain Stafford's company. This line was under the immediate command of Lieutenant Sutherland, being divided into two platoons, one led by Sergeant Coulter, and the other by Private Tevis, who was named for the special occasion.

I remained upon the field till 10 o'clock a. m. the next day, but was prepared to receive another attack should the enemy return re-enforced. In relation to the men and officers under me I would say to you, sir, that I have not witnessed such a display of manly courage and perfect order during my experience in wars. Each officer and man conducted himself as though he thought the destinies of himself and his country were depending upon his action on that occasion. The wounded would not even utter a cry, lest it would be injurious to the cause. A remarkable instance of this was displayed in the case of Sergeant O'Grady. After being severely wounded, and after having fallen to the ground from loss of blood, he continued to cheer his men and encourage them to fight, telling them not to cease firing until they had avenged his blood. This kind of courage was also displayed by others whose wounds were not so severe. Sergeant Quinn, Sergeant Robinson, and Antonio Lambert, after having each received a wound, continued to fight, if possible, with more courage and determination. The officers and men paid strict attention to every order, and acted more like veteran troops than volunteers. I cannot with words express the esteem I have for all who were with me. Nothing short of witnessing a similar occasion can impress you with an idea of the value of such troops and the credit due them for what they have already done. I herewith annex a list of the names of all who were with me, that you may know that number of men by name who will not flinch under the most trying circumstances.

Regretting much that some of my esteemed fellow soldiers have suffered the fate of war on this scout, I most respectfully submit to you this report of the same.

I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

BETHEL COOPWOOD, Captain, Commanding scout.

Lieut, Col. John R. Baylor.[233] : 31–32 

Henry Raymond Selden (1821 - Feb. 2, 1865)[edit]

Born in Vermont, he was appointed by congressman from Vt.
Military History. — Cadet at the Military Academy, July 1, 1839, to July 1, 1843, when he was graduated and promoted in the Army to Bvt. Second Lieut., 1st Infantry, July 1, 1843.
Died, Feb. 2, 1865, at Ft. Union, N. M.: Aged 44.
Buried, Old Bennington Cemetery, Bennington, VT. (error, only cenotaph)
died at age 44
Birth: Mar. 14, 1821, Vermont, USA
Death: Feb. 2, 1865 Doña Ana County, New Mexico, USA
Civil War Union Army Officer. Colonel of the 14th Vermont Volunteer Infantry
Family links: Spouse: Mary Alice Selden (____ - 1854) (Wife of Lt H R Selden, on cenotaph)1847?-1854
Burial: Old Bennington Cemetery, Bennington, Bennington County, Vermont, USA
Plot: Lot 2
Birth: 03/14/1821, Bennington, VT, USA
Death: 02/02/1865
Burial: Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, NM
Findagrave Memorial #: 17584196
Marker/Plot: C/O/497
Cenotaph: Old First Church Cemetery, Bennington, VT
Findagrave Memorial #: 13245193

mouth (hydrology)[edit]

source (hydrology)[edit]

El Paso, Texas[edit]

Pacific Coast Theater of the American Civil War[edit]

Los Angeles Greys[edit]

  • Los Angeles Star, vol. 10, no. 39, February 2, 1861 p.2 col.3 Military Company - Persuant to a call made by the County Judge of Los Angeles county, a meeting was held here by the citizens on Friday, Feb. 1st, for the purpose of organizing a military company.
The meeting was called to order by H. N. Alexander, Esq., who explained that the company was to be an infantry company.
On motion, it was resolved that the company be an Infantry Company.
On motion, H. N. Alexander was elected Captain, by acclamation, J. T. Bostwick was elected First Lieutenant; John King, Second Lieutenant; A. O. Wallace, Third Lieutenant - each by acclamation.
The Constitution and By-Laws for the company were read and adopted.
On motion, it was resolved that the name of the company be the "Los Angeles Greys."
The Captain then appointed the following officers: Company Clerk, Wm. H. Workman; Orderly Sergent, Geo. F. Leonard; First Sergent, L. E. Hanson; Second Sergent, W. J. Shannon; Third Sergent, A. C. Dwelle.

---

Los Angeles Mounted Rifles[edit]


"The Los Angeles Mounted Rifles
A meeting was held on Thursday evening, at 7 o'clock, at the Court House, for the purpose of organizing a volunteer military company.
The meeting was called to order by Geo. W. Gift, who presided by order of the County Judge; and M. J. Newmark was elected secretary.
It was unanimously resolved that the name of the county should be the "Los Angeles County Rifles."
The following persons were elected officers of the company: Captain, Alonzo Ridley; 1st Lieut., Joseph W. Cattick; 2d Lieut., Tomas A. Sanchez, 2d Lieut., Samuel Ayres. 1st Sergeant, Robert A. Hester, 2d Sergt., Pedro Antonio Abila; 3d Sergt., F. M. Chapman; 4th Sergt., Jos. N. Chandler; Corporals, Jospeh Huber, Jr.; Francisco Martinez, Lyman A. Smith, Rafael L. Bauchette.
The muster roll embraces 80 names."
  • Los Angeles Star, vol. 10, no. 44, March 9, 1861, p.2 col.4
Military Companies - We have now in our city
two military companies, one infantry the other
mounted rifles. We are glad to find the young
men of the city devoting themselves to military
exercises; and whilst we congratulate them on their
public spirit and patriotism, we hope it will be long
before a necessity should arise for their services in the
field. The "Los Angeles Greys," Captain H. N.
Alexander, evince great familiarity with discipline,
for the short time they have been enrolled, which
is creditable to themselves as well as Mr. Hanson,
the drill master. The uniform is neat, unexpensive,
and admirably suited to this climate. The Mounted
Rifles organized this week, and will soon have their
uniforms. We wish both companies many happy meetings.

---

---

Monte Mounted Rifles[edit]

Owens Valley Indian War[edit]

Beginning of hostilities[edit]

"Now fully alarmed, the Owens Valley ranchers gathered at Putnam's Trading Post for mutual protection.[251]
"The whites finally collected their cattle a1 a point about thirty miles above the lake, fortified themselves and sent messengers to Visalia and Carson for relief. They were reinforced by a party of eighteen men who left Aurora on March 28." [252]: 25 
"Their fears were justified when a band of Paiutes attacked a cabin near where Benton Hot Springs is now located. E. S. Taylor, a local prospector occupied the cabin and defended it for two days, killing ten Indians, until the Paiutes set the cabin on fire and forced Taylor out into the open where he was killed." [251]

Raid on Alabama Hills Camp[edit]

Battle of Bishop Creek[edit]

Battle of Mayfield Canyon[edit]

"Warren Wassen reported in part as follows: "Being unable on my arrival at Aurora to obtain provisions or transportation for the company organized there to receive the arms sent in my charge, I

was compelled to leave them and proceed, accompanied by Lieutenant Noble and his command of fifty mounted men. We arrived at the upper crossing of Owens river on the evening of April 6. On the next morning we met with Colonel G. Evans with Lieutenants French and Oliver; Captain Wynne of his command having been left with seven men to garrison the stone fort forty miles below. These were under Colonel Mayfield of Visalia.[253] : 25, Indian Troubles in the Owens River District 

"Our party joined that of Colonel Evans and we camped that night on the battleground of the previous day.[April 7] The next day, [April 8] about noon, the Indians were reported located in a canyon. The command was divided into three columns, one under Colonel Evans, one under Lieutenant Noble and the other under Colonel Mayfield. We proceeded up the mountain, facing a terrific snowstorm which prevented our seeing three yards ahead of us. Failing to find Indians, we returned to camp.[April 9] After dark the Indians were located by their campfires as being in a canyon about a mile north of the one we had ascended, and in the morning [of April 10] a reconnoitering party, under Sergeant Gillispie, was sent out. After advancing some three hundred yards they were fired upon. Gillispie was instantly killed and Corporal Harris severely wounded.

"Lieutenant Noble was sent to take possession of the mountain to the left of the canyon. This position he gained with difficulty, facing a destructive fire and, unable to maintain it without severe loss, was forced to retreat. Colonel Mayfield, who accompanied him, was killed.

"The whole party under Colonel Evans were forced to retreat down the valley, the Indians following. Colonel Evans, being without provisions, was compelled to return to his former post near Los Angeles. Lieutenant Noble accompanied him as far as the fort for the purpose of escorting the citizens in this direction out of the valley with their stock, which numbered about four thousand head of cattle and twenty-five hundred head of sheep.

"There were not over twenty-five Indians engaged in this fight but they were well armed and from the nature of their position could have held it against any odds."[253] : 26, Indian Troubles in the Owens River District 


Skirmish at Black Rocks[edit]

Battle of Alabama Hills[edit]

Battle of Big Pine Creek[edit]

McLaughlin's Operations in Owens Valley[edit]

Raid on Joaquin Jim's Camp[edit]

Haiwai Meadows Murders[edit]

Skirmish at Division Creek[edit]

Owens Lake Massacre[edit]

Skirmish at Rainy Springs Canyon[edit]

Drought in California[edit]

  • MAJOR FLOODS AND DROUGHTS IN CALIFORNIA, excerpted from Paulson, R.W., Chase, E.B., Roberts, R.S., and Moody, D.W., Compilers, National Water Summary 1988-89-- Hydrologic Events and Floods and Droughts: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Supply Paper 2375, [254]

Great Drought 1863-1864[edit]

"Through studies of tree rings, sediment and other natural evidence, researchers have documented multiple droughts in California that lasted 10 or 20 years in a row during the past 1,000 years — compared to the mere three-year duration of the current dry spell. The two most severe megadroughts make the Dust Bowl of the 1930s look tame: a 240-year-long drought that started in 850 and, 50 years after the conclusion of that one, another that stretched at least 180 years."[256]


A HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA FLOODS AND DROUGHT. BY J. M. GUINN. pp.36-37[edit]

"After the deluge, what ? The drought. It began in the fall of 1862, and lasted to the winter of 1864-65. The rainfall for the season of
EXCEPTIONAL YEARS. 37
1862-63 did not exceed four inches, and that of 1863-64 was even less. In the fall of 1863 a few showers fell, but not enough to start the grass. No more fell until March. The cattle were dying of starvation. Herds of gaunt, skeleton-like forms, moved slowly over the plains in search of food. Here and there, singly or in small groups, poor brutes, too weak to move on, stood motionless with drooping heads slowly dying of starvation. It was a pitiful sight. In the long stretch of arid plain between San Gabriel and the Santa Ana there was one oasis of luxuriant green. It was the vineyards of the Anaheim colonists kept green by irrigation. The colony lands were surrounded by a close willow-hedge, and the streets closed by gates. The starving cattle, frenzied by the sight of something green, would gather around the inclosure and make desperate attempts to break through. A mounted guard patrolled the outside of the barricade day and night to protect the vineyards from incursion by the starving herds.
The loss of cattle was fearful. The plains were strewn with their carcasses. In marshy places and around the cienegas, where there was a vestige of green, the ground was covered with their skeletons, and the traveler for years afterward was often startled by coming suddenly on a veritable Golgotha — a place of skulls — the long horns standing out in defiant attitude, as if protecting the fleshless bones. It is said that 30,000 head of cattle died on the Stearns Ranchos alone. The great drought of 1863-64 put an end to cattle raising as the distinctive industry of Southern California."[258]

Megaflood & Megadrought - How They Changed Contra Costa By William E. Mero[edit]

Pacheco was once an important inland shipping port for central Contra Costa County. The idea of a major shipping port located six miles inland on Walnut Creek (once known as Pacheco Creek) is for many a fantastic leap of imagination. Today Walnut Creek is a concrete flood control channel that, for most of the year, carries shallow runoff from lawn watering suburbanites and occasional winter storms.

Pacheco is now a sleepy, unincorporated slice of Contra Costa County wedged between Martinez, Pleasant Hill and Concord. However, during the 1850’s and 1860’s, Pacheco was the county’s bustling commercial center. It was the shipping port for the grain grown in the Ygnacio, San Ramon and Tassajara valleys. Warehouses, a flour mill and shops grew up along the creek. Walnut Creek then flowed deep and free into Suisun Bay. For over 20 years, from 1851 to nearly 1873, Pacheco was a major shipping port for central Contra Costa County. This essay is a description of how both Nature and Man combined forces to change the history of Contra Costa County.

The destruction of Pacheco’s Walnut Creek shipping channel occurred gradually over many years and for many reasons. It is an environmental detective story with clues in the historical and geologic records. A complex series of natural events combined with man-made ecologic damage eventually ruined Pacheco's growing prosperity.

In 1828 a grant of nearly 18,000 acres was made to Salvio Pacheco for his services to the Mexican government. He occupied his Monte Del Diablo land grant in 1834 (9). The Salvio Pacheco rancho stretched from Mt. Diablo to the Sacramento River. The Martinez, Moragas, and Welch families also obtained land grants covering most of central Contra Costa County. These large cattle raising operations had unforeseen ecologic consequences. Heavy cattle grazing soon destroyed the native grasses setting in motion further changes to the land.

In 1851 American settlement started in the Ygnacio Valley. Wheat, oats and barley were important crops by 1852-53. In 1854 twenty-five Ygnacio Valley farms were shipping their grain from the Pacheco embarcadero down Walnut Creek to San Francisco (6). Within a couple of years most of the central Contra Costa farms were sending their grain to Pacheco. Initially sailing craft of up to 100 tons traveled six miles up Walnut Creek to take on cargo at Pacheco (9). Eventually even small stern wheelers steamed up Walnut Creek to load grain for the San Francisco market.

During the 1850’s warehouses were constructed at Pacheco to handle the growing grain shipments from the Ygnacio, San Ramon and Tassajara valleys (6). The firm of Lathrop, Fish & Walrath built the first grain warehouse at Pacheco in 1853. Later George Loucks owned the building (8). An additional warehouse was constructed in 1857. A flour mill was built on the creek alongside the warehouses. In 1860 Mr. Fassett with Dr. Carrothers purchased land from Salvio Pacheco near the shipping port and laid out city lots for Pacheco, a growing settlement with a bright future (9).

Wheat growing and cattle raising was not the only important economic activity in Contra Costa. In 1850 Frank Such and W.E. Whitney began quarrying limestone from Mt. Diablo's foothills. The limestone was converted to lime to make the mortar needed to build San Francisco and Stockton. The lime was shipped down Mt. Diablo Creek, a tributary of Walnut Creek (6). On the bank of Mt. Diablo Creek, Frank Such built the kilns that turned limestone into lime. Three thousand barrels of lime a month were shipped down Mt. Diablo Creek and Walnut Creek from 1850 through 1862 (9).

During the 1850’s Mt. Diablo Creek flowed the year round. Small sailing craft traveled up the Walnut Creek slough and entered Mt. Diablo Creek to load their cargoes of lime. Sometime before 1881 Mt. Diablo Creek was filled with mud and silt (9). What could have been the causes of this environmental disaster?

As noted earlier in this essay, major changes to the environment began with the introduction of large-scale cattle raising into Contra Costa County. Native bunch grasses were driven to virtual extinction by overgrazing (2). The delicate native grasses were replaced by more rugged wild oats, mustard and ripgut, all foreign imports. Wild oats evolved in southern Europe alongside domestic cattle and were genetically equipped to handle the grazing pressure from large cattle herds (10). Intense, large scale cattle grazing of native bunch grass during California’s dry summers quickly killed off most of the sensitive native grasses. The shallow rooted wild oats responded to overgrazing by replacing the deeply rooted, native bunch grasses (12).

Cows that before the gold rush sold for four dollars a head, sold for as much as 500 dollars a steer in 1849 (5). Cattle herds were driven from Mexico, Texas and the Middle West to California to satisfy the demands of the expanding mining camps. A pre-gold rush population of half a million head of cattle quickly exploded to over three million (2) (5) producing dramatic overgrazing on California's cattle ranges. Whatever grass the cattle did not eat, the millions of introduced sheep devoured (5). Mutton as well as beef became staple meats of the ravenous gold camps.

Native bunch grass’ deeply rooted, large, matted root system absorbed the heavy winter rains and slowly released more moisture into the county's water table (12)(13). The smaller, shallow root system of the wild oats allowed faster runoffs during the winter rains. The loss of the native bunch grass resulted in increased erosion of Contra Costa’s hillsides, dumping more sediment into Walnut Creek and its tributaries.

Another environmental blow came in the 1850’s with the clear cutting of the redwood forests blanketing the headwaters of Las Trampas Creek, an important tributary of Walnut Creek (12). The rapid growth of San Francisco created an intense demand for lumber. By 1860 the redwood forests were gone. Even the giant stumps were removed for firewood. Now the winter rains and moisture laden fogs were not captured and absorbed by the forest. Heavy rains falling on Contra Costa’s coastal hills were no longer slowly released into Contra Costa’s groundwater system.

Clear cutting of the redwood forests, extinction of the native vegetation and overgrazing led to larger runoffs producing increased erosion, debris flows and landslides (12). During the 1850's, factors gradually increased the sediment load of central Contra Costa's stream system and setting the stage for what was coming.

The next natural environmental disaster was unprecedented and unexpected. California was hit with a Megaflood (3). In early November 1861 the normal winter rains began. But then it continued to rain through November. By December 9th the Sacramento Bee editorialized about the "Deluge of 1861.” The Union troops stationed in Stockton moved to Benicia to escape their flooded camp (7). Yet the rain continued to fall all the way through December. Rivers overflowed their banks and the San Joaquin Valley began to flood. Hundreds of thousands of cattle drowned. Thousands of people perished (3).

But the worst was yet to come. Heavy rains persisted through all of January 1862. When the rains finally ended, San Francisco records show that the city had received around 50 inches. Certainly on Mt. Diablo and the Berkeley Hills equal or greater rainfall occurred. Martinez received 49 inches. In Contra Costa it rained 15 inches in one week. All the county bridges were gone. The mining facilities at Nortonville and Somersville were washed away. At Sonora in the Sierra foothills over 8.5 feet had fallen by February 1, 1862 (1). In the Central Valley a lake 300 miles long and 20 to 60 miles wide formed (1). One could have boarded a steam ship in Bakersfield and sailed to San Francisco. So much rain had fallen that San Francisco Bay became a freshwater lake (3).

On the newly exposed hillsides of Contra Costa, stripped of its native grasses and redwood forests, the overwhelming winter rains proved disastrous. The unprecedented runoff eroded millions of tons of soil from the Walnut Creek watershed. Annie Loucks reported that after the flood, Walnut Creek began to silt up (8). Business records reveal the effect on Walnut Creek. After the megaflood of 1861-62, cargo ships could no longer reach Pacheco’s wharves. George Loucks was forced to move his warehouse three quarters of a mile downstream due to the rapid upstream filling of Walnut Creek (6). The megaflood of 1861-62 flooded Pacheco sweeping away warehouses and homes. But now an even worse disaster was about to begin.

In California a wet winter rainy season is commonly followed by drought. This time was no exception. After the extreme megaflood of 1861-62, there began such a horrendous three year megadrought from 1863 through 1865 that it permanently changed the economic face of California (11). For 1862-63 there was only 15 inches measured in San Francisco. Martinez recorded only around 9.5 inches. In Los Angeles only four inches were recorded. In the following years it was even worse. Los Angeles received only a trace of rain. A usually rainy San Francisco recorded only nine inches (12) (13). Given the current ratio of rain in San Francisco to rainfall in Contra Costa, most of central and eastern Contra Costa probably averaged less than four inches in 1863-64.

For the dry wheat farmers of central Contra Costa County, the drought years were devastating. Wheat was customarily sown from October until March and corn from March to July (9). But without moisture the winter wheat crop failed leaving the plowed fields dusty and barren.

The cattle industry in Contra Costa nearly vanished after three years of extreme drought (12). On California’s cattle range the stench of dead cattle filled the air (14). It became so bad that cattle were dying not only from starvation but from suffocation caused by dust inhalation (5). The over-grazed, drought stricken hills were stripped of their protective vegetation. In Southern California starving steers were sold for thirty-seven and a half cents apiece (14). By the end of the drought, over two and half million California cows had died. Crushed by debt, most of the remaining large ranchos were broken up and sold (11).

Normal rain fall returned in 1865 and 1866. In 1867-68 even heavier rains were recorded. Pounding drought damaged hillsides, rain water cascaded down the slopes turning gullies into deep ravines. This is a quote from the first history of Contra Costa County written in 1882 by Munro-Fraser (9). He begins by discussing two famous Contra Costa pioneers, Elam Brown and Nathaniel Jones, who arrived in the late 1840’s. Then Fraser goes on to note the changes to the Contra Costa countryside. 

   "The country in its general aspect has been greatly changed since their arrival, especially in the matter of ditches, many of these which now are of considerable magnitude, being then more drains. The prime cause of this we believe to have been the breaking of the upper crust of the soil by the trampling of stock, which increased in number year by year and consequently caused the greater damage as their hundreds were changed into thousands." (Page 427, History of Contra Costa County, 1882).

Less absorption of rain water meant greater erosion stripping the soil from the environmentally damaged hillsides. The filling of Walnut Creek accelerated after the megaflood of 1861-62 and the extreme drought of 1863-65.

During the rest of the 1860’s, continuing deposition of mud and silt into Walnut Creek and its slough made the navigation of cargo ships to Pacheco increasingly difficult. The intense winter rains of 1868 produced more terrible flooding of Pacheco. Faster runoffs and Walnut Creek’s gradual fill up of silt, mud and sand had reduced the creek’s water carrying capacity. Repeated floods and fires during the 1860's crippled Pacheco's prosperity (6)(8).

To add insult to injury, from 1852 to 1883 hydraulic gold mining in the Sierras poured huge amounts of sand, mud and silt down the Sacramento River and into Suisun Bay. Today these deposits are found as far west as San Francisco Bay (3). By the middle 1860's sand and silts formed shifting barriers in the entrance of the Walnut Creek slough making it increasingly difficult for ships to enter Walnut Creek (8).

In 1869 the offer of free or inexpensive land to the flood prone merchants of Pacheco by Salvio and Fernando Pacheco was warmly received. The site of the new settlement lay two miles to the east of Pacheco on higher ground. Many accepted the offer and the new town of Todos Santos (later Concord) was born (9). This was the final blow to the future of Pacheco. By 1873 regular shipments by boat had become nearly impossible because of the silting up of Walnut Creek. With the loss of the port and the decline in Pacheco's population, the Contra Costa Gazette publishers abandoned the town and moved to Martinez (6).

In the Old World this sad story of environmental damage and its consequences has been replayed many times. The great classic ports of Ephesus and Troy were abandoned after their harbors filled with mud and silt. Man’s destruction of native forests and overgrazing caused massive erosion and silting up of some of the great harbors of antiquity.

In summary Walnut and Mount Diablo creeks, two important commercial Contra Costa waterways of the 1850’s and 60’s, suffered the same fate and for many similar reasons. Overgrazing, extinction of the native grasses and destruction of Contra Costa’s first growth redwood forests made the Walnut Creek watershed prone to accelerated erosion and deposition. Together with additional catastrophes in the form the greatest rainfall in the West Coast's recorded history immediately followed by Californian's greatest drought ultimately doomed the navigability of Walnut and Mt. Diablo creeks and with them, Pacheco's commercial future.

(Note: the author is a geologist interested in the influence of geologic forces on human history.)

References:
1. Brewer, W. H., 1930, Up and Down California in 1860 - 1864, Third Edition, Francis Farquhar, editor, republished 1966, University of California Press.
2. Dasmann, Rayond F., winter 1998/99, "Environmental Changes Before and After the Gold Rush", California History, vol. LXXVII, no. 4.
3. Dettinger, Michael D. & B. Lynn Ingram, January 2013, "The Coming Megafloods," Scientific American, pages 64 - 71.
4. Guinn, J.M., 1911, "From Cattle Range to Orange Grove," Historical Society of Southern California, 5. Jelinek, Lawrence, winter 1998/99, "Property of Every Kind: Ranching and Farming During the Gold-Rush Era," California History, vol. LXXVII, no. 4.
6. Hulaniski, F.J., 1917, The History of Contra Costa County, The Elms Publishing Co., Inc., republished by the Contra Costa Historical Society.
7. Levy, JoAnn, 2003, "Two Remarkable California Pioneers, Eliza Forham and Georgiana Bruce Kirby, California Territorial Quarterly, Winter Issue #56.
8. Loucks, Annie, March 1939, "Early History of Pacheco," unpublished, 14 pages. Annie was born in Pacheco in 1858. Copy in the Contra Costa County History Society archives.
9. Munro-Frasier, J.P., 1882, History of Contra Costa County, W.A. Slocum & Co., republished 1974, Brooks-Sterling Co.
10. Preston, William, 1997, "Serpent in the Garden, Environmental Change in Colonial California," California History, vol. LXXVI, no. 2 & 3
11. Robinson, W.W., March 1966, "Los Alamitos: The Indian and Rancho Phases," California Historical Society Quarterly.
12. Rogers, J. David, 1988, "A Synopsis of the Development of Central Contra Costa County," Field Trip Guide to the Geology of the San Ramon Valley and Environs, Northern California Geological Society. (p.77)
13. Rogers, J. David, 1988, "Pleistocene to Holocene Transition in Central Contra Costa County," ibid. (29)
   Romer, Margaret, April 1963, "The Story of Los Angeles - Part III", Journal of the West, vol. II, no. 2.



Richard Crawford, The Great Drought : Fickle Weather in 1860s Led to Breakdown of Cattle Industry, Los Angeles Times, June 13, 1991. Richard Crawford is archivist for the San Diego Historical Society.[edit]

The climate was bone dry.... There was no moisture and our cattle died off in very great numbers ... Before the year 1864 had passed away, there was perfect devastation. Such a thing was never before known in California. --Juan Forster, Rancho Santa Margarita

Droughts are common in California, always have been. Long before scientists suggested a "greenhouse effect" and the possibility of permanent climatic change, pioneers coped with erratic and disastrous wet/dry cycles.

The drought of 1862-65 was a catastrophe for the state of California--a bitter dry period, preceded by unusually heavy rains and accompanied by an untimely epidemic of smallpox.

The decade of the 1860s began with little hint of the natural catastrophes ahead. For several years in succession, gentle autumn and winter rains had fallen with consistency, supporting vast grasslands that fed immense herds of cattle.

But in the winter of 1861-62, rains of biblical proportions came to California.

The rain fell for almost a month, inundating river valleys, farmlands and towns. The persistence of the rain led the editor of the Los Angeles Star to comment: "On Tuesday last the sun made its appearance. The phenomenon lasted several minutes and was witnessed by a great number of persons."

In San Diego, the flooding washed away soil and timberlands, destroyed vineyards, melted adobe houses, and drowned livestock. At San Luis Rey, the raging floods "cut an arroyo 50 feet across." An estimated 200,000 head of cattle were lost in California.

But in the spring, the rain-soaked grazing lands flourished. Herds of cattle recovered quickly in the abundant pasturage.

Then came three years of intense drought. In the fall and winter of 1862-63, only 3.87 inches of rain fell in San Diego County. As the grasslands dried up, the long-horned cattle grew emaciated and weak. The overstocked ranchers tried to minimize their losses by thinning their herds. The markets became flooded with cowhides and prices fell.

From Santa Margarita (modern-day Camp Pendleton), rancher Juan Forster would write in January, 1863: "We poor Rancheros have had a damned bad string of luck these last two years and if it is going to continue I don't know what will become of us." To cut losses, Forster drove his herds into the mountains, saving perhaps half his cattle.

At Rancho Guajome near San Luis Rey, rancher Cave Couts complained in early spring that there was no grass, that it was as dry as August, and that smallpox was beginning to take a toll.

The outbreak of smallpox in California added human misery to the growing economic toll. Appearing in the fall of 1862, the plague quickly spread throughout Southern California. Effective quarantines proved impossible and vaccine could only be obtained from San Francisco.

Cave Couts reported: "Smallpox is quite prevalent--six to eight per day are being buried in S. Juan Capistrano--Indians generally. . . . I vaccinated the whole rancheria at San Luis some six weeks since, & hope they may escape, thus saving our community of the terrible disease."

By late spring, the smallpox epidemic had run its course, but the drought continued. A little more than five inches of rain fell in 1863-64. More and more ranchers drove their cattle into the mountains in the search for grass and water. Other cattlemen moved their herds to Baja California. From San Luis Rey, Couts would moan: "I am badly in want of money . . . taxes on hand, no goods in my shop & no money."

As the drought lingered, the bad luck of ranchers continued. A violent storm that broke in May killed famished cattle grazing in the mountains. Forster lost 300 head in one night at San Ysabel. When summer came, strong dry winds were reported and grasshoppers appeared, which soon stripped the remaining forage.

The drought finally began to ease in November, 1864. Two and half inches of rain fell, followed by more than five inches in the next two months. Not until the 12-inch season of 1864-65 did the cattlemen feel secure.

The Great Drought virtually ruined the once-great cattle industry of California. Statewide, herds declined by about 46% in the 1860s. The numbers are unknown for San Diego County but in Los Angeles County the loss was more than 70%.

The long-term impact did show a few benefits. Ranchers learned to plant feed crops in order to lessen their reliance on natural forage. The raising of sheep (a far more "drought-tolerant" animal than a cow) became popular. In North San Diego County, a more diversified agricultural economy slowly developed.[259]

Monterey Bay Region Drought History Part I, Beyond the Rain Gauges Early Droughts[edit]

It's official. On January 17, Governor Brown declared it so, and in mid-February he stood grim- faced in the San Joaquin Valley dust with President Obama nodding his head in agreement. Were that not enough, the drought has now climbed up onto the signs above Highway 1 usually reserved for capturing kidnappers and drunk drivers. I saw the brake lights ahead before I could read the sign as startled drivers slowed to read the entire message (I'll withhold comment about reading speeds and the effects such signs have on traffic flow).

The Old Timer You might wonder how folks around here knew they were in a drought before highway signs were available to shout it or television could broadcast images of politicians standing in dusty fields looking all worried and serious, or TV weather anchors showed satellite images of a storm track carrying that winter rain northward to places that don't need it.

Back in the olden days residents of this region didn't need to be told. They could feel it, see it and hear it. Those who had been here awhile weren't surprised. If you were a newcomer there was always someone around who had been here longer – we'll call him The Old Timer – who would say, "Yup. This here's a drought. We get them all the time. You think this one's bad? You shoulda seen the one in…" and then he would remind of 1857, 1864, 1877, 1898.

Then, the Old Timer would be put away until the next natural calamity.

Drought. The Elephant that Never Leaves the Room. First off, if you're looking for some precision in this drought business, you'll be disappointed. The definitions are general and have little to do with rain gauges. Basically, as one Australian website states , "it is a dry period when there is not enough water for users' normal needs." The California Department of Water Resources admits that "there are many ways that drought can be defined," and then goes on to describe those many ways. Those definitions all agree: it's all about what happens to people.

It's not tied to rainfall, necessarily. It all depends on where you are and the impact a water shortage has on you.

Since 1769 Euro Americans first came into this region and began writing accounts, the typical California straight line record of fecundity and prosperity was punctuated by a steady stream of natural calamities, most of which were easily identifiable – floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and windstorms. All those were easy to recognize.

Droughts were harder. They began slowly, often punctuated by episodic early-season showers (I call them "teasers"), and then the dry days tightened from south to north, with those living and working in the upper Salinas and San Benito watersheds feeling them first. The mid-autumn grass emerged and then withered and the hills stayed a tawny brown all winter. Stream flows fell. And then an endless parade of bright, cloudless days stretched on for months, shriveling the place.

Eventually, the blessed sound of steady rain on the roof would signal the drought's end, and a feeling of relief washed the drought memory away.

As John Steinbeck wrote in East of Eden about the Salinas Valley: "But there were dry years too, and they put a terror on the valley. They came in a thirty-year cycle…and during the wet years they lost all memory of the dry years. It was always that way."

Early Droughts – The Great Famine – 1770-1772 The Franciscans who came here to establish their missions had never encountered a climate quite like this one; it took them years of trial and error to figure out how to extract a living from the region's landscape. Father Junipero Serra, for example, had spent his entire New World career in Mexico, and the first thing he noted in June of 1770 when his mission was located on the north side of the Peninsula was the cold. That summertime Monterey fog.

After he was able to warm up a bit by moving his mission over the hill to the banks of the Rio Carmelo, he encountered something a bit more challenging – a drought. There was plenty of water in the river down below the mission, but no way to get it up on the alluvial terraces. By necessity, the Franciscans were the region's first dry farmers, planting their meager crops in the hope that it might rain. But they weren't familiar with the region's dry summers. Their early plantings shriveled and by the summer of 1772, Serra declared their puny garden "miserable." In a letter to Mexico in 1772, he admitted that: "We are starving."

Serra's only recourse was to release the few Indians living at the mission so that they might return to their villages and hunt and forage as before. They brought back enough venison and pine nuts and other local delicacies to see the Spaniards through the drought. (The ultimate solution at Carmel and many of the other mission was irrigation, but it wasn't until 1781 that a canal was completed that diverted the water of the Carmelo up onto the terrace where it could be used.)

The Cattle on a Thousand Hills – the Droughts of the 1820s, 1830s, and 1840s Over the decades the mission herds of cattle, sheep and horses grew and wandered across the hills much to the delight of mountain lions and grizzly bears. Irrigation solved some of the missions' farming challenges, but the herds were dependent on the grasses that were dependent on the rains. In the early 1820s, the accounts tell of a drought that caused the livestock to "suffer dreadfully." Thousands of cattle and horses died of starvation out on the range. Cattle had more value than horses, and according to the accounts, the missionaries at Soledad took matters into their own hands and slaughtered 6,000 horses to release the pressure on the few surviving cattle.

There were stories of missionaries driving herds of wild horses over cliffs and into the sea during dry years to manage the grasslands.

Some droughts stuck in local memory longer than others – everyone that was here remembered the twenty months from 1828-1830 when the countryside was baked in the relentless sun. Watering holes dried up, stream flows dropped and the cattle and horses died by the thousands. Buzzards grew so fat they couldn't fly. This 1828-1830 drought also had other consequences – a sharp rise in lawlessness, as horse thieves roamed the countryside, stealing the few remaining broken horses. Rancheros went into debt to the ever-increasing numbers of foreigners moving into Alta California, and subsequent droughts often resulted in the Californios losing their land.

But, the account of a drought in the early 1840s as retold by the artist and historian Joe Mora was the one that stuck with me. Again the issue was the herds of wild, unbranded horses competing with the cattle for scarce rangeland resources. The Alta California government ordered that makeshift corrals be built and all the horses, tame and wild, be driven in. The vaqueros then rode into the corral, separated the healthy, branded horses and released them until only the wild ones remained. The mounted vaqueros then formed a double file at the corral's gate and as the doomed horses were driven out, the vaqueros rode alongside and drove their lances into their hearts.

No one who witnessed the slaughter ever forgot it, the screams of the horses forever etched into their drought memory.

Every major drought in the region left a unique signature.

My next newsletter will discuss the two most memorable droughts of the 1850s and 1860s.

Secret History The 1850s and the Double D's: Drought and Depression[edit]

Livestock suffered most during California's dry years in the 1840s. In the 1850s, the focus widened to include the native California populations, particularly Indians and Californios. The decade of the 1850s was a period of adjustment where the newly-arrived Yankees established their economic, political and cultural dominance in California. It was a particularly violent period in the history of the Monterey Bay Region with murders, gunfights and lynchings commonplace.

In his brilliant, landmark 2007 book, Tiburcio, historian John Boesseneker describes in great detail the Monterey Bay Region of the 1850s, characterizing it as a "crucible of crime, corruption and racism." I would mix drought into that crucible. Drought didn't cause racism, but it intensified and exacerbated the tensions between newly-arrived Yankees and resident Californians.

The Dry Years – 1855-1856 Unlike earthquakes or floods, droughts don't come suddenly. They creep in quietly, signaling themselves with harbingers that long-time residents recognize. One measure in Monterey was the level of El Estero, the lagoon that surrounded the community's cemeteries. In the fall of 1855 it was possible to walk directly from Monterey across the dry bed of the lagoon, "which has not occurred but once before since 1826" according to the Pacific Sentinel. By spring of 1856, the rangeland throughout the region was drying up, and hogs and cattle were dying on the Salinas plains, The Sentinel's editor was warning that California would soon be "down in her marrow-bones" leading to a "true crisis of our social, meteorological and political troubles.."

Vigilantism and Lynchings – 1856-57 The drought rubbed nerves raw, intensifying the anger and frustration throughout the region. The Yankees were frustrated by their lack of progress. For most, the Gold Rush had been a bust, and when they turned to the land, it was already owned, usually by someone with a Spanish surname. The drought drove down the price of cattle, and many of the Californio landowners slid into bankruptcy, Yankee lawyers waiting for them just like the vultures waiting for death to come on the plains.

Tiburcio Vasquez, 1874. Vasquez's personality was developed from the late 1840s into the 1850s, and the drought of the mid-1850s contributed to the violence in the region. Vasquez was a product of that period. Photo credit: John Boesseneker. It seemed to the Californios that everything was up for grabs—not only their land, language, culture and way of life. Some of the younger men, like Tiburcio Vazquez, began to vent their frustrations with violence, and the Yankees returned with violence of their own – mob violence and lynchings.

Lynchings Lynchings are a peculiarly American institution, a unique form of extra-legal vigilante justice often beginning with an apprehension by a mob, a mock trial, and an execution usually by hanging. Historians of the genre have tabulated a total of 294 lynching in California between 1850 and 1870, with Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties accounting for 30. The vast majority of those lynched were Indians, Mexicans or Californios. (The late historian Phil Reader and I believe that the number 30 is low, and that there were more examples of summary justice in the region that went unrecorded.)

Watsonville Lynching, October 1856 – One 1856 example will suffice. A group of Spanish-speaking horsemen that were camped along the Pajaro River near Watsonville were suspected of stealing horses. A mob of "Americans" (I would use the term Yankees) rode out to their camp, and killed and captured them all. The following day another group of "Spaniards" rode through town and the mob re-organized and attacked them, driving all of them off except for one man who was wounded. They tied him to a flag staff, and after several discussions about whether to turn him over to the Sheriff or impanel a jury on the spot, he was "hanged without further ceremony."

1856 -- A "Hot, Windy, Dusty, Thirsty" year – 1856 wasn't just tough on the Californios. The grizzly bears in the hills being Santa Cruz were sickly, their hair "loose and falling off" as they came down to feed on a whale carcass that had drifted in to the beach below town. The local newspaper summarized the year as "strange, curious, volcanic, hot, windy, dusty, thirsty, murdering, bloody, lunching, and robbing…" The Yankees, through vigilante groups, had taken the law into their own hands, and by the end of the year the tide was turning in their favor.

The Holy Cross Church that replaced the Santa Cruz Mission church in 1857. This church and the 1892 Gothic edifice that followed reflected the church (and community's) turning away from its Spanish-Mexican roots.

1857: The Hispanic Collapse The year of 1857 began inauspiciously. On the morning of January 9, much of California experienced what seismologists believe was the largest earthquake in California's recorded history. Still commonly known as the "Fort Tejon" earthquake because of the damage done there, seismologists have now determined that it was a magnitude 7.9 with an epicenter near present-day Parkfield. Damage was focused along the San Andreas fault south of Parkfield, but residents in southern Monterey County ran terror-stricken out of their homes, and trees in the Salinas Valley whipped back and forth. The quake was felt throughout the region, though there was little damage in the immediate Monterey Bay Region.

Then, on February 16, the front wall of the mission church at Santa Cruz fell with a "terrible crash." (Some historians erroneously connect the mission wall's collapse with the January 9 earthquake, and it is certainly possible that the structure might have been weakened by the quake, but the two events are over a month apart.) Combine the mission church's collapse with its Spanish name being changed to "Holy Cross," and the replacement church's decidedly Protestant appearance, and all this can be seen as a symbol of the further erosion of the region's Spanish-Mexican culture.

And the lynchings continued. One of the more infamous was the lynching of Anastacio Garcia inside the Monterey County Jail on February 17 (see the chapter in Boesssenecker's Tiburcio on the Roach-Belcher feud). Watsonville had another particularly gruesome hanging in May of 1857, though the victim in this case was an "American."

The Panic of 1857 – Beginning in late 1857, the region's already weakened economy was hammered by the arrival of the effects of the Panic of 1857. Most economists consider the Panic of 1857 to be the world's first global economic depression, and in California, already weakened land and livestock values dropped even farther.

The Mega-Drought – 1856-1862 Some climatologists believe that the drought of the mid-1850s was actually the beginning of a drought that lasted almost a decade. The region's cattle industry was staggered, but hung on until the early 1860s when the region – and all of California – was visited by yet another deadly drought. Only this time it was snuggled between a huge flood and a swarm of fires.[260]

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Drought History Segment III – 1863-1864 – The Drought of Fat, Waddling Buzzards[edit]

Note: For earlier drought stories see: I – The Screaming Horses drought – 1840-41 II - The Lynching Drought – 1855-56

The 1860s – The End of Pastoral California The winter of 1860-61 saw a couple of good storms and enough rain fell in February in the upper San Lorenzo to blow out Isaac Graham's dam and flood the lower parts of Santa Cruz for a time. But the extremes seemed to be leveling out, and attentions were quickly diverted by the attack on Fort Sumter in April, 1861 and the onset of Civil War.

And then it started:A Natural Disaster Smackdown. It's a wonder there was anyone living around here by the end of the 1860s. In its bare bones, with the US Civil War and Lincoln's assassination as the backdrop we have an astonishing sequence of disasters: The Flood of 1862, The Drought of 1863-1864, Wildfires of 1865, two large earthquakes and a Smallpox epidemic to finish off the decade.

The Mother of All Floods – 1861-1862 We're here in the 1860s to re-visit the drought, but we absolutely must spend a minute with the flood that preceded it. This wasn't just any flood. It scarred California's memory so deeply that in 2011, the United States Geological Survey declared it to be the biggest flood event in California's written history. 43 days of rain turned California's valleys into lakes, rivers tore entire town away and killed hundreds of thousands of cattle. The USGS has named it the ARKstorm Scenario – the plume of subtropical moisture swung up like a firehose and locked onto the Pacific Coast.

The buzzards (more correctly termed turkey vultures) grew so fat during the 1863-1864 drought that they could only waddle.

Henry Miller was one of a few cattle ranchers able to survive and even thrive during the 1863-1864 drought by moving his cattle to his pasturage he owned beyond the reach of the drought.

With the rain hammering on the roof, Californians huddled in their churches and prayed for the rain to stop. When it finally did in late January 1862, bridges were gone, and the state was left with a huge bathtub ring of mud, and no funds. California was bankrupt.

We'll come back to the flood of '62 and the huge effects it had on the Monterey Bay Region sometime, but for now, just imagine the locals digging out of the sand and mud, relieved that the hills were turning green for the remaining livestock that hadn't been swept away into the ocean.

Then, once everyone was busy building levees and organizing to protect their properties from future floods, it stopped raining altogether. Again.

THE DROUGHT OF 1863-1864

When it didn't rain that much in the winter of 1862-1863, locals couldn't believe that the natural order had turned off the faucet, so they called that first winter a "dry spell." Yet, a mere 22 months after the '62 flood waters began to recede; churches were filled with congregations praying for rain.

Once again, the sun had baked the earth, the grass shriveled and the cattle bellowed and died "as if they were poisoned." An article in a Monterey newspaper in the summer of 1864 suggested that the rancheros should ride out and kill the cattle to "prevent them from dying." Killing was much more humane than a slow death in a dry water hole. Grizzly bears and coyotes were in heaven, and the buzzards got so fat they could only waddle.

Most California historians conclude that the drought of 1863-1864 was a major turning point in the state's history, marking the end of the dominance of the old, Spanish-Mexican style pastoral economy. It also marked the end for many of the Californio rancheros who had survived the drought and race war of the 1850s, and the mega-flood of '62.

Profiting from the Drought

Some entrepreneurs turned the drought to their advantage, most notably, German immigrant Henry Miller, and recently-arrived New Englander, Loren Coburn. Coburn owned large ranches in both present-day coastal San Mateo County (he owned Pigeon Point, for example) and Monterey County. When his Monterey County pasturage withered away, he drove those herds north into the foothills behind Pescadero where the effects of the drought weren't so severe. Once the price of beef recovered he drove them to San Francisco and enhanced his fortune.

Henry Miller also had far-flung properties across the West, and during the drought he bought cattle for $2 a head and then drove them to his northern properties and sold them in San Francisco in 1865 for $70 apiece.

One person's drought is another's opportunity.

Santa Cruz County's lumber industry was also hit hard by the 1863-1864 drought. The southern slope of the Santa Cruz Mountains had always relied on its dependable year-round streams to drive Santa Cruz's factories and mills. But without the winter rains to maintain the stream flows, the rivers dropped until they could no longer drive the wheels or fill the flumes. By the fall of 1864, for the first time in local memory, lumber was being shipped into Santa Cruz County.

Wildfires – 1865 Locals were not surprised by the wildfires that roared around the Monterey Bay Region in fall of 1865--fires always followed drought. The forests were tinder dry, and with so few residents or developed property in the mountains, fire suppression was usually left to the affected property owners and was meager at best. In September of 1865, after two winters of low rainfall, Monterey Bay was covered by huge clouds of smoke as the forests burned. For most of September, the hills behind Monterey and their signature Monterey pine trees were on fire. Monterey County landowner David Jacks lost thousands of dollars worth of forest and pasturage. At the same time, the Santa Cruz Mountains were also on fire with the local newspaper declaring that the "loss of timber will prove immense."

Earthquakes – 1865 & 1868

At thirteen minutes before 1:00 o'clock on the afternoon of October 8, 1865, the Santa Cruz Mountains were shaken by a 6.5 earthquake that was felt from San Juan Bautista on the southeast to Napa on the north. Modern seismologists put the earthquake's epicenter somewhere in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Damage was relatively light, though the temblor drove many of San Francisco's residents out into the streets. A Santa Cruz County newspaper suggested that the quake was caused by geological flatulence.

One of the interesting consequences of that earthquake was the increased flow of streams throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains. Flouring and lumber mills that had closed during the drought were able to immediately resume operations without any rainfall. copyright © 2015 Central Coast Secrets

Bam! Another Earthquake The October 21 1868 earthquake had an estimated magnitude of 6.8 with an epicenter in the East Bay along what is now known as the Hayward Fault. It killed thirty San Franciscans, and did considerable damage throughout the East Bay, but damage was relatively light in the Monterey Bay Region.

The Final 1860s Smackdown We can forgive the good people of the region in the late 1860s if they concluded that they were being punished. Just as the rumble of the October earthquake died away, a warning came out of San Juan Bautista that a smallpox epidemic had erupted. (The 1868 smallpox epidemic was a global event.) Despite quarantines and even the burning of a bridge to stop east-west traffic, by the end of the year, hundreds in the region had perished and many more had fled to the hills before the epidemic had run its course.

Living here is risky business By the end of the 1860s, those who had lived here and survived that many-splendored gauntlet understood that living here involved a risk. Continual and ever-changing risk. They tried hard to understand the causes, but they knew that their "normal" included flood, drought, and earthquakes, with a helping of wildfire and even pestilence thrown in. There was a strong sense of humility.

Drought was (and is) one of the prices charged for living in this splendid place. Drought is the elephant that never leaves the room. Along with his nasty siblings, flood and earthquake, they tag team the region, smacking us upside the head now and then to teach us a basic lesson in humility. Communities could prepare for flood (organizing and building levees), and earthquakes (building stronger structures and staying off "made land"), but drought was a different matter.

Maybe that's always been the problem. Instead of preparing for a drought, they should have learned how to live with drought and invited him to sit permanently at the head of the table. That way they would never have forgotten he lived here.[261]

John Ross Browne Dec. 1863[edit]

"The country through which we travelled for several days was not altogether new to me. I had passed through it before during a tour of exploration among the Southern Indians in 1860. But how different was it now! In former years the magnificent valleys/stretching all the way from Los Angeles to the borders of the Colorado Desert, were clothed in the richest verdure. Vast herds of cattle roamed over them rampant with life. The hill-sides were covered with flowers; the air was laden with sweet perfumes ; it was the paradise of rancheros. Now, after two years of drought, all was parched, grim, and melancholy. The pastures scarcely showed the first faint tinge of green, and the higher grounds were barren as the road over which we travelled. For hundreds of miles the country was desolated for want of rain. At the Chino, and through the Temecula, Warner's Ranch, San Felippe, and Vallecito the effects of the drought were fearfully apparent. Thousands of cattle lay dead around the black, muddy pools. A sickening effluvia from the carcasses filled the air. At least two-thirds of all the cattle on these ranches must have perished from starvation. Vaqueros were ever on the watch to strip each fallen animal of its skin. It was a grand carnival for the buzzards and coyotes. No more pitiable sight ever disturbed the eye of a traveller in this lovely region than the dreary waste of dead and dying animals. Thousands drawn to the pools by thirst were unable to extricate themselves from the mud; and the road was sometimes blocked by the gaunt, shrunken bodies of still living animals unable to get out of the way."[262]: 42–44 


William H. Brewer: Drought SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY May 27 - June 10, 1864[edit]

"Pacheco Pass. May 29, 1864."
"May 27 we came on up the San Jose Valley, twenty-one miles [from San Jose]. The day was intensely hot, 97°, the air scorching and dusty. The drought is terrible. In this fertile valley there will not be over a quarter crop, and during the past four days’ ride we have seen dead cattle by the hundreds. The hot air trembled over the plain, and occasionally a mirage seemed to promise cool weather ahead, only to vanish as we approached. The mountains on either side were bathed in a haze and seemed all tremulous in the heated air."
"Yesterday we came on here, thirty miles farther [from the 21-Mile House]. We followed south to Gilroy, then struck east and entered the pass, and are now camped under the same tree that we camped under two years ago when we came through the same pass. The hills are terribly dry, totally bare of forage, parched and brown. The scattered oaks, evergreen, seem dark—they are so tenacious of life that the drought fails to kill them. It must be a terrible year for the thousands of sheep that are kept here. A hot wind sweeps up the canyon in which we are camped. It is 92°, and the air intensely dry. It always draws through this gap in an almost ceaseless current—the trees and bushes are all bent by it. There is a little tavern here, a stage and telegraph station."
"Under a Tree, Tulare Plain. Sunday, June 5."
"Monday, May 30, we came on to San Luis de Gonzaga Ranch, at the eastern entrance of the pass. Our road lay over the mountains. They are perfectly dry and barren, no grass—here and there a poor gaunt cow is seen, but what she gets to eat is very mysterious."
"As we cross the summit the Sierra Nevada should be in view, with its sharp outline and cool snows; but not so—we look out on the dry plain, which becomes more indistinct and finally fades away into the hazy air, shutting out like a veil all that lies beyond. The wind blows heavily over the pass, and we descend to the San Luis Ranch. The wind is so high that we can build no fire, so we cook in the dirty kitchen. Dust fills the air—often we cannot see fifty yards in any direction—it covers everything. We cook our dinner, but before it can be eaten we cannot tell its color because of the dirt that settles on it. Our food is gritty between our teeth, and as we drink out our cups of tea we find a deposit of fine sand in the bottom. Dirt, dirt, dirt—eyes full, face dirty, whole person feeling dirty and gritty."
"All around the house it looks desolate. Where there were green pastures when we camped here two years ago, now all is dry, dusty, bare ground. Three hundred cattle have died by the miserable water hole back of the house, where we get water to drink, and their stench pollutes the air."
"This ranch contains eleven square leagues, or over seventy-six square miles. In its better days it had ten thousand head of cattle, besides the horses needed to manage them. Later it became a sheep ranch, and two years ago, when we camped here, it fed sixteen thousand sheep besides some few thousand cattle. Now, owing to the drought, there is no feed for cattle, and not over one thousand sheep, if that, can be kept through the summer. The last of the cattle, about one thousand head, were lately sold for $1,500, or only $1.50 each! Such is the effect of the drought on one ranch."
"We spent a miserable night there, the wind and dust almost preventing sleep, and paid fourteen dollars in gold for the hay that our seven animals ate."
"May 31 we came on to Lone Willow, a stage station out on the plain, where there has been a sheep ranch until the present year. The ride was over the plain, which is utterly bare of herbage. No green thing greets the eye, and clouds of dust fill the air. Here and there are carcasses of cattle, but we see few living ones—not twenty during the day, where nearly as many thousands could have been seen two years ago. There is a sink hole of alkaline water, by which stands the “lone willow,” the only tree for many a weary mile. Our camp here is as dirty, dusty, and miserable as the last. There is a well that supplies water for drinking that is poorer than any you ever tasted, yet quite good for the region."
"June 1 we came on to Firebaugh’s Ferry, on the San Joaquin, twenty-five miles. Portions of this day’s ride, for miles together, not a vestige of herbage of any kind covered the ground; in other places there was a limited growth of wire grass or alkali grass, but not enough to make it green. Yet cattle live here—we passed numbers during the day, and countless carcasses of dead animals. We camped at Firebaugh’s, where we got hay for our animals and took a grateful bath in the cold San Joaquin. The bad water, dust, alkali, and our change of diet begin to tell on the boys, but all are cheerful."
"June 2, to Fresno City. For the first ten miles the ground was entirely bare, but then we came on green plains, green with fine rushes, called wire grass, and some alkali grass. The ground is wetter and cattle can live on the rushes and grass. We now came on thousands of them that have retreated to this feed and have gnawed it almost into the earth."
"The air is very clear this day—on the one side the Coast Range loomed up, barren and desolate, its scorched sides furrowed into canyons, every one of which was marvelously distinct; on the other side the distant Sierra, its cool snows glistening in the sun and mocking us on our scorching trail. We camped by a slough of stinking, alkaline water, which had the color of weak coffee. It smelt bad and tasted worse, and our poor animals drank it protesting. We drank well water which looked better and tasted better, but I think it smelt worse. But in this dry, hot, and dusty air we must drink, and drink much and often."
"At Fresno City we got barley but no hay. I cannot conceive of a much worse place to live, unless it be the next place where we stopped; yet here a city was laid out in early speculative times, streets and public squares figure on paper and on the map, imaginary bridges cross the stinking sloughs, and pure water gushes from artesian wells that have never been sunk."
"June 3 we came on to Elkhorn Station, an old Overland station. We came southeast across the plain. The day was hot, as usual, but not so clear. The mountains were invisible through the dusty air; the perfectly level plain stretched away on every side to the horizon, and seemed as boundless and as level as the ocean. It is, in fact, sixty miles wide at this place, and neither tree, nor bush, nor house breaks the monotony. Thus we slowly plodded our weary way over it, league after league, day after day. During the entire day we saw beyond us, behind us, sometimes all around, the deceitful mirage. I never cease to wonder at this phenomenon, although it has been so long a familiar thing. It looks so like water, its surface gently rippled by the wind, clear and sparkling, trees and mountains as vividly reflected in it as in genuine lakes! But it always vanishes as you approach it—heated air, and not cool water, we find in its place."
"During these days whirlwinds stalked over the plain. The high winds I spoke of as occurring near Pacheco’s Pass ceased. Fitful, often hot, puffs blew first this way and then that, giving rise to little whirlwinds that looked like waterspouts at sea, moving for a time over the plain, then breaking and vanishing. They were continually about us during the heat of the day. Sometimes they were slender columns of dust but a few feet in diameter and several hundred feet high; at others the columns were larger. Sometimes they were like cones with bases upward; then again they would break and throw out branches which fell down on all sides with beautiful effect—all the time moving over the plain, some slowly, some swiftly. It is not uncommon to see a dozen of these at once, and I have counted twenty-seven at one time."
"We camped at Elkhorn Station, nearly in the center of the plain. There is some feed here, and a well supplies the cattle with water, poor though it is. Again we got barley, but no hay."
"Here a calamity befell us. I was awakened at about midnight by our mule, Jim. He was sick and in a terrible agony. Poor feed, change of diet, bad water, alkali, dust, heat—all had probably combined to produce the result. We watched with him all night, bled him, gave him such remedies as we thought best under the circumstances, but at six o’clock in the morning he died. He was our most valuable animal, a most excellent mule, worth $150 or $200. He had been a faithful beast, was very sagacious and very true, and had been with us since we started at Los Angeles, nearly four years ago. I did not think that I could feel so sad over the death of any animal as I did over that faithful old mule, who has been our companion for so long a time and under such varied circumstances. He died near the house. I hired a man to drag him away. We left him out on the plain to the vultures and coyotes, both of which species are fat this year, for the starving cattle have been their harvest. Luckily a wagon from this place was going into Visalia and I sent in his saddle and pack."
"June 4, yesterday, we came on here to Kings River [at Whitmore's Ferry]. Here we struck good water again, good hay for our animals, and fine oak trees for shade. And what a relief! We are again in good spirits. Last night, again, we had a camp fire, and the boys sang songs."
"Camp 164, Thomas’ Mill. June 14."
"I sent you a long letter from Visalia a few days ago, which brought up the history of our wanderings to Kings River, where we were camped June 5. The next day we came on to Visalia, twenty-four miles. In a few miles we passed the belt of oaks that skirts the river for a couple of miles on each side; then across the barren, treeless plain, still perfectly level—in places entirely bare, in others with some alkali grass. The surface of the soil was so alkaline that it was crisp under the horses’ feet, as if covered with a thin sheet of frozen ground."
"Before reaching Visalia we again struck timber. The region about Visalia is irrigated from the Kaweah River, and is covered with a growth of scattered oaks—fine, noble, old trees. The town is a small place on the plain, but very prettily situated among the fine trees. That night was intensely hot, and we roasted in the hot beds of the hotel where we stopped. We stopped there the next day, getting provisions and a horse to supply the place of old Jim who died on the plain. There is a camp of cavalry here and I had authority to call out an escort, should it be deemed necessary on account of hostile Indians, so I called on the commandant. The soldiers were anxious to get into the mountains and begged me to make the requisition, but I shall wait until I see some need of it, which I do not anticipate."
"June 8 we packed up a part of our provisions and came on. We left most of them to be brought up to our present camp by ox teams that are hauling lumber from this mill. We came on twenty-nine miles that day, through a most intense heat, at times above 100°. We struck east until we reached the hills, then up a canyon northeast. Soon after we started we passed the belt of trees, then over the barren plain, so dry and so hot. The heat was so bad that it nearly made us sick. The low foot-hills are as dry as the plain—no grass, but covered with a growth of scrubby oaks and bushes scattered over them. Our poor animals got but little to eat that night, but we had a glorious night’s sleep in the cool open air."
"We were up at dawn the next day and off early, and at noon came to camp by a stream of delicious water, where our hungry animals had good grass. Our course had been up all the time since striking the mountains. We had now got up some three thousand feet, had passed lower, dry foothills, and had just struck the region of pines. Grand old trees grew in the valley where we camped and over the neighboring ridges, large, but scattered, hardly forming forests. And how delicious the cool, pure mountain water tasted—our first real good water for many a long day! In the afternoon I climbed a high point above camp, commanding a fine view of the surrounding region."
"Friday, June 10, we came on but four miles to this camp. Up, up, up, over a high ridge, and at last into a dense forest of spruces, pines, firs, and cedars. We then sank into a little depression where there is a beautiful grassy meadow of perhaps two hundred acres, surrounded by dense, dark forests. Here there is a steam sawmill, where two or three families live." [The mill was built by Joseph H. Thomas. It was situated a short distance west of the present General Grant National Park. The big trees described are in or near the park.]
"And here let me describe this delightful camp, so refreshing after the monotony, heat, dust, alkali, discomfort, and tedium of the great plain. The level, grassy meadow lies in front, with a rill of pure, cold water. Ridges are all around, clothed with dark pines and firs, with here and there the majestic form of some scattered Big Trees, the giant sequoias that abound here, although so rare elsewhere. We are at an altitude of over five thousand feet, or just about one mile above the sea. We are far above the heat and dust of the plain. It has been cold every night—from 23° to 32°—the days cloudless, the sky of the clearest blue, the air balmy and so cool that it is just comfortable without our coats. You cannot imagine the relief we feel both by day and night after the discomfort of the previous two weeks."[263]

Harris Newmark, 1864 drought.[edit]

"OF all years of adversity before, during or since the Civil the seemingly interminable year of 1864 was for Southern California the worst. The varying moves in the great struggle, conducted mostly by Grant and Lee, Sherman and Farragut, buoyed now one, now the other side; but whichever way the tide of battle turned, business and financial conditions here altered but little and improved not a whit. The Southwest, as I have already pointed out, was more dependent for its prosperity on natural conditions, such as rain, than upon the victory of any army or fleet; and as this was the last of three successive seasons of annihilating drought, ranchman and merchant everywhere became downhearted. During the entire winter of 1862-63 no more than four inches of rain had fallen, and in 1864 not until March was there a shower, and even then the earth was scarcely moistened. With a total assessment of something like two million dollars in the County, not a cent of taxes (at least in the city) was collected. Men were so miserably poor that confidence mutually weakened, and merchants refused to trust those who, as land and cattle-barons, but a short time before had been so influential and most of whom, in another and more favorable season or two, were again operators of affluence. How great was the depreciation in values may be seen from the fact that notes given by Francis Temple, and bearing heavy interest, were peddled about at fifty cents on the dollar and even then found few purchasers."
"As a result of these very infrequent rains, grass started up only to wither away, a small district around Anaheim independent of the rainfall on account of its fine irrigation system, alone being green; and thither the lean and thirsty cattle came by thousands, rushing in their feverish state against the great willow-fence I have elsewhere described. This stampede became such a menace, in fact, that the Anaheimers were summoned to defend their homes and property, and finally they had to place a mounted guard outside of the willow enclosures. Everywhere large numbers of horses and cattle died, as well as many sheep, the plains at length being strewn with carcasses and bleached bones. The suffering of the poor animals beggars description; and so distressed with hunger were they that I saw famished cattle (during the summer of 1864 while on a visit to the springs at Paso de Robles) crowd around the hotel veranda for the purpose of devouring the discarded matting containers which had held Chinese rice. I may also add that with the approach of summer the drought became worse and worse, contributing in no small degree to the spread of smallpox, then epidemic here. Stearns lost forty or fifty thousand head of live stock, and was much the greatest sufferer in this respect; and as a result, he was compelled, about June, 1865, to mortgage Los Alamitos rancho, with its twenty-six thousand acres, to Michael Reese of San Francisco, for the almost paltry sum of twenty thousand dollars. Even this sacrifice, however, did not save him from still greater financial distress."
"In 1864, two Los Angeles merchants, Louis Schlesinger and Hyman Tischler, owing to the recent drought foreclosed a mortgage on several thousand acres of land known as the Ricardo Vejar property, lying between Los Angeles and San Bernardino. Shortly after this transaction, Schlesinger was killed while on his way to San Francisco, in the Ada Hancock explosion; after which Tischler purchased Schlesinger's interest in the ranch and managed it alone."
"In January, Tischler invited me to accompany him on one of the numerous excursions which he made to his newly-acquired possession, but, though I was inclined to go, a business engagement interfered and kept me in town. Poor Edward Newman, another friend of Tischler's, took my place. On the way to San Bernardino from the rancho, the travelers were ambushed by some Mexicans, who shot Newman dead. It was generally assumed that the bullets were intended for Tischler, in revenge for his part in the foreclosure; at any rate, he would never go to the ranch again, and finally sold it to Don Louis Phillips, on credit, for thirty thousand dollars. The inventory included large herds of horses and cattle, which Phillips (during the subsequent wet season) drove to Utah, where he realized sufficient from their sale alone to pay for the whole property. Pomona and other important places now mark the neighborhood where once roamed his herds. Phillips died some years ago at the family residence which he had built on the ranch near Spadra."
"For my part, I have good reason to remember the drought and crisis of 1864, not alone because times were miserably hard and prosperity seemed to have disappeared forever, or that the important revenue from Uncle Sam, although it relieved the situation, was never sufficient to go around, but also because of an unfortunate investment. I bought and shipped many thousands of hides which owners had taken from the carcasses of their starved cattle, forwarding them to San Francisco by schooner or steamer, and thence to New York by sailing vessel. A large number had commenced to putrefy before they were removed, which fact escaped my attention; and on their arrival in the East, the decomposing skins had to be taken out to sea again and thrown overboard, so that the net results of this venture were disastrous. However, we all met the difficulties of the situation as philosophically as we could."
"There were no railroads in California until the late sixties and, consequently, there was no regular method of concentration, nor any systematic marketing of products; and this had a very bad economic effect on the whole State. Prices were extremely high during her early history, and especially so in 1864. Barley sold at three and a half cents per pound; potatoes went up to twelve and a half cents; and flour reached fifteen dollars per barrel, at wholesale. Much flour in wooden barrels was then brought from New York by sailing vessels; and my brother imported a lot during a period of inflation, some of which he sold at thirteen dollars. Isaac Friedlander, a San Francisco pioneer, who was not alone the tallest man in that city but was as well a giant operator in grain and its products, practically monopolized the wheat and flour business of the town; and when he heard of this interference, he purchased all the remainder of my brother's flour at thirteen dollars a barrel, and so secured control of the situation."
"Just before this transaction, I happened to be in San Francisco and noticing the advertisement of an approaching flour auction, I attended the sale. This particular lot was packed in sacks which had been eaten into by rats and mice and had, in consequence, to be resacked, sweepings and all. I bought one hundred barrels and shipped the flour to Los Angeles, and B. Dubordieu, the corpulent little French baker, considered himself fortunate in obtaining it at fifteen dollars per barrel."
"Speaking of foodstuffs, I may note that red beans then commanded a price of twelve and a half cents per pound, until a sailing vessel from Chile unexpectedly landed a cargo in San Francisco and sent the price dropping to a cent and a quarter; when commission men, among them myself, suffered heavy losses."
"In 1864, F. Bachman & Company sold out. Their retirement was ascribed in a measure to the series of bad years, but the influence of their wives was a powerful factor in inducing them to withdraw. The firm had been compelled to accept large parcels of real estate in payment of accounts; and now, while preparing to leave, Bachman & Co. sacrificed their fine holdings at prices considered ridiculous even then. The only one of these sales that I remember was that of a lot with a frontage of one hundred and twenty feet on Fort Street, and a one-story adobe house, which they disposed of for four hundred dollars."
"I have told of Don Juan Forster's possessions-the Santa Margarita rancho, where he lived until his death, and also the Las Flores. These he obtained in 1864, when land was worth but the merest song, buying the same from Pio Pico, his brother-in-law. The two ranches included over a hundred and forty thousand acres, and pastured some twenty-five thousand cattle, three thousand horses and six or seven thousand sheep; yet the transaction, on account of the season, was a fiscal operation of but minor importance.
"The hard times strikingly conduced to criminality and, since there were then probably not more than three or four policemen in Los Angeles, some of the desperadoes, here in large numbers and not confined to any particular nationality or color, took advantage of the conditions, even making several peculiar nocturnal assaults upon the guardians of the peace. The methods occasionally adopted satisfied the community that Mexican bandidos were at work. Two of these worthies on horseback, while approaching a policeman, would suddenly dash in opposite directions, bringing a reata (in the use of which they were always most proficient) taut to the level of their saddles; and striking the policeman with the hide or hair rope, they would throw him to the ground with such force as to disable him. Then the ingenious robbers would carry out their well-planned depredations in the neighborhood and disappear with their booty."
"As an illustration of how a fortunate plunger acquired property now worth millions, through the disinclination on the part of most people here to add to their taxes in this time of drought, I may mention two pieces of land included in the early Ord survey, one hundred and twenty by one hundred and sixty-five feet in size--one at the southwest corner of Spring and Fourth streets, the other at the southeast corner of Fort and Fourth--which were sold on December 12th, 1864, for two dollars and fifty-two cents, delinquent taxes. The tax on each lot was but one dollar and twenty-six cents, yet only one purchaser appeared!"
"The year 1865 gave scant promise, at least in its opening, of better times to come. ... In Southern California the effects of the long drought continued, and the certainty that the cattle-industry, once so vast and flourishing, was now but a memory, discouraged a people to whom the vision of a far more profitable use of the land had not yet been revealed."[264]: 328–334  CHAPTER XXIII ASSASSINATION OF LINCOLN 1864-1865

Hist of Santa Barbara County, drought 1863-1864.[edit]

"It was about this season (1863) that the enormous increase of the herds had brought down beef to a price that hardly repaid the killing. The loss in the hard winter of 1861-'62 was speedily recouped, and the droves had now attained proportions that demanded diminution. Particularly in the southern counties was this result made necessary, for here the distance from the markets, the long drives thereto over closely-grazed country, the inevitable shrinkage contingent upon the journey, and the inferior quality of the beef after the drive, all tended to depress greatly the value of this product. This led to the institution of a matanza, or species of wholesale slaughter, which reached, it is asserted, far toward 100,000 head. The slaughter-works were situated on the seashore between Santa Barbara and Carpenteria, that the refuse might be swept away by the tide. The carcasses were put into steam baths, and subjected to such heat that the flesh fell from the bones and became a mass of jelly and fat. This was put into a mighty press, and every particle of the tallow extracted; the jelly went to the manufacture of glue, the horns were sent East to be made into combs and other such matters. The cake or pressed meat was fed to hogs, so that every portion of the beef was utilized. Yet, notwithstanding this economy and the low price paid-$5 per head-the enterprise was unprofitable to its projectors."
"In 1864 began the development of misfortunes arising from various causes. The excess of cattle and low prices of beef; the number of mortgages incurred as lands were changing owners; the purchase of goods, often superfluities, on the credit system, to be paid for with heavy interest-all these factors entered into the conditions. Mortgages on ranchos were given as security for comparatively small debts, and they were seldom redeemed. As land was held at about 25 cents per acre, an indebtedness of a few thousand dollars not infrequently laid a mortgage on a rancho of eleven leagues, or 44,000 acres. In this manner the Santa Clara del Norte, the Las Fosas, the Simi, and other fine ranchos were alienated from their original owners. The sum of $20,000 or less would have saved to the mortgageor the ranchos Simi Las Posas, Conejo; San Julian and Espada, aggregating 200,000 or more acres, Nearly all the principal rancho-owners this year asked and obtained considerable reductions on their assessments."
"To add to the general drawbacks of this year, the great drouth created terrible havoc, compared to which that caused by the floods had been trifling. This drouth, though severe throughout the State, was much more disastrous in the southern counties than elsewhere. The country was overstocked with cattle, and the dried grass was eaten close to the ground before the time came for the usual rainfall. Then a little rain fell, early in December, but barely enough to lay the dust in Santa Barbara. December and January passed with no more rain. The grazing grounds were absolutely bare, and there was no grass nearer than the snow-watered valleys over the Sierra, across the rainless desert. The cattle were unfit for a day's drive, far less 400 miles. There was no remembrance of a season without rain, but this season felt not those of either winter or spring. The cattle died daily by hundreds, and the whole country was strewn with their heat-dried carcasses. The assessment-roll of 1863 had showed over 200,000 cattle in Santa Barbara alone, and this probably was not more than two-thirds of the real number; yet when the grass sprung up under the welcome rains of the winter of 1864-'65, there were less than 5,000 cattle left to graze upon it. The great herds were gone, and the reign of the cattle kings was over. Their possessions were for the most part hopelessly mortgaged, and within the next five years had passed from their hands."
"The drouth of 1863-'64, and its consequent financial disasters, caused the breaking up of many of the great ranchos, whose land was now put on the market, at prices sometimes as low as 25 cents per acre; this attracted a large immigration, whose members instituted many industries hitherto unknown here. It was found that much of the land was highly appropriate to the cultivation of wheat, under proper care and attention; and this staple, which had been produced in but small quantities, for the manufacture of a little flour of inferior grade for home consumption, was now raised in great quantities, sufficient for heavy exportation. Here arose the need for a new development; to ship it, there was need to lighter the wheat to the vessels, at risk of great loss in the surf. Hence, wharves were projected and constructed to facilitate commerce in this product." [265]: 43–44 

Bancroft, Livestock[edit]

Pasture Cultivation — Eastern Grass And Alfalfa 

                                            52

So far there has been little cultivation of pasture, but with the extension of farming interests and the consequent limitation of cattle ranges, and the effort to improve the breed of animals for different purposes, the industry is gaining ground. Among the reasons for the neglect is the mildness of the winter, which obviates the need for special winter fodder, and the dryness of the summer, which kills most of the favorite grasses, and obliges frequent replanting.1

1 For this reason the alfalfa, or lucerne, is gaining favor, as it sends down deep roots, and thrives luxuriantly with irrigation. Col. Agric. Soc., Trans., 1877, 150-9; Alto, Cal., June 29, 1851; May 19, 1860; Eureka Times, Sept. 29, 1877; S. F. Bulletin, Oct. 27, 1858; Nov. 20, 1871; Reno Jour., June 18, Sept. 27, 1873; May 23, 1874. Hay worth 12 cents per Ib. in 1849. Woodward's Slat., MS., 7; Kern Co. Hist., 113. Ensilage system introduced by J. W. Green. Hist. Mont. Co., 164. Of wild grasses, the bunch-grass in small detached tufts affords almost perpetual pasture on dry hills, in being proof against drought. The flattened tufts of the alfilleria also endures well. The lupin, which is cultivated in France, grows here wild among the sand hills. The bur clover, mostly in the south, sustains the stock during autumn with its rich oily seed, scattered almost invisibly on the ground. Among sheep it injures the wool, and at times the throat. The most striking pasture is presented by the wild oats, with small grains, and bent, bearded projections, which is frequently cut for hay, yielding on an average one ton per acre. Cultivated oats are preferred to barley, which, like green wheat, is widely harvested for hay. The rough tule-grass saved many cattle during the drought of 1864. The hay harvest occurs about May 1st. One turning and one day's curing is enough. The Census gives the hay harvest for 1850, 1860, 1870, a.nl 1880 at 2,000, 305,000, 551,000, and 1,135,000 tons, the last named from 758,000 acres, Sta Clara leading with 71,000 tons.

MEXICAN BREEDS. 

                                            53

Stock-raising was the chief occupation of colonial days, and hides were almost the only medium of exchange. The animals introduced from Mexico, of deteriorated Spanish breed, increased rapidly, until in 1834, the last year of mission prosperity, they numbered scores of thousands. They roamed in untamed freedom, and a portion overran the interior valleys in a wild state, a condition which by no means served to improve the quality, distinguished as it was by 'scrub' colors and light weight; the cattle by long, thin legs, heads high and slender, wide-spread horns; and the sheep by short, coarse wool. The incoming Americans brought at first stock valued chiefly for strength and endurance. A large special importation followed in response to the high prices of early mining days, partly for breeding, and by 1862 the number of cattle had increased to over 2,000,000, as compared with 262,000 in 1850.

> Then came the disastrous droughts of 1862-4, which destroyed several hundred thousand by starvation and forced slaughter, and created so wide-spread a mistrust as to greatly curtail the industry. It made a perfect revolution in the business, by giving prominence to sheep, by changing many cattle districts to farming regions, and by obliging the adoption of more careful methods, such as the better apportionment of cattle to pasture, and the wide introduction of fencing, partly under compulsory laws. But compensation was found in the improved feeding and breeding, marked also by greater and better yield of beef and milk, and by reduced loss from diseases and accidents, with diminished expenses for herding. Cows calve before they are two years old. The business is now mostly combined with farming, with a desire to still further raise the breed. Few of the Spanish stock remain, for the south had suffered most from the droughts. The census for 1870 returned only 631,000 cattle, and the increase since has been slow, partly owing to the increased price of land, under the steady encroachments of agriculture. In 1889 the number was estimated at about 725,000, worth from $13,000,000 to $14,000,000, while the total value of all live-stock might be placed at nearly $60,000,000.*

[266]: 52–55 

Cattle Boom, 1849-1862[edit]

":An abrupt shift from the Hispanic pastoral to single-purpose American entrepreneurism during the Gold Rush marked the beginning of a spectacular cattle boom throughout California. Prior to 1848 California cattle were commercially valuable only for their hides and tallow, and the average price of full-grown steers seldom rose above four dollars a head. The Gold Rush created an enormous and ever-expanding demand for beef, raising the price of cattle to levels never before dreamed of in the isolated territory, destroying the existing balance of economic and cultural values, and transforming the ungainly Spanish black cattle into four-legged gold nuggets. In response to the urgent demand for livestock in the mines and the new cities of San Francisco and Sacramento, the custom of slaughtering cattle for their hides and tallow immediately gave way to the more profitable practice of driving the animals to market to sell as beef on the hoof."

":Tens of thousands of cattle were driven up the coast valleys and the San Joaquin Valley to market, until the extension of Southern Pacific rail lines to southern California made the practice obsolete. The cattle lived off the country they traveled through, usually after the completion of winter rains when the new grass was well established. The average herd of 700 to 1,000 animals might be a month on the trail from the southern ranchos, traveling about 10 or 15 miles a day. The owner might lease land near the market area where the stock could rest and fatten at the conclusion of the drive, or would sell cattle to agents or buyers who traveled out from the larger cities to inspect and purchase entire herds at the point of departure."

":Cattle prices rose immediately in response to the unprecedented demand, and continued to rise for nearly seven years. Beef cattle sold for as much as $75 a head in San Francisco, or up to $30 or $40 per head when purchased at a distant rancho. Newcomers told of the extravagance with which the Californios disposed of their new-found wealth, and expressed shock and dire warnings that their improvidence in failing to restock their herds would cause them grief in the near future. In fact, the Californio corner on the beef market was soon disrupted with the arrival of midwestern and eastern beef brought in from Missouri by entrepreneuring young drovers. By the end of 1853, 62,000 head had entered the state over the main immigrant roads, and were pastured in the San Joaquin and Sacramento Valleys while awaiting market."

":California was ideal cattle country, with unending miles of green grass carpeting the hills with the annual winter rains. When the rains ceased in April, cattle found an abundance of nutritious pasture in the dry alfilaria and burr clover that covered the ranges. Beginning in 1862, however, a series of climatic misfortunes paved the way for a major revolution in the dominant economy of the state. Prolonged rains began in December 1861, causing floods that paralyzed business and travel and drowned thousands of head of cattle, destroying possibly a fourth of the state's taxable wealth. The Central Valley became an inland sea with runoff from the coast ranges and Sierra Nevada. The loss of cattle throughout the state ran to about 200,000. When the rains finally ceased, they had produced a rich and luxuriant pasturage that fattened cattle and increased stock in an already overburdened market. The great flood, however, was followed by two years of unparalleled drought. Cattle prices dropped lower and lower as the drought continued, and enterprises such as wealthy stockmen Miller and Lux purchased starved cattle from the ranchos at $8 per head. A few months later, cattle were routinely slaughtered for the trifling value of their horns and hides. Only those who had the means and mobility to drive their cattle to the Sierra Nevada, or in the case of Miller and Lux, to Oregon, were spared nearly absolute losses. In addition to losses caused directly by the drought, thousands of weakened cattle fell easy prey to mountain lions, bears, and coyotes. When the drought ended, the cattle business had passed from dominance in California's economy."

":Following the period of devastating drought, stockmen most able to recoup their losses were those who were principals or contractors with widespread stockraising corporations. Henry Miller, of the partnership of San Francisco based Miller and Lux, was one man that not only suffered few losses but was able to benefit from the abominable economic situation suffered by the majority of California stockmen. The cattle empire built up by Miller and Lux controlled millions of acres in California, Nevada, and Oregon, and profoundly affected the settlement of the San Joaquin Valley."

":Henry Miller was a German immigrant who completed his butcher apprenticeship and left for New York in 1846 as Heinrich Kreiser, worked in New York at the butcher trade, and arrived in California in 1850 as Henry Miller, a name borrowed from the non-transferable steamer ticket he had purchased from a friend in New York. Miller built up a thriving butcher business in San Francisco, purchasing cattle at first from the stockyards in the city, then from stockranchers in the Santa Clara Valley, San Joaquin Valley, and the San Francisco peninsula. He went into partnership with Charles Lux, a former competitor, in 1858, and became the field agent and purchaser for the company while Lux managed the business office in San Francisco. Miller's first land purchase was the Rancho Santa Rita in Merced County from the outfit that had purchased it from the original Mexican grantee. Miller's pattern for later large purchases was to buy out one heir of a rancho, raise cattle on the land as tenant in common with the remaining heirs, then buy the others out. Miller also loaned money to struggling cattle ranchers on future profits, foreclosing on the loans when sales did not meet expectations. The corporation acquired vast blocks of the public domain using ingenious ways of circumventing the letter and spirit of the Homestead Act, and accepted government land script as currency from former soldiers. Miller paid employees of the corporation to file homestead claims under agreement to sell it to him when proved up. Deed records in Merced County indicate that Miller and Lux were Grantees in 287 instances of land transfers, most in 160 acre Homestead blocks, between 1863 and 1887. Under application of the Swamp Lands Act to California in 1850, Miller was reimbursed for the purchase of a continuous strip of land from the Santa Rita to Orestimba Ranch as overflow lands along the San Joaquin River. Miller and Lux monopolized cattle grazing lands on the west side of the San Joaquin, and employed descendants of the earliest Mexican families on the ranch holdings. Consequently, the western part of the San Joaquin Valley retained its Mexican period lifestyle much longer than did many other parts of California after American domination."

":The Miller and Lux holdings in Monterey County included all of Peachtree Valley, and in Kern County they shared the title of the county's largest landowners with the Kern County Land Company of Haggin and Tevis. Both corporations were responsible for nearly all of the major drainage projects and canal systems of the southern San Joaquin Valley."

  • Sources: Breschini, G.S., T. Haversat, and R.P. Hampson, A Cultural Resources Overview of the Coast and Coast-Valley Study Areas [California] (Coyote Press, Salinas, CA, 1983).

[267]

Great Flood of 1862[edit]

  • update w S. A. article info

Edward Engle Eyre[edit]

Passing of Three Well Known People.

COL EYRE LA GRIPPE'S VICTIM WAS ILL A FEW DAYS AND PNEUMONIA CAME. Emanuel M. Heller, the Merchant, Passes Away — Mrs A. W. Scott a Third on the Fatal List. Death the Reaper was busy in this city yesterday, and among his victims were several well known to the general public. The most striking figure among these was Colonel Edward Engle Eyre, who passed away at his late residence on Pacific avenue.

Colonel Eyre since he came to this State in the early sixties had been prominently identified with the large business interests of San Francisco, and California as well. At a time when the Stock and Exchange Board was a great institution Mr. Eyre was its president and one of the leading speculators in the market. He also conducted a large brokerage business, and during the bonanza days he handled the entire stock business of Flood & O'Brien. Deceased was one of the few large operators who had the sagacity to retire at the proper time. He left the stock business with a fine competency, and settled at Menlo Park, where he owned a beautiful estate. The family are among the leading society people of this State. Colonel Eyre continued to take an interest in mercantile affairs and was at the time of his death president of the Germania Lead Works, with offices at 124 Sansome street. He was also one of the first to appreciate the need for the construction of the Valley road and one of the original subscribers to the stock. Deceased was the father of Mrs. Richard D. Girvin of the firm of Girvin & Eyre, Miss Mary, Robert M., E. L., Percy and Perry Eyre. A widow is also left to mourn his loss. Mr, Eyre was over 75 years old at the time of his death. The immediate cause of his demise was la grippe, followed by pneumonia. He was attended by Dr. De Vecchi, but the disease had secured such a strong hold upon his system that there was no possibility of saving him. The funeral will be held from his late residence in this city on Tuesday at 11 a. m.[271]

[272] [273] [274] [275]

Col. Edward Engle Eyre and Mary (Tutt) Eyre ... crossed the plains to California in 1849, and Colonel Eyre was engaged in mining for a time, afterwards entering the stock brokerage business in San Francisco. They were always prominent and highly respected citizens of the community.[276]

Captain William H. Pierson[edit]

MARRIED. In this city, March 26th, by Rev. Father Kelly, Capt. Wm. H. Pierson to Miss Hattie McClellan. Bangor (Maine) papers please copy.


01/1866[282] 5/1866 Daily Alta California, Volume 18, Number 5921, 27 May 1866, p.4 col.8 Isabel add and also add: For Regular Dispatch Line FOR COLORADO RIVER, DIRECT. Connecting with the Pacific and Colorado S.N. Co.'s Steamers ESMERALDA and NINA TILDEN at the Mouth of the River. For Fort Yuma, La Paz, Fort Mohave, and Callville. The Clipper Barque DELAWARE; SHILLABER, Master; Is now loading at Clay street wharf, and will be dispatched on or before June 5th, having most of her cargo engaged. For freight or passage apply to K. C. ELDREDGE. Agent. NE corner Front and Pine Sts. 3/1867 [278] 11/1867 [283] 10/1869[284] 10/1869 [285] 9/1870 [279] 5/1871 [286] 9/1871[287] 8/1867 [288]

  • death of Captain Pierson, San Francisco Bulletin, 16 Apr 1874. Captain William H. Pierson (1826-1874)
  • [289] : 732 
  • sale of Isabel by William H. Pierson Estate 16 March 1880

[290]

  • Daily Alta California, add for, Union Line, Clipper Schooner, Mary Ellen, G. I. Flake, Master

14 February 1865, p.4 col.8 [281]

Corps of Topographical Engineers[edit]

Vallecito, San Diego County, California

Green Valley, (Cuyamaca Mountains, California)

Carrizo Creek (Imperial County, California)

In 1863 Pete Larkins and Joe Stancliff built a small house at Mountain Springs, selling meager supplies to travelers passing that way, and with their team of oxen they assisted travelers up the steep, thirty per cent mountain grade.
In 1870 the San Diego -- Ft. Yuma Turnpike Company purchased Larkins' holdings and petitioned the San Diego Board of Supervisors to allow them to establish a Toll Road and station at this location. The permit was granted, and the company operated a toll station in the old Larkins House for about six years, with Mr. Bowers as Station Agent. All that remains at present, to mark the location of the original station site, is a lone Washingtonia Palm tree and the remains of a portion of the old stone foundation.
In 1878 the Board of Supervisors relocated a portion of the road above the station, and eliminated the toll road. This change of alignment brought the road into the Mountain Springs area about one-half mile north of the old stage station. At this point another spring was developed in a near-by canyon. It was at this location, in about 1860, that sheep men built some stone corrals and a small stone house. In the corrals lambing ewes were kept at night, to protect them and their young lambs from the coyotes.
In 1900 Supervisor James Jasper constructed a new grade into the area. This new road came around the mountain from the north and terminated near the stone corrals. Jasper cleaned out the springs in the canyon, and piped the water a short distance to a large water trough at the feet of the grade; this was convenient for the sheep men, as the overflow ran into the nearby corrals.
In 1909, a new Mountain Springs Grade was constructed with monies provided by a San Diego County bond issue, to accommodate the increasing demand of the automobile. This grade entered the amphitheatre from the south and the old water trough was moved to a new location about a thousand feet to the south east from its position at the stone corrals, so that cool water could be had for the boiling radiators. A short time thereafter a small cafe and garage operated at this location, but closed when the California Division of Highways again relocated the highway a few hundred feet farther north. This is the highway that is in use as of 1955.
NOTE: Prior to 1907, San Diego County extended easterly to the Colorado river. In that year, Imperial County was formed, the division line between the two counties passing through the Mountain Springs area; in fact, the present highway down the grade crosses and re-crosses the County line several times.[338]
Devil's Canyon, was is a historic part of this route.

Daily Alta California, Volume 22, Number 7341, 27 April 1870, p.1, col. 3, THE SAN DIEGO AND FORT YUMA TURNPIKE COMPANY.

"


California State Historical Landmark #194, is Mountain Springs Station. Plaque Inscription: In 1862-70, about a mile north of here Peter Larkin and Joe Stancliff used a stone house as a store from which ox teams pulled wagons up a 30% grade. The San Diego and Fort Yuma Turnpike Co. used the site as a toll road station until 1876. The crumbling house was replaced in 1917 by another still visible to its east. But road changes, beginning in 1878 and culminating in today's highway, have left the older stone house ruins inaccessible.


Southern Emigrant Trail[edit]

  • Southern Emigrant Trail
  • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Pacific Wagon Roads [350]
    • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Pacific Wagon Road (El Paso - Fort Yuma)[351][352]: 9–11, 74–100 
      • "Location of the road.—Beginning at Franklin (opposite El Paso) the road proceeds up the valley on the east side of the Rio Grande, touching the river at convenient points for water, crosses it near La Mesilla and continues up the valley, on the west side, to the Picacho, (51.5 miles from Franklin;) thence, turning westwardly, ascends the Mesa and passes over a gently undulating prairie to Cook's Spring, (101.4 miles;) thence through the favorable pass in the Mimbres mountains, crossing the Rio Mimbres directly to Ojo de la Vacca, (134.5 miles,) passing the southern edge of the Burro range of mountains to Ojo Excavado, (147.6 miles,) through the Peloncillo pass, (187.7 miles,) crossing the Rio de Sauz. (201.7 miles) directly to Parke's railroad pass, (between the Chericahui and Pinelena mountains, 231 miles,) to Croton Springs, (248.7 miles;) thence through Nugent's pass, in the San Calistro range, to the Rio San Pedro, (271.5 miles,) down the valley, on the east side of the river, to the junction of the Rio Aravaypa, (328.1 miles, and 15 miles from the Rio Gila;) then crossing the Rio San Pedro the road continues, by a very favorable pass in the Santa Catarina range, directly to and striking the Gila (375.2) 21 miles east of the Pimos villages; thence by the Maricopa Wells down the valley, on the south side of the Rio Gila, to Fort Yuma, the western terminal point of the road, (573.1miles from Franklin,) making the new road about 40 miles less in length than the old travelled road via the Puerto del Dado or Apache Pass, Tucson, &c." [352]: 10 
      • Report of Superintendent James B. Leach upon the El Paso and Fort Yuma wagon road, constructed under the direction of the Department of the Interior, 1857-'58.[352]: 74–100 
    • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Pacific Wagon Road (Fort Kearney - Honey Lake Road)[352] : 5–9, 30–45, 47–73  [353][354]
    • NEBRASKA ROAD.[352] : 11-12.101-125 
    • Fort Ridgeley and South Pass Wagon Road [352] : 13–29 

San Antonio-El Paso Road[edit]

  • San Antonio-El Paso Road
    • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Route of the San Antonio-El Paso Road
      • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Robert Eccleston in 1849. [356]
      • Edward Fitzgerald Beale in 1858.[357]
      • Giddings' Pecos Station Marker Number 14031, Address: Hwy 190, Long Loop Rd, Iraan, Pecos County. Marker Year, 2007. Marker Location: west on E Hwy 190, at pulloff at intersection of Hwy 190 and Long Loop Rd. In the mid-19th century, stagecoach lines were a primary means of moving people, mail and supplies through the region. The U.S. government contracted with Henry Skillman for the San Antonio-El Paso Stage line in 1951. In this area, the route ran along the historic Chihuahua Trail, also know as the Lower Road, which was designed to carry U.S. mail. The service soon added passenger and freight delivery. Skillman and William "Bigfoot" Wallace were two of the better known drivers. In 1854, George H. Giddings took over the San Antonio to El Paso line and created a series of stage stations in the area. In 1858, he established one near the "S" crossing of the Pecos River. It had two structures built of adobe, limestone and wood. Teamsters used the larger building as a kitchen and dining room and the smaller structure as sleeping quarters. An adobe or high pole corral with a wide gate stood behind the buildings, housing dozens of horses and mules. Water came from a nearby hand-dug well, formerly an existing spring. In early 1862, a driver of the stage to Fort Lancaster reported Indians had destroyed Pecos Station, and the site was abandoned. Lt. Col> Thomas B. Hunt led a detachment past the ruins in 1869, giving the position as the west bank of the Pecos, 2.5 miles from Camp Melbourne. The exact location of the remote post, however, remained in doubt over the years until archeological investigations in the early 21st century. Stone foundations and cultural artifacts from the 1850s, along with evidence of earlier Native American occupation, helped identify this isolated scene of frontier life. (2007) Marker is property of the state of Texas.[358] GPS Coordinates: Latitude: 30.97076, Longitude: -101.96781 30°58′15″N 101°58′04″W / 30.97076°N 101.96781°W / 30.97076; -101.96781, 9.3 km NW of Iraan TX [359]
  • George Henry Giddings [360] [361][362][363]
  • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/San Antonio-El Paso Mail Line[364] [365][366]

San Antonio-San Diego Mail Line[edit]

  • James E. Birch edit and source in more detail.
    • Birch's Line of Stages, 3 June 1850[367] Placer Times, Volume 2, Number 67, 3 June 1850, p1. col.3, NEW STAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ALL THE NORTHERN MINES - THROUGH BY DAYLIGHT. Birch's Line of Stages leave the Sutter Hotel and City Hotel every morning at 7 o'clock, for Mormon Island, Salmon Falls, Greenwood Valley, Georgetown, Sutter's Mill at Coloma, Hangtown and Weaverville [Weberville], being on the direct route to the North, South and Middle Forks of the American river. All Express business promptly attended to. Seats may be secured and farther information obtained at the Express of Henley, McKnight & Co. Sutler Hotel, Front-st. Passengers securing seats at the office, will be called for at any Hotel in the City. JAMES BIRCH, Proprietor. Sacramento City, May 24, 1850.
Birch's Line of Stages left the Sutter Hotel and City Hotel Sacramento every morning at 7 o'clock, being on the direct route to the North, South and Middle Forks of the American river passing through the following towns:
Mormon Island
Salmon Falls
Greenwood Valley
Georgetown
Sutter's Mill at Coloma
Hangtown
Weberville aka (Weaverville) [368] [369] [370] [371] [372]

California Men and Events: Time 1769-1890, By George Henry Tinkham

From: Nancy Howard <nd_howard@yahoo.com>
Subject: Weberville, El Dorado Co.; Weaverville, Trinity Co
Date: Sun, 4 Oct 1998 13:19:35 -0700 (PDT)
Hi Listers,
A fast check of "Historic Spots in California", which I keep next to my computer at all times, yields the following information:
Weberville, El Dorado County:
"A store was established in the summer of 1848 on the creek by Captain Charles M. Weber, founder of Stockton; Weber had mined along the banks of Weber Creek. The store was established as a place where goods attractive to the Indians could be exchanged for the gold they dug. The Stockton Company was disbanded in September 1848, Weber having determined to give his attention wholly to the building up of the city of Stockton. The Weber trading post, however, continued to be a center for miners, and other camps soon grew up around it. The site of Weberville, two miles from Placerville, has long since reverted to wilderness."


Stops and stations[edit]

Butterfield Overland Mail[edit]

3rd Division[edit]

"HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA,
Camp Wright, Cal., April 21, 1862.
Distances from Los Angeles, Cal., eastward: To the Monte, 12 miles, water, grass, wood; to San José, 13 miles, water, grass; to Chino Rancho, 14 miles, water, grass; to Temescal, 20 miles, water, grass, wood; to Laguna, 16 miles, water, grass, wood; to Temecula, 21 miles, water, grass, wood; to the Dutchman’s, 16 miles, water, grass, wood; to Oak Grove, 9 miles, water, grass, wood; to Warner’s ranch, 16 miles, water, grass, wood; * to San Felipe, 16 miles, water, grass; * to Vallecito, 16 miles, water, grass; * to Palm Springs, 9 miles, water; to Carriso Creek, 9 miles, water; * to Sackett’s Wells, 18 miles, water bad;* to Indian Wells, 18 miles, water scarce;* to New River, 15 miles, water scarce and bad; to Norton’s Wells, 12 miles, water good;* to Gardiner’s Wells, 8 miles, water bad; to Cooke’s Wells, 17 miles, water good ; * to Algodones, 13 miles, water good; to Fort Yuma, 11 miles, water, grass, wood; * to Gila City, 22 miles, water; to Mission {p.1018} Camp, 13 miles, water; to Antelope Peak, 12 miles, water, grass; to Mohawk, 12 miles, water, grass; to Texas Hill, 11 miles, water, grass; to Stanwix’s ranch, 15 miles, water, grass; to Burke’s Station, 12 miles, water, grass (old); to Oatman’s Flat, 12 miles, water, grass (some); to Kenyon’s Station, 14 miles, water, grass (some); to Gila Bend, 16 miles, water, grass (little); to Maricopa Wells, 40 miles, water (salt grass), grass and water bad; to Casa Blanca, 11 miles, water; to Pima Villages, 11 miles, water, grass; to Oneida Station, 13 miles, water (in a well), grass scarce; to Blue Water Station, 11 miles, water (in a well), grass; to Picacho, 14 miles, water (sometimes in tanks); to Point of Mountain, 24 miles, water (in a well), grass (little); to Tucson, 16 miles, water, grass, (grain can be purchased); to Cienega, 30 miles, water, grass; to San Pedro, 24 miles, water, grass (good place to recruit); to Dragoon Springs, 18 miles, grass (plenty), water one mile up cañon; to Apache Pass, 40 miles, grass (no water for this distance); to San Simon, 16 miles, water, grass; to Steen’s Peak, 14 miles, water (scarce), grass; to Soldier’s Farewell, 35 miles; to Cow Springs, 14 miles, water, grass (plenty), Indians bad; to Miembres River, 16 miles, water, grass; to Cooke’s Springs, 16 miles; to Picacho (on the river), 52 miles, water, grass; to Mesilla, 6 miles, water, grass. Total, 859 miles.
All troops and trains in their marches across the desert will make the camps as marked by the asterisks.
By order of Colonel Carleton:
BEN. C. CUTLER,
First Lieut., First Infty. California Vols., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
----
  • WOTR, CHAPTER LXII. Part 1. : 1057 
The following itinerary of the marches from Fort Yuma to Pima Villages, made by Lieutenant-Colonel West, is published for the information of all concerned:
To–_____________Distance.______Marches recommended.____Remarks.
Gila City_______17.56__________1_______________________No grass, wood; camp on the river.
Mission Camp____11.49__________2_______________________Wood, water, and a little grass at Mission Camp. Wood and
Fillibuster Camp_6.00__________________________________water at Filibuster Camp; grass four miles farther on.
Antelope Peak____9.14__________3_______________________Grass within three-quarters of a mile of Antelope Peak. The
Mohawk Station__12.83__________________________________camp is at the station; no grass. Camp on the river, at
_______________________________________________________Mohawk Station.
Texas Hill______10.98__________4_______________________A little grass on the hill. Station half a mile back from
Lagoon Camp______5.00__________________________________the river. Lagoon Camp, fine water, wood, shade, and grass.
Grinnel’s ranch_11.13__________5_______________________Very dusty and disagreeable at Grinnel’s. Men or animals
Grassy Camp______3.00__________________________________cannot recruit much. At Grassy Camp they do much better.
Burke’s station__6.43__________6_______________________A very poor camp at Burke’s, and little better at Oatman
Oatman Flat_____11.22__________________________________Flat; no grass at either.
Kenyon Station__13.48__________7_______________________Poor camp at Kenyon station; no grass. At Shady Camp all
Shady Camp______10.10__________________________________good.
Gila Bend________4.00__________8_______________________At Gila Bend, wood and water, but no grass; thence to
The Tanks________7.42__________________________________Maricopa Wells good road, but destitute of water and grass.
Maricopa Wells__11.15__________________________________At the wells abundance of water, but brackish, some salt
_______________________________________________________grass.
Pima Villages___11.35__________9_______________________Road fair, with some sloughs.
Total__________184.10
-----
By order of Colonel Carleton:
BEN. C. CUTLER,
First Lieut., First Infty. California Vols., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
---
In 1862 Union Army recorded the distances from Antelope Peak as 9.14 miles from Filibuster Camp, 12.83 miles to Mohawk Station. Also, "Grass within three-quarters of a mile of Antelope Peak. The camp is at the station; no grass."[381]
In 1862 Union Army recorded the distances from Texas Hill Station as 10.98 miles west to Mohawk Station and 5 miles east to Lagoon Camp, 16.13 miles to Grinnel's. Also:
"A little grass on the hill. Station half a mile back from the river."[381]
The Gila Ranch Station, by all accounts, was located near the hard bend of the Gila River on the eastern boundry of the present town of Gila Bend. It was a timetable station with the westbound stages due at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays; the eastbound stages were due at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays.
According to Talbot, the original adobe station was destroyed in an Indian raid in 1860 but rebuilt immediately thereafter. Nothing remains of this station today.
Anhert (1973) and Talbot both identify that Gila Ranch Station as having been within Township 5S, Range 4W, Sec. 8. Using the centroid point of this quadrant as a reference, Gila Ranch would have been located in the vicinity of 33°00′26.19″N 112°41′29.61″W / 33.0072750°N 112.6915583°W / 33.0072750; -112.6915583.
Wray / OCTA maping data places the ste at 33°00′01.87″N 112°41′55.83″W / 33.0005194°N 112.6988417°W / 33.0005194; -112.6988417. There now seems unanimous agreement that the actual site of the Gila Ranch Station was there.
Will C. Barnes in his 1993 book Arizona's Names notes of the town of Gila Bend:
"At the original location of Gila Bend , the freighting and mail station was called Gila Ranch. The name of the ranch on the site of the Maricopa Indian Village was noted in 1854 by Lt. Parke as being Tezotal, for the desert ironwood tree listed as Olneya tesota in Dr. John Torrey's botanical report for the Boundary Commission.
"At one time along the stream course was a South Gila Bend and North Gila Bend, about 20 miles apart Both were probably in existance to serve emigrants. Papago Indians called the vicinity 'Petato,' their word for the familiar vegatable green called 'Lambs Quarter,' which grew abundantly in the region.
"In 1865... a small community developed around the stage station named Gila Bend. In 1880 railroad tracks were completed and a station was built away from the river, although the steam engines drew water from the river until the railroad sank its own wells. When that happened, the small community began relocating near the railroad. The first settler at the new town site (laid out by Daniel Murphy, John H. Martin, and william H. Barnes) was Daniel Noonan. Noonan had been postmaster at the Gila Bend post office at the river freighting and stage station. By 1910 all that remained of the older location were eight ... families."
Ormsby and Bailey both specifically cite the Gila Ranch Station. [380]: 131–133 

Desert Station[edit]

Historically, the traverse of the "Forty-mile Desert" section of the Sonoran Desert in this area -- was infamous as a long, dry and perilous haul between Maricopa Wells and the next natural water at Gila Ranch. According to some sources, by late 1858 - early 1859 the Butterfield Overland company had built three additional water tanks along the route to help break the long dry haul -- referred to as North Tank, Desert Station and South Tank.
Those three tanks were reportedly constructed so that reliable sources of water were no farther apart than 10 miles through this arid landscape. Water to replenish those tanks was hauled by wagon from Maricopa Wells and Gila Ranch.
The location of the "Desert Station / Desert Well Station" is more readily determined. Talbot places Desert Station as having been on the "east side" of Township $S, Range 1W, Section 21. [380]: 129 
Anhert (1973) located it "about 5.5 miles west of Mobile ... on Waterman Wash."[386] West Prong Waterman Wash[387]
Waterman Wash Maricopa Co. G. L. O. Map, 1921; U. S. G. S., 1923. Heads in T. 4 S., R. 1 W., southern end Maricopa mountains. Flows northwest, enters Gila river at eastern end, Buckeye hills, in T. 1 S., R. 3 W. Generally believed named after Waterman mountains to south. May, however, have been named after the old timer for whose wife Abbie Waterman peak was named, q. v..[383] : 477 
Waterman Wash is an easily identifiable topographic / geological landmark. It is a watercourse running essentially north - south through this area. Talbot places the Desert Station on the western edge of Waterman Wash, which location appears to concurr with Ahnert's description. ie. 33°03′57.07″N 112°28′30.54″W / 33.0658528°N 112.4751500°W / 33.0658528; -112.4751500
Anhert (2011) states Desert Station was located at coordinates 33°03′59″N 112°21′38″W / 33.06639°N 112.36056°W / 33.06639; -112.36056, Wray / OCTA (2013) ID's location as 33°04′00.04″N 112°21′30.79″W / 33.0666778°N 112.3585528°W / 33.0666778; -112.3585528 in concurrence with the report coordinates and Anhert's most recent measurement.[380]: 130 
The original "North Tank" was reportedly located approximately 10 miles west southwest of Maricopa Wells. While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact location of this purported "North Tank" from presently known sources, mileage references along the known route (10 miles from Maricopa Wells) would place it in the vicinity of coordinates 33°05′01.42″N 112°12′49.32″W / 33.0837278°N 112.2137000°W / 33.0837278; -112.2137000.
Neither Ahnert (1973) nor Talbot (1992) speak specifically to this North Tank site. Likewise, in correspondence dated October 12, 2010, Cheryl Blanchard (Bureau of Land Management Lower Sonoran Field Office - Phoenix), could not confirm a documented Butterfield site in this vicinity.
In correspondence dated October 22, 2010, however, Ahnert stated he had discovered indications of this location referred to in the writing s of Silas St. John, coachman and Butterfield employee, who refereed to the location as the "Montezuma Head Tank". Ahnert said he was visited the location on some preliminary studies and it was an above-ground tank. He reported that the Montezuma Head Tank is within 1.2 miles of the coordinates listed for the "North Tank" coordinates above.
Data update as of March 2013. In his 2011 publication, Ahnert states specifically that the North Tank / Montezuma Head Tank was located at coordinates 33°04′46″N 112°13′49″W / 33.07944°N 112.23028°W / 33.07944; -112.23028 [380]: 128–129 

The "South Tank" was located approximately 10 miles east of Gila Ranch and is variously referred to in modern terms as "Happy Camp Cistern" and "Forty Mile Desert Tank". Anhert (1973), ... states that the present cistern "... was built directly across the trail from the [original] tank after Butterfield Overland suspended operations." Anhert correstpondence in 2010 gives location for South Tank/Pima Pass Tank as 33°01′43.388″N 112°29′59.041″W / 33.02871889°N 112.49973361°W / 33.02871889; -112.49973361.[380]: 131 

Picacho Station[edit]

Oneida Station[edit]

Blue Water Station[edit]

4th Division[edit]

5th Division[edit]

UPPER ROAD[edit]

LOWER ROAD[edit]

"We started on [from Eagle Spring] at 3. The sun was intensely warm, but about 4 a most refreshing shower cooled the atmosphere, and rendered the travelling very agreeable. It was particularly so to us, as we had a journey of thirty-four miles before us, without water. We passed on the road shortly after leaving the spring, the scene of a battle between the Comanches and some Texas emigrants to California, in which the latter were badly worsted. Travelled some twenty miles, and encamped on the plain without water or grass. :"Today we have made thirty miles; a good journey for loaded wagons."[357]: 27 
"July 23.—We got an early start this morning, and after travelling a short distance crossed an easy divide, and followed down a canon leading directly to the Rio Grande. Very soon we came in sight of the green cotton-woods, which mark the line of the river; a most grateful sight to men who had travelled so far without seeing a piece of wood larger than a mesquite hush. The valley of the Rio Grande is here about twenty to twenty-five miles in width, from mountain to mountain, and certainly has no very prepossessing appearance; the mountains on the American side, like those on the Mexican, are destitute of timber, and offer to the eye nought but gloomy masses of rock, where the very spirit of desolation seems to reign. Only the clear fresh green of the cotton-woods in the river bottom creates a point for the eye to rest upon with pleasure; speaking to us, as it did, of a fine stream in which we would bathe our weary limbs; but, like all other anticipations of pleasure, this, too, faded on a nearer approach. We found the river after groping some distance through a dense undergrowth of weeds, briars and willows, a muddy stream about a hundred yards wide; but with such a deposit of mud and quicksand that even our thirsty mules were obliged to go half a mile below^ before we could find a place where we could safely take them to water.[357]: 27–28 
"July 22.—Raised camp at 5 a. m., and travelled ten miles to Eagle springs. The country is easy for wagons, although our road passes to the right and left of very rough ranges of mountains. The valleys between them, however, are broad and level. I think the average width will be ten miles. The most disagreeable feature is the entire want of wood; the mountains being stupendous masses of rock, entirely destitute of timber and running streams, which we generally associate with mountains, and rendering their appearance forbidding in the extreme.
"Our encampment this morning is at the scene of quite a number of Indian devilments. Four men were murdered here by them at one time, and various others at different periods, to say nothing of the numerous bands of cattle, mules, and horses which they have taken from emigrants and others passing here.
"The spring rises at the base of Eagle mountain, which is a huge pile of perpendicular cliff, palisaded at the top, and rising gradually without the usual accompaniment of foot hills from the valley. There is quite sufficent water for our animals, and having been eighteen hours without, they are glad enough to get it. The grass here is very poor, both in quality and in quantity.

[357]: 27 

  • [User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Van Horns Wells Station]]
"July 20.—Raised camp at 4, and travelled until 6 a. m., when we discovered water, about the distance of two miles off the road. It was a mud hole, but served us to water the mules, and was very acceptable, as the nearest known water to that at which we encamped last night is thirty-six miles distant. About noon we found another mud hole, a most grateful piece of success, as it saves much suffering,

and long marches, without water, with the thermometer at 95°.

"We encamped at the mud hole, and shall leave this evening, and go on about ten miles further, and make a dry camp, with the view of

breakfasting to-morrow at Van Horn's Wells. Our ride this morning has been utterly destitute of interest. The travelling has been most excellent, generally on elevated plateaus, or across broad and level valleys; but entirely without timber of any description. The grass for the most part good, though a little parched and dry. We have travelled for the past lew days parallel with two ranges of mountains, one on each side of us. They present a barren, rugged and repulsive aspect, and are without timber.

"Distance made this morning sixteen and a half miles. We encamped on the prairie at dark, after making eight miles.
"We saw two Indians this evening, evidently watching our train, and most likely meditating horse thieving operations against us.
"Grass tolerably good; but no wood or water. Whole distance made to-day twenty-four and a half miles.
"July 21.—We raised camp at 4 a.m., and travelled nine miles to Van Horn's Wells, a pool of water of fair quality, but barely sufficient for our animals. I long to reach a good running stream again, where they can drink without struggling and fighting each other for every mouthful. But for this scarcity of water, this country would excel any other in the world for cattle raising. The grass is superabundant, and of most excellent quality, almost everywhere; but the want of a large supply of water is an insurmountable difficulty, and will remain so, until Pope's experiment succeeds.
"Our road this morning has been over a country almost level, but not at all interesting. The camels are now being rapidly lightened

of their loads, as we have eaten almost all our forage. In consequence, they frequently reach camp before the wagons, and can always do so, if hurried at all. We shall leave our present camp this evening, and go on fifteen miles further, which will bring us near to Eagle springs. To-night we shall make another dry camp, as the drive would be too far for our animals to go on to the next water, without rest.

"We encamped for the night on the plains, within ten miles of Eagle spring. Grass excellent; but neither wood nor water.
"Distance made to-day twenty-two miles.
"July 19 ... At noon we encamped at Bauell springs, where we found a scanty supply of tolerably good water, but no wood.

At 2 we started again, and found a rolling country, and good travelling all the evening to Ojo de las Muertas, (Spring of the Dead.) We passed the grave of a man who had been killed by the Indians, which had the usual pile of stones, to prevent exhumation by the wolves; a shingle at one end, and a sharp stick at the other. "[357]: 26, July 19. 

"July 19.—Travelled all the morning through rolling hills, bounded by rocky and palisaded mountains on our left, and quite near us, and on the right, but at a great distance, another range apparently of the same character. Everywhere the grass is excellent in the prairie. At noon we encamped at Bauell springs, where we found a scanty supply of tolerably good water, but no wood."[357]: 26, July 19. 
July 18.—Employed most of the day at the blacksmith's shop, in driving the repairs of the wagons. In the afternoon we bade adieu to our hospitable friends at the post, and came out about ten miles to Bald Rock spring, where we found excellent water, but no wood or

grass. We encamped here for the night.[357]: 26, July 18. 

July 15."... We encamped at noon at the Hackberry,... Started again at 11, and having watered on the road at a mud hole, arrived at Barilla spring at about 4. The water at this place is delicious, especially after the brackish stuff we have been drinking. Our camp this evening is a very pleasant one, on the side of a rugged mountain, and overlooking a green and pretty valley almost shut in by mountains. It is a great relief, after travelling so long over these monotonous plains to find oneself in the mountains again, and in the region of cool, clear streams and springs. Distance made to-day twenty miles. Grass good, but no wood. [357] : 24 
"July 15.... We encamped at noon at the Hackberry, a mere mud hole, but containing sufficient water for our animals, with tolerable grass, but no timber."[357]: 24 
"July 14.—Raised camp at 4.45 a. m., and travelled ten miles, to Leon spring. Here we found a succession of deep pools of slightly

brackish water, but very clear. The road this morning has been excellent, with plenty of grass, but of a coarse quality, and no timber, but a little dwarf mesquite. Our next camp will be a dry one, the nearest water being forty miles distant. We shall remain here until two or three in the afternoon, and then travel until dark, and camp wherever night overtakes us. The camels came into camp about an hour after us to-day, not having been packed in time to start with us this morning Leon spring was supposed by our guide to be five hundred feet deep; everybody said so. We exploded this popular fallacy by a very simple process, to wit, sounding it. We found it deep enough to save it from any exaggeration, viz., twenty-five feet. We started again at 3 p. m., and travelled until 10 at night, when we encamped on the prairie. At midnight we were awakened by a stampede of all our loose animals, which during the night we had close to the wagons, under a strong guard. When the stampede first took place I thought but little of it, knowing the animals would not run far, and that the guard would soon bring them back; but presently, mingling with the sound of the horses' receding footsteps, we heard in rapid succession two shots. This was startling, as we were in the midst of the Indian country, and it became evident that the Indians had run off our horses. Immediately I ordered all hands called, and taking with me five men, who were quickly mounted on the team animals always kept hitched to the wagons, started out in the darkness to the place where the shots had been fired, and expecting to find some of our horse-guard killed by the Comanches. We had not gone far, however, before we found our men and the animals, with the exception of six, and discovered that the report of fire-arms we had heard was from the accidental discharge of two barrels of a revolver in the hands of one of our Mexicans. Much relieved, and with our animals driven before us, we returned to camp and to our blankets. The stampede has been of service in one respect, it has shown who are willing to fight, and who are not. Some who have been very loud in the desire to see an Indian skirmish were not as forward last night as I could have desired. The grass is excellent, but there is no wood. We have made to-day twenty-eight miles.[357]: 23–24, July 14. 

"July 13.—Started at 4 a m. and travelled over an almost level country until we came to the Escondido spring. This water is beautifully clear, though slightly brackish. There is sufficient grass here, but of a coarse innutritious quality. We breakfasted and remained at the spring until noon, when we left for Comanche spring, and travelled over a very fine and level road for eighteen miles. Encamped at Comanche springs, where there was running water about five feet deep, but no timber. We caught some very fine fish. Here the great Comanche trail, on their inroads to Mexico on horse stealing excursions, passes, and thousands of stolen horses have been carried by this road to the Indian country." [357]: 23, July 13. 
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Casa Blanca Springs aka Tavertine Springs, Whitehouse Springs
Brune, Gunnar M. - Springs of Texas, Vol. 1, Fort Worth: Branch - Smith, 1981.
Brune, Gunnar M. - Springs of Texas, Vol. 1, Fort Worth: Branch - Smith, 1981

Main 5th Division Rte[edit]

6th Division[edit]

6th Division alternate route between Jacksboro and Gainesville Stations August 1860 - March 1861[edit]

U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Wizard Wells Populated Place
Handbook of Texas Online, David Minor, "Wizard Wells, TX" [409]
Wizard Wells Cemetery U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cemetery
Cactus Hill Cemetery
Colonel W.H. Hunt, 1815-1864
1860 Wise County, Texas, Census, Pages 51-76 Cactus Hill
POSTMASTERS & POST OFFICES OF WISE COUNTY, TEXAS 1856 - 1930
CACTUS HILL (Wise)
Hunt, Wm. H., 30 Jun 1858
Discontinued 7 Jly 1860
[Apparently re-established]
Adare, Chas., 14 Feb 1878
Discontinued 8 Jan 1883; mail to Bridgeport

---

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/West Fork of the Trinity River [410]
User:Asiaticus/sandbox/West Fork
HISTORY of the FOUNDING of BRIDGEPORT, TEXAS
Map: Old Bridgeport 1860-1890
Toll Bridge & Old Bridgeport
FM 920 and Trinity River Bridge, just west of Bridgeport
When Butterfield Overland Mail traversed this area (1858-61) on St. Louis to San Francisco route, a crossing over West Fork of the Trinity was a necessity. Colonel W. H. Hunt on February 11, 1860, obtained a charter and built a toll bridge here (50 yards west). The Overland Mail ceased operating as Civil War began. The bridge soon collapsed. However, a settlement had begun here, and in 1873 Charles Cates, a Decatur merchant, spanned the river with an iron bridge. When the Rock Island Railroad built to this point in 1893, the town moved but retained its historic name.
Cadastral map of Wise County, Texas in the Prairies and Lakes region. Some notes and boundaries are marked in red ink. Scale ca. 1:133,334 (4000 varas per inch). 1878
Cadastral map of Wise County, Texas in the Prairies and Lakes region. Some boundaries are marked in color and the center of the county is noted. Scale ca. 1:133,334 (4000 varas per inch). , Thielepape, George J. October 1878.

---

POSTMASTERS & POST OFFICES OF WISE COUNTY, TEXAS 1856 - 1930
WEST FORK (Wise)
Pruit, Madison F., 19 Jun 1860
Pruet, Madison F., 2 Apr 1863 (CSA)
Discontinued 25 Jun 1867

Old Spanish Trail[edit]

"The water that we serve to our customers comes from a natural underground aquifer called the Bunker Hill Groundwater Basin. The Bunker Hill Basin was formed by ancient earthquakes that tilted huge portions of the bedrock deep under the surface of the Earth to form the sides and bottom of the Basin. These bedrock formations prevent the ground water from flowing away underground to the Pacific Ocean. Rain and melting snow from the local mountains replaces the water we take out of the Basin, replenishing our water supply. This water percolates though the ground to be captured and stored in the Bunker Hill Basin. It is estimated there is as much as 1.6 trillion gallons of water in the basin. This water fills all of the pores and open spaces in between grains of sand and gravel that also fills the Basin. This sand and gravel acts a giant filter and helps to give us the high quality water that we enjoy. This valuable natural resource frees our city from the cost of importing water from Northern California or from the Colorado River, as many other cities in Southern California must do. This keeps our rates low and helps to keep our water quality high.
We share the water in the Bunker Hill Groundwater Basin with more than 20 other local public and private water suppliers. All of these water suppliers have developed long-term plans to protect the quality of water in the Basin and to protect the watershed, or the land that collects our drinking water. It is now one of our highest priorities to follow and update these plans as the Inland Empire’s population and water needs change. We believe that this can be done through the implementation of a comprehensive, enforceable groundwater basin management plan. In all, more than 500,000 residents of the greater Riverside-San Bernardino area depend on the basin for their water, making our responsibility for water quality a tremendous stewardship.[413]

Mojave Road[edit]

Beale's Wagon Road[edit]

Mojave Road, Old Government Road[edit]

Steamboats[edit]

Steamboats of California[edit]

[468]: 174–175 

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 53, 1 February 1851, Steamers in California.[edit]

Steamers in California.

The wonderful and almost magical growth of California is exhibited, as much as in any other manner, by the increase of the means of steam transportation upon our coast and rivers. Well do we recollect the time, scarcely two years since, when a journey to Sacramento City was a wearisome sail of six or eight day and the only possibility of traveling on our coast was by a transient vessel that was proceeding either up or down, with merchandise. The ?????? enormous rates of transportation were charged the miners and settlers in the country were of course obliged to pay a corresponding price for goods and provisions.

A change came o'er the spirit of the dream of California. One fine day the steamer California came puffing into our harbor, cheered on by the loud huzzas of the people as they crowded the hills that overlook the bay. This was the commencement of steam navigation amongst us. But one year ago at this time tln-re were three steamers, the Oregon, l'aiiiima and California, engaged iv transporting passengers and merchandise between this port and Panama ; and the idea of traveling to Oregon in four days was then uubroached. On the still waters of the Sacramento, between here and Sacramento City, two boats, the Senator aud McKim, made triweekly trips ; aud on the Stockton route not more than two small boats ran. The litth; iron steamer Fire Fly occasionally made trips to Santa Clara, when she was able to baffle the strong winds of the bay, and one or two pony powers had penetrated the banks of the Sacramento and Sau Joaquin above Baciainento City aud Stockton.

The following is a list of the steamers at present engaged in the conveyance of passengers aud merchandise upon our coast and rivers. Most of them are fitted up with regard to neatness aud comfort — many of them with an eye to the beautiful :

Pacific Mail Steamship Company's Line —

G. Meredith, -\_-.nt. TONS. Oregon Pearson, Commander 1100 California Budd, do 1100 Carolina Wliitir% do 600 Northerner Raudall, do 1100 Panama VVatkiu*, do H"0 Tennessee Cole, do 1300 Sarah Sands I»ley, do 1*250 I liii urn Nicholson, do 7UO

Law's Line — Olives Chablick, Agent. Columbus McGoweu, Commander. Antelope Ackley, do. I -ili in n« Ottinger, do. Republic H udsoo, do. Steamers running between San Francisco and Oregon. Gold Hunter Hall, Commander. Sea Gull Eyre, do. Mail Steamere, mouthly. Steamers running to Gold Bluff and Trinidad Bay. Chesapeake Ward Pacific Mining Company. (ien. Warreu Smith J. H. Titcomb. Goliah Thomas Chas. Minturn. Steamers running beticeen San Diego and the Intermediate Ports. Constitution Bissell Cook, Bros. & Co. Ohio Haley Bullitt &■ Patrick.

Transient Steamers.

New Orleans, Wood ; Confidence, Uuiinctt ; Wilson U. Hunt, Bi-uuia, Teliama.

Steamers running beticeen San Francisco and Sacramento City. Major Tonipkniß Mosby Ogdcn & Haynes. New World Hutching*.. Chas. Minturn. Senator Va^n Pelt do. 11. T. Clay Murray Thompson Sc Co. West Point Kelsey George H. Reed. Confidence Gannett Yasaault & Co. Hartford Averell .... J. Blair. California Boobar . Steamers running btttieen San Francisco und Stockton. Baaas Seely T. T. Smith. Capt. Sutler Lamb James Blair. El Dorado Robertson.. . Sail Joaquin Moore Mr. Bartlett. Erastus Corning M' Lean. Man posa Porter . Sauta Clara Saunders.

Steamers running beticcsn San Francisco, Han Jose and Santa Clara. William Robinson , Commander. New Star Sampson, do. Jenny Lind Le Fcvre, do. St 1 amirs running between Sacramento City and Marysvillc. Gov. Dana, Photnix, Lawrence, Jack Hays, Sacramento, Linda, Missouri, Faeliion, Star.

In addition to these we are daily expecting the arrival of the steamers Columbia aud the John C. Fremont, both of which belong to or will be under the control of the P. M. S. Company, the former to run reguliirly with the mails to Oregon, and the latter with the mails to San Diego aud other intermediate ports, thus relieving the large steamers from the annoyance of stopping in at these places.

Thus we find at the present date forty-three steamboats running upon our rivers and coast, where one year ago not more then eight or ten were engaged. The facilities for travel and transportation have necessarily reduced the prices of merchandise among the miners and farmers, newspapers and letters are sent with speed and security, and traveling in California has ceased to be an arduous task. X-Jhere will be room for more boats, but not at present. The wild forests of the Sacramento, San Joarpiin, and their tributaries, are fast yielding to the stroke of the woodman's axe, and cities, towns, and villages, are springing up on the banks of these rivers. As facilities for travel increase, communications will be more frequent, aud California will become a laud closely united by bonds of brotherhood which cannot be broken.

Ferries of San Francisco Bay[edit]

Steamboat Lines[edit]

  • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Simmons, Hutchinson & Company
    • Partners Bezar Simmonds born in New Hampshire 1810-1850, raised in Woodstock, Vermont, whaling ship captain from New Bedford, ship Magnolia, 10 years older than his wife Laura Billings 1820-1849 (3 years older than brother Fredrick Billings 1823-) who he married March 26, 1845. Returned from a voyage from California in October 1848 with news of the gold discovery and that he had purchased real estate in the town of Yerba Buena on San Francisco Bay. He sailed Feb. 1, 1849 on the Atlantic Steamship Company steamer Falcon from New York for California going by way of Panama, with his wife and her brother Fredrick. Arriving at Chagras on Feb. 14th they crossed to Panama City by the 23rd and took passage on the steamship Oregon to Yerba Buena on March 12, arriving April 1st. and landing on April 3rd. Laura took ill with Chagras fever (malaria) and died on April 24th.
Bezar's land values in Yerba Buena, and Novato exploded, as more and more people arrived in California. He later acquired 132 lots in Sacramento. There he had partnered in a store with Titus Hutchinson Jr. of Woodstock, Vermont, that employed 8 clerks by August 1849. When the Magnolia arrived in August he put her on the run to Sacramento. In September he partnered with other investors to form a steamboat line running from San Francisco to Sacramento.[470]
First was the Pioneer (sidewheeler 1849), next:
"The propeller McKim ... arrived at San Francisco, Oct. 3d.[1849] She was immediately put in order by her agents, Simmons, Hutchinson & Co., for the Sacramento trade. On the 25th she was advertised for regular trips, and on the next day left on her first voyage up the Sacramento. A large party of invited guests were on board. It was seriously doubted whether a vessel drawing eight feet of water, and of the tonnage of the McKim, could make the journey. The complete success of the experiment was demonstrated by her arrival at the levee of this city on Saturday, October 27, 1849 amid the firing of canon, the cheers of the crowd lining the shore, and a general jubilee throughout the town for the next twenty-four hours." May 19, 1858, Sacramento Daily Union, Sacramento, California, U.S.A., A CHAPTER ON STEAMBOATS [471]
The second and larger steamer up the Sacramento was the 755-ton side-wheel steamship SS Senator, a former Atlantic coastal steamer from Boston. It arrived from its voyage around Cape Horn, on October 7, 1849 and began running on the river November 8, and began bringing in $60,000 each month. Running on alternate days 3 days a week with the McKim, Simmons, Hutchinson & Co. provided daily service between the two cities.[460]: 22 [472]
    • Titus Hutchinson Jr. from in Woodstock, Vermont partner of Bezar Simmonds in Simmons, Hutchinson & Company a store in Sacramento. [470]
  • Simmons, Hutchinson & Company, general merchandise. Simmons dealt also in real estate.[473] [474][475]
Sacramento River navigation [476]

Steamboats of the Colorado River[edit]

Upper Lake Havasu 34°42′54″N 114°28′34″W / 34.71500°N 114.47611°W / 34.71500; -114.47611
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Blankenship Bend, Elevation: 564/172, 34°35′40″N 114°25′51″W / 34.59444°N 114.43083°W / 34.59444; -114.43083
Daily Alta California, add for, Union Line, Clipper Schooner, Mary Ellen, G. I. Flake, Master, 14 February 1865, p.4 col.8 [281]
"UNION LINE. For Colorado River. FIRST VESSEL. Connecting with Steamer Esmeralda and Barges Delivering Freight at all the important points on the River as high up as Call's Landing. Utah Warehouse. with through Bills of Lading. Landing Freight and Passengers at GUAYMAS, DIRECT. The A1 Clipper Schooner Mary Ellen, G. I. FAKE Master, Having nearly her whole cargo engaged and going on board, will sail as above and meet with dispatch. Can take a limited number of passengers. For freight or passage, apply to WM. R. WADSWORTH & SON 402 Front st., upstairs. Or to W. SCHLEIDEN. 321 Washington st"

La Paz - Wikenburg Road[edit]


Department of Arizona fort list Arizona

Hardyville - Prescott Road[edit]

Another well known wagon road that connected Hardyville (now Bullhead City) at the Colorado River to the newly formed City of Prescott and Fort Whipple, was built and operated between 1864 and 1882 with the rise of the A&P Railroad. This historic wagon road was known as the Prescott and Mohave Toll Road (also known as the Hardyville Toll Road).
A toll was charged for the movement of wagons, horses, oxen, horned cattle,mules, sheep, and goats with rates varying between 1/8th of a cent per mile to 1.5 cents per mile. The entire route was a tortorous 150 miles between Hardyville and Prescott. One of the wagon stops along the way was located within the area of the Willow Creek Riparian Preserve. The large cottonwood tree that graces the front yard was known as the “lunch tree” was where weary travelers were fed. It is unclear if travelers stayed overnight in this location or not. The blacksmith shop was most likely located around the area of our garden plot, where oxen shoes and other blacksmith tools have been found.
The Hardyville Toll Road’s traveler’s and goods needed protection from raiding bandits or local Native American tribes such as the Hualapai and Yavapai. In response to this, the U.S. Government placed an Army cavalry camp on the south bank of Willow Creek (within portions of the Preserve) called Camp Willow Grove. During that time, Willow Creek was known as Cliff Creek, but is also designated as Cottonwood Creek on some older maps.
Prior to the arrival of the Spanish Conquistidors in the 1500’s and later the European settlers (1800’s), this area was part of the Patayan Nation that dates back at least 12,000 years and included Southern Utah, Southern Nevada, Eastern California, and Northwestern Arizona. The Patayan’s are the ancestors of the present day Mojave, Havasupai, Hualapai, and Yavapai Tribes. The Willow Creek Riparian Preserve and surrounding area were seemingly used extensively by Native Americans as evidenced by the various sign located within and outside of the Preserve. The Preserve and adjoining parcel have two pectographs which can be viewed by visitors. NOTE: All Native American sites are treated with strict respect and reverance.
    • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Fort Rock Ranch[517] 1873 [493]
      • POs Mount Hope (6/22/1876-5/12/1879), Fort Rock (5/12/1879-11/12/79)[518]: 101, 114  [519]
      • Fort Rock Yavapai Co. Smith Map, 1879; Eckhoff, 1880. In T. 20 N., R. 10 W. Station on Hardyville-Prescott stage road. "We camped at Fort Rock and Lieut. Bailey shot an antelope. It was the first game we had seen. The sight of green grass and trees brought new life to us. Vanished Arizona. Sept., 1874.
"At Buckmans ranch his boy, about twelve years old, built near the house a circle of large rocks for a 'play fort.' Indians attacked the ranch and Pat MacAteer got inside the boy's fort and carried on a good fight with them. From that day on, the place was called 'Fort Rock.'" Letter, Orick Jackson, Prescott. P. 0. established, May 12, 1879, L. Bacon, P. M..[515]: 167 
Hualpai, Camp Mohave Co. Smith Map, 1879; Eckhoff, 1880. Upper end Santa Maria mountains in what Whipple called "Aztec Pass." On Prescott-Fort Mohave road. Established, 1869, as Camp Tollgate, on Walnut creek. "There was a piece of road along here for which a small toll was charged by the man who did some work improving it. He collected at this gate." Hinton. Rand-McNally map, 1877, shows it as "Defiance." The notation on this map says, "Defiance was the first name of the camp." Heitman List says: "On Mohave creek, east of Aztec pass. Established May 9, 1869, as Camp Tollgate; changed to Hualpai Aug. 1, 1870, abandoned Aug. 21, 1870." P. 0. established Jan. 13, 1873, Dewitt P. Foster, P. M.[515]: 215 
Hualpai, Old Fort Yavapai Co. Smith Map, 1879; Eckhoff, 1880. Hinton, 1877, lists this as "a stage station on the road to Prescott; an excellent road; water plentiful but no wood." P. O. established as Hualpai Nov. 28, 1882, Charles A. Behn, P. M. See Juniper.[515]{rp|215}}
Juniper Yavapai Co. Map, Prescott N. F., 1926; G. L. O. Map, 1921. In T. 18 N., R. 5 W. About 6 miles east of Baca grant on Walnut creek, Prescott N. F. East side of Santa Maria mountains. Formerly called '"Old Camp Hualpai." "Our next stop was at the Old Camp Hualpai. We drove through groves of oaks, cedars and pines." Vanished Arizona. P. 0. first named Hualpai, 1873. On Feb. 8, 1883, name was changed to Juniper. See Hualpai, Camp.
    • Williamson's Valley[532] [493] POs Wilson(1/24/1871-10/9/1873), Williamson Valley (10/9/1873-10/2/1875,1/5/1876-3/7/1881,6/14/1881-1/5/1881), Simmons (1/5/1881-7/11/1887-1934)[518]: 129, 137  [533] [534] [535]
      • "Wilson, Yavapai Co., Eckhoff Map, 1880. From P. O. records was in Williamson valley. P. O. established Jan. 24, 1871, William J. Simmons, P. M. First post office, 1873, called Williamson valley, which leads one to believe that Wilson was the present Simmons on Mint creek. See Williamson valley.[515]: 408  Site was located just above the confluence of Mint Wash with Williamson Valley Wash. The old road crossed just above that confluence.[534] [536] [537]
      • "Williamson Valley, Yavapai Co. G. L. G. Map, 1921. East slope Santa Marias opening into Chino valley, west of Del Rio. Probably named after Lieut. Williamson of Ives party, 1858. P. 0. called Williamson established Oct. 9, 1873, Mrs. Betsy Zimmerman, P. M. Called Wilson, 1875, q.v. Changed to Simmons on July 5, 1881.",[515]: 489  [534] Located in Williamson Valley (Arizona).[538], Williamson Valley (California)[539] Williamson Valley - disamb.
      • "Simmons, Yavapai Co., G. L. O. Map, 1909-1921. In T. 17 N., R. 3 W. Southwest of Del Rio on Mint creek. - Named after John A. Simmons, pioneer who settled here, 1880. First called "Crossroads." P. 0. established July 5, 1881, Stephen Breon, P. M. See Wilson."[515]: 490  [534]
    • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Lee's Ranch [540] [541] [542]
      • "Lee Ranch Yavapai Co. Eckhoff Map, 1880. Hinton lists it as a "stopping place on the Prescott stage road. Water, grass, and wood. Road excellent." East side Mint creek, near present settlement of Simmons. Who Lee was, not known. [515]: 244  "American Ranch Yavapai Co.. Early day stage station on road Ehrenburg to Prescott. "Owned by J. H. Lee, who ran a store and station here. Indians attacked the station killing Lee. A man then leased the place, took a sack of flour, placed strychnine in it, left the store open and the sack handy for all comers. Some soldiers under Dan Leary, the scout, came along and found twenty-four dead Indians and fourteen more very sick in a nearby Indian camp. The affair raised an awful fuss among the Indian lovers of the east." Crick Jackson. "About the middle of September, 1875, we arrived at American ranch some 10 miles from Whipple." Mrs. Summerhayes. [515]: 17  [543]
    • Prescott, Arizona[493]

Rise of Opposition Lines 1863[edit]

Consolidation 1866 - 1867[edit]

"The first corporate company to be formed for transportation on the Colorado was the Colorado Navigation company. It owned three light-draught stern wheel steamers, namely, the Colorado, Mojave, and Cocopah. The second was the Pacific and Colorado Steam Navigation company, organized in June 1865, which grew out of the enterprise of Captain Trueworthy, and which made Collville the head of navigation. The capital of the company was $200,000, divided into 4,000 shares at $50 each. The trustees of the company were George S. Marvin, James Linforth, C. S. Hobbs, George Plummer, J. N. Risden, J. W. Store, and K. C. Eldredge. It owned the steamers Esmeralda and Nina Tllden, and the schooner Victoria. Both the companies transported all their heavy freight in barges towed by their steamers. The steamers received their freight at Fort Isabel, their stopping-places being Fort Yuma, Castle Dome, Eureka, La Paz, Williams' Fork, Fort Mojave, Hardyville, El Dorado Canon, and Collville, all small villages or trading-posts, where the miners of the surrounding region came for supplies. In 1867 the Pacific and Colorado Steam Navigation company reorganized as the Arizona Navigation company, the following San Francisco capitalists being interested in it, namely, J. W. Stow, R. G. Sneath, Albert Dibble, and Hobbs and Gilmore. Merchants and manufacturers of this city subscribed toward increasing the facilities of a regular trade with Utah and Arizona by further surveys of the river. In the autumn of this year the Mormon church ordered a community of thirty families to settle on the Muddy branch of the Rio Vinjen, and s^ave other evidence of interest in the promised "increase of transportation. The rapid advancement of the Central Pacific railway about this time, pointing out to the merchants of Salt Lake and San Francisco the future route of transportation between these two cities, operated as a check upon the enthusiasm necessary to carry forward undertakings of an uncertain result."

[546]: 155–156  [547]: 6–8 , [548]: 119  [549] Capital 4,000 shares $200,000 [550]

"In 1867 the Pacific and Colorado Steam Navigation company reorganized as the Arizona Navigation company, the following San Francisco capitalists being interested in it, namely, J. W. Stow, R. G. Sneath, Albert Dibble, and Hobbs and Gilmore. Merchants and manufacturers of this city subscribed toward increasing the facilities of a regular trade with Utah and Arizona by further surveys of the river. In the autumn of this year the Mormon church ordered a community of thirty families to settle on the Muddy branch of the Rio Vinjen, and s^ave other evidence of interest in the promised "increase of transportation. The rapid advancement of the Central Pacific railway about this time, pointing out to the merchants of Salt Lake and San Francisco the future route of transportation between these two cities, operated as a check upon the enthusiasm necessary to carry forward undertakings of an uncertain result."[546]: 156 [547]: 6–8  [551]
"It happened also that in September 1867 the question of the possible navigation of the great canon above Callville was settled by an accident. A party of three prospectors from Colorado City, in the territory of Colorado, were exploring for gold on the San Juan river in the southwestern part, when they were attacked with such suddenness by a party of Indians that their leader, Captain Baker, and all their mules were killed at the first fire. The other two men seized as quickly as possible their lariats and a few pounds of flour, and ran toward the river, where they hastily constructed a raft, to which they as hastily and unthinkingly committed themselves for a voyage down the San Juan, which brought them into the Colorado river. On the third day one of the men, George Strobe of St Louis, was washed off and drowned, and the flour being lost at the same time, the sole survivor was left without food. He immediately lashed himself to the raft for greater security, and it being impossible to return, allowed himself to be borne along with the current, which carried him entirely through the dreaded canon, from which it was impossible after entering to escape. In passing over rapids he was several times nearly drowned, and for seven days he had no sustenance except that derived from chewing the leather scabbards of his hunting-knives, nor any rest except when he tied his craft to a projecting rock in some bit of slack water for a little sleep. When he arrived at the mouth of the Rio Virgen he was pulled ashore by some Indians, who robbed him of one of his pistols and a hatchet, and sold him some dog-meat for his other pistol. He was unable to stand erect; his hair had changed to a yellow-white color, from being constantly wet; his lower limbs were "one solid scab from his feet to his hips," and although still a young man, he appeared to be seventy years old. Such was the wretched plight of James White, of Panosha, Iowa, the first white man to navigate one of the upper branches and the grand canon of the Colorado. From his account of the rapids in the canon, all thought of its ever being made passable for steamboats was abandoned, if any had ever been seriously entertained."[546]: 156–158 

Colorado Steam Navigation Company 1867—1877[edit]

[553] [554] [555] [556] [557]

Against the Current

Eilean Adams contends it was her grandfather who first went down the Colorado River via the Grand Canyon. February 04, 2002|ANN JAPENGA What good is it being the granddaughter of a great adventurer of the West when no one believes you? That has been a dilemma for Eilean Adams ever since sixth grade when she was asked on a test: "Who was the first man to go down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon?" Adams answered: "James White," her grandfather. She flunked the test.

Her teacher believed, as do most Americans, that the one-armed Civil War hero John Wesley Powell was the first white man to challenge the mighty canyon in 1869. At the time, the Grand Canyon was the last big chunk of unexplored territory in the West. There were rumors that the unknown river hid Niagara-type waterfalls and currents that would drag boats under. The first man to survive the journey would be a hero for all time--akin to the first man on the moon.

Indeed, Powell is currently enjoying a resurgence of celebrity based on his 133-year-old conquest. After surviving his canyon trip, Powell went on to a career in Washington, directing the U.S. Geological Survey and founding the Bureau of Ethnology, among other achievements. But it is his descent of the Colorado that gives him enduring appeal. There were four new books published on Powell in 2001, and at least four Powell documentaries produced in recent years.

But was Powell truly the conqueror of the canyon?

Not according to Adams, now a 78-year-old retired technical writer in Seattle. Spurred by her F in the sixth grade, she spent 40 years researching the family story. In her new book, "Hell or High Water: James White's Disputed Passage Through the Grand Canyon, 1867" (Utah State University Press), she asserts that her grandfather actually ran the river two years before Powell.

Except, unlike Powell, he did it by accident.

Adams' book has reawakened an old controversy down on the river, where many boatmen double as historians. "Eilean's book is turning heads," says Brad Dimock, a Colorado River boatman and historian. "James White had been thoroughly dismissed. The river-running world had just about laughed him off. But Eilean's story leaves little doubt that White actually was the first down the Colorado."

In 1867, the few residents of Callville, Nev., came out to watch as a near-naked man on a log raft floated down the Colorado River. (Callville is today submerged under the waters of Lake Mead.) The man, James White, was bruised, scabbed, blackened and babbling.

Once hauled ashore and revived, White said he'd been prospecting for gold in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. One member of his party was killed in an Indian attack, and White and a man named George Strole fled for their lives. Finding no overland escape route, they used lariats to tie together three 10-foot cottonwood logs and launched themselves on the river. Four days later, Strole was washed off the makeshift raft and vanished in a whirlpool.

The lone passenger strapped himself to the raft so he wouldn't meet Strole's fate, then he bounced helplessly down the chaotic river for what he said was 14 days. As the Callville bystanders pieced together the story, they realized their visitor could only have come by way of the unknown gorge, then called Big Canyon or Grand Canyon.

The newspapers picked up White's story, and accounts that a man had survived the canyon journey soon reached the East Coast. At first, White's tale was accepted as fact. But after Powell's expedition two years later, new accounts began to question White's veracity. Among other charges, doubters said the features White described on his passage--rapids, cliffs and distances--did not match the observations of later explorers.

At one point soon after his 1869 expedition, Powell told a reporter that White's adventure was "a complete fiction." Another White critic was Robert Brewster Stanton, the man who claimed to be second to lead an expedition through the Grand Canyon. By the time of White's death in 1927, his claim to being first through the Grand Canyon was cause for smirks and jokes.

Then in 1959, a legendary river historian Otis "Dock" Marston contacted Eilean Adams' mother and said he wanted to tell White's story. Marston did not believe White had made his alleged Grand Canyon journey, but he wanted the details anyway. Adams says Marston's visit to her mother marks the beginning of her 40-year journey to unravel her grandfather's story. "It bothered my mother enormously that people said he didn't do it," she says. "She was furious."

Although Adams had little sentimental attachment to her grandfather (he died when she was 4), she says she, too, was offended that he was called a liar. "I was proud of my grandfather, and I couldn't understand why what he did didn't mean anything to anyone," she says. "Nobody wanted to know about it."

Railroads and the decline of the Steamboats[edit]

Western Development Company 1877—1886[edit]

Daniel Bonelli[edit]

Sou'Wester (sloop)[edit]

  • Rioville, Nevada
  • Mormon Island (Colorado River)
  • User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Sou'Wester (sloop)
    • On July 8, 1879, Rioville became the uppermost landing for steamboats of the Colorado River, when Captain Jack Mellon piloted the steamboat Gila up river through Boulder Canyon to the town, making it the high water head of navigation on the Colorado River. From then until 1887 when silver mining activity declined, steamboats in high water, and from 1879 to 1882 the sloop Sou'Wester in low water, carried locally mined salt to process silver ore in El Dorado Canyon.[560]: 78 
      • On 8 July 1879, twenty years after Johnson and Ives first set out for the elusive Virgin, Jack Mellon finally proved that it was indeed the head of steam navigation on the Colorado River. The Mormons at Rioville were "wonder-struck" to see a steamboat; one proclaimed it the "biggest thing he ever saw in water." The passengers on the Gila were equally impressed with the deep canyons through which they had come, vowing they were the "grandest on Earth." They felt dwarfed by the towering walls, and one concluded that the steamer could not have looked more out of place in the bottom of a mine shaft.l0
      • During the next eight years Mellon took the Gila back up to the Virgin a couple times a year to get salt for the mill, eventually making a total of twenty trips. Captain Isaac Polhamus also took her up a couple times, and his nephew Captain Joseph H. Godfrey even succeeded in working the Mohave up to the Virgin River once in the summer of 1881. To help the boats through the worst rapids, Mellon secured half a dozen ringbolts to the canyon walls in 1883. However, since the steamers could only make the trip during high water and, in fact, at low water could not even reach Eldorado Canyon, the mining company bought a sloop, the Sou'Wester, to make the run the rest of the year. She was a fine, swift boat of 65 tons burden, carrying 18 tons of salt on 2 feet of water. She had a cedar deck and a boiler-plated hull, 56-foot keel and l5-foot beam, and a 48-foot mast sporting more than 400 square yards of canvas. Built in San Francisco, she was shipped by rail to Yuma, then upriver on the Gila to Mormon Island, where she was reassembled and launched in November 1879. With Captain Mellon at the helm, the Sou'Wester made nineteen trips to the Virgin before she was wrecked by his first mate in the Short and Dirty Rapids in 1882. Steamboating above Eldorado Canyon finally ceased in 1887 with the decline of mining operations.ll
      • 9. Arizona Sentinel (Yuma), 21, 28 June, 5, 12, 19, 26 July 1879.
      • 10. Ibid., 19, 26 July 1879, 3 Mar. 1888.
      • 11. Arizona Sentinel (Yuma), 18 Oct., 15 Nov. 1879,23 July, 10 Sept. 1881, 14 Jan., 29 July 1882, 14 Apr. 1883; Phoenix Saturday Review, 13 Apr. 1895; U.S. Congress, House, House Document 67 "Preliminary Examination of the Colorado River, Nevada" 56th Cong., 2d sess., (Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1900), pp. 3, 6.
      • October 18, 1879, The Arizona Sentinel; Yuma, Arizona, Page 2, col. 1 Last Saturday came by rail, a boat complete, for the South Western Mining Co. at El Dorado Canon. The water is so low above Hardyville, as to render navigation for our steamers very difficult, and this boat will take the cargo of the "Gila" from that point to the mill. It came on two cars all ready to be put together by Owens, Downty and other carpenters who are at Hardyville awaiting the arrival of the "Gila" on which it was shipped. It is of 65 tons burthen, and was built by Delaney at San Francisco, has a cedar deck, wire rigging, patent capstan and 2780 pounds displacement to the inch of draught; her mast is 48 ft. long, main boom 28 ft., and she carries 438 square yards of canvass, and arrangements are being made for an engine which will be put in her later on. Her name is the "Sou'Wester", and she inaugurates a new system of navigation on the Colorado River.
      • January 14, 1882, The Arizona Sentinel; Yuma, Arizona, p.3 col.3 Capt. Jack Mellon was at Walker & Grounds Landing, Dec. 23d, with the fast sailing and well built sloop South Wester, belonging to the South-west Mining Company, Eldorado Canyon. He brought a load of salt from the Virgin for the company. He loaded with freight for the Southwest Company and started up the river. He reports times lively at the Canyon. - Alta Arizona
      • U.S. Congress, House, House Document 67 "Preliminary Examination of the Colorado River, Nevada" 56th Cong., 2d sess., (Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1900),pp. 3,6
        • Preliminary Examination of the Colorado River, Nevada
        • p.3 Previous to 1887, when salt was brought down from the mouth of the Virgin River for reduction purposes in a silver mine at El Dorado Canyon, Capt. J. A. Mellon, the oldest navigator on the river, had made 39 trips to Rioville during high-water stages of the river. Nineteen of these trips were made during the high-water seasons of 1880 and 1881, with a sloop drawing about 2 feet and carrying about 18 tons. The other 20 trips were made between 1879 and 1887, with a steamer 178 feet long, 36 feet beam, and about 30 inches draft, carrying about 60 tons. Since 1887, when the silver mine at El Dorado Canyon was closed down, not a single trip has been made by steamer above that point. High-water navigation to points between El Dorado Canyon and Rioville is still possible during about three months in each year, and it seems to me that were the demands of the mining interests sufficiently great, and were there enough freight to pay for the trouble, the steamers would still make regular trips along the stretch of river under consideration as long as the high-water stages of the river during each year would permit of it.
        • p.6-7 Captain J. A. Mellon previous to 1887, and in the high water stage of the river made 20 trips from El Dorado Canyon to Rioville with a steamer of 178 feet overall, 36 feet beam, and 30 inches draft, with 60 tons of freight. This sloop was lost on a bowlder in Short and Dirty Rapids. No vessal has ascended the river above El Dorado Canyon since 1887 on account of lack of freight.
        • Rapid No. 27 (1 mile below Warm Spring Rapids).—The banks here are high and steep, but a gravel bar on the left bank throws the current to the right bank. It is here intercepted by a ledge of rock extending out into the stream 50 feet from the right bank and 8 feet above the water's surface, making a sharp, dangerous turn and bad eddies. The crest of bar has a very hard bottom. This ledge of rock should be removed.
        • Short and Dirty Rapids, Nos. 28 and 29.— There are two rapids 250 to 300 yards apart. The first'is formed by a rocky ledge on the right bank and a sand and bowlder bar on the left bank contracting the current and inclining it to the right bank. It then strikes a sand and bowlder bar on the right bank, forcing the current to a large bowlder probably 50 feet out in the stream from the left bank, and is again contracted. The sloop South-wester, belonging to the Southwestern Mining Company, was wrecked on this bowlder. A strip of the upper bowlder bar should be removed, and the large bowlder and a small strip of the lower bowlder bar should also be removed to straighten the rapids.

Polhamus, Mellon and Their Rivals, 1886 - 1904[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Steamboats on the Upper Colorado and Green Rivers 1891-1912[edit]


List of Steamboats on the Colorado River

Camino Real de Tierra Adentro[edit]

Mexico City and State of Mexico[edit]

State of Hidalgo[edit]

State of Mexico cont.[edit]

State of Querétaro[edit]

State of Guanajuato[edit]

State of Jalisco[edit]

State of Aguascalientes[edit]

Zacatecas[edit]

State of San Luis Potosí[edit]

Durango[edit]

"Villa Hidalgo, once known as the Presidio of Cerro Gordo, was a prominant strong point on the camino real from Durango, Durango to the spanish colonies of Nueva Mexico.The parish priests of San Miguel de Cerro Gordo were responsible for the entire area from the Hacienda de la Zarca to the south, to Carrizo, San Juan Bautista, la Mimbrera, etc.In the mid 1700's, the Spanish transferred the unit stationed at the presidio to build a new presidio somewhere along the Rio Grande in an attempt to stop the indians from what is now Texas from raiding throughout Nueva Viscaya (Durango/Chihuahua/Sonora etc.) Many of the de la O's moved to San Bartolome (Villa Allende, Chihuahua) at that time. When the presidio at Cerro Gordo was reopened, these same families moved back to the area. Since both of these presidios, San Bartolome and Cerro Gordo, are on the road to New Mexico, they could be the ancestors of the de la O's of Dona Ana." The de la O's of Durango, Mexico, By Martin Lesue October 14, 2009 from genealogy.com, acessed 1/25/2020.

Chihuahua

Asiaticus/sandbox/El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro in Chihuahua
  • Notes.
[1] [22] Rancho Lucero = Ojo Lucero: This bad place [crossing Dune feild on direct route to San Jose and Juarez], was about 6 m. Beyond it, some 15 (?) m., is a fine spring of water a few yards to the left, called Ojo Lucero or Venus' spring. A place on the railroad in this vicinity is named Rancheria. Further on is seen, at some distance to the right of the road, a square mound 20 feet high, with a warm spring on its level top. Beyond this, on the left, is Laguna de Patos, or Duck L., a considerable body of water, which is the sink of the Rio Carmen. The other road from El Paso to Carrizal joins the main road in this vicinity. ... The spring which Pike marks "Ojo de Lotario" (Lothario) is that above named as Lucifer or Venus; and the hill delineated close by it is probably intended for the mound above said. [570] : Footnote: [II'-2] 
location map~ |New Mexico |label=1||position=top|lat=31.759|long= -106.4891}}

Jornada del Muerto[edit]

Jornada del Muerto Grant by J. J. Bowden
Beale in 1858 El Paso to Albuquerque
"July 30.—We passed through the towns of Cruces and Dona Ana, where we exhibited the camels to the wondering gaze of the population. Travelled about eighteen and a half miles, and encamped on the river.
"Here we leave the water, and take the much dreaded Jornada del Muerto," a stretch of ninety miles without water. We are, however, in hopes that our usual good fortune will attend us, and that the rain will come to our assistance. This morning our road led us in view of the Organ mountain, about seven miles distant, a most rugged and terribly severe mountain, but containing in its bosom a store of wealth in silver ore which its frowning aspect seems to guard from intrusion; ineffectually, however, as its bowels are being torn and rent by blasting and cutting, in search of the precious contents. This evening we started at 4 o'clock, intending to go out eight miles and make a dry camp; but we had not gone far before it began to drizzle, and soon after the rain came down in torrents. Through the rain we travelled on cheerfully, until a little after dark; cheerfully, for we felt assured of finding rain water in holes on the "Jornada," and for our animals' sake we were willing enough to take the rain. At night we stopped on the plain, and threw ourselves on the ground, to sleep soundly until the bugle called us in the morning. After leaving the river, the road ascends about seven miles, which is sandy. At this point the great plain of the " Jornada" is reached, and the road becomes excellent.
July 31.—This morning we started at 4, and travelled until 9.30 a. m. Nothing could exceed the beauty of the country we have travelled over this morning. The whole extent, as far as vision reached ahead, was a level plain, covered thickly with the most luxurious grass, and filled with beautiful wild flowers, while on each side the mountains in the distance, nearly covered with clouds, loomed up grandly. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of acres, containing the greatest abundance of the finest grass in the world, and the richest soil are here lying vacant, and looked upon by the traveller with dread, because of its want of water. It is worthy of remark, as a curious coincidence, that at every long stretch without water we have come to, since leaving the Atlantic, we have had abundant rains; all the more remarkable, as the people here say that these are the first rains that have fallen on them for more than a year. This evening we made ten miles; making, for the day's journey, twenty-four and a-half miles. Encamped without finding water. Grass abundant and good; slight rain during the night.
August 1.—Raised camp at 4 30, and sunrise found us some distance on the road. Last night was passed watchfully, Indian signs having been observed. We travelled four miles, and after ascending a short but steep hill encamped at some rain water holes. On the brow of the hill is the grave of two Germans killed by the Indians, from which this place takes its name of the Allemagne. Three miles further on is another place of the same name, where a third German of the same party lost his life. Our journey this morning was short, owing to our finding water and the uncertainty of soon finding it again. The road is excellent and the grass very abundant, wanting only trees and water to make the country perfect. After breakfasting we started again, and, on arriving at the Big Allemagne, found a party of Mexicans journeying to Dona Ana. In this country the first question is, Indians? And the second, water? Having exchanged views as to the first and most important, we found that, to our sorrow, we should not find water at the Laguna, and that, as no rain had fallen to the northward, we had no hope of any water nearer than the river—fifty miles distant. This at once determined me to spend the day where we were and travel after night. The teams were immediately turned loose and our camp made; the rain water in the holes being abundant. At sundown we started on our journey again, and travelled till 1 o'clock at night, when we encamped on the plain, having made twenty miles. The grass is excellent, but the animals, having no water, ate but little.
August 2.—At 4, up and off again. The sun rose hot and fiery, and ail betokened a distressing day's journey. Soon we began to see that since the Mexicans had passed rain had fallen upon their trail, and shortly after, to our great joy, a hole containing sufficient rain water for all our animals was found. Camp was made at once, and breakfast. After a hurried meal, the animals being refreshed by water and abundance of grass, we started again and at noon encamped on the Bio Grande. Thus, we have passed the terrible "journey of death," and it has been our good fortune to have had a most agreeable passage of it; rain water as often as we desired, instead of a ninety mile journey without any. The road is already good; the grass, as I have before remarked, everywhere excellent and abundant, and nothing but water required to make it in every way desirable. At present, it lies directly on the road between El Paso and Santa Fe — the dread and terror of travellers, and has cost more loss in the suffering and death of cattle than would pay ten times over for the three wells the government might cause to be dug. The grass on the river bottoms is not good, and we therefore camped on the nearest hills to the river, where we found excellent gramma. Distance made to-day twenty-five miles.
August 3. — Started somewhat late this morning, (6 o'clock,) and after a short march came in sight of Fort Craig, on the opposite side of the river. I did not cross to it, but from its appearance at a distance of a quarter of a mile it presented a more fort-like outside and aspect than any post we have seen on the road. Travelled up the river sixteen miles and encamped on a hill near it. Grass good, and wood, in the timber of the river bottom, abundant. The scenery of the river, especially the green meadow and the trees is very pleasant, and to us, who have been so long without the sight of running water, and kept so constantly anxious on the subject of a good square drink, the abundant river is a very grateful object of view.[357]: 29–31 
Bishop Tamaron’s Visitation to New Mexico, 1760 [571]
Sp. league = 2.597 mi

--- Journey north

p. de Robledo - p. de S.D. = 5 lg. = 12.985 mi. to river, 0.5 lg. = 1.298 mi.;
p. de S.D. - Opposite Sierra San Cristobal 20 lg. = 42.666 mi.,
Opposite Sierra San Cristobal - P. de Fray Cristobal 10 lg. = 21.333 mi.,
p. de Robledo - p. de de Fray Cristobal 35 lg. = 74.666 mi T

--- Return to south

P. de Fray Cristobal to J. del Muerto 18 lg. = 38.399 mi
J. del Muerto to Perrillos 4 lg. = 8.533 mi
Perrillos to p. de Robledo 8 lg. = 17.066 mi
p. de de Fray Cristobal - p. de Robledo 30 lg. = 64 mi T
"The daily journeys continued in the same way as when I entered. Some of the stopping places for the night were found to be flooded because of the extraordinary freshets the river had that year. The difference on the return trip was that it took two days less, because, as a result of the rains, we found water in the middle of the Jornada del Muerto at the place they call Perrillos, and we did not have to make the detour."
George D. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos, Sunstone Press, Santa Fe, Dec 1, 2011: 147–151 
Landforms of the central Jornada del Muerto: Influencing the Path of El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro
Hydrogeology of central Jornada del Muerto: Implications for travel along El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, Sierra and Doña Ana Counties, New Mexico open-file report 573 June 2015, Talon Newton, Trevor Kludt, Dave Love, and Ethan Mamer
Crossing the Jornada del Muerto: Hydrogeoogical and Geomorphological controls on traveling El Camino Real
APPENDIX E, HIGH-POTENTIAL HISTORIC SITES

Fort Selden[edit]

Henry Raymond Selden[edit]

Paraje de Robledo[edit]

Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos [572] : 141–143 
Paraje de Robledo and Fort Selden
Known as Cruz de Robledo, later Paraje de Robledo, named for the 60 year old Spanish veteran Pedro Robledo who died and was buried there in 1598 during the first expedition to colonize northern New Mexico. The Robledo Mountain across the Rio Grande to the west is also named for him.

Paraje de San Diego[edit]

Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos[574] : 144–146 

Paraje del Perrillo[edit]


Point of Rocks (Sierra County, New Mexico)[edit]

  • Cerros de Perrillo (Hills of the Doggy)

Aleman, New Mexico[edit]

Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos[575] : 154 

Black Hill (New Mexico)[edit]

Las Penuelas (Black Hill)
On 24 May 1598, the Oñate expedition traveled four leagues north of the Paraje del Perrillo without any water. They finally came to some small pools next to Piedras de Afilar where they drank and rested. They took their horses to the river, more than six leagues off to their left, where it was extremely hilly and very rough (Pacheco, Cárdenas y Torres 1871:XVI, 248-249). Marshall and Walt place Oñate at Las Peñuelas on this day (Marshall and Walt 1984:237). The association of Oñate’s camp with Peñuelas, or with Alemán, is reasonable. Through the rest of the Jornada del Muerto, Oñate’s journal becomes confused. It appears that there is data missing from it, making any conclusions based upon that source hazardous. Vargas went from El Perrillo to Las Peñuelas on 28 August 1692, but did not estimate the distance of his journey. He did note that it was six leagues from Las Peñuelas to El Muerto (Kessell and Hendricks 1992:371).
On 25 May 1726 Rivera left San Diego and traveled eleven leagues north-northwest through flat land, leaving the hills called “el Perilloto” the east, and stopped at an uninhabited paraje, with no water or fire-wood, called Las Peñuelas (Alessio Robles 1946:49). Julyan identifies Las Peñuelas as Point of Rocks (Julyan 1996:199). Such an association is obvious on the basis of the name alone. However, chroniclers who visited both the hills and water source of Perrillo and Peñuelas noted considerable, and variant, distances between the two. A comparison of distance estimates suggests that Peñuelas and Alemán (below) were the same, or at least were very near one another. Perhaps the rocks in the name and in Oñate’s description of his camp of 24 May refer to Prisor Hill. It is by Aleman Draw and has a well marked on its western flank; however, at about 2 leagues southeast of the modern locale of Aleman it may be too far off the track. Black Hill is further north and a little west. In pinpointing any of these parajes the relationships between them must be considered.



Jornada Lakes[edit]
Jornada Draw[edit]
32°47′19″N 106°54′56″W / 32.78861°N 106.91556°W / 32.78861; -106.91556 mth n end of Flat Lake Basin, E. of Point of Rocks
32°49′44″N 106°56′48″W / 32.82889°N 106.94667°W / 32.82889; -106.94667 Mth w of Upham Hills
Lyons Draw l
Yoast Draw r Prizor Hill
Alaman Draw r " "
McClellon Draw r below Rainwater Ranch
Big Ditch Draw l at Rainwater Ranch
Hackberry Draw r 0.75 m below Jornada Lakes
Jornada Lakes
33°09′24″N 107°00′08″W / 33.15667°N 107.00222°W / 33.15667; -107.00222 Src SE of Engle

Engle Lake Laguna del Muerto[edit]

Ojo del Muerto[edit]

Original loc. : 33°10′11″N 107°06′19″W / 33.16972°N 107.10528°W / 33.16972; -107.10528 ele: ?
33°10′58″N 107°06′02″W / 33.18278°N 107.10056°W / 33.18278; -107.10056 ele: 4,560 ft.< from northwest shore of Laguna del Muerto a more recent artesian well.
Five to six miles west of the Laguna was Ojo del Muerto, Dead Man's Spring, the only other source of water in the area when the Lake was dry. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos [576] : 155 


Fort McRae[edit]

U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Fort McRae (historical) 33°11′43″N 107°09′53″W / 33.19528°N 107.16472°W / 33.19528; -107.16472
Fort McRae from fortwiki.com
Fort McRae Cemetery; Sierra County, New Mexico; 33°11′43″N 107°09′53″W / 33.19528°N 107.16472°W / 33.19528; -107.16472
Fort McRae from newmexicohistory.org.
Fort McRae Emerges from Elephant Butte Reservoir, 2002
Fort McRae by Matthew A. Sterner
McRae Canyon[edit]
Cañon del Muerto (Sierra County, New Mexico)[edit]

U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cañon Del Muerto m 33°10′13″N 107°06′25″W / 33.17028°N 107.10694°W / 33.17028; -107.10694, m Elevation: 4573/1394, s 33°08′39″N 107°07′10″W / 33.14417°N 107.11944°W / 33.14417; -107.11944 ele. 4,770 ft / 1,454 m confluence with McRae Canyon 33°11′20″N 107°07′33″W / 33.18889°N 107.12583°W / 33.18889; -107.12583

Alexander McRae (1829 - 1862)[edit]

Vol. II p457 1516, CLASS 1851 (Born N. C.) Alexander McRae (Ap'd N. C.) 23
Fort Merrill[edit]
Fort Merrill from tshaonline.org
FORT MERRILL. Fort Merrill, located on the right bank of the Nueces River where the Corpus Christi to San Antonio road crossed the river, fifty miles above its mouth, was founded on March 1, 1850, by Capt. Samuel M. Plummer and companies H and K of the First United States Infantry. Lumber and logs used in the construction of the fort were shipped in from New Orleans, and the soldiers of the garrison erected the buildings. The fort probably was named in honor of Capt. Moses E. Merrill, who was killed in the Mexican War battle of Molino del Rey on September 8, 1847. Companies I and E of the Rifle Regiment were the regular garrison until April 26, 1853, when they were transferred to Fort Ewell, leaving only two noncommissioned officers and thirteen men at Fort Merrill. After 1853 the fort was garrisoned only intermittently. When W. G. Freeman inspected it on June 21, 1853, Lt. Alexander McRae was in command, but the garrison was so small that it could do no more than night sentinel duty. The fort was abandoned on December 1, 1855. Fort Merrill is off U.S. Highway 281, three miles northwest of Dinero in Live Oak County.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
M. L. Crimmins, "W. G. Freeman's Report on the Eighth Military Department," Southwestern Historical Quarterly 51–54 (July 1947- October 1950). Robert W. Frazer, Forts of the West (Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1965). Francis Paul Prucha, A Guide to the Military Posts of the United States, 1789–1895 (Madison: State Historical Association of Wisconsin, 1964). Robert Wooster, Soldiers, Sutlers and Settlers: Garrison Life of the Texas Frontier (College Station: Texas A&M University Press, 1987).
Thomas W. Cutrer
465*.html Cullums Register, Vol. I, p382, #465, (Born Me.) Moses E. Merrill (Ap'd Me.) 37/41
Fort Merrill
Fort Merrill (1850–1855) - A U.S. Army post established in 1850, by Captain Samuel M. Plummer and companies H and K of the 1st U.S. Infantry and named after Captain Moses E. Merrill, who was killed 8 Sep 1847 at the Battle of Molino del Rey during the Mexican War. Abandoned in 1855.
History
A U.S. Army post established 1 Mar 1850, by Captain Samuel M. Plummer and companies H and K of the 1st U.S. Infantry.
The post was built out as a two company open plan fort with a single large 16' by 80' enlisted barracks. The barracks had two 16' by 40' rooms for the enlisted troops. There were four officer quarters, one of which was designated as the commanders quarters. Other major buildings included a hospital, adjutants office, blacksmith shop, quartermaster buildings and a corral.
The post was abandoned on 1 Dec 1855.
Current Status
The site is on private property and not open to the public. Ruins only, a marker is said to be located south of the site on FM 534 about 3.5 miles northwest of Dinero in Live Oak County, Texas. The marker was not located.
Location: Approximately three miles northwest of Dinero in Live Oak County, Texas.
Maps & Images
Lat: 28.2591 Long: -98.0108, 28°15′32″N 98°00′38″W / 28.25889°N 98.01056°W / 28.25889; -98.01056
Elevation: 187'
  • Texas Historical Monument Site of Fort Merrill
Fort Merrill was established in 1850 by Captain S. M. Plummer First U. S. Infantry on the banks of the Nueces River in order to protect settlers from Comanche raids. It was named in honor of Captain Hamilton W. Merrill Brevet Major, 2nd Dragoons, gallant officer in the Mexican War. The fort was abandoned in December of 1855.
3.5 mi. NW of Dinero, off FM 534 Dinero, Texas
Live Oak County
Year Erected: 1936
Marker Type: 1936 Centennial - Subject Marker (gray granite)
Cullums Register, Vol. I, p.718, #967 (Born N. Y.) Hamilton W. Merrill (Ap'd N. Y.) 27/45
(1850 - 1855), near George West
A Federal infantry post located on the south or west bank of the Nueces River at the crossing of the San Antonio - Corpus Christi Road, a few miles below town. Served as protection for settlers from Indians.
Fort Ewell[edit]
U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Fort Ewell Site *Elevation: 325/99 28°08′36″N 99°01′53″W / 28.14333°N 99.03139°W / 28.14333; -99.03139
Fort Ewell from tshaonline.org
FORT EWELL. Fort Ewell was on the south bank of the Nueces River at the Nueces River crossing of the road from San Antonio to Laredo in what is now La Salle County. It was established on May 18, 1852, and was garrisoned by Companies E, G, and I of the regiment of Mounted Riflemen. Capt. John Smith Simonson was the commanding officer of the fort, which was named for Capt. Richard S. Ewell, a veteran of the Mexican War.
According to Col. W. G. Freeman's inspection report in June 1853 the fort was in a poor location. The river was seventy-five feet wide and only four feet deep, and it frequently overflowed its banks, covering the nearby bottoms and salt marshes and making the fort inaccessible. There was no suitable timber for construction within ten to fifteen miles, nor was there good grazing for the animals. The buildings had been constructed by troop labor of soft adobe, which was not strong enough to support a roof without bracing. Most buildings were covered with canvas. Attempts to grow kitchen gardens for food were unsuccessful due to lack of rainfall. Food and clothing were sometimes at a premium, and troops were often sick. For two years after July 1852 every officer and man was sick on the average of once every three months. Scurvy was frequent. Many soldiers deserted the fort and went to Mexico. In December 1853 the base was ordered abandoned, and in October 1854 it was deserted.
The post office for Fort Ewell continued to serve the area from the settlement of Guajoco, a mile from the old fort. By 1886, when the Fort Ewell post office was decommissioned, the community too had faded away.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Arrie Barrett, Federal Military Outposts in Texas, 1846–1861 (M.A. thesis, University of Texas, 1927). M. L. Crimmins, "W. G. Freeman's Report on the Eighth Military Department," Southwestern Historical Quarterly 51–54 (July 1947- October 1950). Annette Martin Ludeman, La Salle: La Salle County (Quanah, Texas: Nortex, 1975). Ray Miller, Ray Miller's Texas Forts (Houston: Cordovan, 1985).
Art Leatherwood

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Fort Ewell
(1852 - 1854, 1859, 1864), near Encinal
A Federal Dragoon adobe fort on the south bank of the Nueces River, about 25 miles southeast of Cotulla, at the river crossing of the San Antonio - Laredo Road. Moved to higher ground in 1854 before being abandoned. Confederates occupied the site in 1864 as a supply depot.

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U.S. Army on the Texas Frontier from texasbeyondhistory.net
In the absence of a comprehensive national strategy, the first two commanders of what evolved into the military Department of Texas, Maj. Gen. William J. Worth (1848-49) and Maj. Gen. George Mercer Brooke, vice Brig Gen., (1849-51), began the work of confirming United States authority along the southern and western frontiers of Texas. Along the lower Rio Grande, Forts Polk and Brown had been established during the war against Mexico; to these, Brooke added Ringgold Barracks, Fort McIntosh, and Fort Duncan.
To protect the western frontier, Forts Inge, Lincoln, Martin Scott, Croghan, Gates, Graham, and Worth were erected on Brooke's watch. Following the general's death in 1851, his successor, Brevet Maj. Gen. Persifor F. Smith, added Forts Ewell and Merrill in South Texas. Pushing the military line further west, Smith authorized construction of Forts Clark, Terrett, Mason, McKavett, Chadbourne, Phantom Hill, and Belknap. To help plug gaps in the northwest, Camp Cooper was erected in 1856. A double line of forts now protected Texas' southern and western frontiers.

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La Cruz de Anaya[edit]

Paraje de Fray Cristobal[edit]

Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos[577]: 157–159 
Fray Cristobal paraje
Otermín placed Fray Cristóbal 60 leagues from Santa Fé, 32 leagues from Robledo, which he gave as the beginning of the dry jornada, and seven from La Cruz de Anaya (Hackett and Shelby 1942:II, 202;II, 365;II.397). Vargas reached Fray Cristóbal traveling north on August 30, 1692. He noted that it was 32 leagues from San Diego and 65 from El Paso (Kessell and Hendricks 1992:371-373). El Paraje de Fray Cristóbal marked the northern terminus of the Jornada del Muerto of New Mexico. On 27 May 1726 Rivera traveled northnorthwest eleven leagues, passing the Sierra de San Cristóbal, and stayed at a paraje called Fray Cristóbal, located on the bank of the Río Grande (Alessio Robles 1946:50).
On 11 August 1766, Lafora recounted camping there on the bank of the Río Grande five leagues north of the northern end of the Sierra de San Cristóbal (Alessio Robles 1939:93). On 22 November 1780 Anza left Valverde and traveled five leagues south to “Fray Cristoval” (Thomas 1932:199).
In 1895, Coues characterized this as an area more than a specific point (Coues 1895:II, 635- 636).
Josiah Gregg gave a short description of Fray Cristóbal in 1833 that defines the Spanish paraje from the Anglo-American point of view. [578]
He wrote that it, “like many others on the route, is neither town nor village, but a simple isolated point on the river-bank - a mere paraje, or camping-ground” (Gregg 1933:258).
In August of 1846, Wislizenus understood this title to refer to the last camping place before entering the Jornada del Muerto heading south rather than a particular site. His caravan camped two miles from the Río Grande but he noted that others stayed nearer or further and that there were no buildings with which to identify the name (Wislizenus 1848:38).
In 1851, Reverend Read described a grove of timber where all travelers “halt to feed, rest and obtain a supply of wood and water before entering the Jornada” (Bloom 1942:135). When Davis passed through Fray Cristóbal in 1855, there was still no settlement of any kind (Davis 1938:208- 209).
A town called Paraje, or Fra Cristobal, founded at about the same site in the late 1850s, survived into the first decades of the twentieth century. A twin town, Canta Recio, was settled directly across the river in the 1870s (Boyd 1986:86). Boyd places the town of Paraje eight miles down river from Fort Craig. During the Civil War, Colonel Edward Canby estimated it at seven miles (Boyd 1986:60, 70-71). Marshall and Walt note that the site of Paraje, designated LA 1124, is south of Paraje Well (Marshall and Walt 1984:293). The ruins of Paraje lie within the flood basin of Elephant Butte Reservoir.
Although it has seldom been completely under water the reservoir contributed to erosion of the town. Boyd writes that during the twentieth century the Río Grande meandered eastward to erode the western portion of the town’s ruins (Boyd 1986:110). According to John P. Wilson, the location of the earliest signs of settlement were found by a surveyor in 1857 at the line between Sections 31 and 6 in Townships 8 and 9 South, Range 2 West (Wilson 1985:32). A 1908 Bureau of Reclamation map in Boyd confirms that location (Boyd 1986:103).
The small area of the river occupied by Paraje and Paraje Well would have been the point where caravans left or reached the river before or after the crossing of the Jornada del Muerto. The “Lava Gate” between lava flows to the northeast and the Fra Cristobal Range to the southwest funneled traffic to the river in that area (Marshall and Walt 1984:241).
A map from the Surveyor General’s files of the Pedro Armendaris Grant shows the “old wattering place” (sic) where the “Wagon Road over the Jornada” met the “old bed of the Río Grande.” It also has range lines and the town sites of Paraje and Canta Recio. It can be used to pinpoint the location where the Camino Real rejoined the river, the focal point of the paraje of Fray Cristóbal. However, testimony in that same file notes that there was evidence of several river beds, or meanders, at Fray Cristóbal, “showing that at different times it has had its channel all over the narrow valley which borders the present stream” (Pedro Armendaris Grant #33:108- 109,182-183). The paraje also spread along and away from the river at that point.


Mesa del Contadero[edit]

Adolph Francis Alphonse Bandelier, Final Report of Investigations Among the Indians of the Southwestern United States, Carried on Mainly in the Years from 1880 to 1885., Archaeological Institute of America, 1892 pp.247-251 Senecú = San Antonio, San Pasqual across the river from Senecú, San Marcial was built on an older Piro settlement across from Valverde.
Adolph Francis Alphonse Bandelier, Adolf Bandelier: A Biography by William H. Wroth
Handbook of American Indians North of Mexico: N-Z, Volume 2; Volume 30, Part 2, Senecú, pp.508-9 Former Piro pueblo, was located at the present site of San Antonio, New Mexico.
Robert Hixson Julyan, The Place Names of New Mexico, p.331
Between the 26th and 27th of May 1598, the Oñate expedition traveled nine leagues from the “Arroyo de los Muertos” or “Arroyo de las Parras” without their carts because it was impossible to proceed with them. On the 27th, they arrived at “Ciénega de Mesilla de Guinea,” named this because the mesa was made of black rock (Pacheco, Cárdenas y Torres 1871:XVI.249). It was the same formation that shared the names El Contadero, Senecú, and Black Mesa.
Hammond and Rey place the marsh on the east bank of the Río Grande, near San Marcial (Hammond and Rey 1953:I.317). That area was later called Valverde.
Otermín, in 1680, twice mentioned El Contadero without giving details about it (Hackett and Shelby 1942:II, 172,364). On another occasion, however, he described camping at the “place...which they call El Contadero, along the banks of the Río del Norte.” The next morning they “crossed the Río del Norte, the pueblo of Senecú being on the other side” (Hackett and Shelby 1942:II, 203).
On 12 August 1766, one league north of Fray Cristóbal, Lafora entered a perilous defile through hills and ravines called “el Contadero.” It extended north three leagues, as far as the mesa of Senecú. From the mesa the ruins of the pueblo of the same name could be seen across the river (Alessio Robles 1939:94).
In Miera y Pacheco’s map (“Plano del Rio Grande, 1773), two sites are featured: Contadero south of “Mesa de Senecú” and an unnamed paraje north of the mesa, perhaps Valverde (Adams and Chávez 1956:268;Marshall and Walt 1984:286).
The 1819 description of the Valverde Grant gave as the southern boundary “a peak or knoll located on the southern edge of the Mesilla del Contadero which is the boundary or terminus of the Valverde Valley and which is at the Fray Cristobal Paraje” (Bowden 1969:II.163). El Contadero was noted but not described by Gregg (Gregg 1933:258). Ferguson referred to the “high table-land on the east side of the river called ‘Cantadero’(sic)” (Bieber 1936:334). Gibson camped at Valverde, which he described as very close to a mesa. His description of the mesa as a volcanic table, flat except for one little elevation, with very steep sides, identifies it as Black Mesa. When his unit left Valverde it went six miles around the east of the mesa and to the camp of another unit on the south side. That camp was one half mile from water but had forage and wood. It was nine miles from Fray Cristóbal (Bieber 1935:293-294). An 1872 map of the Pedro Armendaris Grant shows a place labeled Contadero south of the mesa with the same name (Pedro Armendaris Grant #34:28). Marshall and Walt place the paraje south of the mesa. They also note a colonial and Mexican period archeological site, Corrales de Contadero (LA 31735, Río Abajo Site No. 72), that may be associated with the paraje (Marshall and Walt 1984:270,294).
Wilson uses the name Contadero for the pass, the mesa, and the point where the road once more reached the river. He also describes the trail as “the very narrow trail along the western and southern base, between the steep sides of the mesa and the waters of the river” (Wilson 1976:6-7). The term Contadero was used over the centuries to describe Black Mesa itself and its southward extension toward Fray Cristóbal, the defile leading through the southern extension to Black Mesa, and camps on both the south and north sides of the mesa. The latter was later known as Valverde.
Oñate named the “Mesilla de Guinea,” a reference to its black color, and the marshes along the river beside it. Lafora referred to the mesa itself as the “mesa de Senecú,” from which the ruins of the pueblo of the same name could be seen across the river. Miera y Pacheco used the same name for the mesa itself. By referring to “the southern edge of the Mesilla del Contadero” at “Fray Cristobal Paraje,” the 1819 description of the Valverde Grant used that name to describe the entire formation of which Black Mesa is the northernmost part. Lafora described Contadero as the narrow defile leading north to the mesa. The 1773 map of Miera y Pacheco depicted Contadero south of “Mesa de Senecú”, as did the Armendaris Grant map. That may have been Gibson’s 1846 campground on the south side of the mesa, six miles south of Valverde and nine miles from Fray Cristóbal. Marshall and Walt place the paraje south of the mesa and also note an archeological site called Corrales de Contadero in that vicinity Finally, the only Otermín mention of El Contadero in 1680 that can be located was across from the pueblo of Senecú, at or very near the place later known as Valverde. Miera y Pacheco’s map showed an unnamed paraje immediately north of the Mesa de Senecú. These both conform to Gibson’s 1846 description of a campground near the ruins of Valverde. It was in a grove of trees near the base of Black Mesa and bore traces of earlier campers.
For the purposes of this study, Marshall and Walt’s Corrales de Contadero archeological site (LA 31735, Río Abajo Site No. 72) should be considered as the appropriate site for the paraje of Contadero. The name Valverde later included the flat on the east bank north of Black Mesa.
Latitude: 3340
Longitude: 10674

Val Verde, New Mexico[edit]

Otermín described camping at a point that he called El Contadero. It was on the banks of the river across from the ruins of the pueblo of Senecú (Hackett and Shelby 1942:II.203). That description better fits later descriptions of Valverde and the location of the ruins of the hacienda and town of that name, than do later depictions of El Contadero showing it south of Black Mesa and away from the river. The 1773 map by Bernardo de Miera y Pacheco showed an unnamed paraje north of “Mesa de Senecú” which would have been Valverde (Adams and Chávez 1956:268; Marshall and Walt 1984:286)
On 20 November 1780 Anza left the spring of the Apaches, or the “Apache Wood,” and traveled four leagues to Valverde, where he noted the tracks of many horses and people crossing the river. His party rested there the next day before going on five leagues to Fray Cristóbal (Thomas 1932:198). During the nineteenth century Valverde was often noted as the site of a good ford. The paraje of Valverde next appeared in 1805 in a report on vaccinations (Marshall and Walt 1984:286).
The 1819 description of the Valverde Grant noted that it began at the “Ancon de Valverde” on the east bank of the Río Grande, opposite the mouth of the Arroyo de San Pasqual (Bowden 1969:II, 163). There is now a bend in the river adjacent to the Valverde town site and across from the mouth of Tiffany Canyon. Tiffany Arroyo, a name whose origin is in the twentieth century, is across from and slightly south of the ruin of San Pasqual. In 1832, Valverde was described as the ruins of a hacienda on the outskirts of the settlements of New Mexico at the edge of the desert of the Jornada del Muerto (Carroll and Haggard 1942:78-80; Julyan 1996:353).
In 1839, Gregg observed the ruins of Valverde and wrote that it had been founded only 20 years earlier, in some of the richest land in New Mexico, and was deserted due to Indian attacks (Gregg 1933:258). On 30 July 1846, Wislizenus wrote of passing the “ruins of Valverde,” which he described as “the mud walls of a deserted Mexican village,” in an area of sand hills and cottonwood trees within twelve miles to the 164 south of Luis López’s hacienda (Wislizenus 1848:37).
In 1846, Abert identified the river crossing at Valverde and recommended that southbound wagons be taken to the west bank of the Río Grande at Alburquerque and back to the east side at this ford. Abert mentioned and sketched the Mesa overlooking the ruins of Valverde and placed it 15 miles from Fray Cristóbal (Abert 1962:120,125-133). Gibson described his camp near the ruins of Valverde in 1846. It was in a grove of trees near the base of Black Mesa and bore traces of earlier campers. When his unit left Valverde it went six miles around the east side of the mesa to a camp on the south side (Bieber 1935:293-294). Depictions of the Civil War Battle of Valverde confirm that the entire battle took place in the shadow of the Mesa del Contadero (Alberts 1984:42;Hall 1960:84,97).
The paraje north of Mesa de Contadero variously called Contadero or Valverde probably spread along the riverbank and filled the space between the river sand the edge of the hills. Accounts of the Battle of Valverde also include an old riverbed on the east side of the valley but still in its bottom (Alberts 1984:42,46; Hall 1960:84,97). Depending upon the age of that bed, or the possibility that the river bed has changed regularly over the last several centuries, it could be that the segment of the paraje which experienced the heaviest use is much closer to the hills than to the existing river bed.
Latitude: 3342
Longitude: 10670


On November 22, 1819, Pedro Ascue de Armendaris, the then Collector of Tithes and formerly First Lieutenant of the Garrison of San Elizario, petitioned the Governor of New Mexico for a grant covering a tract of land at Valverde for the purpose of cultivation and as a pasturage for his livestock. The tract Armendaris requested was described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the east bank of the Rio Grande del Norte in the Ancon de Valverde and opposite the point where the Arrayo de San Pascual empties in the river; thence southward down the east bank of the river to a peak or knoll located on the southern edge of the Mesilla del Contadero which is the boundary or terminus of the Valverde Valley and which is at the Fray Cristobal Paraje; thence in a southeasterly direction to the little spring called Analla; thence in a northerly direction to a small isolated hill near the Little San Pascual Mountain; and thence in a northwesterly direction to the place of beginning.
Armendaris was careful to point out that the tract was located on the Camino Real approximately nine leagues south of Socorro and that a new settlement at Valverde would be very beneficial to travelers. Governor Facundo Melgares referred the petition to the Alcalde of Belen with instructions to investigate the request. Alcalde Manuel Ruvo de Celis reported on November 28, 1819, that the land in question was vacant and rec­ommended that the concession be made. Based on this favorable report, Melgares granted the land to Armendaris on December 4, 1819, in consideration of the benefit which would result to the province. However, the grant was made subject to the express conditions that Armendaris promptly commence constructing houses and corrals on the grant, enclosing of the fields and stocking the pastures; keeping all his men well armed; and furnishing water and pasturage free to all travelers and their animals. This tract became known as the Valverde Grant.
Shortly thereafter, Armendaris took possession of the Valverde Grant and built a large hacienda and a number of out buildings and corrals at Valverde. However, there is no evidence that Armendaris had ever been placed in legal possession of the grant. The tillable lands in the Valley were placed under cultivation, and the hills or pasture lands were stocked with a large number of sheep, cattle, and horses. Armendaris’ farming and ranching enterprises proved so successful that on May 15, 1820, he petitioned Governor Melgares for an additional grant covering the lands lying south of the Valverde Grant in order to further expand his operations. He described the requested lands as follows:
Beginning at a peak or knoll on the east bank of the Rio Grande on the southern edge of the Mesilla del Contadero and which is at the Fray Cristobal Paraje; thence in a southerly direction along the east bank of the Rio Grande to the point where the Fray Cristobal Peak strikes the river; thence in a straight line south over the summit of the mountains to a point two leagues north of Ojo del Muerto; thence west two leagues; thence south four leagues; thence east four leagues; thence in a northeasterly direction to a point two leagues due south of Analla Springs; thence east three leagues; thence northwesterly to a small isolated hill near the Little San Pascual Mountain; thence south to Analla Springs; and thence in a northwesterly direction to the place of beginning.
Armendaris called the Governor’s attention to the fact that the lands covered by this request were primarily wastelands located in the Jornada del Muerto and, with the exception of Ojo del Muerto and Analla Springs, were completely waterless. He also pointed to his successful utilization of the lands previously granted to him and expressed his intentions to continue to assist travelers crossing the infamous desert and enlarge his settlement at Valverde. Melgares granted the request on June 1, 1820, subject to the same conditions as those imposed upon the Valverde Grant. Formal possession of the grant was delivered to Armendaris by Manuel Rubi, Alcalde of Belen[1] This second grant is commonly referred to as the Fray Cristobal Grant.
Armendaris continuously resided at Valverde and greatly improved his irrigated farms and ranching facilities until 1825 or 1826, when the incessant incursions of the hostile Indians finally compelled him to abandon his numerous projects, vacate the lands covered by the two grants, and seek refuge at Chihuahua. Thereafter, the grants remained unoccupied until after the United States acquired jurisdiction over the area. Meanwhile, the buildings at Valverde were reduced to ruins by the Indians and elements. The heirs of Pedro Armendaris petitioned the Surveyor General on September 6, 1859, requesting the confirmation of their claim to the Valverde and Fray Cristobal Grants. Surveyor General William Pelham investigated the consolidated claim and on July 10, 1859, reported:
The above grants were made according to the well established usages and customs of the country at the time, The grantee has held possession from the time the grant was made up to the present day, and no one having appeared showing a better title thereto, the original and subsequent additional grant are believed to be good and valid; they are therefore approved to the legal representatives of Pedro Armendaris, and ordered to be transmitted to Congress for its action in the premises.[2]
A transcript of the proceedings before the Surveyor General in nineteen private land claims was transmitted to Congress on February 3, 1860, by the Secretary of the Interior for its final action pursuant to the eighth section of the Act of July 22, 1854.[3] The consolidated claim by the heirs of Pedro Armendaris to the Valverde and Fray Cristobal Grants was designated as claim number 33. [4]
By Act approved June 21, 1860, Congress confirmed the Valverde and Fray Cristobal Grants, This act provided:
That the private land claims in the Territory of New Mexico, as recommended for confirmation by said Surveyor General in his reports and abstract marked Exhibit “A”, as communicated to Congress by the Secretary of Interior in his letter dated the third of February eighteen hundred and sixty, and numbered from twenty to thirty‑eight, both inclusive, be, and the same are hereby, confirmed, with the exception of the claim numbered twenty‑six .… [5]
The lands covered by the consolidated grants were surveyed in November, 1872, by Deputy Surveyor J. Howe Watts. His survey showed that the two grants embraced a total of 397,235 acres. William A. Bell protested the survey on the grounds that the east line of the grant had been incorrectly located. As a result of Bell’s protest, the east line of this survey was reformed on May 26, 1877, in order to exclude approximately 45,000 acres. The amended survey was finally approved on December 8, 1877, and a patent was issued to the legal representatives of Pedro Armendaris on January 4, 1878, for a total of 352,504.5 acres of land.
In 1882, L. S. Dixon requested the Attorney General to file suit to have this patent set aside on the grounds that, through fraud or mistakes, the west boundary of the Fray Cristobal Grant had been located approximately two and a half miles too far west. By decision dated September 21, 1893, Secretary of Interior, Hoke Smith, declined to recommend the institution of such a suit because, in his opinion, there was no evidence that the west boundary of the grant had been mislocated. [6]
Once title to the consolidated grant had been confirmed and its boundary questions settled, the Spanish and Mexican aspect of the history of the grant was concluded.
[1] Archive No, 1217 (Mss., Records of the A.N.M.).
[2] H.R. Exec, Doc. No. 14, 36th Cong., 1st Sess., 193‑220 (1860).
[3] An Act to Establish the office of Surveyor General of New Mexico, Kansas, and Nebraska, to grant donations to actual settlers therein, and for other purposes, Chap. 103, Sec. 8, 10 Stat. 308 (1854).
[4] H. R. Exec. Doc No. 14, 36th Cong., 1st Sess., 1‑2 (1860).
[5] An Act to Confirm Certain Private Land Claims in the Territory of New Mexico, Chap. 167, 12 Stat. 71 (1860) in view of the fact that there is no documentary evidence that juridical possession of the grant had been delivered to Arrnendaris, the decision of the Supreme Court in Graham v, United States, 4 Wall, (71 U.S.) 259 (1866), should be kept in mind. In the Graham Case, the Supreme Court stated “The Mexican law, as well as the common law, made formal delivery of possession, or livery of seizen of the property, essential after the execution of the grant, for the investiture of title,” This principle is again repeated in Van Reynegan v. Bolton, 95 U.S. 35 (1877) ; and Boudin v. Phelps, 30 F. 547 (9th Cir., 1887)
[6] The Pedro Armendaris Grant, No 33 (Mss, Records of the S.G.N.M.).
About the same time that he was requesting the additional lands covered by the Fray Cristobal Grant, Pedro Armendaris was also seeking a grant covering a tract of land lying northwest of his original grant at Valverde In this petition, which was dated May 1, 1820, and addressed to Facundo Melgares, Governor of New Mexico, Armendaris asked for a grant covering the following described land as a pasturage for his rapidly expanding flocks of sheep:
Beginning at a point on the west bank of the Rio Grande opposite the northwest corner of the Valverde Grant; thence in a northwesterly direction to the Ojo de Canas Verales; thence east one league; thence north two leagues; thence west four leagues; thence south two leagues; thence in a southeasterly direction to a point on the west bank of the river opposite a peak or knoll on the east bank of the river on the southern edge of the Mesilla del Contadero; and thence up the west bank of the river to the point of beginning.
On May 3, 1820, Melgares ordered the Alcalde of Belen to place Armendaris in legal possession of the lands which had been granted to him and directed the Alcalde to give Armendaris an appropriate instrument evidencing such proceedings.
While there is no evidence that Armendaris was ever formally placed in possession of the grant, it is well known that shortly after the date of the grant he stocked the premises with a large herd of sheep and a number of cattle and horses. However, it does not appear that he ever resided on the land or constructed any permanent improvements upon the grant. Thereafter, he continuously used the property as a pasturage for his livestock until he was forcibly expelled from the area in 1825 or 1826, due to the increased hostility of the Indians. The grant was not reoccupied until after the end of the Mexican War.
John G. Watts, as attorney for the heirs of Pedro Armendaris, filed a petition with the Surveyor General on June 22, 1857, requesting the recognition of the grant.
Following a thorough investigation of the claim, Surveyor General William Pelham, in a report dated July 20, 1859, found the grant to be good and valid and recommended its confirmation by Congress to the legal representatives of Pedro Armendaris,[1] The grant was designated as claim No. 34 in letter transmitting the matter to Congress, The third section of the Act approved June 21, 1860, confirmed 19 private land claims in New Mexico, including claim No. 34, as “recommended by the Surveyor General”. [2]
The grant was surveyed by Deputy Surveyor J. Howe Watts in November, 1872, The survey was approved on December 20, 1872, but was slightly modified in 1878 as a result of a boundary agreement between the owners of the Pedro Armendaris Grant, No 34 and the owners of the Bosque del Apache Grant. On September 17, 1878, a patent was issued to the legal representatives of Pedro Armendaris for the 95,030 acres embraced within the Pedro Armendaris Grant, No. 34. [3]
[1] H. R. Exec. Doc, No, 14, 36th Cong., 1st Sess., 220‑231 (1860).
[2] An Act to Confirm Certain Private Land Claims in the Territory of New Mexico, Chap. 167, Sec 3, 12 Stat. 71 (1860) In view of the fact that there is no evidence that juridical possession of the grant had been delivered to Armendaris, the case of Boudin v. Phelps, 30 F. 547 (9th Cir., 1887), should be noted. The Boudin Case hold that juridical possession is essential for the investiture of title.
[3] The Pedro Armendaris Grant, No. 34 (Mss., Records of the S.G.N.M.).
Pedro Ascue de Armendaris was the collector of tithes and was the former First Lieutenant at the garrison in San Elizario. In 1819, he petitioned for the first of three land grants in the southern part of Nuevo Mexico. This tract of land was near Valverde and was located along the Camino Real. The land was good for cultivation and grazing of livestock. Governor Facundo Melgares referred the petition to the Alcalde of Belen, Manuel Ruvo de Celis, and ordered him to investigate the request. The request was approved by Governor Melgares with the conditions that Armendaris construct houses and corrals, enclose the fields and pasture livestock, keep his men well armed and furnish water and pasture for all travelers on the Camino Real. This tract came to be known as the Valverde Grant.
The success that Armendaris had at Valverde prompted him to petition for another tract of land south of the Valverde site. This grant came to be known as the Fray Cristobal Grant and the grant was delivered to him by Manuel Rubi, the new Alcalde of Belen in 1820. With these two enterprises Armendaris was able to greatly improve his irrigated farmlands and expand his ranching enterprise until around 1826, when hostile attacks by Apache and other tribes increased and forced him to seek refuge in Chihuahua. The land grants remained unoccupied until the United States took over jurisdiction of the region.
Around 1859, the heirs of Pedro Armendaris petitioned the Office of the Surveyor General requesting confirmation of the Valverde and Fray Cristobal grants. The Surveyor General consolidated the land claims and assigned claim number 33 to the case. At the time the two grants consisted of 397,235 acres. Following a protest by a neighboring landowner, by the name of William A. Bell, the Surveyor General reduced the total acreage to 352,504.5 acres.
Around 1820, Armendaris was also seeking possession of a land grant northwest of Valverde. His justification for this request was to expand his sheep flocks. Governor Melgares also approved this tract. Although he never resided on this land grant or constructed any permanent improvements he did move in a large flock of sheep and a herds of cattle and horses. He was forced to abandon this grant around 1826, as well due to hostile attacks by various Indian tribes. The grant was not reoccupied until after the end of the war with Mexico. The heirs of Pedro Armendaris filed a petition with the Office of the Surveyor General in 1857. This grant was assigned case number 34 by the Surveyor General and was confirmed for 95,030 acres in 1876.

San Pasqual (historical), New Mexico[edit]

Populated Place (Definitions)
Description: 17th-century Piro Indian pueblo, 10 mi S of Socorro
Citation: N.M. Geographic Names Data Base, 1992. Compiled by Bob Julyan[579]

Mesa del Contadero[edit]

Mesa de Senecu
Mesilla de Guinea El Camino Real De Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail Comprehensive Management Plan: Environmental Impact Statement, 2004, p.162

Cooke's Wagon Road[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Cooke's Wagon Road[edit]

"November 25. — About seven miles brought us to the defile of the mountain; it is very long and quite rocky. It took the wagons about two hours and a half, and was probably three miles over. ... From the last hill on this side, the guides showed me a gap through which we will pass, the second march from this; it bore S. 40° W.; we then had a fine plain to cross, generally descending.
"Our course brought us to a stream, the Los Animos, where it was dry, though sufficiently wooded, chiefly with sycamore. Charboneaux found running water three-quarters of a mile above, near the mountain, but just as I turned it was found that it again made its appearance lower down and more in the course. Making the same right angle that I had, in spite of sounds and signals, the baggage got into camp about sundown. A hard day of nine hours, and about seventeen miles. ... Here, there is, as usual, gamma grass, and close by plenty of fuel. The soil to-day was more barren than usual. We passed close under the bare peak of the mountain, of granite, I think."[583]: 24–25 
November 26. — It was not so cold last night and to-day, although we always find ice at the watering places in the evening. The road this morning bore to the right to enter a narrow flat valley, but it was for some six miles stony and over many spurs from the high ground at the foot of the mountain to the left; so that it would have been better to have turned more to the right at starting and gone further round. After that, we fell into a well-worn trail, which led over hard gravel or smooth clay soil, an excellent road, though slightly ascending. This evening it turns the shoulder of the mountain to our left and bends to the south. It seems inevitable that wind among the mountains as we will, or can, the south is ever before us. The camp is on a stream that runs down into the Los Animos, a little below our last night's camp, and this is the first water found in it. Just below us is a short canon of rugged rocks, covered with the new species of oaks, with the diminutive leaf; it seems an evergreen. The march is about twelve miles; the soil to-day is pretty good; the high mountain range to our right is remarkably well wooded. A guide has come in, and reports it five or six leagues to the next water; and the next day, he says, we fall into the Yanos and San Bernadnio road, which last place we will reach that night. The wind is high and from the south.[583]: 25–26 
November 27.—Very cold last night, and a bright frosty morning, and calm. I marched at 8 o'clock, following the same trail due south; ground good. Three or four miles from camp I came to water and swampy ground, which finally compelled me to pass a low but sharp point of the hill; this is one of the head springs of the same creek we followed up yesterday; then turning 20° to the west, we came five miles over a smooth low table land, and then turned S. W. towards a gap among some rather broken mountains, where we found water running a few hundred yards before it sinks; here I have encamped. At the last angle, round a rocky spur of the mountains, there were appearances of iron ore, and I found the needle to vary 20°. The soil seemed rich, and a dark brown, but in large spaces of it no grass grew. We passed very extensive prairie dog villages; in fact, they lined the road nearly all day, and I never remarked them before in apparently rich ground. The buffalo grass of late disputes predominence with the gamma. The oaks first descending from the mountains to the hills are now beginning to be found even dotting the vallies; and we saw a very extensive grove to our left; on the verge of the valley there is also cherry. A very high wind from the S. W. has rendered it very disagreeable since mid-day. Black-tailed deer and antelope are plenty; a number were killed.[583]: 26 
November 28.—Marched through an easy pass to the west of the little mountain and the open valley to the left, (a direct road would have kept it, but we turned up last evening about two miles out of the way for the water.) After following then a southern course a mile or two, we fell into a trail running W. 20° S., and said to be an old road from Yanos to San Bernadino; thus ascending for a mile, and having made about five miles in all, we came to the verge of a great descent, which led us, as far as the eye could reach, into mountains and rocks, rough and confused beyond description. I had the wagons stopped below, whilst Manuel, an assistant to the guides, as well as myself, was searching the countiy. Having heard of water in the edge of the valley, back and to our left, I proceeded there, and encamped about 11 o'clock; the range of mountains running six or eight miles to our left, and about 20° W. of S., seems to have some little open country on this side of it, which may afford an outlet. I have sent Manuel to examine down in that direction. Charboneaux I have not seen since 8 o'clock; he is either examining the country or hunting. Leroux was, at the least, to have sent a man to meet me to-day; he went two days ago with the new guide into the mountains to the left to seek the Apaches; Weaver, Tesson, and two others are with him. I have some apprehensions for their safety. This San Bernadino seems to elude us like a phantom. There is very little water here, but I have discovered more about a mile off; there are seme small oaks for fuel; we have seen them, to-day, quite large trees. Deer and antelope are plenty; the former are very beautiful, and of a dark iron grey color. It is overcast, warm, and promises rain. Leroux came in with his party at 7 o'clock this evening; he reports that the trail we followed to the brink of the table land, is the trail or road, and there is no other. What seems impracticable now becomes practicable. I have directed Mr. Stoneman to take a large pioneer party, with all the tools we have, to go to work very early in the morning. Leroux says that it is about eighteen miles to San Bernadino; that the three first miles from here are the worst, and that there is water halfway, and some much nearer. I have directed Mr. Hall to go early, and find the distance to it, and whether the wagons, being lightened, can be taken with two or four mules. I have determined to pack the whole of the mules to the first water to-morrow, and then bring them back. Leroux brought with him a chief of the Apaches—that is the best of his mission—he thinks that if he had not managed to get within a fourth of a mile of their village undiscovered, that he would not have succeeded; and I am told the chief would probably not have come, but that he was drunk when he set out, and that he had shown signs of a strong inclination to return. The Apaches promised to meet me at San Bernadino, and to trade mules; they said, however, that they had not many. They have lately returned from an inroad to Oposura; they were warmly pursued, and lost a part of their spoil, and speared many of the mules. A young Apache told Leroux he had come from beyond the Gila, and that it was a good prairie between it and San Bernadino, with springs. Dr. Foster assures me that there is no other pass practicable for wagons for fifteen hundred miles to the south (a little west) of the edge of the great table land of Mexico. He passed down a similar place to this at Caretas, near Bavispe, only passable for mules, and describes the change of climate and vegetable productions as very great and sudden. San Bernadino is on the Huaqui, one of the largest rivers of Mexico, and which runs into the Gulf of California. Manuel came back, and reported that he was in view of the stream, which seemed a thousand yards below, and in a chasm. Leroux speaks of all the country he has seen in his last reconnoissance, (and he was on the lofty range to the south called the " Long Mountain,") as being very much more broken and impassable than the pass we turned back from. Charboneaux has not come in to-night.
November 29—Same camp, 4, p. m.—It rained gently most of the night. It is warm to-day, and nearly clear. I sent Mr. Stoneman at sunrise with twenty-one men to make or improve the road. About 9 o'clock, I got off one hundred and forty mules, well packed, for the first water. One company went, leaving its wagons. At 1 o'clock I sent a note to Mr. Stoneman to keep on, and sleep with his party at the canon camp. At half past 3, I received an answer that he had worked only a mile, and thought he would be nearer this camp, and that empty wagons might, with much difficulty, be got through; he thinks rather the worst is passed. I shook hands with Manuelita, the Apache chief, this morning. I told him we were friends, and that I was glad to see him; that my great chief had gone on to California with a few men to meet a great many who came by the sea; that he would take the country from the Mexicans; that I was going to join him; that my mules were tired, and I wished to trade with his people for others; that this same chief and myself had met Apaches last year beyond the Arkansas, and treated them as friends; that the men he called Americans, and who led the Mexicans to war against the Apaches, were men who had run off from their country and become Mexicans; that we did not own them; that the true Americans had now conquered New Mexico, and would treat the Apaches as friends. We, too, are at war with Mexico, and if any of their war parties came (as they apprehended) soon, while I was with them, our cause would be the same. Leroux represents the bad road as ten or twelve miles, and that it is then prairie again. He thinks, from the accounts of the Indians, that it is less than a hundred miles to the San Pedro. He said, to-day, in answer to me, that Carson told him, in presence of the General, not to attempt to strike the Gila nearer than the Pedro. Charboneaux came in this afternoon; he had been a great circuit looking for game, at the country, and finally, for my camp—that is, he was lost. He thinks the country impassable for wagons. Game is very plenty; he killed two deer close together, and saw wild cattle. One of the wagons has hounds so broken as to be spoiled for a mule wagon; two others have tires very loose. The hospital wagon is large and heavy; so Major Cloud, who has a small light wagon, will pack from here; it is his choice. Dr. Sanderson takes the little wagon. The Doctor's wagon I have directed broken up for repairs to the others which need them. The pack mules got back about sundown. Lieutenant Stoneman came in with his party soon after; he had made rather more than two miles of road, and thinks that by returning at daylight with a new party, he can get on fast enough to enable me to take the wagons, &c, to the first water of the creek. I sent Leroux forward to San Bernadino early to meet the Indians, explain our delay, &c, and examine the road; he will send back Charboneaux to be our guide. Weaver will go to the last water in the canon, return and report distances, and serve as a guide so far; the reports are so confused that I cannot tell the relative distances, nor whether it will take two or three days to San Bernadino. The wagons will be very nearly empty, and Lieutenant Stoneman thinks it necessary, and that there will be great difficulty. He has found the crowbar invaluable. It is & portage.
Mr. Hall went some fifteen miles, he thinks, and returned this evening. His report is rather favorable. He is very willing, active, and enterprising. The sick report is increasing fast; in fact, the men are not sufficiently clothed—no great coats—but the weather has been much more moderate for two days, and the descent we now make is perhaps one or two thousand feet. The soil here is soft and dark, and seems rich. We would have moved to-day, with great disadvantage, under ordinary circumstances; the tents wet, and the ground accumulated so on our shoes in walking, as to make it a matter of difficulty.[583]: 26–28 
November 30.—I got off the empty wagons and packs by 9 o'clock this morning; it was a mile and a half to the verge of the plain. The first three-fourths of a mile was very bad; in one place, particularly, the descent was steeper than I have ever known wagons to make, (ropes of course were used;) one was very near turning over the hind part over the forepart. The rest of the road, six miles to this camp, where one company came yesterday, is only exceedingly rough. I had at times two, and at times four, mules in a wagon. One wagon had its hounds snapped in two, and I ordered it left, (one company, much smaller than the rest, can do very well with two wagons;) another was slightly broken. Weaver came back and reports that it is about seven miles to the last water, where the trail leaves the mountain stream we are on, and that the road is much better—for road it is. Above and below this are indications and even tracks of a wagon. But I am mortified to find that there was much better ground for two or three of the first miles, where our track was so bad, and the road, in fact, formerly passed over by wagons. Dr. Foster followed back a ravine putting in on our left, (as we came,) and found the road— and a practicable one for loaded wagons—to the plain we came from. My guides are ignorant of the country. Being led to believe, two mornings since, that it was a good road by the trail, Charboneaux went off hunting. Leroux had been on a mission to seek the Apaches, as much as to look for a road, and came in late, and tired the night before last. Yesterday morning I sent for him, and told him I thought I had seen from a high elevation a valley to our left, which promised well, and wished him to go and examine it. He assured me he had examined, he believed, the same one, and that there was no outlet to it; and remarked that from the information of the Indians, and from the fact of the old trail, which undoubtedly passes over the best ground in so difficult a pass, it certainly was the only one; and then spoke of the extreme roughness everywhere else, (and he had passed all round, I may say, and had been on high mountains which he pointed out.) As Lieut. Stoneman was then hard at work two miles off, I did not insist, but rather doubtingly. Then Charboneaux came in with no better information, reporting that the country was impassable for wagons. I am glad to record that there is a better road, varying from mine for three or four miles, and a very practicable one for loaded wagons.
The scenery to-day was grand and picturesque. At one spot there is a pass not thirty yards wide on one side. A vast rock overhangs the road; just opposite, on a verticle base of solid rock, forty feet high, rested another rock of a round cubical form, of about twenty-five feet dimension; on its top rests still another of spherical form about twelve or fifteen feet in diameter. The mountains and sharp ravines were well covered with the new species of oak of large size, cedar, sycamore, &c Spanish bayonet, mezquite, and other shrubs, all of a bright green. The march about eight miles. We have decended about one thousand feet. A man named Allen, it is believed, has deserted. I have no doubt now but that I saw the upper part of the valley of the proper road the day before yesterday, described it to Mr. Leroux, and requested him to go and examine it, (next day,) and he replied that he had. The direction for it is this: To leave the plain we came from about a mile to the south from our road, and a mile and a half from the old trail. In returning, to keep the dry branch where our road turns to the left to go over high hills, it passes just there between two high rocks, with a pass less than twenty feet between, and just at this spot is a very large oak with a cross cut in its bark. This is called the pass of Guadalupe. I have no evidence that the same difficulty of a break of the great table land and mountainous descent will not be found to extend to the Gila, and I believe that this is the only wagon pass to the Pacific for a thousand miles to the south. It is the road from Yanos to Fronteras; although this is forty miles north of Fronteras. Dr. Foster states an instance of a large carriage coming from the city of Mexico to Oposura by this spot as the only practicable road.
December 1 — Made six or seven miles, winding down the dry mountain torrent; the road exceedingly hard pulling—as much from immense tufts of grass and sod, as the sand and the rocks in the bed of the stream, and at its many crossings. I encamped here, where the water appears for the last time, about ten o'clock; no guide having returned, and the distance to San Bernadino believed to be at least eight miles. The pioneers went on a mile or two to the verge of the prairie, and returned. Weaver, a little beyond, spoke to an Indian, whom he, with great difficulty, persuaded to approach him, although then alone; he would not come in. It is not surprising, after the murderous treachery of Kirker and Johnson. The weather is rather warm, a little cloudy, wind west. We passed to-day beautiful scenery, the broken mountains about the precipices, and confusion of rocks. Amongst them, mezcal and Spanish bayonet now become true palm trees—the evergreen oaks, the cottonwoods, and sycamores, brilliantly colored by the frost. Messrs. Smith, Hall, and myself, have ascended a mountain nearly some eight hundred feet high. Our view was very extensive. A few miles to the south we saw the Huaqui, which, becoming a large river, empties far down into the gulf of California. To the northwest we saw a prairie for thirty or forty-miles, narrowed by the mountains seen everywhere else to a narrow gap-like outlet. We supposed that to be our course. San Bernadino was nowhere visible; we could see toward the Huaqui the mouth of a break in the prairie, in which we believe runs a creek, on which, to the northwest, we saw what may be mezquite wood, and the foundation of an old mud house. The top of the mountain was about thirty yards by fifteen. I suggested what a world's wonder it would be set like a gem in the grounds of the Capitol. The rocks, like all on this mountain, glittered with crystals of silex of white and pink, and even purple; there grew a giant mezcal thirty feet high, and others of this year, bristling spheres of green bayonets three feet long; several plants or shrubs without a name; cacti, from a little pink ball at your feet, to the size of trees—a nondescript, said to be of the family, sending out rods fourteen feet long, with rosin for bark, and two inch spikes for leaves, which I named " devil rod," &c. [583]: 29–31 
December 2.—It was a cold night, ice forming thick in my tent; the loads were restored to the wagons, with their usual team of eight mules this morning; for a mile and a half, perhaps, we followed the dry creek, frequently crossing and laboring over the great lumps of sod, but we have a tolerable road, then we turned to the right, and wound up a long ascent to the bluff edge of the high prairie, generally descending; we then passed over good firm ground toward the west, and saw, miles off, the ruins of the ranche of San Bernadino; we descended into the broad flat bottom to the east of it, crossed, and encamped near the old houses, and a remarkably fine spring, fifteen paces in diameter. As we approached, Charboneaux came to meet us, and said no Indian had arrived; but soon we saw them coming in, and as we crossed the bottom, old Manuelita, with a superior chief, and several others, rode out to meet us. There are some dozens of them in camp, but none of them came from the village where Leroux found Manuelita, who was a visiter. I invited the two chiefs to my tent, and told them that we were the true Americans who had just conquered New Mexico; we were friends to the Apaches. That my great chief had gone on, and that he and my government would expect them to assist us with guides and mules to go on, to drive the Mexicans from California; that I was making a road to that country; one which my countrymen would pass; and that it would be the duty of the Apaches to treat them as friends, and help them on; that so long as they conducted thus, we would be their friends; that our traders would supply their wants; and that our government gave annual presents to the tribes who were thus friendly. I asked them to send to the other village for a guide, (we know of,) for mules, &c The chief replied that if the sun and the moon fell, still they would be friends to the Americans. They made a difficulty about sending, and said the others were afraid to come in. One of them then promised to guide us, and they say it is about seventy miles only to the Pedro; that a man can ride a fine horse there in a day; that our wagons can go in five days. They are poor, dirty Indians, but are generally dressed in cotton shirts, and many in trowsers; they have fine moccasins, which have boot tops. They ride fine horses ,which they prefer much to mules, and are armed with very formidable-looking lances, with guns and bows; they are ugly and squalid, wear their hair generally long, and in various fashions. They wear a kind of leather skull cap, now and then ornamented with feathers and with chin pieces. They seem to understand Spanish; their own tongue is by far the most brutal grunt that I have ever heard; their lips scarcely move, and the words come out a stuttering, jerking, gutterel. They have but two or three indifferent mules here. The soil of this great bottom is pronoucned very good, but the grass is now very poor, and the rising ground is a " chapperal" of the mezquite wood. The ox, in a perfectly wild state; abounds here; the guides have shot three or four. As we descended from the high ground, an immense red bull rushed by in front at full speed; it was more novel and exciting to me than the sight of buffalo. No doubt there are many Indians about, who, seeing the safety of those here, will come in to-morrow or next day. I would stay several days if the grass were good enough, with advantage, particularly as there is a prospect of subsisting ourselves on wild bulls. There is no fuel but mezquite. The march was nine miles. I presented each of the chiefs with a knife, and three or four yards of domestic cotton. They will only trade for blankets, or they must have a blanket in each trade. We have but one in the small pack of Indian goods, and I have directed Mr. Stoneman to purchase of Chacon as many as he needs. He is taking several mule loads to California; they can be bought at a very fair price. One mule has been bought this evening.

December 3.—Allen, the volunteer, who was absent five days, and was at one time thought to have deserted, returned to camp yesterday evening. He was very badly off; he had come forward the morning we followed the trail to the brink of the pass, and he came down the trail, and his whole misfortune turned upon his taking it for granted that we could not and would not come that way, but turn to an apparent opening toward the south. He finally struck our road near the dry lake; he describes minutely his having been robbed by a small party of Indians of his musket, knife, and canteen; he ate of the carcase of a dead horse we left near there, and having no knife, had to use his teeth. The village of Apaches first visited by Leroux, have not come in to-day. One man came late, and gave us to understand that they were afraid; but two mules have been purchased or bartered for, and at high prices. The guide engaged, and who went to a village, has not yet returned, but Leroux has confidence that he will not fail us. The hunters have reported the killing of perhaps a dozen wild cattle to-day, and many pack mules have been a longtime out, but have not yet brought any in, (7 p.m.) I have had the provisions which were issued to the companies at Santa Fe, weighed, and find that there is a deficiency in pork and flour both, of six or seven days; it has arisen in part from wastage, and the weighing out of flour by small quantities. I have but fifty-one days' rations, (at 10 ounces flour, If pounds fresh meat, and 10 ounces of pork.) No meat has been issued to-day. I sent this morning a pioneer party on the old Fronteras trail, which will be ours for seven or eight miles through a gap in mountains to the west. They worked as far as water, and a camping place six miles. This old ranche was abandoned, I suppose, on account of Indian depredations; the owner, S. Elias, of Arispe, is said to have been proprietor of above two hundred miles square, extending to the Gila, and eighty thousand cattle; several rooms of the above houses are still nearly habitable; they were very extensive, and the quadrangle of about 150 yards still has two regular bastions in good preservation; in front and adjoining was an enclosure equally large, but is now in ruins. The wild cattle we will find ranging as far as the San Pedro; they support the Indians just as buffalo, on the plains to the east of the Rocky mountains. Fires would have been disagreeable to-day from 9 a. m. until near sundown. It may be worthy of mention that the 1st dragoons are now serving in four States or departments of Mexico, of vast extent, viz: Chihuahua, New Mexico, Sonora, and California. My camp is about seventy miles from a town of three thousand inhabitants—Arrispe.[583]: 31–32 

December 4.—Five days' rations of fresh meat was brought in last night. It is near 10 o'clock and the guide engaged has not come, nor the first village of Indians; there is one here who will go as far as the second water or camp. My guides will go on by noon, and I have ordered the battalion to be in readiness to march at 1 o'clock; the first water is but six miles.
Evening.—I have marced eight miles to the west into a pass of a low range of mountains; there is a remarkable mound of bare rock, 100 feet high, just back of the camp, and in front a hill peak with a focade of rocks apparently painted green, yellow, and brown; it is moss and the color of the rocks; there is a rocky basin of water between; there is some good grass; apparently hundreds of wild cattle water here daily. The road which we cut is much up hill and generally through thickets of mezquite, generally stony, and producing little else than thorns or thorny bushes. Leroux, with four others, besides the Indian, came on at 11 o'clock; he thinks this Indian can be induced to go as far as necessary; he is to send a raan to meet me early to-morrow, the other Indian who promised me to go through did not make his appearance, nor did any others. This camp I believe to be under twenty miles from Pronteras. A quarter of an hour before marching I sent round instructions to have the camp fires secured, and directed that the rear guard should complete it before leaving the ground; notwithstanding, the prairie caught, and was left burning. Three of the Indians went from our camp yesterday and returned in the evening with about 200 pounds of delicious fat meat, better than the buffalo bull ever is.

[583]: 32–33 

  • Blackwater Creek
December 5.—The defile, though not steep, was long and rough; the tongue of a wagon was broken soon after marching; the wagon had but about 1,200 pounds of load; and I had contemplated leaving it and another belonging to two of the smaller companies. I therefore directed it to be left, bringing some of the useful parts; of course the wagons are not worth their transportation to California, even if I had mules to transport them. I contemplate leaving one from each company, before the march is accomplished, as a matter of necessity in fact, first or last. The condition of many of the mules may be judged from the fact, that two died last night—the warmest for a month, and after several days' rest, and a march of eight miles; after two or three miles, we met Manuel, one of the guides sent back; there was a valley in front eighteen or twenty miles wide; we followed, as I think, a wagon road, and I was much discontented that it turned to the SW, and I believe it is the road to Fronteras; it crossed some hilly ground in doing so, but the road, always hard, has been generally good, the mezquite being the greatest obstacle. Fourteen miles brought me to a large spring, which, as usual, loses itself after running a hundred yards. I met the Indian passing back rapidly on his grey horse, bow in hand, and giving the column a wide birth. I, however, brought him to, and had a little talk with him in barbarous Spanish; he was very uneasy. I thought at first he had run off from Leroux. The wild cattle are very numerous, three were killed to-day on the road, and several others by officers; around this spring is a perfect cattle-yard in appearance; and, I suppose, I myself have seen fifty. One died (that I saw,) only after twenty wounds—a half a dozen fired at ten paces—quite as hard as the buffalo. Mr. Hall, with Dr. Sanderson, was chased by one, and put in some danger by his obstinate mule. The guide points to a gap due west as our course to-morrow. Through it we see a lofty peak, apparently sixty miles off, which the Indian stated is beyond the San Pedro. The position of Fronteras is pointed out, and believed to be about twelve miles to the south, a iitftle west. It has been cloudy all day, with a cold south wind. There is tolerable gamma grass. It was found, after reaching camp, that the axletree of another wagon was damaged past service, and none other would fit, so that I have broken up another. This leaves three companies with two each, and the two largest with three, beside three for the quartermaster's department, field and staff. It is thought that as many as five thousand cattle water at this spring. They are much like the buffalo in their habits, &c; are rather wilder, and more apt to attack individuals. I measured the spinal process (" hump rib") of one that was eleven inches in length.

[583]: 33 

December 6.—It blew very hard last night, and also rained; this morning it was clear, but there is snow on the lofty mountains—particularly the one in front, seen through thegapof the nextridge. One of the three shepherds deserted last night; he never has been paid. Marched at half-past eight o'clock a half mile or more from camp, where we struck the creek; water was found. Thenascendingfiveorsix miles somewhat northof west, it was necessary to cut our way through mezquite. The pioneers left an hour and a quarter in advance, but the. wagons were upon their heels in three or four miles. A guide was met early in the day, and conducted us to a hole in the hills and mountains where water appears above ground. Here is a fine grove of ash and walnut; and, to make it still more comfortable, an«ld cattle-pen of dry wood. We were thankful, for this afternoon it rained and snowed, with a very cold wind. Leroux only left here this morning; he sent word that if he found water he would send back here; but if not, he would go on to the San Pedro to ascertain the distance. This rain may prove a favorable circumstance. The mules are now grazing at will over about a half mile square of valleys, surrounded by eight pickets, stationed on ridges and hills. The wild cattle were again numerous, and quite a number very fat were killed. The meat becomes quite an incumbrance. It may be well if the guide comes not, to stay a day here, if only to dry it. The animal thus wild, seems to grow physically like the buffalo in several respects, and they certainly die quite as hard. The cows and calves keep separate; very few of these have been seen, and none killed. A black-tailed deer was killed yesterday—a doe; a buck was wounded. If one is obtained, I shall preserve ihs skin for mounting. The mules, &c, were so much confined by the neglect of the guard last night, that I haveordered the whole of them (officer of the day included) to be put on again to-morrow. The march, perhaps twelve miles; the pioneers were seven and a half hours coming. The Apaches trade to New Mexico the spoil of Sonora; they have done so for years. I have met two or three parties of New Mexicans among the Apaches trading. I have found them in what is considered Sonora, trading for mules just taken with bloodshed from Oposura. Thus a central government permits or suffers one State or territory to abet, to ally itself, de facto, with the enemies of another, with savages, their common enemy. Mexico has utterly forfeited all claim to the allegiance of Sonora. Sonora has not for years acknowledged the control of the supreme government. Its present governor holds office independently of, and is not acknowledged by, the supreme government. The last troops sent to Sonora were sent to put down a party which defied the general government; they were bought up by this party, who thus in civil war triumphed. When Sonora was called on to contribute its contingent in money to the present war of Mexico with our country, they refused, and answered that the government who gave them no protection had no claim on them, and that all their public and individual resources were inadequate to their protection against the savages who incessantly attacked them. Sonora would do well, and is not indisposed, to claim the protection of the United States.
December 7.—It is clear again to-day. All our rains have accompanied a wind from south to west. I sent out pioneers this morning; they went about three miles westward, following the tracks of the guides, which are in a large old trail. As the country looked open, with very little mezquite, they returned according to instructions. I await the return of the guides; meanwhile much beef is smoking. For the last three miles, yesterday, there was a comparative intermission of mezquite, and a reappearance of Spanish bayonet. I don't know that I have mentioned that the pounded root of this plant is used as a substitute for soap in New Mexico. A party I had at La Joya several weeks, tell me they use nothing else in that village. I saw yesterday a new bush or tree—it resembles cedar at a distance; it has a gnarled stalk, resembling artemisia; it bears a small red berry, and has thorns.
Night.—The guide came in this afternoon, having gone only twelve or fifteen miles to the west without finding water, but report the grass remarkably green, and the San Pedro scarcely as far beyond. I have directed water to be taken in the few kegs the companies have, and other preparations for encamping without water to-morrow night. The meat of several bulls killed and slaughtered yesterday afternoon was sent for and brought very early this morning, and others have been killed to-day near by; the command have been busy all day smoking the meat. The Indian gave very accurate information and directions of the whole route from San Bernadino to the San Pedro. Weaver recognized points on the San Pedro. I have questioned him very closely; he says we shall strike it about the old ranche of San Pedro, about sixty miles above the Tres Alamos. From this point it is about a hundred and eighty-five miles by the mouth of the San Pedro to the Pima village; and it is a very bad road, rough, much mezquite, and very little grass. From this same point— Tres Alamos—it is about 105 or 110 miles to the Pima village by Tueson—a good beaten trail, and much descending; to Tueson, about thirty miles; in the other 75 or 80 miles there is generally but one water, and he has been told about half way. [583]: 34–35 
December 8.—I marched a few minutes after 9 o'clock. The night had been so cold, with so much frost on the grass, that the mules would scarcely drink. The morning was rather warm, but a southwest wind rose very high and cold. The road this morning was over very hilly ground, and was, therefore, quite crooked; the ground was barren and hard, and good for a road, except in places covered with loose stones. Near the base of a lofty mountain to our left we struck smooth prairie, and were then troubled with mezquite. The snow lay on the mountain nearly to the foot, and within a mile of us. We could then see a great valley running toward the north, but no other sign of the San Pedro. The guides saw the wood of it, they say, from a peak of the mountain. We have come about seventeen miles—three further than they. Finding good grass and mezquite brush in the little valley of a dry branch, I encamped when the sun was more than a half hour high. The bottom of the valley, that is, the San Pedro, seemed so near that I first asked the guides if they thought that I could not reach it this evening—there is no water here. We saw, not distant, a gang of wild horses with colts. No wild cattle were killed; some were fired at far from the route by officers. The course this afternoon was WNW. (See map.)[583]: 35 
December 9.—I marched this morning soon after sunrise. As we approached the broken ground with a long black streak of mezquite, &c, where we imagined we should find the San Pedro, we were much disappointed. We fell into the smooth valley of the dry branch of the night's camp, which wound round in one northwestern course, and I finally coneluded we had passed too far south for the river, or that this was the head of it—the guides had all become doubtful themselves. Troops of wild horses and cattle, and antelope seemed to invite attention, little of which was given. Leaving the great valley of the dry branch, we passed all appearances of broken ground, mezquite, or timber beyond, toward the mountain towering before us, white with snow, from which a northwester cut us to the bone. We had seen only a smooth slope of prairie. My anxiety became very great, and I pushed in at a fast gait to the guides, and after ascending a hill saw a valley indeed, but no other appearance of a stream than a few ash trees in the midst; but they, with the numerous cattle paths, gave every promise of water. On we pushed, and finally, when twenty paces off, I saw a fine bold stream. There was the San Pedro we had so long and anxiously pursued. The western mountains being more distant than the eastern, and the ground smoother, I crossed the stream without difficulty, and at 12 o'clock moved on down it. Then Leroux, Weaver, Dr. Foster, Chacon, and Tesson went on ahead with instructions to strike off at a certain point—perhaps fifty or sixty miles below—for Tueson, examine the ground so far, and obtain information of the road beyond to the Pimo village, particularly what water may be found in it at this season. If I go by the mouth of the Pedro, I go round an angle slightly acute and pass a difficult country: passing through a canon of the Gila, where it will be necessary for my infantry to cross the river repeatedly; the mezquite very bad and the grass poor. Thus, by Tueson, with a good road, is eighty miles shorter. On the other hand, Weaver thinks it is eighty miles from Tueson to the Pimo, with but one permanent watering place, and it is a town perhaps garrisoned, which it is remote from my object to attack. But it is too much in my way, and would put the command to too severe a trial to go round, and I certainly shall pass through if possible.
I make it twenty-seven miles, without water, to the San Pedro. I came on six miles further and encamped on its bank. Those who have been at the fork of several ranges of mountains in the vicinity, represent the grass as luxuriant. My animals obtain the gamma grass every night on hills—it is of a straw color, and looks dead; but the mules have lately improved on it with short marches, and the thousands of wild cattle and horses are fat.
To our south is a lofty mountain, perhaps forty or fifty miles; there is Santa Cruz; and there heads a stream running south into the Sonora, and another north to Tueson; this is lost, like the Sonora, in the plains. This vicinity is said to be the coldest part of Sonora without exception. We are, then, probably now at the coldest part of our march. This stream runs north. A bull was killed on the road to-day, and one at our camp last night.
I should have mentioned that a man servant of Captain Davis died very suddenly yesterday morning. The wind having died away since noon, it is now quite moderate. It was the first northwest wind I remember since the second day from the Rio Grande. March sixteen miles.
The San Pedro was frozen in places this morning. Somewhere near here is a deserted ranche named San Pedro; it belonged to the proprietor of San Bernadino, and like that was broken up by the Indians. From it ithe wild cattle are derived; and they are the thickest at their old haunts. There are numerous traces of them, as of buffalo in their range; and the same even to "wallows." Their numbers are concealed by the vast thicket of mezquite. This seems a fertile valley; the low grounds about a mile wide; the highlands evidently fatten numerous herds in winter.[583]: 35–37 
December 10. — It was exceedingly cold last night. This morning, I believe Fahrenheit's thermometer would have stood below ten degrees. There being no wind, it has been warm to-day. After marching seven or eight miles, the hills approaching the river, we had to pass over a low bluff; and afterwards to wind much over and among the hills, as the ground is exceedingly hilly and mountainous, forming a canon. Just there, on the eastern bank, stands a deserted ranche, or possibly only an adobe cattle-pen. At 2 o'clock, I turned to the right a fourth of a mile, and encamped on the point of a spur of the bluff; the grass fine, and the river three or four hundred yards off; two dry creeks put in opposite each other at right angles to the river just below; that on this side has walnut timber on it, (the nuts are the size of a "pig-nut.") The pioneers, &c, had gone on a mile and a half and stopped; so I preferred an inconvenient camp, after marching six hours, to the risk of not being able to touch the river in season. Just as the mules were unharnessed, I received a message that there was a fine camping-ground on the river within two miles. Marched about fifteen miles.
Fish are abundant in this pretty stream. Salmon-trout are caught by the men in great numbers; I have seen them eighteen inches long. There is not on the open prairies of Clay county, Missouri, so many traces of the passage of cattle and horses as we see every day.[583]: 37 
December 11.—Marched very early. The road to-day was quite crooked, and rather difficult to open; the bottom having very high grass and being lumpy. At 2 o'clock, again I came to a canon, and several men having been wounded and much meat killed, I encamped, sending Charboneaux to examine the country. He came immediately in view of a deserted "village," which I presume is the true San Pedro.
There was quite an engagement with bulls, as I had to direct the men to load their muskets to defend themselves. They attacked in some instances without provocation; one ran on a man, caught him in the thigh, and threw him clear over his body lengthwise; then it charged on a team, ran his head under the first mule, tore out the entrails of the one beyond, and threw them both over. Another ran against a sergeant, who escaped with severe bruises, as the horns went each side of him; a third ran at a horse tied to a wagon, and, as it escaped, its great momentum forced the hind part of the wagon from the road. I saw one rush at some packmules and gore one so that its entrails came out broken. I also saw an immense coal black bull charge on Corporal Frost of A company; he stood his ground, while the animal rushed right on for one hundred yards. I was close by, and believed the man was in great danger of his life, and spoke to him; he aimed his musket very deliberately, and only fired when the beast was within ten paces, and it fell headlong almost at his feet, One man, when charged on, threw himself flat on the ground, and the bull jumped over him and passed on.
I have seen the heart of a bull with two balls through it, that ran on a man with those wounds, and two others through the lungs. Lieutenant Stoneman was accidentally wounded in the thumb.
An abundance of fine fish are caught, some that are three feet long; they are said to be salmon-trout. It was exceedingly cold again last night; but, there being no wind, it was disagreeably warm to-day.
Our course is very little west of north, and I fear it is much further than was supposed to the Tres Alamos. The march to-day about eleven miles. We crossed a pretty stream, which I have called "Bull run." About ten bulls were killed and butchered. I have directed that not more than rations for two days be carried away in the morning. [583]: 37–38 
December 12.—Passing around the canon and the ruined rancho, which is probably the true San Pedro, three miles brought us to the bottom again. The country is broken and rough, and we at times pass behind isolated hills; the bottom grass is very tall and sometimes difficult to pass through. These bottoms average above a mile, and are good land; the hills are stony and barren; the mezquite here becomes a small tree, and with others, this afternoon, gave quite a wooded appearance to much of the bottom. I reluctantly crossed the stream to-day and back immediately; a deep steep gully or dry creek and hilly ground seemed to make it advisable; no doubt it might be avoided. After coming twelve miles, the trail of the guides sent to Tueson seemed to lead off from the river and toward a gap. Other appearances indicated the spot which Weaver had described. We saw, too, on the verge of the bluff, in the gap, a tall post. Manuel was sent on the trail; the stick was, I believe, a " Spanish bayonet," and the trail led I cannot find out where. Charboneaux stili thinks the gap the one we are to pass, and that it is only accessible for wagons some ten miles lower down; so I have determined to send early in the morning to have the trail followed; it is probable that it was taken as a near cut to the river below.

This camp is at a very good gamma grass; the first good spot seen today in a march of fifteen miles. There is plenty of mezquite wood.

Eight p. m.—Leroux has returned alone. This is the pass opposite, and truly we must go down some ten miles before turning off. The party reached an old ranche about fifteen miles from the river, and found a considerable of party—perhaps twenty-five Apaches, with their families, and some Mexicans who were there making mezcal whiskey. They are a portion of the Apaches friendly to the Sonoranians. Leroux passed his party for trappers who had sold out to this command, which had been seen coming a day or two since, &c They said Tueson was "close by"—probably twelve or fifteen miles; that the garrisons of all the little frontier posts had been collected there, but did not exceed two hundred in number; that the General had passed by the Pimas only twenty days before, and had evidently had some communication with Tueson; in fact, three of his people were said to be there; (but who I cannot imagine.)
They spoke of some "treaty" by which Americans could pass anywhere, but were to prevent the Coyoteros (Apaches who live north of the Gila) from attacking them. Dr. Foster proposed to go on to Tueson; it was necessary, to keep up their assumed character, that some such course should be taken, as the mules of the party being tired down, they anticipated being pursued and taken if they revealed their true business by returning unceremoneously. So Weaver, Tesson, and Chacon also set out for Tueson but a little later, and were instructed by Leroux to turn off and return by the hills or mountains. Leroux managed to hire a horse to return, (leaving his mule.) He got an excellent account of the road beyond Tueson—two roads in fact; one with two camping places, or "waters," the other three; that it was a two and a half days' journey for pack-horses. So it must be about one hundred miles nearer, and a far better road. The Apaches he saw were the people who pursued those we met and recaptured the horses and mules. These had left the rancho in charge of a few soldiers half an hour before Leroux arrived. [583]: 38–39 
December 13.—Marched early down the river bottom. This is a mile or two wide, and a plain on either side, inclined both to the river and down the stream, the mezquite in places taking the exact resemblance of orchards; the road was smooth. We came about seven miles and en camped, where, unfortunately, grass and water were both distant; this was necessary, or otherwise to leave very much our direction for to-morrow. The march to-morrow is represented to be eighteen or twenty miles.
At 3 o'clock, I had an inspection of arms and a long drill, drilling myself, first a company in front of the others, and then the battalion, principally at loading and firing, and in forming column from line and line from column.
Then the following order was read to the battalion, viz:
Orders, Headquarters Mormon Battalion,
Thus far on our course to California we have followed the guides furnished by the General. These guides now point to Tueson, a garrisoned town, as our road, and they assert that any other course is a hundred miles out of the way, and over a trackless wilderness of mountains and river hills.
We will march then to Tueson.
We came not to make war against Sonora, and less still to destroy an unimportant outpost of defence against Indians. But we will take the straight course before us and overcome all resistance.
But shall I remind you that the American soldier ever shows justice and kindness to the unarmed and unresisting; the property of individuals you will hold sacred—the people of Sonora are not our enemies.
By order of Lieutenant Colonel Cooke:
Weaver and his two companions came in this afternoon; they had nothing material to add to Laroux's report. Dr. Foster has not come. I march on the Tueson trail at 7 o'clock in the morning.
The weather is fine and has much moderated. There was much good grass on the route to-day, though unluckily none convenient to this camp; and there has also been extreme difficulty in getting the animals down to water.

[583]: 39 

December 14.—With reveille before 5 o'clock, I essayed to march at 7; but the distance of water, &c, and some neglect of the guard, made it near 8 o'clock. We wound up the bluffs without difficulty, but ascending ground lasted nine miles, the first two giving severe work to the pioneers, cutting palmetto and mezquite principally; the ground sandy, but firm, and well covered with grass. We then struck the trail to Tueson.
I sent Leroux and three others ahead to renew his intercourse with the few people at the "still-house," and prevent them from running off. We struck a hollow at this same point which was followed eleven miles to the first water, at this camp. About six miles back, Tesson met me with a message from Leroux, that he had fallen in with two soldiers, and that there were a sergeant and six men at the still-house, and that he would await my coming and orders—(so the message was delivered.) It was late, and the wagons like to reach a camp after dark. I left word for an officer and fifty men to come on in advance of them, and pushed on with my suite and passed the advance guard and pioneers.
On this ground, among the mezquite trees, I rode in amongfour ornre soldies in uniform, with horses, and arms to their saddles. They were cutting grass, and made not the least motion indicating alarm or preparation. A quarter of an hour after, Leroux returned from the still-house, near a mile further on, and told me that the sergeant had a message for me. The camp was established on good ground, with water, grass, and fuel, at dark. Soon after, the sergeant and his whole party came to me; they had met Dr. Foster late two days ago, with his mule tired out, (with a drunken Indian guide,) and he had said he would not come back. The sergeant said that an Apache had spread reports that had greatly alarmed the people, who were about to fly; that the commandant requested me not to pass through the town; that he had orders to prevent it, but was not able; that I could pass on either side.
I told the sergeant, if the garrison was very weak, I should probably not molest it, and to hasten back and assure the people that we were not their enemies, but friends, who wanted to purchase flour, <fcc, of them. He left soon after dark.
I could not learn if Chihuahua had been taken; they report that a portion of California has been retaken by the Mexicans. I do not credit at all.
They say that General Kearny left with a Pimos chief ten mules, a pack of Indian goods, and "some papers" (a letter?) The mules, I presume, broken down. The sergeant says the General left there twenty five or twenty-six days ago. As near as I can learn, Tueson is as far, or further, than I came to day; the mules came in to-night very much tired. There is water four miles on the road. I have ordered that, with a later march than usual, the animals will be watered there; giving notice that camp to-morrow evening will be without water; that we enter Tueson early the next day and spend the afternoon there.
There are now said to be three roads to the Pimos from Tueson, varying from three to five marches; persons are expected there to-day from the Gila. March to-day twenty miles; weather very moderate.[583]: 39–40 
December 15.—Marched at 9 o'clock, and watered at 11 at the last water; then for a half mile was exceedingly difficult ground; after about six miles I left the valley, Leroux and Charboneaux following a trail down the creek; one road, but a bad one, and we saw no more of them until I encamped near sundown. The hill-road was then pretty good, although we were much troubled by prickly pears, of which we encountered a new variety. At the still-house we saw a dozen or two Indians or Mexicans, men, women, and children. They had huts or wigwams of dry grass or reeds, beside a small adobe house.
The process of distillation of whiskey from mezcal was going on; it was altogether the most muddy, filthy, wretched looking place I ever saw in my life.
I fell in with four other soldiers this morning, who had brought rations, they said, to the sergeant's party; they acted in the same singular, confiding, friendly manner as the others; it occurred to me that Dr. Foster's stay was becoming extraordinary; and I determined to send him a note by one of the Mexican dragoons, directing him to come to my camp this evening; stating that I held the other three prisoners and hostages.
It is now near 9 o'clock, p.m., and Foster has not come. I have questioned one of the prisoners; he says that Dr. F. was guarded, but that the commander, on receiving a message from the sergeant, had begged him to come with them last night, and that he refused.
He states the force at Teuson to be about one hundred; and that they have two cannon. He states that the commander sent a man with a letter to me yesterday; since which he has not seen him, but it is supposed he met the sergeant and party and returned.
We also saw, to-day, another extraordinary variety of the cactus; a green fluted pillar thirty feet high and near two feet in diameter, very stright, but sending out—some of them—about midway up, several similar columns, something like the branches of a candelebras—the ridges of the flutes are thickly set with thorns.
In the dry creek bottom were small willows, perfectly green, and cottonwoods only turning yellow. Water did not freeze last night; but we see snow on the mountains. We are without water to-night; the guard is somewhat increased—to forty-two. The march twelve miles.
But two days' rations of meat have been issued in the last two weeks from my commissary provisions.[583]: 40–41 

Major Graham’s Road[edit]

Sonora Road[edit]

Mormon Road[edit]

Route[edit]

As Indian conflicts came to an end, the Western Mojave became a focal point of civilian growth.

Emigrants passed through the area along either the Salt Lake Road or the Mojave Road (by then known as the Government Road). Mining developed, attracting people to the area in increasing numbers. Several trading posts were established along the routes of travel, some growing into small settlements. Major suppliers were Lane's (Oro Grande),Grapevine (near Barstow), Fish Pond (Nebo) and Hawley's in Yermo. [600]: 38 

[Mecham's Road from Fish Ponds The settlement of Lane v Andrews in 1869 freed the upper crossing property for resale, but at that time changes occurred that would affect the value of the ranch, and it was likely Lane had to settle for something less than the price agreed to by Andrews. The value of the property had been dependent, to a great extent, upon its location along one of the main roads into Southern California, but in the late 1860s a rival road was put into place, and it took away some of the commerce that made the crossing such desirable real estate.
The opening of the new road was a private endeavor by a desert resident named Lafayette Mecham, who operated a station at Fish Ponds. Lafayette's son, Frank, later wrote of the project and stated the road was established in order to transport hay:
"In 1867 my father...got a contract to furnish 100 tons of hay for Camp Cady. He broke a road from the Fish Ponds thru by way of what is now Stoddard's Well and into the Little Meadow -- now Victorville -- where we cut and stacked the 100 tons of hay."
Mecham evidently had decided that rather than transporting the forage over the river route, which formed a large arc, it would be easier to break an entirely new road running northeast-erly from the "Little Meadow." In addition, besides being shorter, the new route had the advantage of being on solid ground, whereas the Mojave River road passed through some sandy areas in or near the river bottom.
Not long afterward, Sheldon Stoddard dug a well along the route, which eliminated one of the major objections to its use and made it a very desirable shortcut. The road came to be referred to first as Stoddard's Well Road, then Stoddard's Wells, and finally, as Stoddard Wells Road.
The Road Connecting Mecham's Route to Lane's Crossing
Though historians have been unable to verify Frank Mecham's claim that his father built the road in 1867, there is evidence that the road was in use at least by the latter part of 1868. In October of that year Lane began running an advertisement for the upper crossing ranch in which he claimed he had the best hay and barley on the river at what he had aptly renamed Pioneer Station.
The station was located, he said, along a "new road" on the west (some would call it south) side of the river. This second new road was a connection between Mecham's road and Lane's Crossing (Pioneer Station), which today is roughly the alignment of "D" Street, National Trails Highway and Turner Ranch Road.

N 34° 45.659', W 117° 0.625'

"Previous to the buildings of Stoddard Wells Road, the primary route of travel between the Fish Ponds (present-day Daggett) and Little Meadows (present-day Victorville) was by way of the Mojave River and Lane's Crossing. Although it later became known as Stoddard Wells Road, it was Lafayette Mecham, a Mormon pioneer who ran the station at Fish Ponds, who actually built the new route. In 1867 Mecham was awarded a contract to bring 100 tons of hay from Little Meadows to Camp Cady on the Mojave River. Camp Cady was located approximately 20 miles east of present-day Barstow. Rather than use the regularly traveled route along the Mojave River, Mecham cut a more direct road from Little Meadows to the Fish Ponds at Daggett. This new route cur off a large arc of the Mojave River route, thus shortening the distance between the two points. In addition, Mecham's road was built on firmer ground, as the Mojave River route had several areas of soft sand, which was difficult for heavily-laden wagons to negotiate. One of the disadvantages of the new route was the lack of water, after Sheldon Stoddard dug a well near this spot, the route became very popular with freighters and other travelers. The road came to be referred to first as Stoddard's Well Road, then Stoddard's Wells, and finally as Stoddard Wells Road. The new road crossed the Mojave River near present-day Sixth Street in Victorville, and linked up with the toll road through the Cajon Pass."
    • Barstow,_California#History orig. Grapevines 8.2 miles from Cottonwood, 14.5 miles from Fork of the Road, Grapevines trading post.[597][600]: 38 
    • Cottonwood, San Bernardino County orig. Cottonwood, 4.1 miles from Point of Rocks, 8.2 miles to Grapevines near Hodge, California
      • [23] In the spring of 1863 a new family of desert settlers took up temporary residence at Lane's. At that time, according to a sworn statement by Deputy Assessor Sydney Waite, a Mr. E. P. Prothero was living on the Mojave River in improvements on public land claimed by Aaron Lane. Edward Powell Prothero was a Welshman who, after converting to Mormonism, emigrated first to Utah and then to San Bernardino. The added security provided by Prothero and his family was a blessing, especially since he had two of his adult sons, John and James, still living with him.

The stay was a brief one, however, as the Protheros soon finished construction of their own homes at the Cottonwoods. The following year Edward and his son, John, are shown in the Auditor's Assessment Book as each having improvements on state land at the Cottonwoods.

From various sources it is known that Aaron was not alone at the crossing. The census shows there were ten people living in two residences on the river by 1860. Listed in Dwelling No. 703 were Aaron Lane, William R. Levick, and the Nicholson family, consisting of George and Frances, and their three children aged 9 to 13. Joseph and Mary Highmoor lived in Dwelling No. 704, with a seven-year-old female named Anna.

In January of 1860 the newspaper, referring to this small group, announced that a settlement was being formed on the Mojave and that "good locations are known to exist." In April of the following year another "settlement" was reported to be in existence:

"On the Mojave river settlements are springing up. The tide of travel is carrying along the hardy and industrious pioneer, with his family, who is now erecting his home on the banks of the river. Fine tracts of arable land exist there, and already broad fields present their luxuriant grain to the astonished gaze of the weary traveler. Fine springs of water thread their silvery course, affording joy and refreshment to the wayfarer, ere lost in the sands of the desert."

Although the author of this article indulged in some rather fanciful rhetoric, it can be seen that he only is referring to a single residence being built on the river for one family. This was most likely the Nicholson home at Point of Rocks, as that property appears on the tax assessment records for 1862, and there are no other candidates.

      • [24] By the fall of 1864, new residents had moved even further down the river than the Nicholson and Prothero families, who were still at Point of Rocks and Cottonwoods. Albert Jacoby had moved to Grape Vines, and the Alcorn family was living at Forks of the Road. It was at this time that the desert Indians launched a significant attack directed at these citizens. On November 14th, Nicholson and the heads of the other three households downstream, together with three men named Daniel Cline, F. M. Moffatt and John H. Haven, all signed a hurriedly written plea for help to Sheriff Benjamin F. Mathews:

"To the Sheriff of San Bernardino County -- We the settlers of Mohave River, do sincerely petition to the Citizens of this County for help to drive the Indians off, as they are here in considerable numbers at Camp Cady. They are killing stock of all Brands. We had a fight with them yesterday Evening. They all appear to be armed with good guns and fight desperate.The Citizens of Camp Cady are all at the forks of the Road assembled for self protection."

Mathews received the letter the next day, and sent a notarized copy to the commander of Drum Barracks in Wilmington, Colonel James F. Curtis of the 4th Infantry, California Volunteers. Mathews also wrote a cover letter stating he had no other knowledge of the incident, because the person who delivered the letter had received it from someone else at midnight and he had not bothered to ask the messenger for any particulars of the raid. He added that a small group of armed citizens was preparing to leave in the morning, of a size "sufficient I think to keep the Indians at bay until Government Troops can arrive."

Neither Aaron Lane, nor Pleasants and the other cowboys, were listed on the petition. Just who finally did run the Indians off -- the local citizens' militia or the military -- is unknown, as no further details could be found on the episode.

    • Lane's Crossing 12.3 miles from Point of Rocks. "Lane's" trading post [597] [600]: 38 
      • [25] In December of 1873 Lane's Station was listed in the San Bernardino newspaper as one of the nine principal ranches on the Mojave River, along with Houlton's, Brown's, Kelley's, Atkinson's, Point of Rocks, Lightfoot's, Grape Vine, and Cady. From the standpoint of acreage, these ranches were modest in size for the time, except for that of Amos Houlton, which at 920 acres was at least in the top 64 in San Bernardino County. There were nine ranches in the county that exceeded 10,000 acres. Former mountain man James W. Waters owned properties amounting to over 36,000 acres, which made his holdings almost feudal in proportion. Total acres assessed in 1873 were 370,880, at a value of $679,001 -- an average of $1.83 per acre.

The site Lane chose for his new home was a splendid one. He had shrewdly decided to turn his sights to agriculture, though he continued to raise livestock, and the land he had selected this time included the most fertile ground along the overflow of the river. Lane praised the superior quality of this soil in an article he wrote for the newspaper:

The land on the Mojave, at the point where I am, is exceedingly fertile, and comparatively free from alkali. It is of that peculiar character which retains moisture well, and consequently I am able to cultivate successfully without irrigation. I do irrigate my garden, this season, but planted in the proper time, it would not be necessary so to do.

Lane described his ranch as being "immediately on the river, seven miles from the Upper Crossing," which today is in the community of Bryman. Though he did not mention it in the article, the ranch sat on a pretty stretch of land along the Mojave River. The surrounding landscape offers a view of the desert mountains and hills. Along the west side of the river a steep bank rises vertically some 200 feet high, and a dense forest of green cottonwoods and creek willows blankets the river bottom as far as the eye can see.


Even as late as 1871 the Mojave River was considered rather remote. One person took a trip to the mines at Ivanpah and thought it enough of an adventure into the wilderness to warrant writing a series of articles for the paper. In the September 9, 1871, Guardian, he writes of his stop at Lane's prospering way station and of Lane's good cheer and benevolence:

After crossing the river we struck a rolling sandy road running parallel with the river six or eight miles; we then reach Capt Lane's ranch; the hearty greeting of the old Capt (who had his title in the Mexican war) was refreshing; he has the good things of this life in abundance, and which he dispenses with a liberal hand to any unfortunates who may pass and there are a good many in this lower country who know from personal knowledge of the fact.

"The Capt has a nice garden growing on the banks of the river below his house with a good crop of corn, melons and vegetables generally. He has also about one hundred acres enclosed in a substantial fence which affords good pasture for his stock, consisting of horses, cattle and sheep."

The fruitfulness of the Captain's garden was a wonderment to many of his guests over the years. One observer said that it had the best turnips he had ever seen, and a squash weighing over 100 pounds.

LANE CONTINUED BEEKEEPING AT HIS NEW RANCH. BEE EXPERT A. I. ROOT STATED THAT ALFALFA, A "SPECIES OF CLOVER," IS ONE OF THE "GREATEST HONEY PLANTS IN THE WORLD."

In December of 1873 Lane's Station was listed in the San Bernardino newspaper as one of the nine principal ranches on the Mojave River, along with Houlton's, Brown's, Kelley's, Atkinson's, Point of Rocks, Lightfoot's, Grape Vine, and Cady.

From the standpoint of acreage, these ranches were modest in size for the time, except for that of Amos Houlton, which at 920 acres was at least in the top 64 in San Bernardino County. There were nine ranches in the county that exceeded 10,000 acres. Former mountain man James W. Waters owned properties amounting to over 36,000 acres, which made his holdings almost feudal in proportion. Total acres assessed in 1873 were 370,880, at a value of $679,001 -- an average of $1.83 per acre.

Los Angeles Star, 19 December 1857: 2, c.2  The Route to Salt Lake City[edit]

The Route to Salt Lake City.
As everything regarding the country which lies between us and the above city is of the utmost importance just now; and as this city is the nearest point in the United States to the Mormon stronghold; and as troops must be concentrated here to check the war now being carried on there against the United States, we believe it will be not only interesting but highly useful to publish the following facts descriptive of the road, and the supplies to be found along it. To be correctly informed of the nature of the road, where grass, wood and water, are to be obtained, is of vital importance to the march of an army, and we give the following directory by Mr. Sanford, as information on these points.
Mr. Sanford is an old resident of this city, has had great experience as a Santa Fe trader, and the most implicit reliance may be placed not only on the statements made, but on the opinions expressed by him. He is at present residing at San Pedro, being connected with Mr. Banning, in his extensive forwarding and commission business.
Mr, W. T. B. Sanford left Los Angeles on the 1st of May, 1855, for Great Salt Lake city, with fifteen wagons, each freighting 6,000 pounds, drawn by ten mules. From notes of the route kept by him on his journey, we have been furnished with the following extracts:—
From San Pedro to Sycamore Grove, in San Bernardino county, seventy-seven miles; the road is good, passing over a fertile and improved country, well supplied with water and grass, as well as with grain for forage. To the entrance of Cajon Pass, two and a half miles, and thence to Willow Grove nine miles; this last distance, the road leads up a narrow gorge. From the Willow Grove, where there is plenty of water, to the divide, which has grass on either side, nine miles; and thence to the Mohave river, twenty miles. Crossing to the east side of the river, and following it three miles, there is fine grass and water, which continues at intervals, for the fifty miles which the road follows down the river. From the Mohave to Bitter Springs, thirty-five miles; water not abundant, and of inferior quality; some parts of this road is deep sand; good grazing two or three miles above the springs. To Mud Lake, where water is sometimes found, ten miles grass is to be found at the foot of the mountain to the east. To Kingston Springs, thirty-five miles; where an abundant supply of water can be obtained, either by making a reservoir, or by damming so as to collect it; the road is stony and sandy; pasturage in great abundance, three miles beyond the springs. To Mountain Springs, forty five miles; one third of this distance, the road follows up a dry sandy ravine; the balance of the road is firm and good, with a limited supply of water, and grass, the latter of which is to be found on the low mountains to the north. To Cottonwood Springs, or creek, with good grass and water, twelve miles. To Las Vegas, with sandy road, twenty miles; this is the best point to rest and recruit animals, as both water and pasturage are good here, there is a Mormon settlement. From this place to the Muddy, the next water, the distance is fifty five miles, forty of which is over a hard and smooth surface; at this point water is abundant, with grass, cane and bullrushes. To Rio Virgen, (Virgin river) seventeen miles; the road is sandy and stony; the road continues up this river fifty miles, the waters of which, and also the grass along its borders, are strongly impregnated with alkali. To Beaver Dam, two miles along Virgin river, and to this point, the road is very sandy. To Santa Clara river, with good road, thirty-five miles; midway, there is pasturage, from which the road descends and passes though a narrow canon, about ten miles long.
The road follows up the river, with wood, grass (and water, twenty miles, then crosses, and passing over the Rim of the Great Basin to Mud Springs, with water and grass, fifteen miles from the river. To Mountain Meadows, (where the late massacre occurred) thirteen miles; here is great abundance of grass, good water, with wood at a convenient distance. To Panther Creek, a Mormon settlement, seven miles. To Cedar City, the first large settlement, twenty-five miles; the Mormon population of this town was estimated, in 1855, at four thousand souls. From thence to Salt Lake city, a distance of three hundred miles, the road is excellent, with water, grass and wood, at short intervals, the entire distance.
The appearance of the country satisfactorily indicates, that a much better route from the Muddy to the Santa Clara can be had by leaving the road and traveling on the table lands to the left, but avoiding the alkali country of the Rio Virgen.
At my arrival in Salt Lake city, on the sixth of July, having traveled eight hundred and sixty three miles from San Pedro, with no forage but grass, my animals were all in good condition, although the joif tney was made at the least favorable season of the year. While the road may be traveled in all the months, I think from January to May the best.
From the Mohave river, (along which it sometimes rains in the winter) to Kingston Springs, the rains are mostly in the summer mouths. On the route beyond, the rainy season is not confined to any particular portion of the year. The only section on this route when snow is encountered in the winter, is about thirty miles, at the Rim of the Great Basin, and there it does not fall so as to offer any obstruction to the movement of a train. The country here is not cut up and broken, but open and with an abundance of pine timber. There are no gorges or difficult passes on the whole route that could not not be easily turned by an armed force. The country adjoining the canons along the route, offers no obstacle to the movement of either infantry or cavalry. The distance without water is fifty five miles, with a hard even surface, over which teams easily pass. There is abundance of grass about midway of this section.
With a small detachment in advance, to prepare the watering places, a large force might pass over this route without difficulty and there are several places along the route, where animals could be recruited; the Mountain Meadows are admirably adapted to this purpose.
Wherever there is pasturage on this route, after passing Willow Grove, except on the Virgin, it is the kind known in California as bunch grass, and which is unsurpassed by any known grass in its good qualities.
I left Salt Lake city on the 7th of August, and arrived in Los Angeles on the 17th of September, with the same mules and wagons, having made the return journey is forty-one days. Emigrant parties have traveled this road since 1850, without interruption, and the mail is transported at all seasons of the year between San Bernardino and Salt Lake city. There is no season of the year in which the roads, or country between these points, becomes impassible or difficult in consequence of excessive rains.

Mormon Road Cutoffs[edit]

California Indian Wars[edit]

Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 41, 20 January 1851, p.2 col.4 Gen. Morehead's Expedition.[edit]

Gen. Morehead's Expedition.

From this time scouts were sent out daily in pursuit of the Indians. Morehead himself, with his main command, crossed over the Colorado to the point of land between that river and the Gila, where the Indians have their principal settlement. The Indians, perceiving his approach, were busy in packing their little wares upon their animals, preparatory to a hasty retreat. Morehead at once commenced an attack upon them, and followed them so closely that most of them were compelled to throw away every encumberance to ensure their own safety. They were followed for many miles — several were shot, and some of their animals taken. From this time forward, few or no Indians were seen. They retreated up the river, leaving their crops and their possessions to the mercy of their foe. How extensive these are the reader will hardly be prepared to believe. We are assured by one who rode over their fields that they extended many miles.

All these were at once appropriated by Morehead to the purposes of his command. His animals were turned in upon them, as were also those of different companies of emigrants as they came up. Not content with this, he caused the huts of the Indians to be sacked and despoiled of large quantities of musquite beans. These it is well known are a prime article of food with the Indians, in this vicinity. Pounded up and mixed with stewed pumpkins they make a bread that is not only nutritious but not altogether unpalatable. The musquite is very prolific about the Colorado, and the Indiana had stored up large quantities for the winter's consumption, but all that fell in his way were destroyed by Gen. Morehead.

Thus terminated this forray against the Indians. We shall leave the reader to draw his own conclusions upon the wisdom of the mode in which it was conducted. Two results however it seems to us must be inevitable. The first is, most extensive and severe suffering on the part of the Indians from the destruction of their crops, and the other is an ineradicable feeling of hostility will be implanted in their savage natures, which will not fail to wreak itself on every small body of emigrants that fall in their way. Fortunately for travelers the post at the mouth of the Gila is now in the possession of an experienced and discreet commander, who will be able, we trust, to convince the Indians that the Americans will neither sanction robbery from them, nor allow it to as practised upon them.

There remains to be written yet another chapter of this expedition which mast reveal acts more reprehensible than any which have been yet recorded. After Morehead had got rid of the Indians, he turned his attention to the Mexicans. It is well known that some of these people, on their return to their own country, have been in the habit of taking animals from our raucheros, as they have had opportunity, for which, of course, they deserve a severe punishment ; but whether the coarse pursued by Gen. Morehead is the correct one, the reader can form his own opinion. It appears that Gen. Bean — at least so goes the story — has authorised him to take from Mexicans all animals that were not "bented" — that is to say, had not the brand of their original owner duplicated on their right shoulder, signifying that they had been sold. Now the absurdity of this order can be readily seen by noting that, in the first place, many of those Mexicans bring with them their own animals, and of coarse have no occasion to " bent " them. Some of the Sonorians, for instance, that visit the mines, are men of wealth, and bring with them a large number of peons, (I have known one man to have over one hundred) mounted on animals raised upon their own ranches. Secondly — Many of these animals are bought in the mines, and are of American breed, and have never been branded ; and, thirdly, it is by no means an unusual custom with our rancheros to dispose of their animals, and not "bent " them at all. Many are sold with a written certificate to that end, and may as transferred to a new owner, without even that showing. All these facts are sufficiently notorious, and yet we find Gen. Morehead commissioned to take, at the river Colorado, from every returning Mexican, all the animals in their possession not " bented. "

The rascality of the transaction will be better conceived when it is understood that these poor creatures have the past season had more than the usual ill luck of those engaged at work in the southern mines. Most of them being unable to pay the outrageous tax imposed upon them by the ignorant cupidity of our last legislature, have been hunted from pillar to post, and have hardly realized enough to pay their expenses. At the Colorado River they are in the midst of an almost impassible desert. Before they arrive at the first settlement on the way to Alter, the usual route, they have to travel in one instance 100 miles without water, and in another 60 miles. The whole distance to Alter is 300 miles. Many of them live five hundred and a thousand miles beyond it. Now it will hardly believed that, under these circumstances, and from the shallow apology just described, over one hundred animals were taken from returning Mexicans, nineteen twentieths of which, I do not hesitate to say, were in all probability taken from their real owners, and I do not much care if the reader adds, were known to be so when they were so taken. Teodoro


Act for the Government and Protection of Indians[edit]

Indian Appropriation Act of March 3, 1852[edit]

Northeast California Indian Wars (1858–71)[edit]


Owens Valley Indian War[edit]

Mojave Desert Indian Campaign 1866-1870[edit]

refs[edit]

Los Angeles Star, Number 38, 28 January 1860, p.2, col.1, Murder on the Mojave.[edit]

Murder on the Mojave.

On Wednesday morning, Mr. Jones, the express rider from Fort Mojave, arrived here, and informed us that the Pi-Ute Indians had come down from the Santa Clara and the Vegas, and were driving-off the cattle on the Mojave, belonging to Mr. Bachman of this city, and had obtained possession of over twenty head, and several horses, and that as he passed the station, the men in charge were going out to recover the stock. A few hours afterwards, the startling rumor reached town, that Mr. Robert Wilburn, in charge of the cattle, bad "been killed by the Indians, which, unfortunately, proved too true, as the dead body was brought into town same evening. It appears Mr. Wilburn went in search of the cattle and found a dead ox; seeing Indian tracks, he looked around for the Indians, but could not see them, although they were lying concealed very near him. He was pierced by three arrows, and was in a dying condition when joined by his companions. The body was interred on Thursday afternoon, an inquest having been previously held thereon by Dr. J. C. Welsh, coroner. The funeral of deceased was largely attended.

Los Angeles Star, Number 47, 31 March 1860, p.1, col.3-4, MORE MURDERS ON THE MOJAVE!!![edit]

[From our Extra of Monday.
Monday Morning, March 26.
MORE MURDERS ON THE MOJAVE!!!
----
Two Men Killed by the Indians.
----
A Military Post Necessary on the Salt Lake Road.
----
On Sunday (yesterday) afternoon, our community was thrown into a state of the greatest excitement and alarm, by the information brought to town by Mr. Jones, the Government Express rider from Fort Mojave that two men were murdered on the Mojave by the Pi Ute Indians.
On inquiry, we find the following to be the facts of the case:
Mr. Thomas S. Williams, a gentleman well known throughout California, was bringing a train of wagons from Salt Lake city to California by the Southern route, for the purpose of carrying back freight. He was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Mr. John Jackman; they had fourteen wagons in the train, with their teamsters, and a number of passengers. They had traveled to Bitter Springs in the most comforable manner, having plenty of supplies for the journey; the Indians along the route were treated in the kindest and most liberal manner, and they behaved in all respects to as to inspire confidence in their friendly dispostition.
Having arrived within the boundry of this State, a place called Dry Lake, Messrs. Williams and Jackman started ahead of the train, to look out for a good station. They came to the Bitter Springs, where they were joined by four Pi Ute Indians, who offered to guide them to good grass and water, which were found a few miles this side the springs. Being satisfied with the location, they returned to the springs, intending to wait there till the train came up; apprehending no danger, they were unarmed, and on the way back each took a trail a few rods appart, permitting the Indians to walk behind them. Having traveled along the road some time, Mr. Jackman happened to look back, and something in the conduct of the Indians attracted his attention, and he turned his horse to join Mr. Williams, telling him at the same time that he thought the Indians were treacherous. On this, as he stepped outh of the trail, he was pierced by two arrows, as was also Mr. W. at the same moment, the latter being struck a third time; his horse started off and bore him to camp where Mr. Williams died same night.
Mr. Jackman, on being wounded, fell from his horse, which ran away. The savages then came up and fired on him, piercing him with no less than seven arrows, two of which passed entirely through him, one entering at the abdomen and coming out near the neck; the first passed through from his back, the barb protruding in front.
The alarm being given in camp by the arrival of Mr. Williams, a party came on in search of Mr. Jackman, and found him in almost lifeless condition from his wounds and the intense cold.
Mr. Williams was buried at Bitter Springs, and Mr. Jackman was brought to Lane's ranch on the Mojave, where he receives every care, but his wounds are of such a nature that no hope of his recovery is entertained.
Mr. Jones, who gave us the above information, met the party on the 21st, camping at the junction of the Mojave and Salt Lake roads, fourty miles below Lane's ranch. The murder was perpetrated on the 18th.
These repeated murders show the necessity of having a military post established on this road.--Here are three murders committed within a shor period, by the Pi Ute Indians, without any cause of quarrel.
Gen. Clark, in command of the Department, should at once establish a military post on this road, for the protection of citizens in pursuit of their business; more especially, as valuable mines are known to exist there, which cannot be worked in consequence of the hostile Indians.
Mr. Williams, [as we have been informed by an intimate friend of the deceased,] was about thirty-five years old, and his life has been one of eminent enterprise and activity. He married at the early age of sixteen, and at the same time was ignorant of the simplest rudiments of an English education. He enlisted in the battalion which came to California under the command of Col. Cook; and upon being discharged, returned to the States, and acting as agent in the purchase of land warrants, and getting some endorsements, he obtained a large quantity of goods, which he transported to Salt Lake City, and in the fall of 1851, entered largely in trade in that city. In the following spring he came to California with a large herd of cattle, and opened business at Nevada. He there established a store, butchered his own cattle, and established a transportation freight train from Sacramento to the mountain towns, which business he continued til the fall of 1852, when he then closed his business, converted his means into cash, and purchased and interest in the San Miguel (or Noe) rancho, near San Francisco, which property was surveyed into city lots, and the owners opened a real estate office for the sale of the same in the city, where Williams took the principal charge.
Closing out the latter speculation rather to his disadvantage, after some time he returned to Salt Lake, and went into business with Hooper, the present delegate in Congress from Utah. The freedom of speech and independent action of Williams gave great offense to Brigham Young, and the latter determined on his ruin. His business was forcibly broken up, and under some pretense Williams was imprisoned, and it is well known the intent was to quietly end his career, after the manner then in vogue there. The effect of his influence was then potent among a certain class at Salt Lake, and Young released him under a pledge from Williams' relations, that he would succumb.
Upon getting his liberty he openly published his inte-ntion to abandon the Territory, andgave public notice that he would leave at a certain time, and promised protection to all who might join him. Although it was known to to be "death by the law" to all who should attempt to leave the Territory without permission of the "preisthood," yet so great was the confidence in Williams' prowess and integrity, that about six hundred joined him at his rendezvous at "Emigration Canon," in the Spring of 1857, and he led them safely to Misouri, although greatly interupted, at the start- but the courage of Williams saved even the least of his followers.
From the wreck of his property, Williams then left Utah with about sixteen thousand dollers, and upon his arrival in Missouri, went into business at Weston, where he remained till he returned to Utah in the summer of 1858.
Last year he was engaged in various enterprises at Salt Lake ..................... from Salt Lake City to Camp Floyd, livery stable, partner in a brewery, and some other investments-- all, or most of them, at the same time.
With the Mormon hierarchy deadly opposed to him, he in a manner failed; but as the word "fail" was not in his vocabulary, he commenced anew, and organizing a dozen teams or more, he filled with passengers from discharged soldiers and others for this place, intending to return with a stock of goods to reopen in the commercial line at Salt Lake, which object has been foiled by the catastrophe detailed in this article.
As evidence of the capacity and energy of Williams, and that he was equal to the occasion under all circumstances, we present the following: In 1849-'51, as his plans and business spread beyond the compass of a single mind, and obliged him to be at the mercy of agents and book-keepers, and he not scarcely competent to decipher a plain chirography, he set to work in the midst of business turmoil, and made himself master of all requisite mercantile education for the prosecution of his extensive business; and in 1854, getting involved in law suits connected with his affairs in St. Louis, and feeling himself at the mercy of legal mercenaries, he began the study of law with Judge Styles, lat one of the Judges of Utah, and qualified himself especially in the commercial branch of the profession, and provided himself wth a library which cost him near four thousand dollars. This library was burned by order of Young during his feud with Williams, and was one of the unadjusted differences and hates between them. [627]: p.1, col.3-4, MORE MURDERS ON THE MOJAVE!!! 
The Indian Murders.
On our first page will be found an account of more murders which have been perpetrated by the Indians on the Mojave, and which has excited in our whole community feeling of horror and just alarm, available winter route to California from Salt Lake, and yet this is rendered dangerous, if not impassable, by the wandering hordes of the Pah Ute tribes. To render the road safe, a military post should be established at or near the scene of this murder.— There never will be safety or security for life or property, never confidence that the journey can be made unless military protection is afforded, and the Indians are chastised into peaceful habits. It is a great oversight of the Government to permit this line of road to continue the scene of Indian massacres, without even inquiring into the matter, much less hunting up and exterminating the murderers.— Indians are cunning and treacherous; and when instigated, ruthless in the extreme. A murder may be committed, and that is the end of it. They are never callcd to account for it, and so month after month, they continue their savage customs, without fearing detection or punishment.— How long such a state of things will continue, those in authority alone can determine. With them it rests whether protection shall be afforded to the citizen in traveling over the country, or whether the Territory of Utah shall be given up to the sole and exclusive use and dominion of wandering savages. An appeal for protection has been made to Gen. N. S.Clarke, Commander of this Department, and we await the result with no little anxiety.[628]: p.2, col.2, The Indian Murders. 

From San Bernardino.

San Bernardino, March 27, 18G0. Editor Star—On Thursday night, an express arrived here from the Mojave river, with intelligence of the murder of Thomas S. Williams, Esq. a merchant of Great Sait Lake city. [The particulars are stated elsewhere so we omit that portion of the letter of our attentive correspondent.] Mr. Jackmao is lying at Lane's, on the Mojave in a most critical condition. Dr. A. Ainsworth is in attendance on him. [629]: p.2, col.4, From San Bernardino. 


J. W. Gillette, SOME INDIAN EXPERIENCES, Annual Publications of the Historical Society of Southern California, Volume 6 (Annual Publications of 1903, 1904, 1905), Published by the Society, Los Angeles, Cal., pp.158-164.[edit]
SOME INDIAN EXPERIENCES.
By J. W. Gillette.
A narrative of personal experience involves frequent mention of the narrator. In my journey overland in 1858 I had expected frequent contact with the aborigine, but it was left to San Bernardino county, where I lived from May, 1862, to March, 1867, to give that. At Cucamonga I was clerk of the vineyard, storekeper, and was also postmaster, for which I yet have my parchment bearing the original signature of the then Postmaster-General'—Montgomery Blair. Beside the Superintendent, his assistant, myself, the foreman, blacksmith, carpenter, two Kanaka cooks, and a few Californians, were Valley Indians from Temecula, San Luis Rey and the desert; few at times, but at vintage I have known seventy, from papoose to old age. All who could work were employed. They were furnished ample rations, and but for the love of drink, fostered by the products of such a place, they might have been as happy as possible for their kind to be. Every Saturday evening was settlement conducted in Spanish. The foreman reported the work done by each, the amount due each was soon calculated and then the question was, "What will you have?" Money was scarce. Payment was made in merchandise from simple dry goods to provisions, etc. Now, each known name was so entered, but each week some new buck would show up, and in answer to my question in some instances the real name would be given; but often amid jabber, and explosion of laughter one would say "they call me Francisco Palomares, Teodocio Yorba, Jim Waters, Antonio Maria Lugo," or other well-known ranchero. I knew the giggling rascals were lying, but I took their word, and such honored names went into the book on behalf of the scamp who gave it. So it would come to pass that Waters would be charged for calico for his squaw, Palomares for a half-gallon of aguardiente, and Lugo, who owned land equal to the area of an eastern state, a pair of overalls, fine comb and mouth organ. Some chap would take mostly wine or grape brandy, and you knew he was going to entertain, which was verified by sounds emanating from the rancheria far into the night. The Sabbath was a day of debauchery with many, and it was a woeful file that lined up for work Monday morning. A few were wise, and went away to their tribal homes fat, well clothed and contented.
Other Indians there were, roaming, almost naked, bravos, who never worked, but stole horses, cattle, sheep, provisions, saddles, riatas, etc. For such the rancheros offered ample reward, poportioned to the individual wanted. One such, occasionally, gave Cucamonga a jolt.
Three times a week we killed' a beef; and what was not dealt to Indians, or kept fresh for our two Kanaka cooks, was jerked and dried in the sun on lines near the house in the vineyard, where dwelt the superintendent and family, and in a wing whereof all employes ate save Indians. One day this untamed savage stripped the line, running away with full serape. The next month he came, reconnoitered, saw no men, but did see two women. As he rushed at them, yelling and with large stones in either hand they fled into the house, and he and the beef were off again. A watch was set. A man came to the store and reported him as not over 200 feet away in the orchard. I soon had him under my shot gun ten feet away, with his serape full of apricots, of which there were then few trees, and their fruit precious. My yell brought help. Mr. Indian was left so tied that his feet wer in the fork of the tree, his head and shoulders on the ground, where he should have remained, while we prepared a team to take him to the nearest justice at San Bernardino. Very soon I was at the spot, Mr. Indian had gone, the apricots also, but the rope was coiled in the fork of the tree. I felt then like I was the cheapest thing on what we now call a bargain counter. The two men gleefully drove up in front of the store, and soon learned he had tricked us, then they took drinks, making the while such forcible remarks as such men do under such surroundings, and unhitched the team. Months later this buck planned a beef raid. The superintendent and I learned he was near, but the wary fellow saw us at fair pistol range and was off like a deer, with several good line shots, to dodge in which he outcrooked the famous Virginia worm fence. I have always hoped we did not so seriously wound him that he died, because we had usurped the red man's valleys, scattered his game, debauched his people. The brief period he cowered before my shot gun, I looked upon the most perfect individual of his race. Thereafter he left Cucamonga off his circuit.
Troubles with Mexican desperadoes, culminating in tragedies (one far reaching) made life exciting, and had I not there found that health for which I came south, I should have counted as lost the years I was there employed.
The arrival of stage and mail under Lance Toffilmier or Billy Passmore was the chief daily event. Old time freighters as Horace Clark, Chuck Warren, etc., would camp there; also miners like Nat Lewis, Gus Spear and Biedeman of Amargoza (whose mill was burned by Indians); Hi Jolly, Greek, mail carrier to Camp Cady and Fort Mohave; Dr. Wozencraft about to make the Colorado desert an inland sea; John Brown, a noted pioneer; Billy Rubottom, who kept a near-by staiton, all these and more of their ilk made the balmy evenings delightful in detailing experiences, with more in store for each. Of the little coterie gathering there, J. B. Kipp was killed in this city some twenty years ago, and J. Turner was killed by Indians near Death Valley about 1866.
After a disastrous trading expedition in Lower California, where I lost heavily and meeting Celestine Alipaz and others who had been run out of this country, nearly lost my life, for lack of other adventure, I engaged with an outfit (Billy Margetson leader) to take cattle collected for John Reid, James Waters, Ed Parrish and E. K. Dunlap to Stinking Water river, a source of the Missouri in Montana. Much of the stock was on the rancho of Parrish and Dunlap (later owned by Burcham), in the valley over the Sierra Madre from Arrowhead Springs, and through which flows a fork of the Mojave joining a mile or so below that from Holcombe valley. About March 12, 1866, Dunlap, Parrish, a driver, myself and a vaquero, Antonio (we two last on horseback) left Cucamonga for that ranch. Arriving at that point on the road where David N. Smith, keper of Summit Station, was marvelously recovering from being twice shot the previous year by Indians, all of whom were believed to have left never to return, we watered, and the leader instructed Anton and me to make a detour northwesterly through a fine bunch grass region, and bring such stock as we met to the valley, where ranch houses were, the wagon proceeding there direct. Meeting no cattle, the first object attracting our attention was the soft trail full of moccasin tracks. Antonio, being a native of San Bernardino valley, I asked him what make and how many. He examined closely and laconically replied Chimahueva. twelve, very bad Indians, and from Rock Creek heading for the Mojave Forks (as he then supposed). At supper we reported all this, but Parrish, long on the frontier for one so young, ridiculed the idea of danger to life or stock. Citing from his own experience with Indians, he argued that while they might not
relish the stock being removed, he would simply kill a beef, give them all they could eat and carry, if they showed up, which he doubted.
A shiftless fellow (one Anderson( had lately been in charge. He was an arrant boaster, and finding the skulls of two Indians killed in one of the encounters thereabouts, he fastened them on the posts of the big gates. He gave out that better than any one else, he knew the why and wherefore of those skulls, and that any Indians prowling near him would meet the same fate.
To return to Parrish, he declared carrying of revolvers to be inconvenient in the close undergrowth abounding there, and wherein cattle hid in gathering time.
Next morning all were out early, save Mr. Dunlap, who was sick, an old man (Strickland) the cook; a discharged soldier (Porter), a boy of 12 (Reeves), all of whom found plenty to do preparing for the long drive. East of the stream a herd was started to which was brought in, all stock as found. The forenoon passed satisfactorily save that at noon Pratt Whiteside (who, with Nephi Bemis had come as helpers the previous evening), declared he must carry his revolver because of a vicious cow dangerous to man and horse, that prevented the removal of stock with her. He was allowed to do so. After the noon meal the same force was out. That day I was riding a mule (as I was saving my faithful Tamole for the Montana journey), and accompanying Parrish and Bemis. Finding some ten head I was instructed to take them to the herd, take Whiteside's place there and send him with his well-trained horse to join them. All which was done, and as the herd was fat and quiet, I laid low to the ground to avoid the granite particles borne on the strong cold wind from the north, by a hair rope retaining my hold on my mule. Very soon Anton came loping round to say he and the other herder had heard a peculiar discharge, too loud for a distant revolver, and asked if he should investigate, he having the Chimahueva band in mind. I referred to Whiteside being armed, and he was about to reply. My mule suddenly tightened the hair rope and following her gaze we saw a riderless horse speeding for the ranch. Anton was instantly in pursuit and caught him before the ranch was reached, an ounce ball in the hip and saddle bloody. While yet I hesitated whether to leave the herd we had collected to one man, from the trees studding the skirt of the valley fled as the wind another riderless horse. Him I caught at the ranch gates. This saddle, too, was bloody, and the terror of the poor beast was infectious from its intensity, for I knew now that Parrish and Bemis were slaughtered. And Whiteside—what of him. His horse we never again saw. Dunlap, still sick, rose to meet the emergency, enfeebled in body, stunned by the tragedy (Parrish being his brother-in-law), arms were collected, prepared, and a wagon went forth; myself. Anton and the remaining man at the herd on horseback, we started for the bloody ground, Dunlap issuing orders from the wagon over a total of five, Strickland, defective of sight, being left, with the boy, at the ranch. Carrying a long rifle I was ordered to ride up a ridge that promised a commanding view, and followed it until I found the trial of the hostiles leading toward mountain fastnesses, where it was folly to go. I gazed eagerly for Indians, but could see none. Then signalling by waving my hat downward that I had discovered something, I was signalled to return. I was glad, for I was too prominent among those brushy hills just then. Returning, I learned that by following a queer acting coyote the naked body of Bemis had been found, with an ounce ball through the neck. Later was found the nude body of Whiteside. All signs indicated that as Parrish, Bemis and Whiteside were threading a small ravine, the Indians, from the left, in ambush, had poured in the volley that had sounded to Anton as one shot, sending an ounce ball into the neck of each victim, not differing in location over three inches, so deliberate and perfect was their aim. The first two evidently clung instinctively but for moments only to their reddening saddles. The shock of his wound knocked Whiteside from his horse, then he scaled the ridge and died among his foes, receiving in addition a pistol shot possibly from his own weapon, but not till he had put a ball into the groin of one of the savages, as evidenced by the drag of a limb shown in their trail. They had thrown a great stone upon the poor fellow's face, crushing the frontal bone. As we found him lying nude on his back, with the cold, rigid arms up as a guard against more barbarity, broken arrows lying around, we mutely looked the sentiment, "See how a brave man dies."
Not till nightfall did we give over the search for Parrish and reverently, tearfully bear the two bodies to the ranch. Arriving there a messenger was dispatched over the mountain trail eighteen miles to San Bernardino asking aid of the sheriff and detailing the tragedy. Forthwith we put out two guards for, while the foe might have gone into the mountains, they might be already doubling their trail, and as we had sacrificed three men to lack of prudence, an ounce of lead ready for every Indian was the course for that night. The excited condition of the ranch dogs was ominous, and we were now few. The ranch buildings were two log cabins on the north side of the drive, the stables and great hay stacks on the other, or south side, and dangerously close to the houses, if fired by our foe, who, from the surrounding darkness could pick off each as he ran from the flames. Only thorough vigilance prevented it that night. About 10 o'clock after the ample meal we sorely neded, Dunlap, Porter and Strickland were in the smaller cabin of one large room, some preparing the bodies for the morrow's journey to San Bernardino (that of Bemis most prominently in sight) when a heavy knocking at the only door startled us. Each looked the question, "What is it? Who shall open that door?" Only an instant and one of the others threw it open (in the same move jumping aside) and disclosed to us Harrison Bemis; and to him the bodies of his brother, Nephi, and Whiteside, whom he last saw in full health, and told he was coming over to stop at the ranch and hunt near by. What could we do but go out into the darkness, leaving him with the dead till his mingled grief and rage could run their course. Fatal valley; in it a man was killed by a grizzly about two years later.
Night passed sleeplessly. Before dawn, well fed, armed as best we could, we were off for the bloody ground. Rain had fallen and the fork was swollen, but through it we went, feeling we must find Parrish that forenoon if men could do it, and fear of the Indians somehow eliminated. About noon, despairing, the signal to collect was given; but one saw the white foot of Parrish, whose body was otherwise covered with masses of twigs gathered by wood rats, lying between the three trunks of a scrub oak. Suspense relieved we were thankful. He had been stripped and dragged. A thirty-five mile wagon ride must be encompassed before three widows and their orphans could receive their dead, and the rest of the day was consumed in mournful preparations. At evening a messenger arrived who reported the sheriff and a large force to leave next morning. These later caught up with the raiders, but the best I have heard of their efforts was that two Indians were killed ana a trinket or two recovered identifying them as the band who struck us. Early the following morning our sad cortege set forth and reached San Bernardino in the early evening, met by griefstricken families and angered people. I knew strong drink to be the first resort of a weak one and a last resort of the strong, but I had to take my forty winks to keep awake that night. When we left, Porter and Strickland were instructed to hold the ranch until part of the sheriff's force arrived, unless it was plain they could not, in which event the two men should steal up through the willows to Cajon Pass summit, and come in with some teamster, but first the boy was to be mounted on a swift horse kept ready therefor, and dispatched by the same route to San Bernardino. Our departure was evidently noted by our dusky foes, for that evening, hardly had darkness settled before the dogs heralded their approach. In the brief interval the boy was dispatched, being shot at by the Indians as he rounded the exterior enclosure, and the two men waiting till they saw it was the same foe and too numerous, hustled for the pass The yelp of the faithful dogs told the fate awaiting man and beast till this band was driven away. About midnight or later, the boy delivered the latest news from the ranch in a modest way that showed the true hero. There was a joint funeral the next day yet remembered by many San Bernardino pioneers. When a posse reached the ranch next morning word was sent that they found all the improvements smoking ruins. I never visited the place afterward, though I did go as planned to Montana with that outfit, and till we got to Bridgeport we had charge of the widow and children of Parrish.
As we traversed Owens river valley and saw the ruins of stations attacked in the Indian war of 1864 and learned some of its incidents, it seemed Mr. Indian was to us a continued story, of which I, at least, pined for the last chapter, which came in the Shoshone county, Diamond Spring Valley, where, while on day guard I shot an Indian dog that persisted in running through the herd of 750 Spanish cattle. This was in sight of a dozen bucks, and I realized that maybe it was in this lone land I was to die; for the buck chosen to visit the camp came to me, and touching his forefinger on my breast said I, having killed his dog, he would kill me. He ran the scale of demands, first blood, then money; then I had the cook fill him on table remnants. Then he wanted tobacco; I gave him that and he left. We moved across the valley and killed a beef. I felt pokey till my guard was over, but they had eaten to their fill of the meaner parts of the beef, and rage was stifled through the stomach. In February, 1867, I reached San Bernardino with Carlo? Shepherd of Beaver, Utah, and now I believe I have ended all my Indian experience worth relating."

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John Brown, James Boyd, History of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, Vol. I of III, The Western Historical Association, The Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, 1922, pp.50-51[edit]
"While the declaring of peace between the North and the South and the expulsion of a large part of the lawless element from the mining district brought greater peace to the law-abiding residents, the Indians continued to be troublesome, and numerous citizens met their deaths at the hands of scattered bands of the hostiles, who were ever alert to run off stock or to attack small parties of settlers. The Slate Range Quartz Mill and twelve buildings connected with the property of P. Beaudry" (p.50)
"of Los Angeles, were burned by the Indians in 1866, and to punish them for this and similar acts a party of volunteers was made up in 1867. Typical of the troubles of the times is the following article from a local newspaper of February, 1867 :l "For several years past our citizens have been greatly annoyed by roving bands of Indians who come into the valley and steal all the horses and cattle they find unguarded. Nor do they hesitate to attack stockmen and travelers, if an opportunity offers. Already Messrs. Parish, Bemus and Whiteside and a dozen others have fallen victims to their bloodthirstiness within the past four years. Growing bolder by impunity, on the 29th of January they attacked the sawmill of Mr. James, upon the mountain, a few miles east of this place, having previously robbed the house of Mr. Cain, carrying off five horses and burned down the house. The party at the mill, consisting of Messrs. Armstrong, Richardson, Cain and Talmadge, sallied out to meet them. A brisk fight followed, when the party, finding that most of the Indians had guns, and fearful of being overpowered, retreated to the mill. The next morning the party having been reinforced went out and were attacked again, the fight lasting for more than an hour. Two of the white men were wounded and two Indians killed and three wounded. A party was made up to pursue these Indians, and after following them found the indians encamped on the desert at Rabbit Springs. The company made an attack, the men having to climb up the steep mountains and over the rocks on all fours and the skirmishing lasted until dark. The skirmishing lasted for two days longer when the whites were compelled to withdraw because supplies were exhausted. Four Indians were killed and two of the white party wounded." The Mojave region came under the protection of Camp Cody, which was established as a regular military post in 1868, on the road between Wilmington and Northern Arizona territory, and about 100 troops under Colonel Ayers remained here until about 1870." (p.51)
Chimney Rock By Cindy Lazenby, Lucerne Valley, CA[edit]
Chimney Rock
By Cindy Lazenby
Lucerne Valley, CA
Chimney Rock in Lucerne Valley was the site of the last Indian fight in California. To understand the climax of the battle, we must first go back to the events leading up to the historic fight. Indians had used the mountain areas of San Bernardino for many years to supply food for their families. When the white man began cutting down trees and building sawmills, the Indians felt their hunting grounds were being ruined. This began a campaign to rid the area of the white man. (1)
In 1863 the Indians killed a Spanish man named Polito at the mouth of the Little Sand Canyon. As they escaped, the Indians stole a mule from Sam Pine and ate it. A short time after that, they shot a horse and mule belonging to W. F. Holcolmb and Pete Smith. About the same time the Indians shot Dr. Smith in Cajon Pass but did not kill him. Bill Holcomb formed a posse and followed the Indians but had to give up the chase for lack of provisions. Meanwhile in Cajon Pass, S. P. Waite killed an Indian when he shot at an object a blue jay was darting after. He did not realize until the next morning that the object he shot at was an Indian. (4) and (5)
In 1866 J. W. Gillette, Ed Parrish, and Nephi Bemis (3) started out to round up some stray cattle at the Dunlap Ranch. Gillette’s mule was worn out so he was sent back to get Pratt Whiteside to take his place. Gillette stayed with the herd Whiteside had been guarding. A while later the horses of Parrish and Bemis came back; the Parrish horse had blood on the saddle. Gillette went back to the ranch house to inform a sick Mr. Dunlap of the discovery and to gather more men and arms.
The body of Bemis was found about sundown. The searchers found evidence that he had been killed by about 30 or 40 Chemehuevi Indians. The bodies of Whiteside and Parrish were found the next morning. Parrish still had a stone in his hand that he had been using to defend himself. The Indians had taken the clothing from all three bodies along with Whiteside’s riding rig and pistol. The Indians returned to the desert that evening after eating Whiteside’s horse. (2)
The following winter in 1867, the Indians returned to the mountains and looted some houses in Little Bear Valley. From there they went to the home of Bill Kane and stole the horses, supplies and guns of George Lish and John Dewitt. The next morning, Frank Talmage, Jonathan Richardson, George Armstrong, and Bill Kane started after the Indians. The men went back to Kane’s home and found it burned to the ground and all items the Indians could not carry had been destroyed.
The families of the men were protected at the mill, and help from San Bernardino was on the way, so the men continued to track the Indians through some new fallen snow. This made the hunt easier. At Willow Canyon they saw eight Indians. Talmage and Kane chased after them with their horses and Richardson and Armstrong followed with the pack animal on foot.
The Indians hid behind a log. Kane was on top of them but didn’t realize it. The Indians shot Kane’s horse and it threw him off. Kane lost his gun but still had his pistol. The Indians were trying to kill Kane, who was behind a tree, but Talmage arrived in tine to prevent it. Talmage killed one Indian and the others scattered. The men returned to the mill to get more ammunition and more men to help fight the Indians.
The next day Talmage, Kane, Richardson and Armstrong were joined by William Caley, A.J. Currey, “Noisy” Tom Enrufty, Henry Law, George Lish, Tom Welty, Frank Blair, and Joab Roar. In some thick timber at the top of the first ridge past the mill, the posse met up with about sixty Indians. The Indians opened fire with guns and bows and arrows. After several hundred shots were fired, the Indians took their wounded and headed for the desert. The posse let them go and returned to the mill with their wounded. Tom Welty had been shot in the shoulder and Bill Kane in the leg. One Indian had been killed.
More men and supplies arrived from San Bernardino. The posse split up with some men some going through the mountains and the others going through Cajon Pass. They met at the Dunlap ranch on the Mojave River. This posse consisted of W.F. Holcomb, Jack Martin, John St. John, Samuel Bemis, Edwin Bemis, Bill Bemis, Harrison Bemis, Bart Smithson, John McGarr, Johnathan Richardson, Frank Blair, George Armstrong, George Birdwell, Joseph Mecham, Jack Ayres, George Miller and an unknown man. The posse located the Indians on a rocky mountain northwest of Rabbit Springs. Three or four men became sick and went home, but a few additional men arrived the next day. David Wixom, ‘Noisy’ Tom Enrufty, Sam Button, a preacher named Stout, Stout’s son and son-in-law (Griffith) joined the posse.
That night the men divided into two parties St. John was leader of the party who went north of the mountain and Stout was leader of the party of men who took the wagon road. The north party arrived late, and at daylight the south party was already in place. The south party saw no Indians, fired some shots to let the north party know where they were, and started back down to the wagons. The noise woke the Indians who only saw the south party and they began to try and cut the men off from the wagons. The north party began to climb the rocks and were unseen by the Indians until they were upon them. The arrows and bullets began to fly and Richardson was struck in the breast with an arrow. He fell into the arms of George Miller who tried to remove the arrow but could not get the tip out. Miller went to get help but met St. John along the way. St. John told him guard a pile of rocks the Indians were escaping through. Miller was to try and stop their escape while St. John went to get the other men.
The Indians yelled like coyotes during the battle and all escaped except two squaws, a fourteen year old boy, a ten year old girl, and a baby. The Indians were surprised by the attack and scattered when they thought they were trapped. The men took the prisoners and Richardson back to the wagons. Holcomb, Button, Armstrong, and Blair took Richardson to San Bernardino for medical attention. The next day, Martin, Miller, Bill Bemis, and Ed Bemis went back to the battle scene to pick up the Indians’ trail. When they found the trail, they discovered that the Indians had gotten together again. From the tracks, they determined that there were about 150 or 200 Indians. They heard a shot but decided to turn around because it was almost sundown and they had a six mile walk back to camp with no water. The next morning all the men except three who stayed in camp picked up the trail where it had been left the evening before. The men discovered from the tracks that the Indians had been close to them on both sides of the canyon; had they gone any further the evening before, they would have all been killed.
They followed the tracks traveling in a half circle until 3:00 in the afternoon. They decided to return to camp which was closer to them now than when they had left that morning. They met Stout’s son who had two extra horses, a canteen of water, and a lunch for his father and brother-in-law. These three decided to continue and follow the Indians against the advice of St. John and Martin. When the other men at camp began to eat their dinner, they heard gunshots. Miller looked through a field glass and saw Stout’s son coming on a bald faced horse across the dry lake. The men in camp hurried to help and arrived just in time to save the two men the Indians were closing in on. Stout’s horse had been shot and his son-in-law had a broken arm. The Indians had lain in wait in the rocks and opened fire on them as they came through a small pass. The posse exchanged fire with the Indians and they again scattered. The men took Stout’s wounded son-in-law back to camp. The posse decided that after men left to take him to San Bernardino for medical treatment, there would not be enough men left to fight the Indians so they all went back home. This ended a thirty two day campaign against the Indians and stopped the Indians’ mountain raiding parties. (4) and (5)


Note: I originally wrote this paper in 1989 for a college history class at Victor Valley College. I retain all rights to this paper. If someone wants to reprint or use any information in this article, contact me at cindylazenby@gmail.com for permission.
Many newspaper and magazine articles were written about this event; however, I wanted to base this paper on eyewitness accounts of the events. I spent considerable time researching old documents and microfilm archives at the California Room of the San Bernardino City Library. I went through the accounts and tried to put the stories of J. W. Gillette, the eyewitness at the Dunlap ranch incident, together with the letter from George Miller, and the interview Miller gave in 1937 of his Chimney Rock battle in the proper time sequence.
The article by William Talmage gives much information; however, he was not an eyewitness and was only retelling stories of his father, Frank Talmage. I only used his information on the speculated reasons the Indians began the attacks.

The article by Phil Perretta was only used to supply the first name of Ed Parrish.


Information Sources
(1) Talmage, William S. as told to John F. Barry “Indian Massacre in Lucerne Valley”. San Bernardino Sun Covered Wagon Days Edition Nov. 13. 1938. Frank Talmage’s son tells of his childhood remembrances and blames the raids on the white man’s lumbering which threatened the Indians hunting.
(2) Gillette. J.W. “An 1866 Witness Describes Indians - Historic Bloody Massacre Seen”. San Bernardino Museum Association Quarterly Vol. 5 No. 3, March 31st. 1866. A letter addressed to the widow of H. F. Parrish fromJ. W. Gillette describes the killing of the cowboys on the Dunlap ranch, states that the Indians are Chemehuevi.
(3) Perretta, Phil “The Battle at Chimney Rock” Spring 1986 Billy Holcomb Chapter E. Clampus Vitus. Paper explains the Chimney Rock and Dunlap Ranch incidents. Gives first names of the cowboys killed on the Dunlap ranch.
(4) Mills. Dr. H.W. “De Palo Astilla” Historical Society of Southern California Annual 1917, Gives an eyewitness account of the Chimney Rock battle in a letter dated July 18, 1916 by George Miller. States the Indians are Piute, Chemehuevi, and a few renegades. p.158-
(5) Momyer. George P. “The Mojave Indian Fight”. San Bernardino Museum Association Quarterly Vol. 9 No. 2 winter 1962. Written in 1937, this is an account of an 87 year old George Miller telling of his Chimney Rock battle. It conflicts in a few areas with the “De Palo Astilla” letter.
Mills. Dr. H.W. “De Palo Astilla” Historical Society of Southern California Annual 1917,[edit]

156 HISTORICAL SOCIETY oF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA our teams to assist them. I made known to Brother Benjamin Wright, who was in charge of affairs at Voree, my intention of going to Beaver Island, the seat of the First Presidency, and we took under advisement how to dispose of my wagons and horses and procure the necessary outfit, whereupon we came to the con- clusion that I should turn over all I had to Brother Wight (or rather the association) and that he should provide me with such outfit for the island as their circumstances would justify. Brother Whitney concluded to remain at Voree, where he died the succeed- ing spring. On my part, I worked with my might in assisting the brethren in their ordinary labors, until such time as it might be convenient to get my outfit for the place to which my desires in- spired me to go. ‘No one can possibly realize my gratitude to the God of heaven for my safe deliverance from the perplexity of mind and burning anxiety for respite from the misrule of the haughty and arrogant usurpers of authority in the Church and Kingdom of God, and my eager expectations of being in a week or two placed again under the guidance of the true shepherd of the flock of God’s people on earth, but those alone who have passed through such ordeals as I have in the last six years, subsequent to the death of Joseph Smith, and up to the time of my arrival at Voree.

GEORGE MILLER, JR. So much for George Miller, the elder. I now come to the second part of my subject—the life, or, to be more exact, some few inci- dents in the life of the son, George Miller, Jr.—the George Miller who is with us today. He was born February 11, 1850, in Indian Territory, among the Creek Indians, and was the only son of George Miller, Sr., by his second contemporaneous wife, née Boughton, who died in 1851 in Michigan. His father, a Mormon bishop, and, of course, a polygamist, was an intimate friend and a firm believer in Joseph Smith, but he hated Brigham Young as the devil hates holy water, and the compliment was apparently returned, for we have seen that on at least one occasion he vehemently suspected his enemy of compassing his assassination. Of his mother little is known, for she died when he was a baby. He was his own man from the age of twelve—literally and abso- lutely. He started without father or mother and without a red cent, and all that he has he has made by the sweat of his brow. He is thus a self-made man in the highest sense of the term, and is proud of it. The young George had every opportunity and every excuse for developing into a first-class blackguard, as he himself has often

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 157 told me, for he was thrown in those troublous times into the com- pany of as ruffianly a type of humanity as God ever allowed to exist. And around the camp-fire at night he has told me time after time tales of his early life which have made me wonder how an orphan boy, under such circumstances, could have grown up other than an Apache, but the stuff was there—“De Tal Palo Tal Astilla” —and from his parents he inherited that essential integrity for which he has been known in California for nearly sixty years. Lit- erally, George Miller would not betray a trust, tell a lie or do a dirty trick for all the money in the world. An enthusiastic Mason, he simply and unostentatiously subscribes to the high beliefs and tenets of that order, and lives up to them. Unlike his father, he has a simple and old-world faith in the integrity of his brethren— judging others by his own standard. The elder Miller, you will recollect, put Mormonism before Masonry. More than once I have known him seriously imperil his estate financially and socially to help out some old friend who was down and out and in serious trouble, never hesitating for a second to count the cost, but simply practising the golden rule. He is perhaps most widely known to the present generation as an old- time Indian hunter. In fact, his whole life has been that of a hunter. He hunted Indians until they were all killed off, and grizzly bears until he himself, in 1901, killed the last grizzly bear in the San Ber- nardino mountains—and thereby hangs a tale—since which time he has had to be nominally content with the official two bucks per season, except when employed by the proper authorities to secure specimens of the Ovis Canadensis for the Golden Gate Museum of San Francisco, where many of his trophies may be seen. I append a copy of a letter which, at the request of Byron Waters, he wrote to the Pioneer Society of San Bernardino in 1916. In his own language he tells the tale of the life of a pioneer in these regions in the sixties.

158 HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA COPY OF GEORGE MILLER)S LETTER TO BYRON WATERS IN RE: INDIAN TROUBLES AT SAN BERNARDINO FROM ONWARD

FIRST FIGHT AT MILL Jonathan Richardson, William Kane, George Lish, Tom Welly Henry Law, George Armstrong, Frank Talmadge, A. J. Currey, Thomas Enrufty, George Birdwell, Frank Blair Highland, Cal., July 18, 1916. Byron Waters. Dear Friend: To make good my promise that I would give you a little early history of our Indian troubles in San Bernardino County, I will commence back. In 1863, as near as I can recollect, they began to get quite bold. They came into the valley and killed a man by the name of Polito, a Spanish man, at the mouth of Little ‘Sand Canyon, above Del Rosa, about where Jake Huff now lives. They made their escape over the mountains through Little Bear Valley, and stole a mule from Sam Pine, the father of ex-Supervisor Pine, who was living there at that time with his family. They went on down Willow Canyon below the narrows in a side canyon. They killed a mule and then ate him; they seemed to love mule and ‘horseflesh better than beef. I think a short time after that, at the mouth of Davy James’ Canyon, now known as Cable Creek, they shot a horse and mule of W. F. Holcomb and ‘Pete Smith, while they were hunting. I think about the same time they shot [but did not kill] Dr. Smith in Cajon Pass. This Dr. Smith was the man who first located Arrowhead Hot Springs. Bill Holcomb and others gathered up a party and followed them over into the Rock Creek country. They took no provisions with them; had to live on venison straight, and so had to give up the chase. About that time *S. P. Waite was living in Cajon Pass at the upper toll-house, with his family, having to keep a sharp lookout for Indians. He discovered a bluejay darting down at something up on the bluff above the house; it raised his suspicions that something might be there. He thought he could see an object there, and so he took a shot at it. The next morning he went out to investigate and found an Indian lying there. Now I will go back a little and speak of myself in order to get the date more definite. I went up on the mountain with Justus Morse and old man Wixom to work in the shingle-mill in Dark

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 159 Canyon. Old man James was running a saw-mill at what is known as Knapp’s Flat. Old man Huston was running a saw-mill at the east end of the flat on the creek coming down from Squirrel Inn. We call it Huston Creek. I got one of my fingers cut off in the mill while making shingles, and a bad cut on the leg with an axe; so I came down to the valley for repairs. I then went out to Yucaipa to work for James Waters; stayed there about three months; came back and went to the mountains again, and then went to work for A. J. Currey, who afterwards became sheriff of the county. After I had worked for him about a year, I bought him out. We were living in a little canyon running in Little Bear Valley from the south side, just east of where Lapraix mill stood afterwards. We were living previously for a short time in a house that had been vacated by Frank Talmadge. Bill Holcomb was living in a house close by that had been occupied by Sam Pine. The place is covered with water now of Little Bear Lake. I took Bill Holcomb in as a partner some time after that to finish working up the timber I had on hand. The Indians were very troublesome all this time, stealing cattle and horses. Everybody had to be on their guard. Old man James, just before I went to work for Currey, had moved his mill in ‘Little Bear Valley Canyon, now known as Blue Jay. He sold out to William Caley, Jonathan ‘Richardson, George Armstrong and J. J. Willis. Frank Talmadge was driving a logging team for the company at that time, he buying out Armstrong afterwards, Garland P. Thomas buying out J. J. Willis. Now that brings me up to about 1866. The Indians were very bad, killing stock on the Mohave River, in particular that of the Bemis boys and Dunlap, the owner of the Dunlap & Parrish ranch —the one on the west fork of Mohave, now known as the the Las Flores rancho. It was there, while they were driving up their cattle, the Indians ambushed them and killed Parrish, Bemis and White- side, while they were riding up a small draw, looking for a cow and yearling that had escaped the herd. It was between sundown and dusk they were killed. They recovered the bodies of Parrish and Bemis that night. They were stripped of all their clothing. They found Whiteside the next morning. He had been wounded evi- dently, and had put up a fight from the indications. His body was also stripped of all clothing. He was shot full of arrows, as well as having a bullet hole in his shoulder. His head was smashed in with a rock. This occurred about one mile east of the house, a short distance from the mouth of Grass Valley Creek, west. Just as soon as the horses came in with saddles covered with blood, every- body took the back trail to find the bodies of the men. It being dark made it difficult, and they got only two of them that night, Bemis and Parrish, finding Whiteside the next morning. Then the chase began, driving the Indians into the desert and mountains. I

160 HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA do not know how many Indians there were, but I presume there were two hundred and fifty to three hundred all told, old and young. They were mostly Piutes, and a few Chimihueve and rene- gades. They inhabited the north side of the mountain range and desert. The next depredation was in Little Bear Valley, about where the dam runs across the Arrowhead reservoir. There was a little pen stalk water saw-mill standing there—sash saw—turning out about 800 feet of lumber in twenty-four hours, first built by Jerome Benson, and rebuilt by old man Meeks. The Indians slipped in when no one was in, and robbed the houses, and afterwards burned them. They then came up the valley to Bill Kane’s house, just below where Talmadge’s last mill stood, in ‘‘Little Bear Valley. George Lish and John Dewitt had just brought up supplies of pro- visions to go to work, and just turned their horses in the pasture and went across the valley for a few minutes. On their return they found the Indians in possession of horses, guns and provisions. The Indians made a dash for them. They made their escape to Talmadge’s mill, now called Blue Jay Camp. The next morning Talmadge and Richardson, Armstrong and Kane, took two saddle- horses and one pack-animal and started after them. They went down by the house and found it burned to the ground, grindstone broken and everything destroyed they could not carry off. Con- siderable snow fell during the night, about five or six inches, and that made tracking good. So they were determined to find where the Indians were located. They had already sent to San Bernardino for help that had arrived, and gathered all women and children into the mill house, so that they could go on without any fear for the families. So on they went for Willow Canyon. Right at the head in a little flat, just this side of the gate house of Arrowhead Reservoir Company, they saw eight Indians. . The Indians saw them first and ran. Talmadge and Kane were on horses, Richardson and Armstrong afoot, leading the pack animal. Talmadge and Kane, being on horses, ran after the Indians, it being easy to fol- low the tracks in the snow. They chased them on down on the right side of the canyon just below where the first tunnel comes through from Little Bear Lake. The Indians, being pressed too closely, got in behind a big log. Talmadge kept above the trail a little; Kane followed right after them. He ran right on them be- fore he knew it. They shot his horse several times; his horse threw Kane off, and he got behind a tree. The horse went back to the pack animal. The Indians were trying to get Kane, he having dropped his gun in the fall. Talmadge had got off his horse, and shot and killed the one just drawing a bead on Kane. Kane had lost his gun when he fell from his horse; he had nothing but a pistol left. Talmadge had a double-barrel, muzzle-loading gun. The Indians then turned their attentionlto Talmadge. Kane ran

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 161 back to the other boys. Talmadge fired another shot. He could not hold his horse any longer and hold his gun. The Indians scat- tered. Talmadge went back to meet the boys. They all went back to the mill. That ended the first round. The next day they gath- ered in what guns and ammunition they could; one or two more men from San Bernardino came up; they moulded up all the lead they could get hold of; got powder and caps, for all we had was muzzle-loading guns in those days, and started to locate the Indians once more. They left with the women four men: J. J. Willis, G. P. Thomas, G. Birdwell and one other man. They decided not to go the wagon road down to Bear Valley for fear of being way-laid by the Indians. More snow had fallen by this time, almost two feet, I think. In the party that day were Frank Talmadge, Jonathan Richardson, I think; William Caley, A. J. Currey, Thomas Enrufty, better known as “Noisy Tom”; Henry Law, George Lish, Tom Welty, Frank Blair, Bill Kane, George Armstrong, I think, and Joab Roar. It was so long ago that I am not positive as to those two. As I said, they decided to go down the canyon on the left side toward Bear Valley. They left the road about two hundred yards below the mill and started up over the first ridge. Just as they reached the top they met about sixty Indians. The timber being thick, the fighting was done mostly from behind trees. I think the Indians opened fire first. They must have had about forty guns, and some had bows and arrows. The firing lasted some time, several hundred shots being fired. Tom Welty got shot through the shoulder, Bill Kane in the leg. Two men being wound- ed, and about four men and two guns being all they had left to protect the women folk, they went back to the mill. They left one dead Indian and several wounded. That ended another scrap. The Indians having got the worst of it, leaving two dead (‘N. B. in the two scraps—so G. M.) on the ground and a good many mortally wounded, they went down for a warmer climate, towards the desert. Those Indians that were killed had their shoes, or sandals, tied to their belts and their feet in the snow. They all were bare- footed, as their tracks showed in the snow. We determined to drive them out of the mountains. We gath- ered up some more men from San Bernardino, with provisions, and a wagon to haul the blankets, and our supply, not being much at that. Some went over the mountains; some went through the Cajon Pass. We made our first headquarters at the Dunlap and Parrish ranch, now Las Flores ’Rancho—see note “A” at end. In the army of the Mojave at first outset were W. F. Holcomb, Jack Martin, John St. John, Samuel Bemis, Edwin Bemis, Wm. Bemis, Harrison Bemis, Bart Smithson, John McGarr, Jonathan Richard- son, Frank Blair, George Armstrong, George Birdwell, Joseph Mecham, Jack Ayres and one man—I don’t know his name. He

162 HISTORICAL socmrv oF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA was so no-account he would not get out of camp or do a soli thing—the laziest man I ever saw in my life. We divided up into small parties each day to go in different directions to get the trails to find where the Indians had gone to. We found all trails of them going northeast on the desert from Rock Creek on the west to Cushenberry on the east track; all led toward the Rabbit Springs. We then moved down to the Mojave River to get closer to our work, in some heavy timber—the place is now known as the Verde Rancho; it was not owned by anybody at that time. From there we put out our scouting parties, and soon located the Indians on a rocky mountain north and west of Rabbit Springs, just north of the west end of a dry lake. I was with the Bemis boys and Jack Martin during the time we were scouting. A brave set of men they were, but cautious and on the alert.. The next thing to do now was to make an attack, as soon as we could get all hands together at about 20 miles from our camp west, and we decided to make a daybreak attack. Three or four men then got sick all at once—toothache and head- ache—and they went home then. The next day came more men, Dave Wixon, Noisy Tom, Sam Button and a man by the name of Stout, and his son and son-in-law. Those who went home were Ayres and Mecham—I have forgot- ten the other names. We sat up that night till about 12 o’clock. Then we divided into two parties. Stout was made captain of the men who went by the wagon road. St. John was made captain of the men who went north of the mountain. It was a considerably greater distance for those going on the north side of the mountain. I want to say right here that this was the coldest weather that I had experienced in many a day. Men’s moustaches froze from their breath. I was not old enough to grow hair on my face at that time. We wandered around through the night in the “chollas” (cactus) half frozen, and arrived at the foot of the hill in broad daylight. We should have been at the top of the mountain at that time. Stout and his party, following the road, a much shorter distance, got there on time. They saw us just starting up the hill. They did not see any Indians. They fired off a gun to let us know they were there, and hallowed a few times, and started down to the wagon. That woke up the Indians, and put them on their guard. We could see the Indians running about from place to place, one with something in his hand, a piece of blanket, and directing his men. The Indians did not see us. They were watching Stout’s party, and trying to cut them off from the wagon. All this time we were hurrying the best we could, the ground being very rocky and hard climbing. We would go half at a time; then we would get behind rocks and wait until the others came up. They would get under cover and we would go on again. We got right in there among them before they

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 163 knew it. Then the guns began to crack and arrows began zipping about, and you could not see any distance for so many big rocks. Jack Martin and Bill Holcomb, Noisy Tom and Bill Bemis went on the west side of a big rock. Richardson and I were on the east side of the rock. We started to go round on the south side, where the most shooting was. An arrow struck Richard-, son in the breast. He staggered round, and I caught him in my arms, and got him behind a rock and started on. I had gone but a few feet when I met St. John, our captain. He said, “Where are you going?” “I was going,” I said, “to get help, as Richard- son was badly wounded.” He went and looked at-him. I showed him the arrow he was shot with, covered with blood. He shook his head and said, “You can’t do anything for him; let the battle go on.” He turned round to me and said, “George, you see that bush there and a little piece of blanket? That rock is split in two. The Indians are going through and getting away. You crawl right up to that little pile of rock; don’t let them get out that way; don’t shoot unless you are very close. I will go round and get the other boys, and come over the rock and meet you.” I crawled up within twenty feet of where he told me to go. The Indians were yelling like ten thousand coyotes. I lay about as flat as a man could lie on the ground, laid my pistol right Where I could get my hand on it, and used the gun first. The Indians were passing at the left of me and a little in the rear of me. I hardly knew which way to expect them. I heard the rocks rolling behind me and looked across a little canyon. I saw Dave Wixom and Harrison Bemis crawling down the hill toward me. I beckoned them and they came to me. I felt very much relieved when they crawled up to me. About that time I heard Noisy Tom’s voice and saw the heads of them coming over the rock—Noisy Tom, Holcomb, Martin, St. John, all of them in a breast, guns ready to shoot. When Tom saw me with my gun in the direction of him, pointed at the blanket and bush, he hallooed out at me, “Miller, don’t you shoot this way, you little S. B., you.” As St. John said, the Indians had made their escape through the split in the rock—all that were in that company, except two squaws, one boy about fourteen, one girl about ten, and a baby. They took them prisoners. In the fight were Noisy Tom, Holcomb, Martin, St. John, Richardson, Wixom, H. Bemis, S. Bemis, W. Bemis, E. Bemis, Blair and Armstrong. The two last stayed hid a1l the time the fight was on. J. McGarr and Button were taking care of the horses. John McGarr and Samuel Button had taken the horses in the meantime around to the wagon. Now the next thing to do was to get Jonathan Richardson down to the wagon, and with him the prisoners we had. Richardson was very weak and sick, and the ground was very steep and rocky, but we got to the wagon in safety. If those Indians had known that there

164 HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA were but a dozen men of us, they could have wiped us off the face of the earth. Our coming up and attacking them in the rear sur- prised them. They were busy trying to cut Stout’s party off from the wagon. With us coming up they thought they were trapped, and they scattered like quail, and lucky for us they did. Now to get ‘Richardson to San Bernardino we had to send an escort with him, Bill Holcomb, Sam Button and Armstrong and Blair. That ended that scrap. Then we went on after the broken remnants of them. We chased them around through rocks. They were getting together as fast as they could. Our party getting weaker all the time, we thought we could handle a few of them more easily than all of them together. I was with Bill Bemis, Ed Bemis and Jack Martin. The next day we went up to the old battleground to pick up the trail of some of the stragglers. We soon picked up a trail leading down the north slope of the mountain. We followed them down to th'é valley, where they turned up a sand wash running into some low hills. They seemed to have gotten together again. The trails looked as if there were 150 or 200 of them. We were close to the foot- hill at the mouth of the canyon. We heard a shot close by, only a few rods away. We looked around, but could not see anything. It was almost sundown. VVe had no water and had six miles to walk, so we went to camp and reported. The next morning, as soon as we could see, all hands went to take up the trail where we left it the evening before, leaving three men in camp. In a short time we had the trail again. We had not gone far from where we left the trail the evening before, and heard the gun fired, when we found where they had stayed all night—not over four hundred yards from where we turned back the evening before. The canyon was about one hundred feet across at the mouth, and very rocky. They went right up the sand wash and you could see the tracks a hundred yards ahead. They then turned off out on either side and came back to the mouth of the canyon, and fortified both sides, and there lay in waiting for us. Had we gone any further the evening before, they would have killed all four of us without doubt. We then followed on, skirting the foothills. We were close on to them; they would not come out in the open valley, but kept in the rocks, except when crossing the mouths of canyons. We followed on until about three o’clock in the afternoon. We had no water, having no canteens. We started back to camp. We had traveled all this time in a half circle. We were nearer camp than when we first took up the trail in the morning. We met Stout’s son coming with two horses, leading one for his father, the other for his brother-in-law. He had a canteen of water

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 165 and a lunch for the three. They decided to follow them on, as they were still going on in a circle. St. John and Martin remonstrated with them, and told them how they had set a trap for us the eve- ning before, and said they had better go to camp with us. They would not listen. They were on horseback and were going to follow a little further. I was dry and thirsty and hungry; had had no water since early morning, and hurried into camp. Dinner was ready; so was I. So I washed myself and got a plate of beans and had started to sit down, when I heard the guns begin to pop. The other boys had all got in by that time. I picked up a field glass and looked in the direction I heard the shooting, and saw a man coming on a bald-faced horse across a dry lake north of us. The man had no hat on his head. I knew it was Stout’s son and horse. I could not see the other two men. We were all gone and going to meet him before he got to camp. We were there just in time to save his father and brother-in-law. Stout’s horse was shot, and his son-in-law had a broken arm. Stout had several bullet holes through his coat, but none had hit the flesh. They had followed the Indians to a little point through a little pass, with two little buttes on either side. The Indians lay in the rocks on both sides of them and opened fire on them as they came through. How they ever escaped I do not know. The Lord must have been on their side. We opened fire on the Indians as soon as we got there. They were making for the top of the mountains. I started to go round a point of the hill. John McGarr had tied his horse to a grease bush and the horse was about to break loose, hearing so much shooting. John hallooed at me to get his horse before he got away. I had just seen two In- dians running up through the rocks and was hurrying round on the other side to get a better shot at them. So I jumped on the horse, and started in a hurry. The horse started bucking. I was hang- ing on for dear life. Two Indians ran out from behind some rocks not over fifty yards from me; they never stopped to shoot at me‘, but ran farther up into the rocks. By the time I got the horse stopped, and got off, they got in behind some more rock. I then found that I had lost all my bullets. I took the horse’s tracks and followed back until I found about a dozen. By that time the shoot- ing had stopped. Then the next thing was to get in the wounded man and horse. It was near sundown. We held council and found, when we had furnished an escort to San Bernardino with the wounded, there were only Jack Martin, the four Bemis boys and myself, and we decided we could not do any business. So we came on with the rest of them. I went on ahead with part of the crowd that night on horseback, as Richardson had left his horse with me. The balance of the men went with the wagon. W e were to meet at the old camp on the Mojave River. It was bitter cold that night. It was storming on the mountains; the sleet blew in our

166 HISTORICAL SOCIETY oF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA faces all the way to the Mojave. The wagon lost the way, and landed about eight miles above us on the river. They had all our blankets and provisions. The snow fell on us that night about six inches deep. We had not had anything to eat since daybreak the morning before. We found the wagon the next morning about nine o’clock, and got some breakfast, what little there was to get. I could tell you a funny story that happened there, but it will do some other time. While we were there, Joe Serrill’s brother, and, I think, John Burkhart, killed eight Indians at the mouth of Cushen- berry Canyon. Now I will commence where I left off. \rVe waded through the snow over the Cajon Pass almost frozen and starved. We hadn't had a square meal for thirty-two days. We got to the upper toll- house. A man by the name of Fears, I think, was there, and others. Some of the boys got meals at seventy-five cents; I did not have the price. So I went on down to the lower toll-house. John Brown, Sr., was there and his son, Joseph Brown. Mr. Brown says, “Boys, I expect you are hungry. I am not very well fixed to cook for so many at a time, but come in; I will serve you all as fast as I can. You shall have the best I have got. You deserve it.” They all took him at his word but John McGarr and myself. I was as hungry as a coyote, but did not want to impose on good nature. I got home about two o’clock in the night, having been gone from home just thirty-two days. Yours truly, GEORGE MILLER.

Note A: I want to state right here, before I go any further, as to the mode of fighting, that they keep up a constant yell all the time. They make more noise than 10,000 coyotes; never come out in the open to fight, but fight from behind rocks and trees, and keep up a constant yell all the time. There is one thing they never do; that is, they never leave any wounded on the battle-ground. They take and carry away every one that has a spark of life left in him. You never know how many are wounded and killed. Note B: Army of the Mojave—W. F. Holcomb, Jack Martin, John St. John, Sam Bemis, Harrison Bemis, William Bemis, Edwin Bemis, Bart Smithson, John McGarr, D. H. Wixom, Jonathan Richardson, Frank Blair, George Birdwell, Joseph Mecham, Stout and son, Griffith (son-in-law), one man (I dont know his name), Sam Button. Shot: Parrish, killed, Bemis, killed; White- side, killed; Dr. C. Smith, wounded; Polito, killed; Weltz, wounded; Kane, wounded; Wolley, killed. Note C: Those who participated in first fight at Rabbit Springs

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” ' 167 —John St. John, Bill Holcomb, Ed Bemis, Harrison Bemis, John McGarr, Jonathan Richardson, George Armstrong, Jack Martin, Sam Bemis, Bill Bemis, Thomas Enrufty, Dave Wixom, Frank Blair. Bard Smithson stayed with the wagons and horses at all times, he and two other men.

But I am getting ahead of my subject. I must go back to his early days, and finally will wind up with some more or less pictur- esque, but always forcible, anecdotes, wherein he and his friends, many of whom have since gone over the Big Divide, bore conspic- uous parts.

Born February 11, 1850, in a log cabin in Indian Territory, among the Creek Indians, at the age of eleven months he went to Michigan, Where his mother died. In 1854 the family moved to Meringo, Illinois, where his fatherdied in the following year. The next trek was to Iowa in 1856, with the object of uniting forces with Joshua Miller, his half-brother, in their journey to California. In 1857 the party was well under way, but was wrecked in the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River boat on which they were traveling coming to grief near Fort La Vaca, where they were land- ed. John, another half-brother, was now appealed to for help, and he promptly came from Texas, and the journey was continued over- land in oxen-drawn wagons. In 1858, Burnett ‘County, Texas, was made, and in 1859, Mormon Mill, where they waited a year be- fore a sufficiently strong wagon train to cross the plains was col- lected.

In 1860 they arrived with their ox-teams in California, and in August, 1861, in San Bernardino. Their immediate party included John Miller, with his second wife and three children; Joshua Miller, with his wife and five children; Elizabeth, who married first one Robert Keir, by whom she had one child, and later Bill McCoy, to whom she bore four children, all now dead, except Tillie, who married Walter Shay, now chief of police of San Bernardino. ‘George Miller, Jr., the subject of this paper, who married Ele- anora Hancock (who came to California from Iowa in 1854), by whom he has had eight children: Joseph, born June 1, 1872, died at birth; Nancy, born March 30, 1873, died at birth; Augusta, born, February 1, 1874, married John R. Crandell, and by him she had two children; George, born December 5, 1875, accidentally killed in 1913; Ida, born December 4, 1878, married J. O. Lamb, had two children; Mary, born September 20, 1881, married W. P. Rogers, no children; Willie, born September 30, 1884, married Stella Edwards, one child (Delia Vaughan, aged 18 months) ; and Charles, born March 16, 1891.

In 1862, at the age of twelve years, George, now his own man,

168 HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA went to work for Sandy Keir for one year. In 1863 he worked suc- cessively at Taggert’s brick yard, Wixom’s shingle mill and for _I_im Waters at Yucaipa. In 1864 we find him working for one Rose, who owned a shingle mill, and later on for one Currie, cutting logs. In 1865 he bought out Currie, being of the mature age of fifteen years, and went into partnership with Bill Holcomb, of whom more anon. The partners spent 1868 prospecting in Death Valley, Inyo County, and in 1869 in the San Bernardino Mountains. In 1870 he went to Arizona and spent the year freighting, driving a mule team out of Prescott, and in the following year, still driving his mule team, he returned to Grass Valley, San Bernardino, and married‘. In 1872 he bought eighty acres of land at $2.50 per acre and plant- ed it to peaches, apricots and alfalfa, and in 1901 to oranges. This land is now worth $1500.00 per acre.

This biographical sketch is very incomplete, but a perusal of it enables one to draw a mental picture of the life of a pioneer in the sixties, and explains perhaps the fact that right now, when he is in his sixty-eighth year, there are few men of half that age who can keep up with George Miller in the mountains.

A hunter from birth, he has a knowledge of woodcraft that is extraordinary, and, his climbing muscles having been developed by over sixty years of constant use, he never seems to tire in the mountains. Starting at five A. M. he strikes his own gait, and although traveling slowly, as all good hunters do, he keeps it up until dark. Many a time I have mildly suggested that it would be a good idea to sit down for five minutes for lunch, only to be told that he preferred to eat his walking. Many a time, when hot and tired out from a long tramp I have taken advantage of the oppor- tunity to cool off in a mountain stream, has he severely and with an almost pained expression remarked, “That isn’t ‘hunting deer.” Perhaps the most extraordinary thing about George is his pos- session to a weird degree of the sixth sense, the sense of location. Even old and experienced hunters occasionally get temporarily lost in the mountains—at night, for instance, or in a strange country— but George Miller, never. Like the carrier pigeon, he takes a bee- line back to camp, and many are the stories told about him in this oonnection.

On one occasion, in the northern part of the state, I was hunt- ing with him in a very rough country—quite unknown to him. As usual he persisted in tracking deer until it was dark. The remon- strances of myself and the guide, however, were finally efficacious, and we started, as we thought, campwards, the guide leading. At once George remarked quietly, “That isn’t the way home.” The man who had been born and bred in the locality, and had acted as a guide there for more than thirty years, and who was tired and hungry and more than a little sore at having been kept out unneces-

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 169 sarily late, answered sharply that he was quite capable of finding the way in his own country. George said nothing more, but some two hours later, when the guide grudgingly confessed himself hope- lessly off the right track, quietly assumed the latter’s functions and tacking ship led us straight back to camp, which lay in a totally different direction from that which we had been following. I could easily multiply such examples, but this one suffices to illustrate my point.

It is while sitting around the camp fires at night that George sings his best forty-niner songs and tells his best hunting and pros- pecting yarns. Of the former, “Sweet Betsy of Pike,” to the tune of “Villikins and His Dinah,” and “Lather and Shave,” to a tune of its own, are my favorites, though his repertoire is an extensive one, and I shall never forget the delight of a famous singer in Berkeley, in whose salon, on our way back from a bear-hunt in Siskiyou County, I persuaded George to oblige with these two gems. The singer said she had always wanted to hear a forty-niner song— and she heard two!

Of his yarns, which are many and varied, those which appeal to me most are the ones that refer to his one-time partner, Bill Hol- comb, now, alas! gone on his last hunt. He tells how Bill Hol- comb (born in Iowa in 1832; died at San Bernardino, California, 1912) came to California in 1850, traveling by the northern route, and in an ox-wagon to the Green River, which empties into the Co10- rado; in crossing the latter his raft capsized and he lost his entire outfit. He continued his journey on foot, living with his friend, Jack Martin, on rose buds for four days, a diet which may seem romantic to us, but was not very filling. On the fifth day, being at their last gasp, they miraculously found a canteen of water and a sack of food, and, to his dying day, Bill Holcomb always solemnly referred to this as an example of the direct intervention of Provi- dence.

After arriving in Upper California, they passed on to Calaveras County, hunting for the market and looking for gold. Again they had got into very low water, when one day they ran on to a creek, the sandy bottom of which glittered with gilded particles. Visions of wealth floated before their eyes, and until literally starving they worked feverishly to collect the coveted wealth. Foreseeing a mad rush to their treasure-trove, Bill traveled eighteen miles to the near- est point where he could buy grub, going and coming by night to elude pursuit. At length their last cent was spent, and at length, too, they had a sack full of gold. Brazenly now they swaggered into a store in a market town, where they ordered lavishly and without thought of expense a goodly supply of food—producing in payment a small quantity of the golden dust. A queer expression came over the face of the store-keeper—a look wherein pity was

170 HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SOTHERN CALIFORNIA mixed with suspicion—as he remarked, “That is no good to me.” “Why not, you d— fool? it is gold,” replied Bill. “No, it is isin- glass,” replied the man. It took long to convince Bill, by demonstra- tion with the scales, that the man was right, and, when he was finally convinced, he sat down and cried. All their toil and priva- tions had been for nothing, and, worse than that, he had not a cent to buy provisions for himself and famished partner. Fortune fa- vored them here, however, for the kindly store-keeper took pity on them and grubstaked the greenhorns, paying them $10.00 a day to work in his own placer mines. His exchequer being replenished, he soon after decided to visit his brother in Oregon. Sending ahead for a ticket, he journeyed to San Francisco, whence the boat sailed, went aboard and retired at once to his room, being fearful of being robbed of the real gold which he now carried in his belt. All at once the ship’s whistle blew a great blast preparatory to start- ing. With a wild yell the rustic Bill rushed madly on to the crowded deck, shouting at the top of his voice, “You d— fools, why don’t you jump? The ship is blowing up!” When the nautical mystery was at length explained to him, he was so ashamed that he fled to his cabin and hid there. Coming on deck some few days later he felt strangely squeamish, and it flashed across his mind that he had had a drink with a stranger who was desirous of robbing him, and had plainly doped his liquor. Hastening to the captain he handed over his belt, with tears in his eyes, imploring him to send it to his mother, so that the villains should not get his money. On the captain explaining to him that he was seasick, Bill yelled at him, “You scoundrel, you are in with the gang l” Truly he was very green. Time passed, and Bill became a wiser and a sadder man. His next venture was on the Feather River, where he “made good”; but a flood came and the partners barely escaped with their lives. After this came a spell of hunting (elk, bear, antelope) for the market; then, via Ventura, he came down to San Bernardino in 1859, slay- ing four grizzly bears and discovering the Holcomb Valley mine within a few days. The usual story follows: Jack Martin got drunk and gave the show away; the rush of miners followed, and the part- ners, frozen out, left for Arizona with $18.00 between them. In Arizona they located a mine which they sold to one Dick Gurd for $500.00; it netted Gurd one million a little later on. His next move was to San Bernardino, where he worked in lumber, becoming acquainted with George Miller in 1864. There- after they were bosom pals to the day of his death. In the year 1877 the two were hunting grizzly bears in what is even now a wild spot known as Devil’s Hole, at the head of Little Rock Creek, when an event occurred, reference to which was for many years a sore point with Bill Holcomb. A certain amount of

“DE TAL PALO TAL ASTILLA” 171 . hunters’ rivalry existed between them. They were the best of friends, both crack shots and first-class hunters, but Bill was ex- tremely anxious to get a particularly fine old grizzly which had long eluded them, and determined to “put one over” on George. Selecting a time when the latter was otherwise occupied (looking for a strayed horse), he took up the track and finally in a most difficult country he caught a glimpse through the dense under- growth of the bear. Leveling his trusty 45-90 he pulled the trigger, and down came an old brown horse. To chagrin succeeded fear, for the horse must belong to Indians, who would nof be slow to follow up and take revenge. That night at the camp fire it was evident to those present that Bill had something on ‘his mind, and finally, after several drinks, he was prevailed upon to confess, first, that he had mistaken a horse for a bear, and, secondly, that he had endangered the lives of his companions by shooting the Indian’s horse. It was a bitter pill for Bill to swallow, this double confes- sion, not made any easier by the unmerciful chaff of his companions. In fact, it was too good a story for the latter ever to forget, and is still one of the favorite jokes which, to this day, the pioneers of San Bernardino laugh over. As a matter of fact, the horse was owner- less—a derelict that had strayed and got into that abominable place and couldn’t get out. Only a few years ago George and myself found evidence of a similar occurrence in a wild spot in the Haystack Mountains, Santa Rosa Range. Now comes the sequel: In 1901, just fourteen years after Bill Holcomb shot the horse, George Miller, the younger, shot the last grizzly bear killed in these parts—this was not the famous club-foot mentioned in various books (among them, “Yosemite Trails,” by J. S. Chase, though,‘ as a matter of fact, a shot from George Miller’s rifle, and not the trap as mentioned by Chase in above named book, was the cause of the said club-foot), but a magnificent silver tip weighing thirteen hundred pounds, measuring over eight feet long. One could write a large volume of the reminiscences of this great old hunter, reminiscences which rival those of James Capen Adams as detailed in the account of his life by T. H. Hittell, but the above must suffice. For the past ten years I have regularly taken my vacations in the form of hunting trips with George Miller, and have picked up a fairly accurate story of his life in the evenings around the camp fires, where, with some persuasion, he would tell yarns of the times now long past, when this was a first-class big game country, and with a little more coaxing would sing the songs of forty-nine. I hope in the above disconnected and fragmentary sketch I have in some measure justified the title "De Tal Palo Tal Astilla.” To me it has seemed that the same indomitable energy in the face of diffi- culties, the same resolute courage and tenacity of purpose, charac-

HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA terized both father and son. Both were more than a little “sot in their ways,” both had cast-iron oonstitutions, which enabled them to endure privations which the average man would wilt under; not “facile,” either of them; both were good men and true, who, uncon- taminated by their somewhat lurid surroundings, emerged clean, and played the game as they understood it to the limit—both were pos- sessed of that two-o’clock-in-the-morning courage which Napoleon so admired, that level-headed, unruffled readiness to face the music, Whatever it might be, at any time or in any place, and that with matter-of-fact, simple modesty, as if it were all part of the day’s work. Of such a breed were the founders of this state, and I, for one, take off my hat to them. When one reads, on the one hand, of the father, half pityingly and with thinly veiled contempt, telling the story of how his miser- able companions, after four days of incredible hardships and no food, began to waver and grumble, whereas he, accustomed to both, was in no ways inconvenienced by either; and, on the other, of the son who hunted a particularly wise old grizzly bear for fourteen years, and, on at length coming up with him, tackled him alone in the dense brush, in the night time, armed only with an antiquated, single shot rifle, one cannot, it seems to me, fail to come to the conclusion that heredity does play a part in the make-up of men, and that the old saying is a true one, "De Tal Palo Tal Astilla.”

Pioneer of the Mojave: The Life and Times of Aaron G. Lane, Page 5, LANE'S CROSSING[edit]
Pioneer of the Mojave: The Life and Times of Aaron G. Lane, Page 6, OUTLAWS ON THE MOJAVE[edit]
CITIZENS ON DESERT LEFT UNPROTECTED
To add to the concerns of the community during this time was the closure of Fort Tejon and Fort Mojave. It was felt by Aaron Lane and the others who either lived in or traveled in the desert that they had been given up to the mercy of the criminals and the Indians. The desert was now wide open to outlaws, and the Indians had become so bold that they even threatened to take any stock that was not removed from the region.
As a result, in June of 1861 there was a "general stampede" out of the desert by the cattlemen who used the upper Mojave River area for grazing their animals. Palomares removed his stock, as did John Rowland of Los Angeles. Henry Parrish and the Bemis brothers, all San Bernardino stockmen, thought it wise to follow their example and also brought their herds down from the desert.
Articles appeared in the Star calling for military assistance. One correspondent from Cajon Pass felt that one or two companies of soldiers were needed to protect the citizens on the desert. Another writer suggested that rather than concentrating the troops in Los Angeles, it would be expedient to station a force at Las Vegas in order to protect the residents and travelers along the Salt Lake Road.
Picture of John Mayfield, Ingersoll's Century Annals
Shortly following the withdrawal of the troops from the desert -- an action which may or may not have been directly responsible for this incident -- Indians did steal some mules from a desert traveler. John Mayfield, a San Bernardino rancher, was on his way to try his luck in the mines at Potosi, Nevada, and had stopped at the Fish Ponds.
While encamped there, some Indians shot his saddle mule and two horses, and ran off with his other mules. To the misfortune of the Indians, Mayfield had friends waiting for him just down the river at Forks of the Road. One of these friends, E. W. Champlin, also of San Bernardino, later informed the press that after a twelve-day pursuit, the mules were retrieved. The fate of the Indians was not included in the story.
658 8 Mayfield John 29 Kentucky pg00652.txt
658 9 Mayfield Harriett 25 Illinois pg00652.txt [1]
658 10 Mayfield Infant 1/12 California pg00652.txt

San Salvador Township

CENSUS YR: 1860 STATE CA COUNTY: San Bernardino DIVISION: San Salvador Township REEL NO: M653-64 PAGE NO: 658
REFERENCE: Richard R. Dickey, PO:San Bernardino, HW-Pg#:44; 30 June 1860
==============================================================================================================================================
LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. REAL VAL. PERS VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB REMARKS
==============================================================================================================================================
8 395 319 Mayfield John 29 M . Farmer 500 500 Kentucky . . . . .
9 395 319 Mayfield Harriett 25 F . . . . Illinois . . . . .
10 395 319 Mayfield Infant 1/12 M . . . . California . . . . .
  • [1] daughter of Capt. Hunt
Pioneer of the Mojave: The Life and Times of Aaron G. Lane, Page 7, RIDING OUT THE CIVIL WAR[edit]
INDIAN MARAUDERS
Whatever circumstances Aaron Lane had envisioned awaiting him on the desert when he first moved there, it certainly was not his being in the midst of secret military missions and political conspirators. What he did expect, no doubt, was some trouble with the Indians, but he would get even more of that than he had bargained for. Just as the Mojave settlers had feared, the Indians again became active in raiding area ranches after the closure of the military outposts at the beginning of the war.
Newspaperman Warren Wilson reported that they seemed to have caught "the spirit of outlawry" and were bolder than usual. The attacks continued to escalate, and in February 1862 Lane's ranch was once again a target of marauders:
INDIANS. -- These gentry are becoming troublesome on the Mojave Road. At Lane's, last week, they drove off more of his stock. The troops will soon be in that locality, and will keep them quiet, we hope.
The raid occurred while Lane was helping another man on the road. There were ten Indians in the party, and they stole three head of cattle from him in broad daylight and right in his presence. Because of the disparity in numbers, he was unable to take any action to prevent them from stealing whatever they wanted.

---

In May of 1863 Fort Mojave was reactivated. With its reinstatement, there were few problems with the Indians in the vicinity of the fort, but in other parts of the desert they became more and more troublesome, and it was reported in August that Aaron was even temporarily forced from his home:
"The Indians about Camp Cady [and] Lane's Rancho, are becoming quite hostile, Mr. Lane himself being compelled to pull up stakes and leave. It is to be hoped the officers at Fort Mojave will attend to this matter, and see that the settlers in that section receive the protection they were sent there to impart."


TRAVELERS INCREASE ON THE DESERT
While the Indian hostilities were increasing, so was the number of travelers on the road, and to add to the traffic were the latest mining discoveries in Arizona. Excitement was high over these new finds. In a letter dated September 7, 1863, Los Angeles was likened to the "palmy days" of '49, with "gold excitement, rush of travel and high old times generally." The writer estimated that within five days at least 200 people had left the city for the gold mines, and they were "still leaving, every hour."
The increased traffic was certainly beneficial to Lane, who was situated right on the road where much of it must pass: miners needed provisions, freighters used the road, there was a mail express, and the military had returned to Fort Mojave.
Lemuel Clark McKeeby and six other miners passed through Lane's on a trip out to the El Dorado Canyon mines north of Fort Mojave, and then stopped again on the return trip. In McKeeby's reminiscences he notes that Lane is a bachelor, and is living alone.
McKeeby also remarks that "on our arrival there that evening we were provided with fresh pork, this being all the tame meat to be had at that place, no cattle or sheep. However, the hog meat was all right and we enjoyed it hugely." McKeeby does not say why Lane only had hogs. The Indians may have stolen the rest of his larger animals, leaving just the hogs, which could not be herded so readily. Or perhaps he had moved his more vulnerable stock temporarily to some safer spot with friends in San Bernardino.
LANE GETS NEW NEIGHBORS
In the spring of 1863 a new family of desert settlers took up temporary residence at Lane's. At that time, according to a sworn statement by Deputy Assessor Sydney Waite, a Mr. E. P. Prothero was living on the Mojave River in improvements on public land claimed by Aaron Lane. Edward Powell Prothero was a Welshman who, after converting to Mormonism, emigrated first to Utah and then to San Bernardino. The added security provided by Prothero and his family was a blessing, especially since he had two of his adult sons, John and James, still living with him.
The stay was a brief one, however, as the Protheros soon finished construction of their own homes at the Cottonwoods. The following year Edward and his son, John, are shown in the Auditor's Assessment Book as each having improvements on state land at the Cottonwoods.
In 1864 a cattle concern moved in near Aaron. They had a large herd with attendant cowboys -- always good neighbors to have if there is trouble with the Indians.
The herd had been moved to the Mojave as the result of a long drought which had devastated the prominent ranchers in Southern California. The drought had started back in the late 1850s, and by 1862 the ranchers had begun losing their cattle to starvation. This is one of nature's ironies: in the midst of one of the worst droughts in Southern California history, there occurred the greatest storm.
One of the stockmen, William Wolfskill, whose familiarity with the Spanish Trail extended back to 1830, had traveled the Mojave River valley in the summer of 1863 on his way to Tonopah to look after some mining interests. He noticed the verdant grasses were growing well despite the lack of rain, and determined to bring his cattle here if the drought continued.
The dry weather persisted and by January of 1864 many of the ranch animals looked like skeletons, and large numbers were dying. Some ranchers had already lost half their stock, and it was feared that many more would be lost. The decision was made to move the cattle to the desert, thus a camp was established near Lane's.


HERDING CATTLE IN THE UPPER MOJAVE RIVER AREA
J. E. Pleasants, one of the cowhands employed by William Wolfskill, later wrote a story of the drive, which appeared in the March 1930 issue of Touring Topics. He writes that beginning in January 1864 the ranchers organized a cattle drive to the Mojave, made up of around 3,000 head plus several hundred horses. The herd was moved about 500 head at a time, traveling only 15 miles a day due to the condition of the stock.
After resting a few days in San Bernardino, the drovers entered Cajon Pass, where they encountered sleet storms and very cold winds, and often there were icicles hanging from the horses' bridle bits. The herd survived the inclement weather in the pass, for the most part, and by the end of March they were settled on the Mojave.
Pleasants mentions that rancher John Rowland also had cattle in the drive. Rowland, according to Pleasants, was Wolfskill’s partner in the Rancho La Puente, although they kept separate brands.
Pleasants speaks well of Aaron Lane, but with the intervening 66 years since the cattle drive, he recalls him as "John" Lane:
Our neighbor on the Mojave was John Lane of Lane's Crossing, a trading post which he kept at the first crossing of the Mojave River.... John Lane was a true frontiersman and a genial host, and many a tale of hair-breadth escapes and desert hardship has doubtless been told by the campfires of the emigrant and teamster under the cottonwoods.
Pleasants and the other cowboys had set up camp several miles down-river from Lane. The stock was contented, having plenty of forage along the river; and because it was barren desert all around, there were few strays. The men made acquaintances with the many travelers and freighters stopping to refresh their teams on the abundant grass and water. One of the main economic forces that permitted the way stations to survive was the freighting industry. The freight wagons, usually with six to eight span of mules each, came in from Salt Lake City early in the fall. The teamsters gathered in big encampments while they rested their animals for a few days before taking to the road again.
Besides the freighting traffic, Pleasants states, there was still considerable immigration from the East along the Salt Lake Road. All this bustle kept the cowboys on the Mojave River from getting too lonely.
This cattle outfit was very well run. The cowhands even managed a wary truce with the local Indians. There had been many Indians around the camp, but the cowboys always supplied them with beef whenever they needed it, and relations were good. The drovers knew the desert Indians could be treacherous, but sympathized with the conditions under which they had to survive, subsisting mostly on rabbits, rats, insects and mesquite beans, when they were lucky enough to get them.
The Indians gave Pleasants quite a scare one morning when he and a companion were out scouting the desert. The two men were confronted by about 20 Indians who wanted tobacco, but the cattlemen had not taken up the habit, so they were unable to satisfy their demands.
The Indians became hostile and insolent, and actually searched the cowhands and their gear, thinking they were lying about not having any tobacco. When they failed to find any, the Indians turned sullen and went away muttering, "No tobacco smokum; no good hombres."
On November 16, 1864, steady rains began that continued throughout the winter season, and the terrible drought was broken. In April of 1865 the ranchers began to take the cattle back home, and all were returned by the middle of May. The ranchers lost 25 percent of their stock in the move to the desert, but the loss was 75 percent for those who did not come. Pleasants goes on to say that the losses to the cattle industry, which was predominant in California prior to 1864, were so great that it never recovered, and many fortunes, large and small, were gone forever.
By the fall of 1864, new residents had moved even further down the river than the Nicholson and Prothero families, who were still at Point of Rocks and Cottonwoods. Albert Jacoby had moved to Grape Vines, and the Alcorn family was living at Forks of the Road.

---

LANE'S NEIGHBORS FEND OFF INDIANS
It was at this time that the desert Indians launched a significant attack directed at these citizens. On November 14th, Nicholson and the heads of the other three households downstream, together with three men named Daniel Cline, F. M. Moffatt and John H. Haven, all signed a hurriedly written plea for help to Sheriff Benjamin F. Mathews:
To the Sheriff of San Bernardino County -- We the settlers of Mohave River, do sincerely petition to the Citizens of this County for help to drive the Indians off, as they are here in considerable numbers at Camp Cady. They are killing stock of all Brands.
We had a fight with them yesterday Evening. They all appear to be armed with good guns and fight desperate.The Citizens of Camp Cady are all at the forks of the Road assembled for self protection.


Mathews received the letter the next day, and sent a notarized copy to the commander of Drum Barracks in Wilmington, Colonel James F. Curtis of the 4th Infantry, California Volunteers. Mathews also wrote a cover letter stating he had no other knowledge of the incident, because the person who delivered the letter had received it from someone else at midnight and he had not bothered to ask the messenger for any particulars of the raid. He added that a small group of armed citizens was preparing to leave in the morning, of a size "sufficient I think to keep the Indians at bay until Government Troops can arrive."
Neither Aaron Lane, nor Pleasants and the other cowboys, were listed on the petition. Just who finally did run the Indians off -- the local citizens' militia or the military -- is unknown, as no further details could be found on the episode.
REPORTS FROM JANE ROUSSEAU
The settlers had good reason to fear for their lives if reports from Mrs. Jane Rousseau are correct. Dr. and Mrs. Rousseau traveled the desert in the final months of 1864 with a wagon train leaving Utah and bound for San Bernardino.
In her diary entry for December 4th she wrote that she was at a place where Indians had slain three men who had been serving as caretakers for a mine located there. The killings had occurred eight weeks earlier. According to the diary, there were four houses and a quartz mill at the site, which has since been identified as Salt Spring.
Mrs. Rousseau reported on several occasions that she was frightened by Indians, who were quite bold and came right into their camp. There must have been enough people in the party that the Indians did not attack.
Her companions, who included the Earp and Curtis families among others, ran out of provisions and became exhausted prior to reaching Bitter Springs. The animals were so fatigued that on December 6th two members of the party set out on foot to seek help from the Mojave River settlers. Three days later the rescue party returned with the much-needed supplies, but they also carried reports from the inhabitants on the river that the Indians in the area were menacing and thought to be particularly hostile.
As the group continued on towards the river, a man, identified only as "the old gentleman who keeps the ranch about 30 miles from Bitter Springs," met them with some additional grain for the horses. Finally, the Rousseau family, who had split from the others over a disagreement, managed to make it to the river, thanks to their refreshed horses.


SALT SPRINGS ON THE OLD SPANISH TRAIL
The Rousseaus stopped at the Alcorn ranch at Forks of the Road, and while there Dr. Rousseau attended "to a young man about to die, a son of Mr. Allcorn...." Mrs. Rousseau commented that "they seem real clever folks, the old gentleman is from Kentucky, his wife from South Carolina. They are secessionists...."
She also mentions Jacoby and the Nicholson family on her trip up the river, but she does not write about the settlers' recent scare by the Indians at Camp Cady or of the outcome of their request for help from Sheriff Mathews. It seems likely that had the U. S. Army sent out a patrol as requested by the sheriff, the news would have been fresh enough to have been entered into her diary.


THIEVING BANDS ALL OVER THE DESERT
The Los Angeles Star, which had given good coverage of the desert news considering the small size of the publication, would undoubtedly have had something to say on the matter, but the paper had ceased operating in October 1864. This was particularly regrettable because the Irish editor, Henry Hamilton, had developed a friendship with Aaron Lane, and his loss is akin to a blackout. Not until Hamilton begins the San Bernardino Guardian in February 1867 are regular reports again given on Lane and the activities on the Mojave.
Three months after the Indian attack on the Mojave River settlers, a gang of horse thieves staged some impressive raids of their own in the Southland. In February of 1865, a company of "renegades, thieves and cutthroats" on their way to Arizona began by raiding some ranches in the Duarte area, stealing two herds of 50 horses each.
They continued along the foothills to the mouth of Cajon Pass, where they stole the entire herd from Martin's Ranch. The gang then headed out into the Mojave Desert and escaped with their ill-gotten booty. This rather significant theft is noteworthy in that it demonstrates that horse stealing was still a serious problem in Southern California.
Just following the February horse theft, Colonel Curtis of Drum Barracks made a trip to the desert himself for the purpose of seeing personally the extent of the Indian troubles along the Mojave River. He reported that the settlers and travelers told him the Indians had been gathering in bands consisting of anywhere from a dozen to thirty men, and would descend down from the mountains to "steal stock, rob houses, lay forced tribute on travelers," and threaten lives.
In one instance they killed two men living at the Caves, eighteen miles east of Camp Cady. The Indians were particularly eager to arm themselves with guns and ammunition, and they had secured some of the best rifles, shotguns and pistols.
The officers at Fort Mojave verified these reports, saying that the entire expanse of road from the upper crossing to Rock Springs, which was within 40 miles of the fort, was "infested" by thieving bands of Chemehuevis and Paiutes. Colonel Curtis had left Captain Benjamin West's Company C at Camp Cady with instructions to send out scouts to look for any activity by the "hostiles."
On March 1st, Captain Edward Bale, 1st Battalion of Native Cavalry, California Volunteers, was sent from Drum Barracks to relieve West and to make headquarters at Camp Cady. Thirty of Bale's soldiers were mounted, and the rest were on foot.
Captain Charles Atchison at Fort Mojave was ordered to arrest 20 of the "principal men" of the Chemehuevis, and to keep them on short rations until the parties responsible for the slayings at the Caves were surrendered over to him. Captain Bale received written orders, dated March 3rd, that gave him explicit directions on how to handle the protection of the Mojave River:
CAPTAIN: The colonel commanding district directs that until further orders the headquarters of your company will be at Camp Cady.
While encamped there you are charged with the duty of patrolling the road and keeping it clear of Indians from Lane's upper crossing of the Mojave to Soda Lake, and particularly to keep Indians away from the watering places.... You will keep a camp guard of at least fifteen men, and the balance of the command will patrol the road constantly, as above directed.
Camp Cady had once again become active, and the very next month -- April 23rd is the date generally accepted for the event -- the camp would be reestablished as a permanent military post.
On April 16, 1865, the day President Lincoln was assassinated, Colonel Curtis sent a dispatch requesting that more troops be sent in order to handle impending danger from two fronts. One serious threat was the bands of hostile Indians who were still roving through the County of San Bernardino and committing depredations on the Mojave Road up to within a few miles of the County Seat.

The Colonel's other concern was the reaction of the secessionists in the area. Even though a formal surrender had been signed two days previously, the death of the President was expected to rouse some of the secessionists into action, and the Union people in San Bernardino had heard rumors that an operation of some kind was being planned.

The rumors escalated to the point where Governor Frederick Low wrote to Curtis saying that he was convinced there was reason for concern. As it turned out, there was a band of secessionists who left from the vicinity of Visalia.
On their way through Tehachapi they stole several horses and then crossed the desert north of the mountains into the Mojave River area, where they hid out in the neighboring hills between there and Holcomb Valley. However, on May 12th Colonel Curtis was able to report that Captain Atchison appeared on the scene in a timely manner, and had succeeded in scattering the would-be raiders.
This final episode was the end to the Civil War years on the Mojave River. During the war Aaron Lane, as a Northerner and ex-Army soldier, had remained steadfastly pro-Union, and he testifies to that fact in his pension records. He is also reported in the newspaper as being loyal to the U. S. Government. In fact, judging from the articles in the Star, he was doing his part in the effort to subdue the "secession spirit."
Just as the war was ending, Aaron decided there were greener pastures on the Mojave, and he sold his claim to Dr. Woodville M. Andrews and his wife, Sophie B. Andrews. The deed, dated April 6, 1865, states he was selling:
"...that certain portion of Land lying and situate on the Mojave, County of San Bernardino, State aforesaid, and described as follows, to wit:
"...Being the possessory Claim of the party of the first part, situate at the first crossing on the Mojave River, in San Bernardino County, State of California. Together with all Houses and fences and all my rights, privileges and franchises thereto incident....And also all singular the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto...."
After six and one-half years at the upper crossing, Aaron moved a few miles downstream, where he started a new enterprise on the rich farmland in the overflow of the Mojave River.

[27]

The May 23, 1865, issue of the Wilmington Journal ran a story about a Mr. Johnson at Lane's Crossing, who, around the first of the month, had found a flock of 1,040 sheep some four miles from Point of Rocks. Since a large flock of sheep had passed through San Bernardino on the way to Salt Lake the previous month, it was supposed that this was the source of the stray flock.
Public Administrator Dudley R. Dickey had heard a very similar story. Informants had told him that two men (whose names were then unknown, but who were later identified as Messrs. Wordwell and Thomas) were killed by Indians while herding four to five thousand sheep on the desert. A large number of the flock, nearly 1100 it was thought, had found their way back to the Mojave River.
Pioneer of the Mojave: The Life and Times of Aaron G. Lane, Page 9, GREEN GOLD AND MINT JULEPS - INDIANS SUBDUED AFTER BOLD ATTACKS[edit]
As Lane states, the Indians were making themselves "mighty scarce" at this time. Hostile activities on the desert had begun decreasing several months earlier, following two particularly difficult years of widespread attacks.
In 1866, the Indians, encouraged by a number of successes, had become bolder and bolder. In March of that year they killed three young cowboys in the area of present-day Summit Valley. In June one man was killed and another wounded as the result of two more attacks, one on a military express rider and his escort near Soda Lake, and another on a civilian wagon train at Marl Springs. The following month there was a battle between Camp Cady troops and a band of about 36 Indians, which ended with three soldiers dead and three wounded.

In January of 1867 a large band of Indians invaded the Lake Arrowhead area, burning a sawmill and some cabins. There were two encounters in which Indians were killed. The Indians were driven from the mountains by a citizen's militia and then pursued out into the desert, culminating in a fight at Rabbit Springs near what is now Lucerne Valley. The militia was headquartered at the upper narrows on the site of what would soon be the Brown Ranch. Later that year, in October of 1867, Indians attacked a mail wagon on the Mojave Road, and killed one of the three men in the party, an Army surgeon on his way to Fort Mojave.

There were a few at this time who recognized that many of the Indians' attacks were in defense of their land or in retribution for abusive or destructive behavior by the white man. Some were outraged by the systematic extermination of the Indians in the county and sympathized with their plight.
However, it would have been a rare occasion to hear these sentiments expressed by the beleaguered settlers on the desert. In fact, in this letter dated December 1, 1867, to the editor of the Guardian, it is made quite clear that some on the Mojave River were more of the opinion that, if anything, the Indians were being dealt with too leniently:
We want Gen. Carlton, or some one like him, on this river, for three or four weeks. He would hang some of these good Indians over the graves of their victims, in a very short time. He would not keep an Uncle Sam's hotel for Indians, at government expense. There is too much of that kind of thing doing both here and in Arizona.
Yours,
Capt. A. G. Lane
It is evident by his letter that, like others, Lane felt animosity towards the Indians, which is not surprising, after nearly a decade of difficulties with them. The settlers did not have much longer to contend with hostile Indians. During 1868 the attacks subsided for the most part, although there was a murder in late March of 1869 in the vicinity of Cajon Pass. Following this incident, serious trouble with the Indians of the Mojave Desert ended.


The Calloway Affair of 1880[edit]

CHIM-E-HUE-VAS.

These Indians caused considerable alarm and trouble through their murder of Mr. Calloway and threat to kill all residents along the river. They are a hard tribe to manage, as they are very intelligent and brave. The cause of the trouble was more from injudicious management by Mr. Calloway than anything else.

Reports have been circulated that Calloway was a drunkard, but being personally acquainted with him for two years and knowing his history for the past five, I can state that they are wholly untrue. Mr. Calloway was killed on the 8th of March, aud as the military had some time before promised to protect the company employing him, they were immediately notified of the murder and as soon as possible sent ten soldiers to the spot. Previous to this four Indians from Fort Mohave were sent to the agency to demand the murderers. From their coming to the agency the Chim-e-hue-vas imagined that I was acting in concert with the Army. This led them to distrust me, and their hostility was opi-nly expressed. They were camped ten miles from the agency and had only to build a raft to reach it in an hour. Word was brought by the most intelligent and influential of the Mohaves that the agency would be atiacked that night by the Chim-e-hue-vas if soldiers were sent up after them. I at once consulted the employe's, and as we had no arras and eleven womeu and children to care for we tried to get twenty Mohaves to guard the agency, but through their fear of the Chime-hue-vas they would not come until they weie frightened into doing so by our leaving the agency—fearing it would be destroyed.

On the 12th of May Colonel Price was sent with sufficient troops to subdue the tribe. They were induced to come in and talk. They brought in the two men implicated in the Calloway affair, and, promising to be peaceable, were given rations aud placed upon land on this reservation, where they have since remained.[632]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Oliver Perry Calloway[edit]

William Redwood Price[edit]

652 RECORDS OF SERVICES. ...

WILLIAM REDWOOD PRICE: Born in Ohio; appointed from Pennsylvania. Second Lieutenant Third Pennsylvania Cavalry January 15, 1862; First Lieutenant September 7, 1862; Captain May 1, 1863; Major and Assistant Adjutant-General Volunteers August 5, 1864; Brevetted Lieutenant-Colonel Volunteers January 23, 1865, for industry, zeal, and faithful services during the Campaign before Richmond, Va.; Colonel Volunteers March 13, 1865, for gallant and meritorious services, and Brigadier-General Volunteers March 13, 1865, for faithful and meritorious services during the war; Honorably mustered out September 1, 1866; Major Eighth Cavalry --- 563 RECORDS OF SERVICES.

July 28, 1866; Lieutenant-Colonel Sixth Cavalry April 2, 1879; Brevetted Lieutenant-Colonel March 2, 1867, for gallant and meritorious services in the battle of Five Forks, Va.; Colonel December 10, 1868, for gallant and meritorious services in an engagement with Indians in the vicinity of Walker's Springs, in the Aquarious Range in Arizona, December 10 and 13, 1868; Died December 30, 1881.


William Redwood Price Birth 20 May 1836 ,Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, USA Death 30 Dec 1881 (aged 45), Germantown, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, USA Burial Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, USA Plot Section I, Lot 5

Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Entered the Civil War as a Captain in the 3rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. He then served as a Assistant Commissary of Musters of the staff of Brigadier General William W. Averell. His administrative skills then brought him to a staff position in the War Department in Washington DC, where he served as an Assistant Adjutant General, then as an Assistant Inspector General in the Cavalry Bureau. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteer on March 13, 1865 for "faithful and meritorious services during the war". Remained in the US Army after its reorganization in 1866, and eventually rose to Lieutenant Colonel of the 6th United States Cavalry.[633]

---

  • Notes for William Redwood PRICE
In the Civil War he was second lieutenant of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry from Jan 15, 1862; first lieutenant of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry from Sept 7, 1862; Captain of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry from May 1, 1863; major and assistant adjutant-general of volunteers from August 6, 1864; lieutenant-colonel of volunteers, by brevet, from January 23, 1865 "for industry, zeal, and faithful services during the recent campaign before Richmond, Virginia," colonel of volunteers, by brevet, from March 13, 1865, "for gallant and meritorious services;" brigadier-general of volunteers, by brevet, from March 13, 1865, "for faithful and meritorious services during the war;" muster out of the volunteer service on September 1, 1866; commissioned major of the Eighth Cavalry from July 28, 1866; major of the United States army, Eighth Regiment of cavalry (regulars), accepted on October 1, 1866; lieutenant-colonel in the United States army, by brevet, on March 2, 1867, for gallant and meritorious services in the battle of Five Forks, Virginia; colonel in the United States army, by brevet, on December 10, 1868, for gallant and meritorious services in an engagement with Indians in the vicinity of Walker's Springs, in the Aquarious range in Arizona, on the 10th and 13th of December, 1868; lieutenant-colonel of the United States army, Sixth regiment of cavalry (regulars) from April 2, 1879.[634]
  • Record Of Court-Martial Held Clue To Long-Lost Battle Site By David Bowser [635]
  • tshaonline.org = BUFFALO WALLOW FIGHT [637]
Confinement of tractable Indians at their agencies resulted in violence at the Wichita Agency at Anadarko, Indian Territory, and caused once-peaceable Kiowas to stampede for the Llano Estacado. On the upper Washita they crossed the path of a thirty-six-wagon army-supply train commanded by Capt. Wyllys Lyman, which was being desperately awaited by Miles. The Kiowas pounced on Lyman's Wagon Train on the morning of September 10, killing a sergeant and civilian teamster, and maintained a siege thereafter for, according to Indian sources, the sake of the excitement. After a desperate escape from the Indians, William Schmalsle returned on September 14 with a relief column, but by then the Kiowas had abandoned the fight.
Colonel Miles sent scouting parties back along his trail to try to locate his supply train. One of these parties, consisting of Billy Dixon, Camp Supply interpreter Amos Chapman, and four soldiers, was pinned down in a buffalo wallow on the morning of September 12 by the same Indians who had attacked the wagon train. One of the whites was killed and all except Dixon were wounded; all six were awarded the Medal of Honor. The awards of Dixon and Chapman, however, were later revoked because they were not in the regular army (see BUFFALO WALLOW FIGHT.) Another of Sheridan's troop columns came east from New Mexico under Maj. William Redwood Price and arrived at the scene on the afternoon of September 12. Price escorted the wagon train south, but refused aid to the scouts in the buffalo wallow, an act for which Miles censured him and assumed command of Price's troop.
  • ebay.com Autograph card WR Price[638]
  • cowanauctions.com, photo [639]
  • militaryhistoryonline.com, General Phillip Sheridan's Southern Plains Campaign of 1874 - 1875 by Garland R. Lively [640]
  • Edward Leo Lyman, The Overland Journey from Utah to California: Wagon Travel from the City of Saints to the City of Angels, University of Nevada Press, 2008 [641] : 200, 200 photo, 216–17, 218, 233 
  • mojavedesert.net, William Redwood Price [642]

Snake War[edit]


William Cameron McKay[edit]

Chinese Massacres[edit]

Battle of Three Forks[edit]

Bald Hills War[edit]

Klamath & Humboldt Expedition[edit]

Operations on the Mad and Eel Rivers[edit]

Stone Lagoon Massacre[edit]

California in the Civil War[edit]

The shelling of Fort Sumter in Charleston harbor started on Friday, April 12, 1861. The Civil War had begun.
In Los Angeles, where the news would arrive almost two weeks later, an Army captain – sole representative of the United States military – waited in an adobe warehouse at the edge of the city. Army muskets, ammunition, and cavalry sabers had been hidden under sacks of oats and flour. He had shown his wife where the pistols were kept. Together, they would make some defense of the Army’s stores when the secessionist “Monte boys” came to take them.
Captain Winfield Scott Hancock expected that a raid on his warehouse would start the annexation of Southern California to the secessionist cause. He believed that many Angeleños would welcome it.
The decomposition of the United States into northern and southern factions had been driven partly by California statehood in 1850. Admission of California as a “free soil” state (whose constitution outlawed slavery[i]) destabilized the balance of political power in Congress. The effects rippled through the decade, hastening the collapse of the Whig Party, putting secessionist and unionist Democrats at odds, and allowing new parties – the Know Nothings and the Republicans – to contend for federal offices.
The Territory of Colorado would have included all of the southern part of California from the Mexican border to Kern and Kings counties.
Californians were similarly estranged. Sectional differences and tensions within the Democratic Party encouraged division of the state into northern and southern territories. The Territory of Colorado would have included all of the southern part of California from the Mexican border to Kern and Kings counties. If the new territory was open to slavery, it might one day restore the political balance of “free soil” and “slave” states and suspend the issue of slavery for another generation.
The California legislature (described as “intensely pro-slavery”[ii]) passed the Pico Act in 1859, calling on Congress to divide the state. It was signed by Governor John B. Weller, overwhelmingly approved by voters in Southern California,[iii] and sent to Washington.
“We are for a Pacific Republic”
Governor Weller did not expect the Territory of Colorado to relieve the political crisis, even if Congress could be persuaded. Disunion was too far advanced. If it wasn’t civil war, the result would be two weaker nations at constant odds. Distant California, Weller thought, would mean little to either North or South except to be taxed.
Weller offered the alluring alternative of independence. “If the wild spirit of fanaticism which now pervades the land,” he said, “should destroy (our) magnificent confederacy – which God forbid – (California) will not go with the south or north, but here upon the shores of the Pacific found a mighty republic, which may in the end prove the greatest of all.”[iv]
Others agreed. “We are for a Pacific Republic,” the editor of the Sonora Democrat declared. “(California) has all the elements of greatness within her borders. Situated thousands of miles from the distracted States, she would be an asylum of peace and safety …”[v] The San Francisco Herald joined in as well. Angeleños Henry Hamilton, publisher of the Los Angeles Star, and Los Angeles County Judge Benjamin Hayes also endorsed the plan.
In Stockton, a home-made flag with the legend “Pacific Republic” briefly flew.
A fractured California, a Confederate California, or a neutral California – the alternatives, based on the reports of reliable Union men in California, seemed real enough in Washington.
When John Downey – an Angeleño, Democrat, and secession sympathizer – became governor in early 1860,[vi] he was less certain about independence. But Downey needed to be cautious. California’s representatives in Congress – Senators Milton Latham and William Gwin and Representatives John Burch and Charles Scott – believed that the complaints of the southern states were valid. Publically, they called for California’s neutrality in the event of civil war and hinted at the state’s eventual independence.
The fantasy of a western republic, extending from Canada into northern Mexico and from the Pacific to the Rocky Mountains, seemed more real when news of Fort Sumter reached Los Angeles on the afternoon of April 24, 1861. Henry Hamilton, secessionist publisher of the Los Angeles Star, wondered in print, “Shall we, too, strike for independence – or, like whipped spaniels, crawl at the feet of either a Southern or a Northern Confederacy?”[vii]
A fractured California, a Confederate California, or a neutral California – the alternatives, based on the reports of reliable Union men in California, seemed real enough in Washington. The War Department, knowing his loyalty to Texas, had already recalled Brigadier-General Albert Sidney Johnston, commander[viii] of the US Army in California, from his post at the San Francisco presidio. Johnston resigned his commission in early April but continued to serve until Brigadier-General Edwin Sumner arrived from the East to replace him.
Sumner was warned that Johnston knew of secessionist conspirators in San Francisco (which was true) and he suspected that Johnston might also be one of the architects of the Pacific Republic scheme (he wasn’t). But Sumner and those who advised him saw disunion everywhere in California.
Writing to the Army Adjutant General on April 28, just four days after his arrival in San Francisco, Sumner lamented,[ix]
The secessionists are much the most active and zealous party, which gives them more influence than they ought to have from their numbers. I have no doubt that there is some deep scheming to draw California into the secessionist movement, in the first place as the Republic of the Pacific, expecting afterwards to induce her to join the Southern Confederacy. ​
Ominously, Sumner warned the War Department that “the troops now here will hold their positions, but if there should be a general uprising of the people, they could not … put it down.”
“Hot-bed of disloyalty”
The spirit of disunion grew worse in Southern California while Captain Hancock and his wife waited through the first three weeks of April. He surrounded the Army storehouse in Los Angeles with the high-walled wagons that hauled military freight. He collected enough pistols at his home to arm “a few loyal friends.”[x] Among the few[xi] likely to stand with him were District Attorney Ezra Drown, rancher and pro-Union polemicist Jonathan Warner, publisher Charles Conway of the Semi-Weekly Southern News, and Los Angeles port operator Phineas Banning.
General Sumner in San Francisco was pessimistic about popular support for the Union cause, particularly in Southern California. “I believe there is a large majority of Union men in the State,” he reported, “but they are supine with confidence, while there is an active and zealous party of secessionists who will make all the mischief they can.”[xii]
Jonathan Warner, writing to the Sacramento Daily Union, named the leading Angeleños he thought particularly zealous in support of secessionist mischief.[xiii][xiv]
All our judges are secessionist [Hayes and Dryden] or at least strongly tinctured with it. Our Sheriff [Tomás Sanchez] is a secessionist; our Deputy Sheriff [Andrew King] ditto; our County Clerk [John Shore] ditto – in one word, all our own public officials, with the exception of the District Attorney [Ezra Drown] and County Surveyor [William Moore] are secessionists, root and branch.
Warner could have included Mayor Damien Marchesseault among secessionist sympathizers in Los Angeles, along with attorneys Edward Kewen and Volney Howard, wealthy rancher Benjamin Wilson, physician John Griffin (brother-in-law of General Albert Sidney Johnston), former Assemblymen Daniel Showalter and Joseph Lancaster Brent, and former State Senator Cameron Thom.
Judge Benjamin Hayes, although he remained publically ambivalent, assured his sister in February that “the tone of the people here (Los Angeles) is Southern to a greater extent than might be supposed …”[xv]
Sympathy for secession had lately become something more serious for Hancock. Under the pretense of enrolling a volunteer militia for the defense of Los Angeles, secessionist leaders in February had begun recruiting among ex-southerners and native Californios. Joseph Lancaster Brent urged Judge William Dryden to formally enroll the members of what was called the Los Angeles Mounted Rifles. In March, attorney George Gift mustered a force (at least on paper) of 80 members at the county courthouse.
The membership roll was as diverse as Los Angeles. It included, along with Brent and Gift, Sheriff Tomás Sanchez, Undersheriff Alonzo Ridley, at least four other city and county law enforcement officials, and members of the Californio, German, Irish, and Jewish communities. Most were, to one degree or another, secessionist.
Alonzo Ridley, as the unit’s captain, petitioned Adjutant General William Kibbe of the California state militia to supply 80 rifles, Colt pistols, and sabers. Ridley was confident that the arms could be requisitioned in Los Angeles,[xvi] even though it was generally known that secessionists led the Mounted Rifles.
They weren’t the only show of secessionist force in early 1861. The newly organized Monte Mounted Rifles, led by Los Angeles County Undersheriff[xvii] Andrew King, made a similar request for arms. Union supporters complained of para-military organizations openly drilling in El Monte, San Bernardino, and the Holcomb Valley mining camps where a shadowy organization called the Knights of the Golden Circle was found to be training recruits who would leave for “Dixie” and service in the Confederate States army.
Secessionist officials, armed conspirators, and Confederate recruiters – so “many active and influential citizens who are hostile to the Government whose efforts for its disintegration are strenuous and undisguised” – made Southern California, for Union men, “the nursery, resort, and hot-bed of disloyalty.” [xviii]
“A county not to be relied upon”
Henry Hamilton, publisher of the Star, actively fostered the spirit of disloyalty in Los Angeles. Hamilton had mocked Lincoln during the election of 1860 and loudly supported the southern states in abandoning the Union in advance of Lincoln’s inauguration. In February 1861, Hamilton had suggested that disunion should lead to an impossible compromise. “Even if secession should run its full course, and there be presented a consolidated South against the aggressions of a united North, there may, even in that attitude … arise negotiations for a union … in which the rights of the South shall be fully and fairly stipulated and guaranteed.”[xix]
Southern rights necessarily included the right to own human property, which Hamilton defended as fundamental to the principles of the Constitution. As John W. Robinson has argued, “Historians of the pre-Civil War period would be hard put to find anywhere a more vociferous advocate of slavery.”[xx]
Hamilton was an “inflexible Confederate sympathizer” who rallied secessionist Angeleños with editorials that championed states’ rights and white supremacy. He denounced Republicans, unionist Democrats, and anyone who sought to abolish slavery. He would, the following year, describe the Civil War explicitly as a race war.
Hamilton was not alone. Edward Kewen[xxi], a nativist and white supremacist, had given rousing speeches before cheering Los Angeles audiences in the weeks leading up to the 1860 election. So had California’s newly elected U.S. Senator, Milton Latham. Democrats in the pro-secession Breckenridge Club had met in front of the Montgomery Saloon in Los Angeles every Tuesday evening before the election, often to hear Kewen speak, followed by a torchlight procession up Main Street to the old Plaza.
Having told listeners “I must confess … I am not enamored with this word loyalty,”[xxii] Kewen continued to stir up secessionist support during the first months of 1861. “Hardly a day goes by, wrote a worried Jonathan Warner, “without leading to the discovery that individuals unsuspected of disloyalty are deeply tainted with disloyalty.”[xxiii]
There was a great deal of loose talk at the bar at the Bella Union Hotel, where ex-southerners and pro-secessionists gathered, sometimes to spill out on the street with shouts of “Hurrah for Jeff Davis!” and boozy choruses of “We'll Drive the Bloody Tyrant Lincoln From Our Dear Native Soil.” With an air of urgent expectation, armed riders from San Bernardino and El Monte would appear at the Plaza, only to ride off again. Union men increasingly felt intimidated.
Charles Conway, publisher of the Semi-Weekly Southern News, understood their anxiety. His paper stood in opposition to secession and Southern California’s drift toward annexation to the newly created Confederate States.[xxiv] He attacked Hamilton, calling him a traitor, and deplored the extent of secessionist enthusiasm that Hamilton’s Star had encouraged.
“We shall be set down as a county not to be relied upon, and as a county containing naught but traitors and conspirators,” Conway would later warn. [xxv] He eventually called for the suppression of Hamilton’s paper. “No other government in the world suffers itself to be misrepresented and maligned by its citizens," he would complain, "and it is time our Government should prove no exception.”[xxvi]
“More danger of disaffection”
Both secessionists and Union men in Los Angeles expected California to be dramatically changed by the onrush of events following the fall of Fort Sumter. What form that change would take remained unclear.
Legislation to divide the state into northern and southern territories had gone to Congress two years before, but Congressional action was unlikely. The state’s pro-secession Congressional delegation had advocated the Pacific Republic scheme, but it was too fantastic to generate support now that war had begun.[xxvii] Neutrality did have support from secessionists and many Democrats, but no mechanism other than secession could enforce it. Joining the entire state to the Confederacy was unlikely, but Southern California might be annexed to the Confederate States, if momentum toward secession could be maintained.
A. S. Johnston left San Francisco on April 25 after resigning his commission. Although a committed secessionist, Johnston was a thorough soldier. He knew Hancock’s vulnerability in Los Angeles and doubtlessly warned General Sumner. And Sumner knew the psychological effect a successful move against Army supplies would have on secessionist Angeleños. It might be the signal for the “general uprising” he feared.[xxviii]
In Los Angeles, Hancock had literally circled the wagons in anticipation of a raid on his store of arms. There was little he could do now but observe, report to Sumner, and wait.
On April 29, Sumner wrote the War Department:[xxix]
"I have found it necessary to withdraw the troops from Fort Mojave and place them at Los Angeles. There is more danger of disaffection at this place than any other in the state. There are a number of influential men there who are decided Secessionists, and if we have difficulty it will commence there.”
On Sumner’s order, troops from Fort Mojave and later from Fort Tejon began preparations to relieve Hancock and block secessionist ambitions in Southern California. In support of the troop movements, Hancock set two wagon trains in motion to collect stores from both forts, but it would take weeks. Until federal troops arrived, Hancock and his store of arms remained at risk.
On May 4, Hancock wrote to Sumner that if there “should be a difficulty in California it is likely that it will first show its head (in Los Angeles), but I do not think the matter is ripe yet for any serious movement.” Hancock went on to warn Sumner that[xxx]
"There are people here anxious for a difficulty and there may be (I believe there are, although not yet formidable) organizations to that end. The people generally are scarcely prepared for strife, and there is a strong loyal element among them. On the other hand, there is quite a number of reckless people who have nothing to lose, who are ready for any change, and who are active in encouraging acts tending to hostilities …"
Hancock thought the city’s Union men were capable of giving him aid (encouraged perhaps by news of the troop movements underway) but “those persons who have heretofore been influential and active leaders in politics, and have exercised great control over the people, are encouraging difficulties here by open avowals of their opinions.” Hancock knew, he told Sumner, that a small artillery piece was in the hands of the secessionists and asked that Fort Tejon or Fort Mojave bring two, 12-pound howitzers. With dry understatement, Hancock wrote that “the moral effect would not be trifling in case of a difficulty.”
Hancock’s contradictory report to Sumner – Los Angeles was quiet and Union men confident but the city was restless and the Army’s response to “a difficulty” would require heavy artillery – illustrates the uncertainty that both Sumner and Hancock felt. If Hancock were to be driven from his post, secession would have had its first victory in separating Southern California from the Union.
Both Sumner and Hancock had to consider the implications of A. S. Johnston’s arrival on May 2, trailing a cloud of rumors about his connection to secession conspiracies and the Pacific Republic scheme. After turning over his command of the Army’s Department of the Pacific to Sumner, Johnston and his family were now living with his wife’s brother, Dr. Griffin, in Los Angeles.
If Johnston had been active in plotting with secessionists to bring California into the Confederacy, Sumner and Hancock knew, then Los Angeles would naturally have been Johnston’s destination to begin the rebellion.
Hancock’s immediate concern was who would arrive first – mounted Army dragoons or “the Monte boys” and other like-minded secessionists. Rowdies in El Monte and San Bernardino had already begun to parade the bear flag of the California Republic, now taken to be a symbol of secession. Hancock expected that the next attempt to “raise aloft the flag of the ‘bear’” would come in Los Angeles on May 12, before federal troops were expected to arrive.
Hancock had learned that a group of 50 or more riders planned to meet at the Plaza and raise the flag of secession over the county courthouse. And would that end, after drinks at the Bella Union, with stripping the Army depot of its guns and ammunition?
But a different plot was underway. The secessionist leaders of the Los Angeles Mounted Rifles worried that an assault on Hancock would put their own plan at risk. They now intended to slip out of the county, cross the Colorado River at Yuma, disappear into the disputed Arizona territory, and make their way to Texas and the Confederate States.
Sheriff Sanchez (who was a 2nd lieutenant in the Mounted Rifles) hastily persuaded “the Monte boys” to hold off any demonstration in Los Angeles, and Alonzo Ridley, as captain of the Mounted Rifles, met with Johnston and invited him to join in their escape from Los Angeles.
“Gone to Dixie”
On May 14, Major James Carleton and 50 mounted troopers from Fort Tejon finally rode into Los Angeles. They set up a temporary encampment about half-a-mile from the Army depot, placed strategically so as to oversee Hancock’s position and close enough to the center of town to respond the provocations of secessionists. Carleton named the site Camp Fitzgerald.
Hancock, his wife, and the Army supplies were safe. The moment had passed when secessionists might have raised a force of several hundred from El Monte, San Bernardino, and among the Californios in Los Angeles. Enough force, perhaps, to have persuaded Confederate units operating along the Texas/New Mexico border to make a thrust across the Colorado River into Southern California.[xxxi]
Hancock was ordered to active service in the East (and eventually to become a Union hero at Gettysburg). Before he left with his family in July, Hancock’s daughter rechristened Phineas Banning’s new steam tender with her name: Ada Hancock
The threat of insurrection in Southern California had ended, but Los Angeles would continue to be troubled by secessionist agitators abetted, Colonel Carleton told Sumner, by a sheriff who wouldn’t arrest them; judges who wouldn’t try them; and juries that wouldn’t convict them.
The boys from El Monte would continue through the war to swagger through doors of the Bella Union Hotel with the implication that they still might deliver vigilante “justice” to upstart Unionists. Tomás Sanchez would remain sheriff of Los Angeles County, despite his connection to leading secessionists.[xxxii] Dr. Griffin, Judge Hayes, Benjamin Wilson, and other secessionist Angeleños would continue to sympathize with the Confederacy, to the point of contributing substantially to organizations that aided wounded and disabled Confederate soldiers. And Henry Hamilton would continue to publish anti-Lincoln editorials in the Star until he was elected to the state Legislature.
A. S. Johnston, along with the most ardent secessionists among the Mounted Rifles, quietly left Los Angeles on June 16, crossed into Arizona, and with the help of secessionists there joined the Confederate States army. The Johnston/Mounted Rifles party wasn’t the first to make the desert crossing and the not last. An estimated 250 Southern Californians, many from Los Angeles, joined the Confederacy by that route.
Only two Angeleños volunteered to join the Union army: Horace Bell and the city’s zanjero Charles Jenkins.
Jefferson Davis made Johnston the second-ranking general of the Confederate Army. He died early in the war at the battle of Shiloh, Alonzo Ridley by his side. George Gift, who had presided over the original mustering of the Mounted Rifles, became a Confederate naval officer. Joseph Brent found his own way to the Confederate States, ultimately becoming an army brigade commander. So did Cameron Thom, who became a captain in the Confederate army, returned to Los Angeles, and served at the city’s mayor from 1882 to 1884.
That leading men in Los Angeles remained openly secessionist for so long and that so many Confederate volunteers passed through the city at the start of the war troubled Unionists then and those who wrote about the Civil War in its immediate aftermath.
Had Los Angeles remained attached to the state and the Union only by the presence of Army troops, as Charles Conway of the Semi-Weekly News believed? Or had a policy of toleration on the part of some Army commanders, obliged to work with disloyal city and county officials, actually preserved Southern California, whose militant secessionists had “gone to Dixie” across the Colorado River rather than fight at home?
The Civil War remains a powerful lens through which to examine how Angeleños saw themselves then and how we see ourselves as Angeleños today.
The question doesn’t have an unequivocal answer, which is why the Civil War remains a powerful lens through which to examine how Angeleños saw themselves then and how we see ourselves as Angeleños today.
In April 1862, County Undersheriff Andrew King was arrested at his office by a troop of cavalry for the use of “treasonable expressions,” cheering for Jefferson Davis, and displaying a large portrait of Confederate General Beauregard. After taking an oath of loyalty that he regarded as meaningless, King was released, as every man arrested in Los Angeles for treasonable activity during the Civil War would be.
When the war ended, former Undersheriff Alonzo Ridley joined another dubious cause and died fighting for Emperor Maximilian in Mexico. Edward Kewen, white supremacist and former state legislator, was now willing to accept that African Americans had some civil rights. And Andrew King now ran a newspaper (ironically, what was left of Conway’s pro-Union paper).
Challenged in late 1865 to define where he and other secessionist Angeleños stood, now that the Confederacy had been defeated, King wrote a defiant reply. “We have been and are yet secessionist,” he insisted.[xxxiii] There were many Angeleños would have silently agreed.


--- notes


[i]“Free soil” did not mean anti-slavery. California before the Civil War limited more than any other “free” state the civil rights of African Americans.

[ii]Imogene Spaulding, “The Attitude of California to the Civil War,” Annual Publication of the Historical Society of Southern California, vol. 9, nos. 1-2, 107.

[iii] Voters in the state’s six southern counties supported division of the state by 2477 for and 828 against.

[iv] “Governor’s Message,” Journal of the Senate of the State of California at the 11th Session of the Legislature (Sacramento, T. C. Potts, 186.), 60.

[v] Quoted by Spaulding, “The Attitude of California to the Civil War,” Annual Publication, 108.

[vi] Downey was sworn in as Lieutenant Governor in January 1860. Five days later, Governor Milton Latham resigned after being elected (by the state legislature) to fill the vacancy left by the death of US Senator David C. Broderick. Broderick had been killed in a duel over the division of California into “free soil” and “slave” territories in September 1859. Downey assumed the governorship on January 14, 1860.

[vii] “Hostilities Commenced,” Los Angeles Star, April 27, 1861.

[viii] Johnston took command of the Department of the Pacific on December 21, 1860. He resigned on April 9, 1861, when his adopted home state of Texas seceded.

[ix] Sumner to Townsend, April 28, 1861, Operations in: The Pacific Coast, January 1, 1861-June 30, 1865 (Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, ser. 1, vol. 50, part 1), 471.

[x]. According to his wife, writing many years later.

[xi] President Lincoln received only 25 per cent of Southern California’s vote in November 1860.

[xii] Sumner to Thomas, June 10, 1861, Operations, 506.

[xiii] The constitution of the Confederate States of America was adopted by seven southern states in March 1861.

[xiv] “Letter from Los Angeles,” Sacramento Daily Union, April 30, 1862.

[xv] Quoted by John W. Robinson in Los Angeles in Civil War Days, 1860-1865 (Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1973), e-book.

[xvi] Throughout the 1850s, the state militia had supplied muskets and other military paraphernalia to quasi-official volunteer units organized in Los Angeles by many of the same men who, in 1861, formed the Los Angeles Mounted Rifles. Some of these arms were collected by Sheriff Tomás Sanchez. After the Johns/Mounted Rifles party left for Texas in June 1861, none of the rifles and sabers sent to Los Angeles could be found, presumably because they had been taken to the Confederacy by Undersheriff Alonzo Ridley.

[xvii] In some accounts, Andrew King is identified as a deputy sheriff; in others, an undersheriff.

[xviii] Ezra Drown, Jonathan Warner, and James Mohan, “Address to the Loyal and Patriotic Voters of Los Angeles County,” clipping in Scrapbook of Benjamin Hayes, vol. 48 (Bancroft Library, UC Berkeley), publication and date not identified.

[xix] “The Crisis,” Los Angeles Star, February 2, 1861.

[xx] John W. Robinson, “A California Copperhead: Henry Hamilton and the Los Angeles Star,” (Journal of the Southwest, Autumn 1981), pp. 113-120

[xxi] Edward John Kewen had been California’s first Attorney General in 1850.

[xxii] Quoted in California and Californians, vol. 2, ed. Rockwell D. Hunt (Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, 1926), 339.

[xxiii] “Letter from Los Angeles,” Daily Alta California, September 29, 1861.

[xxiv] The creation of the Confederate States was announced on February 8, 1861.

[xxv] Semi-Weekly News (Los Angeles), September 6, 1861.

[xxvi] Ibid., July 30, 1862.

[xxvii] Congressman John Burch, in a letter published in the San Francisco Herald on January 3, 1861, strongly endorsed the Pacific Republic scheme. Congressman Charles Scott echoed Burch a few days later in the same newspaper.

[xxviii] This also was the view of Adjutant-General William Kibbe of the state militia.

[xxix] Sumner to Townsend, April 29, 1861, Operations, 474.

[xxx] Hancock to Army Headquarters, May 4, 1861, Operations, 477. Hancock was referring to a small cannon that County Sheriff Sanchez had been keeping (unaccountably, it seems) at the county jail along with other arms.

[xxxi] In July 1861, Texan Volunteers, led by Confederate Colonel John Baylor, captured the southern half of the Arizona Territory and named it the Confederate Territory of Arizona. By February 1862, Confederate units had nearly reached the Colorado River.

[xxxii] Sanchez was re-elected sheriff in 1863 and 1865.

[xxxiii]Los Angeles News, November 24, 1865.


Temescal Mountains[edit]

Manuel de Jesus Castro (1821-1885)[edit]

User:Asiaticus/sandbox/Manuel de Jesus Castro

Castro, Manuel de Jesus /Hubert Howe Bancroft[edit]

753
C. (Manuel de Jesus), son of Simeon, b. '21; sec. and collector at Mont. 39. iii.

075; sec. of the prefecture '42-3. iv. 652. He was prime mover in the revolt against Micheltorena, taking an active part throughout in '44-5, being once captured and exchanged, and finally eomisionado to make a treaty, iv. 45S-9, 462-8, 486-7, 500-509. Under the new admin, he was made prefect of the Monterey district in '45, being also made lieut of the Mont, comp., and taking a most prominent part in public affairs, as representative of the civil authority and supporter of Gov. Pico against (Jen. Castro in the north, iv. 533, 536-7, 006, 652. In '46, besides being promoted to capt. of the Sta B. comp., getting a land grant, having a Cat. claim of $10,000, and continuing his services as prefect, v. 630-7, he took a prominent and honorable ]>art in the troubles with Fremont, v. 4. 12. 17; quarrel with Cambuston. v. 34; efforts for defence against the settlers and the U. S. v. 41, 45, 56, 1.11, 134-5; sent south in July as eomisionado to effect a reconciliation bet. the general and gov. v. 136, 143-4, 201; left in com. at Los Ang. on Gen. C.'s departure in Aug., but there is doubt whether he was one of the officers captured and paroled by Stockton's men. v. 266, 282, 361. On the outbreak of Flores' re- volt in Oct. Castro was put in com. of the northern division and commanded in the Natividad campaign, v. 321, 361-72, 639; flight to Mex. with Flores '47. v. 407-9. In Mex. Don Manuel continued his military services for sev- eral years, and in '49 was put in com. of tho frontier comp. of L. Cal., in place of Andres Castillero, taking charge of the military colony of Santo Tomas till '52, when he had to yield to Castillo Negrcte. See Hint. North Mex. States, ii. Since '52 Castro has resided for the most part in S.F. down to 'S5, never becoming a citizen of the U. S., often interested in Mex. colonization ---

754
schemes, mil ranking as colonel in the Mex. army—perhaps brevet general

in the last years. He was never married. Don Manuel was an abler man than his cousin, the general, and his public record in (,'al. down to '47 ni in most respects an excellent one. True to his country's cause, with no sym- pathy for foreign filibusters, he exerted himself, for the most part in vain, to heal foolish dissensions between Calif, chiefs and direct their force against the invaders. Of his later record not so much can l>e said in praise. Various 'ways that are dark ' are popularly attributed to him, and, while charges are doubtless exaggerated, it is possible that he has yielded somewhat to temptations offered by land litigation, politics, dislike of the Yankees, and chronic impecuniosity. But at least he has contributed grandly to the store of material for CaJ. history. The Castro, Doc. Hist. Cal., in 3 vols, is a most important collection of original papers presented by him in '75; and a few years later he contributed a still larger and richer col. of Doc. Hist. Cal., with important L. Cal. material—somewhat unwillingly, it is true, some of my assistants having to adopt the policy of 'fighting the devil with fire;' and finally I obtained his Relation de Alta Cal., none the less valuable because after it had been written at my expense one of my wicked collaborators had to steal a copy for my use. [697]: 753–754, Pioneer Register and Index, Castro, Manuel de Jesus 

father: Castro (Simeon), full name Jos‚ Simeon Juan Nepomuceno, son of Macario, b. in 1784 at Sta B.; soldier of the Mont. comp. 1809; grantee of Bolsa Nueva y Moro Cojo '25 and later. ii. 615, 664, 672, 677; regidor at Mont. '33-4, '37. iii. 673, 675; in '36 at Mont., age 52, wife Mar¡a Antonio Pico, child. Juana b. '17, Manuel J. '22, Manuel '24, Mar¡a Antonio '26, Pedro '28, Jos‚ Ant. '30, Francisco '32, Leandro '34, Juan B. '35. In '38-9 alcalde at Mont. iii. 577, 675; in '41 juez de paz, and grantee of Tucho. ii. 616; iv. 653, 656; in '42 grantee of A¤o Nuevo. iv. 655. He died about '42. His widow was the claimant for Bolsa Nueva and Corral de Padilla in '52. iii. 677; continued to live at Mont.; and died in '84.

References[edit]

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  124. ^ Fray Cristobal paraje from newmexicohistory.org accessed May 2, 2019
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  126. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Pleasant Valley Draw
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  128. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Pleasant Valley Post Office (historical)
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  165. ^ John Boessenecker. Gold Dust and Gunsmoke: Tales of Gold Rush Outlaws, Gunfighters, Lawmen, and Vigilantes, John Wiley & Sons, March 1999.
  166. ^ Dangerous Desperadoes In Los Angeles
  167. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Foster Draw
  168. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Taylor Draw
  169. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Whitmire Creek
  170. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Walnut Creek
  171. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Whitmire Canyon
  172. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bercham Draw
  173. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Herridge Draw
  174. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bull Creek
  175. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Gillespie Mountain
  176. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Whitmire Creek
  177. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Whitmire Pass
  178. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Whitmire Ranch
  179. ^ a b c Edward Leo Lyman, San Bernardino: The Rise and Fall of a California Community, Signature Books, Salt Lake City, 1996
  180. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 40, 13 February 1858, p.2, col.2
  181. ^ Richard D. Thompson, Librarian, LIBRARY NEWS JUNE 2009, City of San Bernardino Historical and Pioneer Society, P.O. Box 875, San Bernardino, CA 92402
  182. ^ California Digital Newspaper Collection > San Bernardino Sun > 5 October 1947, p.45
  183. ^ History of San Bernardino County, California, with Illustrations Descriptive of its Scenery, Farms, Residences, Public Buildings, Factories, Hotels, Business Houses, Schools, Churches, Etc., from Original Drawings, Including Biographical Sketches (San Francisco: Wallace W. Elliott & Co., 1883), pp. 95-96 referenced in account given in Confederates in California - Part 1: Prelude to War
  184. ^ a b c An illustrated history of Southern California, Lewis Publishing, Chicago, 1890
  185. ^ JP 1 1867.12.07, JP 1 1867.12.09, CS0816.
  186. ^ Luther A. Ingersoll, Ingersoll's century annals of San Bernadino County, 1769-1904: prefaced with a brief history of the state of California : supplemented with an encyclopedia of local biography and embellished with views of historic subjects and portraits of many of its representative people, L. A. Ingersol, Los Angeles, 1904
  187. ^ Luther A. Ingersoll, Ingersoll's century annals of San Bernadino County, 1769-1904: prefaced with a brief history of the state of California : supplemented with an encyclopedia of local biography and embellished with views of historic subjects and portraits of many of its representative people, L. A. Ingersol, Los Angeles, 1904
  188. ^ John Brown, James Boyd, Editors, History of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties: With Selected Biography of Actors and Witnesses of the Period of Growth and Achievement, Vol. I, Western Historical Association, The Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, 1922
  189. ^ a b The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, California), 18 Jan 1959, Sun • Page 19,Doctors Had Tempers
  190. ^ Nicholas R. Cataldo, Correspondent, Old cannon was real blast, Contra Costa Times, 01/05/2009
  191. ^ a b c d e f g h THE AINSWORTH-GENTRY AFFAIR – Will the real Dr. Gentry please stand up? By Deven L. Lewis, Research by Dorris Lyn Killian and Deven L. Lewis, Tuesday, Nov 3, 2015
  192. ^ 1860 Census, Thomas Gentry, born in 1852, M, 8, Texas, Aswza Township, Los Angeles, California, United States
  193. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 6, Number 311, 11 December 1855 p.2;c.2
  194. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 19, 20 September 1856, p3c3
  195. ^ Barton Road
  196. ^ Dr. Benjamin Barton
  197. ^ a b c d e Los Angeles Star, Number 40, 14 February 1857
  198. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 16, 27 August 1859
  199. ^ SHERIFFS OF SAN BERNARDINO 1853 - 1865
  200. ^ Franklin Gentry from ancestry.com accessed May 17, 2017
  201. ^ Pike County Arkansas - Gentry Cemetery from usgwarchives.net accessed May 13, 2017
  202. ^ Gentry Family Cemetery from findagrave.com accessed May 13, 2017
  203. ^ SAN BERNARDINO: Early doctor wore many hats
  204. ^ Bethel COOPWOOD II b: 28 MAR 1860 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, California
  205. ^ 1860 Census, Thomas Gentry, 1852, Texas, Aswza Township, Los Angeles, California, United States
  206. ^ Descendants of Jean Mousnier de la MONTAGNE (1595-1670); Josephine Delamontagne WOODWARD
  207. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 17, 5 September 1857, p2, col.2-4
  208. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 28, 21 November 1857, p.3,col.1-4
  209. ^ John W. Robinson, Los Angeles in Civil War Days, 1860-1865, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, 2013
  210. ^ 1860 Census, Frank Green
  211. ^ 1860 Census, Frank Green
  212. ^ Homicides in Los Angeles, 1830-74 [xlsx ]
  213. ^ Homicide in Los Angeles County, 1830-1874, John Mack Faragher from cjrc.osu.edu accessed January 15, 2017.
  214. ^ Morrison, Annie L. Stringfellow, Haydon, John H., History of San Luis Obispo County and environs, California, with biographical sketches of the leading men and women of the county and environs who have been identified with the growth and development of the section from the early days to the present, Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, 1917
  215. ^ Homicides in Los Angeles, 1830-74 [xlsx ]
  216. ^ Texan Retreat
  217. ^ James Henry Tevis
  218. ^ Studio portrait of Captain James Henry Tevis, 1886, 5 x 8 b/w print, by Rose, N. H.
  219. ^ James Henry Tevis, Male, 1835 - 1905
  220. ^ [https://books.google.com/books?id=gP4-BAAAQBAJ&pg=PA230&lpg=PA230&dq=James+Henry+Tevis&source=bl&ots=ybKo7CKlPR&sig=BcH7W7W6dahTXkaK1plxWdu-Nhg&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjx_aWd3_fPAhVHl1QKHaBAA4M4ChDoAQggMAE#v=onepage&q=James%20Henry%20Tevis&f=false Walter Earl Pittman, Rebels in the Rockies: Confederate Irregulars in the Western Territories, McFarland & Company, Inc., Jefferson, NC, 2014]
  221. ^ TEVIS, JAMES HENRY
  222. ^ Valverde
  223. ^ Thrapp, Dan L., Encyclopedia of Frontier Biography, In Three Volumes, Vol.II G - O, Index; University of Nebraska Press, A. H. Clark Co., Glendale, 1988, p.887 Lynde, Issac
  224. ^ George W. Cullum's, Biographical Register of the Officers and Graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, since its establishment in 1802
  225. ^ San Augustin Spring
  226. ^ Fort Conrad (1)
  227. ^ Fort Conrad
  228. ^ STATISTICAL REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES, COMPILED FROM THE RECORDS OF THE SURGEON GENERAL’S OFFICE; EMBRACING A PERIOD OF SIXTEEN YEARS, FROM JANUARY, 1839, TO JANUARY, 1855. PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF BREVET BRIGADIER GENERAL THOMAS LAWSON, Surgeon General of the U. S. Army, by Richard H. Coolidge M. D., Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Army, A. O. P. Nicholson, Printer, Washington, 1856, pp.414-419 Among the Troops in New Mexico
  229. ^ William S. Kiser, Dragoons in Apacheland: Conquest and Resistance in Southern New Mexico, 1846-1861, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, 2013
  230. ^ a b STATISTICAL REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES, COMPILED FROM THE RECORDS OF THE SURGEON GENERAL’S OFFICE; EMBRACING A PERIOD OF SIXTEEN YEARS, FROM JANUARY, 1839, TO JANUARY, 1855. PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF BREVET BRIGADIER GENERAL THOMAS LAWSON, Surgeon General of the U. S. Army, by Richard H. Coolidge M. D., Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Army, A. O. P. Nicholson, Printer, Washington, 1856, pp.414-419 Among the Troops in New Mexico
  231. ^ Jerry D. Thompson, A Civil War History of the New Mexico Volunteers and Militia, UNM Press, Albuquerque, 2015
  232. ^ Gutiérrez-Hubbell House
  233. ^ a b Robert Nicholson Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley, Frederick Crayton Ainsworth, John Sheldon Moodey, The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, SERIES I, VOLUME IV, United States. War Dept, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1882
  234. ^ Juan María Ponce de León
  235. ^ Coons' Rancho
  236. ^ Benjamin Franklin Coons
  237. ^ Glen Sample Ely, The Texas Frontier and the Butterfield Overland Mail 1858-1861, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, 2016
  238. ^ History of El Paso del Norte
  239. ^ Josiah Frazier Crosby
  240. ^ El Paso Chronicles
  241. ^ The Post opposite El Paso
  242. ^ The first Fort Bliss: The post opposite El Paso
  243. ^ Jefferson Van Horne
  244. ^ James Wiley Magoffin
  245. ^ a b Captain James W. Magoffin, Major Simeon Hart TX HIST Marker 705, in front of La Hacienda Cafe, 1720 W. Paisano, El Paso, El Paso County Capt. James W. Magoffin Born Kentucky. Trader in Mexico, special U.S. Army agent in Mexican War 1846 - 47. Established trading post at Magoffinsville about 1850. Named state agent with Simeon Hart to receive U.S. property surrendered at Ft. Bliss Mar. 1861 prior to outbreak Civil War. This and other military stores obtained thru his long standing contacts in Mexico supplied the Confederate forces in the Arizona - New Mexico campaign 1861 - 62; made State Brig. Gen., 1861. Left here with Confederate evacuation, 1862, as Capt., C.S.A., business ability utilized to obtain military supplies in Texas, Mexico. State senator, 1863 - 65; buried in San Antonio. Maj. Simeon Hart Born New York. Moved to El Paso 1851. Founded Hart's Mill that ground out 100 barrels of flour per day and sold to buyers from Arizona to San Antonio. When Civil War came, he was the main source for securing military supplies for the Arizona - New Mexico campaign. In 1862 Hart joined the C.S.A. Army and was made general purchasing agent for the War Department West of the Mississippi. His extensive contacts in Mexico and Europe and his knowledge of markets made him able to render great service to the Confederacy which could only exist by trading valuable cotton for war goods through foreign countries. Through his arrangements for supplies, a Union plot to invade Texas across the Rio Grande was thwarted early in 1863; buried in Evergreen Cemetery. Erected by the State of Texas 1963.
  246. ^ Simeon Hart
  247. ^ [http://atlas.thc.state.tx.us/ Tex Hist. Marker 3184, Magoffinsville, 1110 Magoffin Ave. ,El Paso, El Paso Co.] One of four population centers during the early period of American settlement of the present El Paso area, Magoffinsville was founded by Kentucky native James Wiley Magoffin (1799-1868). In 1849, he began acquiring land in this vicinity. The headquarters of his property was at Magoffin and Willow streets (10 blks. E). There he built a large home and buildings to serve his trading, ranching, and farming activities. Magoffinsville became the center of social and business activities for the area and travelers often were given rest in the Magoffin home. From 1854 until 1868, Fort Bliss, a United States Army post, was located at Magoffinsville on leased land. During the Civil War, Magoffin's property was confiscated by Federal forces and his home was badly damaged. After the war, Magoffin, in poor health, moved to San Antonio, where he died in 1868. The following year his widow, Dolores, and eldest son, Joseph, regained some of the property. Joseph began selling parcels of the land and by 1873 was an organizer of the El Paso Real Estate Trust and Immigration Company. His home at this site (1110 Magoffin Avenue), although not a part of Magoffinsville, was built in 1875 in the style of the original Magoffin Home. (1985)
  248. ^ MAGOFFINSVILLE, TEXAS
  249. ^ [http://atlas.thc.state.tx.us/ Tex Hist. Marker 5090, corner of Overland and El Paso Streets (on south El Paso), El Paso. This block was the site of the stage station of the Southern Overland Mail line which connected St. Louis and San Francisco with a semi-weekly stage and mail service, 1858-1861.
  250. ^ STAGECOACH LINES
  251. ^ a b The Owens Valley Indian War, 1861-1865, by Captain John W. Key, V., U. S. Army Reserve, Submitted to the Faculty of U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, 1979. from militarymuseum.org, accessed September 5, 2018.
  252. ^ Menefee, Eugene L; Dodge, Fred A., History of Tulare and Kings Counties, California, Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, California, 1913.
  253. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference MenefeeDodge was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  254. ^ MAJOR FLOODS AND DROUGHTS IN CALIFORNIA, excerpted from Paulson, R.W., Chase, E.B., Roberts, R.S., and Moody, D.W., Compilers, National Water Summary 1988-89-- Hydrologic Events and Floods and Droughts: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Supply Paper 2375, 591 p.
  255. ^ Summary of Floods and Droughts in the Southwestern States, U. S. Geological Survey
  256. ^ California drought: Past dry periods have lasted more than 200 years, scientists say, By Paul Rogers, progers@bayareanewsgroup.com, PUBLISHED: January 25, 2014 at 9:23 am | UPDATED: August 12, 2016 at 10:26 am
  257. ^ Walter G. Reed, History of Sacramento County, California (Los Angeles: Historic Record Company, 1923, p.41
  258. ^ EXCEPTIONAL YEARS: A HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA FLOODS AND DROUGHT, BY J. M. GUINN, Read March 4, 1888.
  259. ^ Richard Crawford, The Great Drought : Fickle Weather in 1860s Led to Breakdown of Cattle Industry, Los Angeles Times, June 13, 1991, copyright 2016 Los Angeles Times, Richard Crawford is archivist for the San Diego Historical Society
  260. ^ Secret History The 1850s and the Double D's: Drought and Depression
  261. ^ Drought History Segment III – 1863-1864 – The Drought of Fat, Waddling Buzzards from sandylydon.com 9/16/2016
  262. ^ John Ross Browne, Adventures in the Apache Country: A Tour Through Arizona and Sonora, with Notes on the Silver Regions of Nevada, Harper & Brothers, 1869
  263. ^ Up and Down California in 1860-1864; The Journal of William H. Brewer: Book 5, Chapter 1 SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY—GIANT SEQUOIAS BOOK V 1864
  264. ^ Sixty years in Southern California, 1853-1913, containing the reminiscences of Harris Newmark. Edited by Maurice H. Newmark; Marco R. Newmark, The Knickerbocker press, New York, 1916
  265. ^ memorialbiograph00stor#page/43/mode/1up A Memorial And Biographical History Of The Counties Of Santa Barbara, Ventura, And San Luis Obispo, ITEMS OF INTEREST, 1850-'90.
  266. ^ The works of Hubert Howe Bancroft, Volume 7; Volume 24, Chap. IV Livestock
  267. ^ Mary Ellen Ryan and Gary S. Breschini, Ph.D., The California Cattle Boom, 1849-1862
  268. ^ Andria S. Daley, Edward E. Eyre: California pioneer, Edward E. (Ned) Eyre, Jr., Washoe Valley, Nevada, 2006. "A brief chronicle of the life & times of Edward E. Eyre, California pioneer: beginnings in Illinois & Missouri; to Sacramento overland in the Gold Rush of 1849; his rise to prosperous merchant & prominent gentleman in Sacramento, 1850s; Lt. Colonel, First California Cavalry, 1861; repatriation of Union forts in New Mexico territory & the Rio Grande in 1862; activities on the Comstock & financial success, 1860s-1870s; leadership and distinction on the San Francisco Stock and Exchange Board; & family eminence in San Francisco society, 1870s-1890s."
  269. ^ EYRE HISTORY
  270. ^ Edward Engle Eyre
  271. ^ San Francisco Call, Volume 85, Number 47, 16 January 1899, p.2, col.7 DEATH HAD FULL HARVEST FOR A DAY
  272. ^ Edward L. Eyre: Atherton's first mayor, By Andria S. Daley-Taylor The Almanac, Wednesday, September 10, 2003
  273. ^ Cochise: Firsthand Accounts of the Chiricahua Apache Chief, By Edwin R. Sweeney, p.44
  274. ^ Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of California at Its Annual Communication, Volume 50, Freemasons. Grand Lodge of California, 1899, p.308
  275. ^ Daley, Andria S., Edward E. Eyre: California Pioneer, Published by Edward E. (Ned) Eyre, Jr. (2006)
  276. ^ Bailey Millard. History of the San Francisco Bay Region : history and biography (Volume v.3) online. (page 22) Edward L. Eyre is a son of Col. Edward Engle Eyre and Mary (Tutt) Eyre. His parents crossed the plains to California in 1849, and Colonel Eyre was engaged in mining for a time, afterwards entering the stock brokerage business in San Francisco. They were always prominent and highly respected citizens of the community. Mr. and Mrs. Eyre are the parents of two children, Edward E. and D. Atherton.
  277. ^ a b http://www.worldcat.org/title/w-h-pierson-papers-1865-january-25/oclc/690667193 W. H. Pierson papers 1865 January 25] Oath of Enrollment, W. H. Pierson of San Francisco, California, for the schooner Isabel, Coos Bay, Oregon, January 25, 1865.
  278. ^ a b Daily Alta California, Volume 19, Number 6224, 30 March 1867, p.2 col.4 add: "FOR COLORADO RIVER, DIRECT; Connecting with Steamers and Barges of the Colorado Navigation Company, for Fort Yuma, La Paz, Ehrenburg Landing, Fort Mohave, and Mines on the River. The Schooner ISABEL, W. H. PIERSON Master, Is now loading at Jackson-street Wharf, and having most of her cargo engaged will have QUICK DESPATCH. Through bills of lading will be furnished and none others will be signed. For freight or passage apply to GEO. F. HOOPER, 405 Front St. corner of Clay.
  279. ^ a b Daily Alta California, Volume 22, Number 7494, 27 September 1870, p.4 col.9 add: "FOR COLORADO RIVER. ; Connecting with Steamers and Barges of the Colorado Navigation Company, FOR FORT YUMA, LA PAZ, FORT MOHAVE, ELDORADO CANON AND MINES ON THE RIVER. The Clipper Schooner ISABEL, W. H. PIERSON, Master Is now loading at Jackson-street Wharf, and having most of her cargo engaged will have QUICK DESPATCH. Through bills of lading will be furnished and none others will be signed. For freight or passage apply to G. A. JOHNSON & CO., 610 Front street.
  280. ^ Coos Bay Shipbuilding Company In the 1850s, Californian Asa M. Simpson started the first major shipbuilding business in the Coos Bay estuary, the largest natural harbor on Oregon’s coast. The Simpson Shipyard, located in North Bend, produced nearly sixty boats between 1859 and 1903. Many of the ships were used to transport lumber from Simpson’s lumber mills in North Bend and other Pacific Northwest coast towns to market in San Francisco.
  281. ^ a b c Daily Alta California, Volume 17, Number 5458, 14 February 1865,p4c8 For Colorado River, Connecting with steamers and barges of the Colorado Navigation Company for Fort Yuma, La Paz, and Mines on the River. The New Clipper Schooner Isabel, PIERSON Master Is now loading at Market Street Wharf, and will have quick despatch, having the most of her cargo engaged. In order to mere fully accommodate shippers of merchandise and consignees through bills of lading will be furnished. None others will be signed. For freight or passage apply to GEO. F. HOOPER, S.E. corner Front and Commercial atreets. Cite error: The named reference "DAC18650214p4c8" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
  282. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 18, Number 5785, 10 January 1866, p.6 col.8 add: "FOR COLORADO RIVER, DIRECT; for Fort Yuma, La Paz, and Mines on the River. The Schooner ISABEL, W. H. PIERSON Master, Is now loading at Market-street wharf, and will have QUICK DESPATCH having most of her cargo engaged. FREIGHT WILL BE TAKEN AT REDUCED RATES. Through bills of lading will be furnished and none others will be signed. For freight or passage apply to GEO. F. HOOPER, S.W. corner Front and Clay St.
  283. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 19, Number 6447, 9 November 1867 p.2 col 2 Shipping Intelligence, Arrivals, Schr, Isabel, Pierson, 46 ds fm Port Isabel; copper ore to G J Johnson & Co.
  284. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 21, Number 7145, 13 October 1869, p4c9
  285. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 21, Number 7146, 14 October 1869, p4 col9
  286. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 23, Number 7727, 19 May 1871 p4c3
  287. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 22, Number 7491, 24 September 1870, p4c9
  288. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 19, Number 6351, 5 August 1867, p4c9
  289. ^ San Francisco Municipal Reports, Order of the Board of Supervisors, 1876
  290. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 32, Number 10928, 16 March 1880, P.3, COL.7 ADD: "SCHOONER "ISABEL", Notice of Sale of One-half Interest in the Schooner "Isabel" of the Port of San Francisco. IN PURSUANCE OF AN ORDER MADE ON THE 8th day of January, 1880, by the Superior Court of the City and County of San Francisco, State of California, Department No. 9, In the Matter of the Estate of WILLIAM H. PIERSON, deceased, I will sell at public or private sale, on or after TUESDAY, the SIXTEENTH day of MARCH, 1880, one-half Interest in the above named Schooner, being all the right, title and Interest of the Estate of William H. Pierson, deceased, therein. Bids will be received at Messrs. Coffin & Hendry's, Junction Market and Sacramento streets. R.C. WALKER, Administrator of the Estate of William H. Pierson, deceased. Selden S. Wright, Attorney, 306 Pine street, S. F."
  291. ^ A History of the U. S. Topographical Engineers, 1818-1863 by Henry P. Beers
  292. ^ Notes of a Military Reconnaissance from Fort Leavenworth in Missouri to San Diego in California, Including Part Of The Arkansas, Del Norte, and Gila Rivers. By Lieut. Col. W. H. Emory, made in 1846-7, With the Advanced Guard of the "Army of the West", Wendell and Van Benthuysen, Washington, 1848
  293. ^ HISTORY OF ARIZONA, Volume IV, CHAPTER XII. EARLY SETTLEMENTS (Continued).
  294. ^ Lower Colorado River Multi-species Conservation Program: Environmental Impact Statement, Responses to Comments on LCR MSCP Volumes I-IV, Volume V, December 17, 2014
  295. ^ Supreme Court of California. George F. Hooper v. Wells, Fargo & Co., The American Law Register, Published November 1, 1865
  296. ^ History of Sonoma County [Cal.: Including Its Geology, Topography, Mountains, Valleys and Streams; with a Full and Particular Record of the Spanish Grants; Its Early History and Settlement, Alley, Bowen & Company, 1880]
  297. ^ Report of the Commissioner of Corporations on Transportation by Water in the United States: Water-borne traffic., U.S. Government Printing Office, 1909
  298. ^ Mary Helen Hooper scrapbook, 1910-1915
  299. ^ Vineyard of Col. George F. Hooper, History Of Sonoma County
  300. ^ History Of Sonoma County; EARLY HISTORY AND SETTLEMENT OF SONOMA COUNTY. THE RUSSIAN, SPANISH AND AMERICAN OCCUPATION.
  301. ^ Annual Report of the Chamber of Commerce of San Francisco, Greater San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. Chamber of commerce, 1902
  302. ^ Kieran McCarty, Desert Documentary, Arizona: Arizona Historical Society, Tucson, 1976, pp.35-40, THE YUMA MASSACRE OF 1781
  303. ^ The Yuma Revolt, July 17, 1781 by Michael R. Hardwick
  304. ^ Lost in the Translation Chief Palma of the Quechan, Vladimir Guerrero, Southern California Quarterly, Vol. 92, No. 4 (Winter 2010-2011), Historical Society of Southern California, University of California Press, 2011, pp. 327-350
  305. ^ Growing tensions between Yumas and Spaniards lead to 1781 missions massacre
  306. ^ [http:cwh.ucsc.edu/SocialBio.Zappia.pdf “The One Who Wheezes”: Salvador Palma, the Colorado River, and the Emerging World Economy, Natale Zappia, Ph.D., University of California, Santa Cruz, Center]
  307. ^ Mark Santiago, Massacre at the Yuma Crossing: Spanish Relations with the Quechans, 1779-1782, University of Arizona Press, Tucson, 2010
  308. ^ Robert Howard Jackson, Edward Castillo, Edward D. Castillo, Indians, Franciscans, and Spanish Colonization: The Impact of the Mission System on California Indians, UNM Press, Albuquerque, 1996
  309. ^ Fort Yuma
  310. ^ The Yuma Revolt, July 17, 1781
  311. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Tumco Wash
  312. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Tumco Mine
  313. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Vallecito Valley
  314. ^ anza_hawi-vallecito_map.pdf Anza-Borrego State Park, Hawi - Vallecito Cultural Preserve Map.
  315. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mason Valley
  316. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Vallecito Wash
  317. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Oriflamme Canyon
  318. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Rodriguez Canyon
  319. ^ Compiled laws of the State of California: containing all the acts of the Legislature of a public and general nature, now in force, passed at the sessions of 1850-51-52-53, Benicia, S. Garfeilde, 1853. pp. 866-868 An Act concerning the Judges of the Plains (Jueces del Campo ,) and defining their duties
  320. ^ William H. R. Wood, Digest of the laws of California: containing all laws of a general character which will be in force on the first day of January, 1858 ... prepared under an act of the Legislature of California of the session of 1857, S. D. Valentine and Son, San Francisco, 1857, pp.508-509 XLIX Judges of the Plains
  321. ^ F. P. Deering, Penal Code and Statutes of California, Bancroft-Whitney, San Francisco, 1886, 1886 pp.599-601 Judges of the Plains, 656 Rodeos
  322. ^ General laws of California: as amended and in force at the close of the thirty-sixth session of the Legislature, 1905, Annotated by Wilbur Fisk Henning, Bender-Chaquette, San Francisco, 1905 pp.604-606
  323. ^ James Miller Guinn, A History of California and an Extended History of Los Angeles and Environs: Also Containing Biographies of Well Known Citizens of the Past and Present, Vol. I, Complete in three volumes, Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, 1915, p.246, Judges of the Plains
  324. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Upper Green Valley
  325. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Vallecito Wash
  326. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Jacumba Valley
  327. ^ 32°37′00″N 116°10′07″W / 32.61667°N 116.16861°W / 32.61667; -116.16861
  328. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Boulder Creek
  329. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Boulder Creek
  330. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: In-Ko-Pah Gorge
  331. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mountain Springs County Park, Park, S.D. Co. Ca
  332. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mountain Spring, Spring, Imp. Co. Ca
  333. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mountain Spring, Locale, SD Co. CA
  334. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Stage Station Historical Marker
  335. ^ Off-Road Trip to Mountain Spring, Text and photos by David Taylor from desertusa.com, accessed June 7, 2016
  336. ^ Mountain Spring Station
  337. ^ Jacumba Mountains Run, (Elliot Mine/Smuggler's Cave/Mountain Springs Stagecoach Trail)
  338. ^ Mountain Springs, By B. B. Moore, San Diego Historical Society, Quarterly, Vol. 1 No. 3, 1955, p.39
  339. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Table Mountain
  340. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Devils Canyon
  341. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Myer Creek
  342. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Coyote Wash
  343. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Palm Canyon Wash
  344. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: South Fork Coyote Wash
  345. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Asiaticus/sandbox
  346. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Carrizo Gorge
  347. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Carrizo Valley
  348. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Carrizo Canyon
  349. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Carrizo Wash
  350. ^ Wagon Roads West; a Study of Federal Road Surveys and Construction in the Trans-Mississippi West, 1846-1869
  351. ^ Report upon the Pacific wagon roads, constructed under the direction of the Hon. Jacob Thompson, Secretary of the Interior in 1857-'58-'59, by Albert H. Campbell.
  352. ^ a b c d e f Pacific wagon roads. Letter from the secretary of the interior, trasmitting a report upon the several wagon roads constructed under the direction of the Interior department, Govt. print. off., Washington, 1859
  353. ^ Reports and maps of the Fort Kearney, South Pass, and Honey Lake wagon road.
  354. ^ Ft. Kearney South Pass & Honey Lake Wagon-Road.
  355. ^ Reconnaissances of Routes from San Antonio to El Paso
  356. ^ Robert Eccleston, Edited by George P. Hammond and Edward H. Howes, Overland to California on the Southwestern Trail, University of California Press, Berkeley, 1950
  357. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Beale, Edward Fitzgerald (1858). Wagon Road from Fort Defiance to the Colorado River: Letter from the Secretary of War, Transmitting the Report of the Superintendent of the Wagon Road from Fort Defiance to the Colorado River: Issue 124 of [U.S.] 35th Cong., 1st sess. House. Ex. doc. Harvard University.
  358. ^ Texas Historic Sites Atlas, Texas Historical Commission
  359. ^ Giddings' Pecos Station Graves
  360. ^ book/online/articles/fgi06 GIDDINGS, GEORGE HENRY, TSHAonline
  361. ^ Emmie Giddings W. Mahon and Chester V. Kielman, George H. Giddings and the San Antonio-San Diego Mail Line, The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Vol. 61, No. 2 (Oct., 1957), pp. 220-239
  362. ^ Reports from the Court of Claims, Submitted to the House of Representatives, During the First Session of the Thirty-fourth Congress[-third Session of the Thirty-seventh Congress, 1855-'56 [-1862-'63], C. Wendell, printer, 1861]
  363. ^ Congressional Series of United States Public Documents, Volume 1769, p.lxvii
  364. ^ The US Army and the Texas Frontier Economy: 1845 - 1900 Giddings and El Paso Mail
  365. ^ Stagecoaching on the Lower Road
  366. ^ Texas: A Historical Atlas
  367. ^ a b Placer Times, Volume 2, Number 67, 3 June 1850, p1. col.3 Cite error: The named reference "PT18500603P1C3" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
  368. ^ Weberville, El Dorado Co.
  369. ^ Western Mining History, A Look at California in 1851, Two Years Into the Gold Rush, Weberville Charles M. Weber was prospecting this area in 1848, well before the main part of the gold rush started in 1849. Weber, having the advantage of being the first in the area, was said to have taken an enormous amount of gold from the diggings. The 1850 government census lists 906 residents of Weberville in 1850. Not much is known of the later history of Weberville, and nothing remains of the town today.
  370. ^ In History: Good as Gold, Weberville, 06/01/2018 12:30PM
  371. ^ Weberville Cemetery, Placerville, El Dorado County, California, US
  372. ^ [http://www.dougstepsout.com/category/road-names/ Where Did That Road Name Come From? W-Z by Doug Noble • May 16, 2015] from dougstepsout.com, accessed November 18, 2018
  373. ^ Comanche Springs
  374. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Comanche Springs
  375. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Comanche Springs (historical)
  376. ^ a b c d United States Bureau of Topographical Engineers: Map of Texas and Part of New Mexico compiled in the Bureau of Topographical Eng'rs. chiefly for military purposes. 1857
  377. ^ County Map of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico And Arizona, H.H. Lloyd, Warner & Beers: Chicago, 1872, Includes substantial details in each of these then territories of the US, including towns, mountains, rivers, Forts, Indian Villages, early railroads and proposed railroad routes, and many many other details. From HH Lloyd's scarce Atlas of the US, which only appeared as a supplement to Beers County Atlases in the early 1870s.
  378. ^ Sheet No. 1, Department of Arizona, Department of Arizona. Revised, 1875. Compiled under the authority of Maj. Gen. J.M. Schofield Commanding Mil. Div. of the Pacific by 1st Lieut. J.C. Mallery Corps of Engrs. Published by authority of The Hon. The Secretary of War in the Office of the Chief Of Engineers U.S. Army Washington D.C. 1876. Drawn by J.W. Ward
  379. ^ Sheet No. 3, Department of Arizona, Sheet No.3, Department of Arizona. Revised, 1875. Compiled under the authority of Maj. Gen. J.M. Schofield Commanding Mil. Div. of the Pacific by 1st Lieut. J.C. Mallery Corps of Engrs. Published by authority of The Hon. The Secretary of War in the Office of the Chief Of Engineers U.S. Army Washington D.C. 1876. Drawn by J.W. Ward
  380. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Sanders, Kirby, Butterfield Overland Mail Route Through New Mexico and Arizona, Kirby Sanders and Amazon Createspace, 2013
  381. ^ a b c THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. CHAPTER LXII. OPERATIONS ON THE PACIFIC COAST. JANUARY 1, 1861–JUNE 30, 1865. PART I., CORRESPONDENCE., p.1056, itinerary of the marches from Fort Yuma to Pima Villages, made by Lieutenant-Colonel West
  382. ^ Anhert, Gerald T., The Butterfield Trail and Overland Mail Company in Arizona, 1858-1861, Canastota Publishing Co., Canastota, NY, 2011
  383. ^ a b Barnes, Will C., Arizona Place Names, University of Arizona Bulletin, Vol.IV, No.1, University of Arizona, Tucson, 1935, p.441. "Texas Hill Yuma Co. Hinton Map, 1878; U. S. G. S., 1923.
    In T. 7 S., R. 14 W. Familiar stage station before railroad days; on Gila river near present railroad station of Stoval, or Crystoval, q.v. Of this place Poston writes: "Next Texas Hill looms on the plain." The writer ate dinner at this station in February, 1880. Shows as a mountain on north side of river on some early maps. But was always called Texas Hill."
  384. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Stoval, History: Originally identified in 1869 as Grinnell Station. In 1875 it was Stanwix, then Texas Hill. The next name was Christvale and from 1892 to about 1911 the name became Chrystoval (var-Crystoval). In 1911, the name was shortened to Stoval. Grinnell Station was named for its first station keeper, Henry Grinnell. Texas Hill came about because a party of Texas emigrants were supposedly killed at the hill. Oscar F. Thornton started a farmers' colony circa 1882. He named a fertile farming section Christvale and later became the first postmaster of Christvale. The railroad shortened the name to Stoval to facilitate telegraphing (AZ-T101).
  385. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Texas Hill
  386. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Waterman Wash, Maricopa Co., Named for Colonel Waterman, who explored the Arlington and Buckeye regions for canal sites and reportedly is buried in the Wash (AZ-T101).
  387. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: West Prong Waterman Wash
  388. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: North Tank
  389. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Desert Station, Forty Mile Desert Tank
  390. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Butterfield Pass
  391. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s Glen Sample Ely, The Texas Frontier and the Butterfield Overland Mail, 1858–1861, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, Mar 4, 2016
  392. ^ Alamo Mountain from summitpost.org accessed March 12,v2017.]
  393. ^ a b c d e f g h i Gunnar Brune, REPORT 189, MAJOR AND HISTORICAL SPRINGS OF TEXAS, TEXAS WATER DEVELOPMENT BOARD, March 1975.
  394. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Delaware Springs
  395. ^ Delaware Springs
  396. ^ POPE'S CAMP
  397. ^ POPE'S CROSSING
  398. ^ 31°59′09″N 103°58′51″W / 31.98583°N 103.98083°W / 31.98583; -103.98083
  399. ^ Red Bluff Springs
  400. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Red Bluff Springs
  401. ^ The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Volume 61, July 1957 - April, 1958: Number 1, July 1957, J. W. Williams, The Butterfield Overland Mail Road Across Texas, pp.1-19
  402. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Eagle Spring
  403. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Eagle Spring
  404. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Eagle Springs
  405. ^ "EAGLE SPRING," Handbook of Texas Online (http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/rpe01), accessed May 17, 2011. Published by the Texas State Historical Association.
  406. ^ a b c d Gunnar M. Brune, Springs of Texas, Volume 1, Texas A&M University Press, Collage Station, 2002
  407. ^ Handbook of Texas Online, "El Muerto Peak," accessed May 26, 2016
  408. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cribb Station Creek
  409. ^ Handbook of Texas Online, David Minor, "Wizard Wells, TX," accessed March 12, 2017
  410. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: West Fork Trinity River
  411. ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bunker Hill
  412. ^ Bunker Hill Groundwater Basin - City of San Bernardino from sbcity.org accessed June 13,2016
  413. ^ Geologic and Hydrologic Features of the San Bernardino Area
  414. ^ Will Croft Barnes, Arizona Place Names, University of Arizona Press, 1988, pp.226, 207,409 Sitgreaves Pass
  415. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Sitgreaves Pass
  416. ^ Thrapp, Dan L., Encyclopedia of Frontier Biography, In Three Volumes, Vol.III P - Z, Index; University of Nebraska Press, A. H. Clark Co., Glendale, 1988, p.1313
  417. ^ Lorenzo Sitgreaves: Cullums Register
  418. ^ Col Lorenzo Sitgreaves
  419. ^ Andrew Wallace, Across Arizona to the Big Colorado: The Sitgreaves Expedition of 1851, Arizona and the West, Vol. 26, No. 4 (Winter, 1984), pp. 325-364, Published by: Journal of the Southwest from jstor.org accessed 8/2/2016
  420. ^ Sitgreaves's Expedition down the Zuni and Colorado Rivers from philaprintshop.com
  421. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Secret Pass
  422. ^ Richard H. Kern: expeditionary artist in the far Southwest, 1848-1853 (Excerpt) With Sitgreaves to the Pacific, 1851
  423. ^ Stephen Bonsal, Edward Fitzgerald Beale, a Pioneer in the Path of Empire, 1822-1903, G.P. Putnam's Sons, New York, 1912
  424. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Union Pass
  425. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Beale Spring
  426. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Willow Wash
  427. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Marl Spring
  428. ^ Marl Spring
  429. ^ Marl Spring
  430. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cedar Canyon
  431. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Government Holes
  432. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Rock Spring
  433. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Lanfair Buttes
  434. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Grotto Hills
  435. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hackberry Mountain
  436. ^ The boundary of the district is defined by these coordinates:
  437. ^ Piute Creek Archeological Survey and Site Documentation, Mojave National Preserve, California from core.tdar.org accessed August 25, 2016
  438. ^ Piute Creek Archeological Survey and Site Documentation, Mojave National Preserve, California. Meredith, A. Wilson. Publications in Anthropology ,96. Tucson, Arizona: Western Archeological and Conservation Center. 2007 ( tDAR id: 4363) ; doi:10.6067/XCV88W3BXS
  439. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Piute Spring
  440. ^ Piute Creek, unofficially named, runs from Piute Spring in the Piute Range east then north east downstream to where it sinks into the sands near the ruins of Fort Piute. From there it turns east widening into a alluvial fan of braided washes that terminate in Piute Wash in the middle of Piute Valley.
  441. ^ a b c d e f g T. C. Purdy, Report on Steam Navigation in the United States, Census Reports Tenth Census: Report on the agencies of transportation in the United States, including the statistics of railroads, steam navigation, canals, telegraphs, and telephones, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1883, pp.653-724, Pacific Coast, pp.680-689
  442. ^ William L. Willis, History of Sacramento County, California, with biographical sketches of the leading men and women of the county who have been identified with its growth and development from the early days to the present, HISTORIC RECORD COMPANY, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, 1913, CHAPTER XXV Navigation pp.201-210
  443. ^ Ernest D. Wichels, A Long Line of Ships, Historical Articles of Solano County, Sunday, August 30, 1981
  444. ^ Hubert Howe Bancroft, Henry Lebbeus Oak, William Nemos, Frances Fuller Victo, History of California, Volume 24, pp.130-156, Chapter VII, Inland and Overland Traffic, 1848-1888
  445. ^ Daily Alta California, Volume 2, Number 181, 9 June 1851, p.1, col.2
  446. ^ James T. Lloyd, Lloyd's Steamboat Directory, and Disasters on the Western Waters, pp.268-272, List of Steamboats on Western Rivers
  447. ^ History Of Butte County, NAVIGATION OF THE UPPER SACRAMENTO
  448. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Jerry MacMullen, Paddlewheel Days In California, Stanford University Press, Stanford, 1970.
  449. ^ John H. Morrison, History of American Steam Navigation, W. F. Sametz and Co., Inc., 1903
  450. ^ Yuba County, California History: Chapter XXXVII - Navigation
  451. ^ a b J. Ross Browne, Report of J. Ross Browne on the Mineral Resources of the States and ... 1868, P.280
  452. ^ "Central Pacific and Leased Railroads Locomotives, Cars, Steamers and Barges" taken from the Office Auditor M. P. and M. Department, dated June 1, 1878.
  453. ^ The third boat to appear was the "Governor Dana," in April, 1850. She was a stern-wheeler, and about eighty tons register. In the Placer Times of April 24, 1850, we find the following: - "The beautiful steamer Gov. Dana made her first trip from Sacramento up, on Tuesday of last week. Leaving at half-past nine, in two hours and three-quarters we were at Fremont, and a little more than an hour brought us to Nicolaus. Here, at the shortest notice, Mr. Eberhardt served up dinner in that first-rate style, which has already extended far and wide the reputation of his hotel. The Dana made the passage through to Marysville in something less than eight hours, running time, undoubtedly the shortest one on record. She is in all respects, a fast boat - built by Gen. Veazie about a year since, to ply on the Penobscot, in opposition to a monopoly, which had granted them by the Legislature, the exclusive privilege of navigating that river; an injunction was issued, which prevented her running there; she was taken to pieces and put on board the bark Rio Grande, arrived in San Francisco about six weeks since, was put together at New York (of the Pacific), and is now in the full tide of successful experiment. "Yuba County History-Navigation
  454. ^ [A guide to the Girard Koch collection, 1848-1866 The GOVERNOR DANA was a paddle steamer of 67 tons built in 1849 in Oldtown, Maine. The vessel was originally intended to to ply the Penobscot River; however a monopoly for that route was granted to another party. The GOVERNOR DANA was therefore disassembled and shipped in pieces to the West Coast, via the bark Rio Grande. On arriving in San Francisco, she was rebuilt and began to serve the Sacramento River towns including Marysville, Red Bluff until 1863.
  455. ^ a b c Congressional Serial Set, Issue 1923, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1880, p. 154
  456. ^ Apparently moving back and forth between a Fourth Street and Third Street location, built in 1862-1864 the steamers Banner, Esmeralda, Governor Dana and Julia, together with a number of barges. Steamboat Point, 1851-1864
  457. ^ [https://books.google.com/books?id=6B1JAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA2916&lpg=PA2916&dq=governor+dana+steamer&source=bl&ots=pwglTt89_H&sig=9ccM5_5CjkR2FRk5eTiBnMJsdtw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiFt5yv5rzOAhVB5mMKHUUdBes4ChDoAQhdMAk#v=onepage&q=governor%20dana%20steamer&f=false Report of the Chief of Engineers U.S. Army, United States. Army. Corps of Engineers, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1883, Appendixes, p.2916]
  458. ^ Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 84, Number 91, 5 December 1892 p.4col.4 Last of the Governor Dana. The hulk of the old river steamer Governor Dana is now moored on the Yolo side of the river, below the bridge, and is full of water. The machinery having all been removed from the boat, she was sold the other day for $30 and taken across the river by her purchaser, to be taken to pieces.
  459. ^ Cite error: The named reference DACDAC18510609p1c2 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  460. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference PacificCoast was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  461. ^ SS-McKim
  462. ^ SS New World
  463. ^ Lewis & Dryden's Marine History of the Pacific Northwest
  464. ^ PASSENGER VESSEL COLLECTION; SS New World
  465. ^ Old Sacramento and Downtown, Sacramento Archives and Museum Collection Center, Historic Old Sacramento Foundation, steamship New World, daguerreotype
  466. ^ Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 6, Number 875, 11 January 1854, p.2, col.5
  467. ^ Farwell, William, Cape Horn And Cooperative Mining in '49, The Century, Volume 42, The Century Company, New York, 1891, pp.579-594
  468. ^ a b Historical Souvenir of El Dorado County, California
  469. ^ ROBERT L. HARRIS, M. Am. Soc. C. E., THE RAILROAD FERRY STEAMER "SOLANO," AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS, TRANSACTIONS, 436,(Vol. XXII—April, 1890.)
  470. ^ a b Robin W. Winks, Frederick Billings: A Life, University of California Press, 1998, pp.38, 73, 166 Simmons, Hutchinson & Company
  471. ^ http://www.maritimeheritage.org/ships/SS-McKim.html
  472. ^ Hubert Howe Bancroft, The works of Hubert Howe Bancroft, Volume 7; Volume 24, History of California, Vol. VII, p.131, note.5
  473. ^ Reed, G. Walter, History of Sacramento County, California, with biographical sketches of the leading men and women of the county who have been identified with its growth and development from the early days to the present, Historic Record Co., Los Angeles, 1923, p.69
  474. ^ J. Rush Bronson, Clarence M. Hunt, The Grizzly Bear, Volume 1, No.5, September 1907, p.20 San Francisco in 1849
  475. ^ [https://books.google.com/books?id=xdtLAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA107&lpg=PA107&dq=Simmons,+Hutchinson+%26+Company&source=bl&ots=VbvuJSgFp7&sig=fIK9M-oW-ggyUM6ExP8vcqZeXsI&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjBq4Km5cnNAhUM_WMKHdZhCXQQ6AEIKDAD#v=onepage&q=Simmons%2C Hutchinson %26 Company&f=false Reports of Cases Determined in the Supreme Court of the State of ..., Volume 2, By California. Supreme Court, 1852, Billings vs Billings, p.17]
  476. ^ Willis, William Ladd, History of Sacramento County, California, with biographical sketches of the leading men and women of the county who have been identified with its growth and development from the early days to the present; Historic record company, Los Angeles, Cal., 1913, CHAPTER XXV NAVIGATION
  477. ^ George Holbrook Baker: Fort Yuma Colorado Rivr. Cala. Extraordinary variant edition of George H. Baker's early view of the important western outpost of Fort Yuma on the Colorado River. From raremaps.com accessed May 27,2016.
  478. ^ John Ross Browne, Resources of the Pacific Slope: With a Sketch of the Settlement and Exploration of Lower California, I. H. Bancroft and Company, San Francisco, 1869
  479. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Official Map Of The Territory Of Arizona, With All The Recent Explorations. Compiled by Richard Gird C.E. Commissioner. Approved By John N. Goodwin, Governor. In Accordance With An Act Of The Legislature, Approved Oct. 23d. 1864. We hereby certify that this is the Official Map of the Territory of Arizona, and approve the same. Prescott October 12th 1865. (with signed seal dated 1863). Published By A. Gensoul, Pacific Map Depot. No. 511 Montgomery St. San Francisco. Lith. Britton & Co. San Francisco.
  480. ^ Thomas Edwin Farish, History of Arizona, Volume II, Phoenix, Arizona, 1915. CHAPTER XV. FORMATION OF MINING DISTRICTS
  481. ^ Weaver Mining District, map from sharlot.org
  482. ^ Springs Mining District, Desert Fever
  483. ^ Macedonia Mining District, Desert Fever
  484. ^ Irataba Mining District, Desert Fever
  485. ^ [https://books.google.com/books?pg=PA142&lpg=PA142&dq=irataba+district&sig=XeIb0Z0x6IQi4QcoQD3OjVkPZbA&id=TnlBAAAAYAAJ&ots=HqwQgIYqAd#v=onepage&q=Picacho&f=false Browne, Resources p.142 "Important mines have been discovered, and districts organized at many points in the Territory, among which are the Irataba district, about twenty-five miles southwest from Fort Mohave..."
  486. ^ North of the Whipple Mountains and south of the Irataba District was the Freeman Mining District. In October, 1863, it was described as “quite a large one (district) containing many leads, but at present not an inhabitant, all its miners have skedaddled to the new placers about one hundred and twenty miles east of here. No work has been done in this district.” The district would have included the Chemehuevi Mountains, and it is possible that it went as far west as the Old Woman Mountains. The above is the only description found of early mining here, and there has been little subsequent activity. [http://vredenburgh.org/desert_fever/pages/san_bernardino_04.htm Desert Fever, p.89, note 64: San Francisco Alta California , October 15, 1863
  487. ^ Picacho Mining District, Desert Fever
  488. ^ Sheet No. 3, Department of Arizona. Revised, 1875. Compiled under the authority of Maj. Gen. J.M. Schofield Commanding Mil. Div. of the Pacific by 1st Lieut. J.C. Mallery Corps of Engrs. Published by authority of The Hon. The Secretary of War in the Office of the Chief Of Engineers U.S. Army Washington D.C. 1876. Drawn by J.W. Ward.
  489. ^ a b Richard Josiah Hinton, The Handbook to Arizona: Its Resources, History, Towns, Mines, Ruins, and Scenery, Payot, Upham & Company, San Francisco, 1878
  490. ^ a b c Official Map Of The Territory Of Arizona Compiled from Surveys, Reconnaissances and other Sources. By E.A. Eckhoff And P. Riecker, Civil Engineers, 1880. Drawn by Eckhoff & Riecker. The Graphic Co. Photo-Lith. 39 & 41 Park Place, N.Y. Entered ... 1879, by Emil Eckhoff and Paul Riecker ... Washington, D.C., 1880 “Official Map of the Territory of Arizona” showing La Paz - Wikenburg Road and Hardyville - Prescott Road with mileage between locations along the roads, from davidrumsey.com, accessed on 6/21/2016
  491. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Torrance Well
  492. ^ Richard Josiah Hinton, The Handbook to Arizona: Its Resources, History, Towns, Mines, Ruins, and Scenery, Payot, Upham & Company, San Francisco, 1878
  493. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Parts Of Central & Western Arizona, 1876 - Atlas Sheet No. 75. Issued Mar. 8th 1876. Weyss, Herman & Lang Del. Expeditions of 1871, 1872 & 1873, Under the Command of 1st. Lieut. Geo. M. Wheeler, Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army. U.S. Geographical Surveys West Of The 100th Meridian. Stations and mileage of Hardyville - Prescott Road.
  494. ^ FIRST LIEUT. GEO. M. WHEELER, CORPS oF ENGINEERS, U. S. ARMY, PRELIMINARY REPORT UPON A RECONNAISSANCE THROUGH SOUTHERN AND SOUTHEASTERN NEVADA; MADE IN 1869, ASSISTED BY FIRST LIEUT. D. W. LOCKWOOD, CORPS OF ENGINEERS, U. S. ARMY, UNDER THE ORDERS OF BRIG. GEN. E.O.C. ORD, BVT. MAJ. GEN. U. S. ARMY, COMMANDING DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA, GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, WASHINGTON: 1875. P.70 Hardyville - Prescott Road mileage
  495. ^ Dan L. Thrapp, Al Sieber: Chief of Scouts, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, 2012
  496. ^ diamond_creek-1892 diamond_creek AZ-1892
  497. ^ prescott AZ-1885
  498. ^ camp_mohave AZ-1892
  499. ^ Inventory of the Otis R. "Dock" Marston Papers]; Folder 33 Alexander's Camp; Camp Alexander; Alexandria
  500. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Union Pass
  501. ^ Union Pass from southwestexplorations.com accessed July 9, 2016
  502. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Coyote Holes Spring
  503. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Beale Spring
  504. ^ CAMP BEALE'S SPRINGS
  505. ^ CAMP BEALE'S SPRINGS
  506. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hualapai Wash
  507. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hualapai Spring
  508. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Knight Creek
  509. ^ There is also no water at the Tanks, and canteens will have to be filled at the Cottonwoods. The parties who started to dig a well at the Tanks sunk it about twenty five feet, when they found the rock so hard, that they abandoned the place in disgust, after having placed a broken whiskey bottle in the bottom of the well, evidently as a sign that the thirsty traveler need not for anything to drink in that locality. Weekly Journal Miner, May 18, 1877
  510. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Peacock Wash
  511. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Knight Creek
  512. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cottonwood Cliffs
  513. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cottonwood Mountains
  514. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Aquarius Cliffs
  515. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Will C. BARNES, Arizona Place Names, GENERAL BULLETIN No. 2, University of Arizona Bulletin, Vol. VI, No. 1, January 1, 1935, University of Arizona, Tucson
  516. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cross Mountain
  517. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Fort Rock Ranch
  518. ^ a b c d Theobald, John and Lillian, Arizona Territorial Post Offices and Postmasters, Arizona Historical Foundation, Phoenix, 1961
  519. ^ FORT ROCK In the year 1866 Hualapai warriors attacked Buckman stage station southeast from Exit 91 on Interstate 40. Holder of stage station J. J. Buckman's son Thad, built a playhouse on the ground, and when more then 50 Hualapai Indians who were on the raid attacked the stage station, Buckman and one another man ran into the playhouse and exchanged fire for many hours with the Indians. After the Indians had lost many warriors, they finely ran away. After the attack, Buckman changed the stage station name to Fort Rock, in honor of young Thad's playhouse. Submitted by: Bobby Krause Zlatevski
  520. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Muddy Canyon
  521. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Anvil Rock Ranch
  522. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Anvil Rock
  523. ^ Jesse Walter Fewkes, Casa Grande, Arizona, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D. C., 1912
  524. ^ Dan L. Thrapp, The Conquest of Apacheria, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, 1967
  525. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Aztec Pass
  526. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Muddy Wash
  527. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Juniper Mountains
  528. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Walnut Creek
  529. ^ Camp Hualpai Camp Hualpai (1869-1873) - A U.S. Army camp established as Camp Toll Gate in 1869 at the close of the Hualapai War by Major William R. Price, 8th U.S. Cavalry, in present day Yavapai County, Arizona. Renamed Camp Hualapai in 1870. Abandoned in 1873. Also known as Camp Devin and Fort Hualapai. Camp Hualpai History - This post was established 9 May 1869 as Camp Devin and quickly renamed Camp Toll Gate because it was built along the Hardyville-Prescott toll road. It was later renamed Camp Hualpai on 1 Aug 1870. The camp was abandoned 31 Jul 1873 and later transferred to the Department of Interior.
  530. ^ Camp_Hualpai-Juniper Camp Hualpai was first known as Camp Tollgate. It was established on the toll road named for William Hardy. In 1870 the military took it over to protect the road from Indian attacks. The post office was established in 1882 and closed in 1883. When the military left the site became known as Juniper under which a new post office was established.
  531. ^ CAMP HUALPAI - JUNIPER Camp Hualpai was first known as Camp Tollgate. It was established on the toll road named for William Hardy. In 1870 the military took it over to protect the road from Indian attacks. The post office was established in 1882 and closed in 1883. When the military left the site became known as Juniper under which a new post office was established.
  532. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Williamson Valley
  533. ^ Simmons
  534. ^ a b c d U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Simmons
  535. ^ Simmons, Arizona - E Clampus Vitus Historical Marker, Location: Yavapai County, United States of America, N 34° 48.911', W 112° 37.971'] Insciption: Simmons, Arizona. This is the site of the crossing' on the Mojave-Prescott "Hardyville" toll road. The road was authorized by the first territorial legislature and was built by W. H. Hardy, connecting Prescott with Hardyville on the Colorado River. William John Simmons built a home, bar, hotel, dance hall, post office, store, corrals, blacksmith, and storage buildings here. Dedicated October 19, 1996, Lost Dutchman Chapter 5917, E Clampus Vitus
  536. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mint Wash
  537. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Williamson Valley Wash
  538. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Williamson Valley
  539. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Williamson Valley
  540. ^ American Ranch American Ranch was a stage stop on the Prescott - Ehrenburg route and had a large hotel for travelers.
  541. ^ [Kathy Lopez, Williamson Vally Road, Arcadia Publishing, Charleston S.C., 2011, pp.68-69]
  542. ^ Sharlot Hall and the Lee Family at the American Ranch, Arizona, 1936
  543. ^ A day trip to Seligman on the Williamson Valley Road, Posted on February 13, 2011
  544. ^ Polhamus - 2014
  545. ^ The Deseret News - May 24, 1866
  546. ^ a b c Hubert Howe Bancroft, Chronicles of the Builders of the Commonwealth: Vol V
  547. ^ a b [https://books.google.com/books?id=rflYAAAAcAAJ&pg=PA170&lpg=PA170&dq=%22Pacific+and+Colorado+Steam+Navigation+Company%22&source=bl&ots=K3075QxawO&sig=YGk-Wjql7PerWIFKXQtyhjRf7Bw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjYt-X50M3OAhVSz2MKHb2KA8sQ6AEIUjAM#v=onepage&q=%22Pacific%20and%20Colorado%20Steam%20Navigation%20Company%22&f=false House Documents, Volume 10; Volume 267, USA House of Representatives, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1872]
  548. ^ State, Territorial and Ocean Guide Book of the Pacific, 1866
  549. ^ Navigation of the Colorado, November 20, 1866, The New York Times
  550. ^ INCORPORATIONS FOR 1865., Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 30, Number 4611, 1 January 1866, P.2,Col.6-7
  551. ^ Arizona Navigation Company, A Journal of Arizona History, Arizona Historical Society, V(4)8
  552. ^ The James White Conspiracy
  553. ^ Eilean Adams, Hell or High Water James White’s Disputed Passage through Grand Canyon 1867, Utah State University Press, Logan, Utah, 2001
  554. ^ Hell or High Water
  555. ^ White, James, 1837-1927 -- Travel -- Colorado River (Colo.-Mexico)
  556. ^ The alleged journey, and the real journey of James White, on the Colorado River, in 1861 [i.e. 1867 by Stanton, Robert Brewster, 1846-1922]
  557. ^ William Wallace Bass, James White, William W. Hawkins, Adventures in the Canyons of the Colorado: By Two of Its Earliest Explorers, James White and W. W. Hawkins, with Introduction and Notes, The authors, 1920
  558. ^ A River No More: The Colorado River and the West, Philip L. Fradkin
  559. ^ SS Newbern
  560. ^ a b Richard E. Lingenfelter, Steamboats on the Colorado River, 1852-1916, University of Arizona Press, Tucson, 1978 Cite error: The named reference "Lingenfelter" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
  561. ^ Chronicling America: Historic Newspapers from Hawaii and the U.S.: Trans-Pacific Travel
  562. ^ The Sea Chest, Article IDAHO, SS IDAHO 1866 - 1889, THOMPSON, WILBUR B., no.13, MAR 1980.
  563. ^ John Alexander Mellon
  564. ^ [Phillip I. Earl, Nevada Then and Now, Daniel Bonelli, Colorado River Pioneer, Pahrump Valley Gazette - Apr 10, 1997
  565. ^ Daniel Bonelli
  566. ^ Johann Daniel Bonelli Born in Switzerland on Feb 1836. Johann Daniel married Ann Haigh and had a child, Alice Maud Bonelli 1874-1906. He passed away on 12 Jun 1900.
  567. ^ Bulletin, Issue 124, pp.253-255
  568. ^ Helen S. Carlson, Nevada Place Names: A Geographical Dictionary pp.14,15,56,59,79,91,121,172,173,174,191 Daniel Bonelli
  569. ^ Ojo el Lucero from mapcarta.com accessed December 12, 2019
  570. ^ Coues, The Expeditions of Zebulon Montgomery Pike, Volume II
  571. ^ Bishop Tamaron’s Visitation to New Mexico, 1760
  572. ^ George D. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos, Sunstone Press, Santa Fe, Dec 1, 2011
  573. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Rincon Valley
  574. ^ George D. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos, Sunstone Press, Santa Fe, Dec 1, 2011
  575. ^ George D. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos, Sunstone Press, Santa Fe, Dec 1, 2011
  576. ^ George D. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos, Sunstone Press, Santa Fe, Dec 1, 2011
  577. ^ George D. Torok, From the Pass to the Pueblos, Sunstone Press, Santa Fe, Dec 1, 2011
  578. ^ Greg, Josiah, Commerce of the Prairies, or the Journal of a Santa Fe Trader, Henry G. Langley, New York, 1840
  579. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: San Pasqual (historical)
  580. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hachita Valley
  581. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bull Creek
  582. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Double Adobe Creek
  583. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q Report from the Secretary of War, Communicating a Copy of the Official Journal of Lieutenant Colonel Philip St. George Cooke, PUBLIC DOCUMENTS PRINTED BY ORDER OF THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES, DURING A SPECIAL SESSION BEGUN AND HELD AT THE CITY OF WASHINGTON, MARCH 5, 1849, Congressional Edition, Volume 547, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, 1849. pp.1-85
  584. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bercham Draw
  585. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cloverdale Spring
  586. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Gold Gulch
  587. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Christiansen Ranch
  588. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Indian Creek
  589. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Johnson Creek
  590. ^ Mormon Waybill - "... good feed and water."
  591. ^ Mormon Waybill - "Coal Creek, bad to cross, wood plenty food short, Good camp". The road crossed Coal Creek midway across the valley between Johnson Springs and Cedar Springs. Marshy and wooded it was difficult to cross with wagons at that point. When Cedar City was established on the upper reach of Coal Creek in 1851, the road was diverted to the easy crossing there and then proceeded across the valley to Iron springs, a longer route but less arduous.
  592. ^ Mormon Waybill - "Good grass one mile up the canyon." Pynte Creek was originally called Pyute Creek for the natives that lived along it. The name changed in the Mormon Waybill, and may be the result of a dyslexic typesetter turning the "u" upside down. Subsequently the name was copied and popularized by Marcy's Prairie Traveler.
  593. ^ Mormon Waybill - "Road is rough; good camp."
  594. ^ Mormon Waybill - "No grass. Water and grass can be found four miles west by following the old Spanish trail to a ravine, and thence to the left in the ravine one mile."
  595. ^ Mormon Waybill - "The spring is on the left of the road, and flows into Saleratus Creek. Animals must not be allowed to drink the Saleratus water."
  596. ^ Mormon Waybill - "Poor grass and no fresh water."
  597. ^ a b c d A History of land use in the California Desert Conservation Area, p.38
  598. ^ Of Mines and Mules: A History of Daggett, By Cindy Baker, PAR Environmental Services, Inc. December 2015 p.6
  599. ^ Desert fever : an overview of mining in the California Desert Conservation Area
  600. ^ a b c d Norris, Frank and Richard L. Carrico, History of land use in the California Desert conservation area. Bureau of Land Management, Desert Planning Staff, Riverside, CA. 1978
  601. ^ ROUTE 40 over DEAN WASH
  602. ^ Stoddard Wells Road (HM1OYM)
  603. ^ A.L. Bancroft & Co.: Bancroft's Map of California, Nevada, Utah & Arizona . . . 1876
  604. ^ Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 10, Number 1409, 1 October 1855, p.2,col.1
  605. ^ NO. 388 FIRST TULE RIVER INDIAN RESERVATION - A reservation was originally established in 1857, and Indians from a widespread area were brought here. The natives of the vicinity, the Koyeti tribe towards the west and the Yandanchi tribe toward the east, were branches of the Yokuts Indians that occupied the San Joaquin Valley. The Tule River Indian Reservation was moved to its present location, 10 miles to the southeast in 1873. Location: Alta Vista School, 2293 E Crabtree Ave, Porterville
  606. ^ Compiled laws of the State of California: containing all the acts of the Legislature of a public and general nature, now in force, passed at the sessions of 1850-51-52-53, Benicia, S. Garfeilde, 1853. pp. 822-825 An Act for the Government and Protection of Indians
  607. ^ a b Five Views, State of California--the Resources Agency, Department of Parks and Recreation, Office of Historic Preservation, 1988, pp.1-56, Dwight Dutschke, A History of American Indians in California, Santa Barbara Indian Center, 1982
  608. ^ Public Acts of the 32nd Congress, Indian Appropriation Bill. March 3, 1853
  609. ^ [http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21531 NO. 357 INDIAN MILITARY POST, NOMI LACKEE INDIAN RESERVATION - An Indian military post from 1854 to 1866, the Nomi Lackee Indian Reservation controlled 300 to 2,500 militant Indians. U.S. Survey of 1858 showed the reservation to cover 25,139.71 acres. The Indians moved to Round Valley in 1866. Location: On Osborn Rd, 3.9 mi N of Flournoy]
  610. ^ report1856
  611. ^ sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj34Ljm7Z_PAhUB_4MKHV6nBJwQ6AEIRjAJ#v=onepage&q=%22Fresno%20Indian%20Farm%22&f=false 1857 report
  612. ^ The Oxford Handbook of American Indian History By Frederick E. Hoxie
  613. ^ When the Great Spirit Died: The Destruction of the California Indians, 1850-1860 By William B. Secrest
  614. ^ The Conflict Between the California Indian and White Civilization By Sherburne Friend Cook
  615. ^ The Destruction of California Indians: A Collection of Documents from the ...edited by Robert Fleming Heizer
  616. ^ Rabbit Springs
  617. ^ Chimney Rock - Lucerne Valley, CA - California Historical Marker
  618. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Rabbit Spring
  619. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Chimney Rock
  620. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Rabbit Lake
  621. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Fifteenmile Valley
  622. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Granite Mountains
  623. ^ [http://www.empirenet.com/rdthompson/lane9.html Pioneer of the Mojave: The Life and Times of Aaron G. Lane]
  624. ^ McGrath, Gunfighters,... p.50
  625. ^ McGrath, Gunfighters,... p.50
  626. ^ Chalfant, The Story of Inyo, p.188
  627. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 47, 31 March 1860, p.1, col.3-4, MORE MURDERS ON THE MOJAVE!!!
  628. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 47, 31 March 1860, p.2, col.2, The Indian Murders.
  629. ^ Los Angeles Star, Number 47, 31 March 1860, p.2, col.4, From San Bernardino.
  630. ^ The Calloway Affair of 1880: Chemehuevi Adaptation and Chemehuevi-Mohave Relations
  631. ^ Clifford E. Trafzer, A Chemehuevi Song: The Resilience of a Southern Paiute Tribepp.117-121
  632. ^ United States. Office of Indian Affairs, Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, for the Year of 1880, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, 1880 p.2
  633. ^ William Redwood Price
  634. ^ Rash's Surname Index; Notes for William Redwood PRICE
  635. ^ Record Of Court-Martial Held Clue To Long-Lost Battle Site By David Bowser
  636. ^ RED RIVER WAR
  637. ^ BUFFALO WALLOW FIGHT
  638. ^ Autograph card WR Price
  639. ^ photo
  640. ^ General Phillip Sheridan's Southern Plains Campaign of 1874 - 1875 by Garland R. Lively
  641. ^ William Redwood Price
  642. ^ William Redwood Price
  643. ^ Battle of Three Forks and the Owyhee Cannon, Reference Series No. 239, Idaho State Historical Society
  644. ^ Cite error: The named reference Michno was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  645. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Three Forks
  646. ^ USGS Map Name: Corona North, CA, Hole benchmark, 1261 feet, 33°55′51″N 117°30′20″W / 33.93083°N 117.50556°W / 33.93083; -117.50556
  647. ^ USGS Map Name: Corona North, CA, Linn benchmark, 1495 feet, 33°54′38″N 117°30′52″W / 33.91056°N 117.51444°W / 33.91056; -117.51444
  648. ^ Rattlesnake Norco California, United States, from peakbagger.com accessed November 21, 2013, Rattlesnake Peak, 1421 feet, 33°55′05″N 117°31′50″W / 33.91806°N 117.53056°W / 33.91806; -117.53056
  649. ^ USGS Map Name: Corona North, CA, La Sierra Summit 1505 feet, 33°56′37″N 117°30′40″W / 33.94361°N 117.51111°W / 33.94361; -117.51111
  650. ^ USGS Map Name: Corona North, CA, Grape benchmark, 1084 feet, 33°53′34″N 117°32′01″W / 33.89278°N 117.53361°W / 33.89278; -117.53361
  651. ^ USGS Map Name: Riverside West, CA, Lake Evans, 778 feet, 33°59′46″N 117°22′46″W / 33.99611°N 117.37944°W / 33.99611; -117.37944
  652. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Spring Brook
  653. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Tequesquito Arroyo
  654. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Box Springs Canyon
  655. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Sycamore Canyon
  656. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Pachappa Hill
  657. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Alessandro 1003-003 Dam
  658. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Quarry Hill
  659. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Prenda 1003-004 Dam
  660. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Woodcrest Dam
  661. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mockingbird Canyon
  662. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Eagle Valley
  663. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Three Sisters
  664. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cajalco Canyon
  665. ^ Cajalco Tin Mine was followed to a depth of 690 feet without bottoming, and was explored with over 5,800 feet of drifts and crosscuts on seven levels, producing a total of 113 tons of tin by 1945. T.A. Freeman, THE CAJALCO DIGS: Exploring an Early California Mining Camp, This article was originally a CRM survey report that was popularized and published in True West magazine, Vol. 40, No.2, February 1993. © 2014 by the author.
  666. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cajalco Tin Mine
  667. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Harford Spring, USGS Map: Steele Peak, CA, spring: 33°48′47″N 117°21′32″W / 33.81306°N 117.35889°W / 33.81306; -117.35889, elevation: 1837 feet; mouth: 33°50′03″N 117°21′42″W / 33.83417°N 117.36167°W / 33.83417; -117.36167, elevation: 1475 feet; head: 33°47′27″N 117°19′35″W / 33.79083°N 117.32639°W / 33.79083; -117.32639, elevation: 2215 feet
  668. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mead Valley mouth: 33°50′13″N 117°18′55″W / 33.83694°N 117.31528°W / 33.83694; -117.31528 elevation: 1601, head: 33°52′19″N 117°17′52″W / 33.87194°N 117.29778°W / 33.87194; -117.29778, elevation: 1695 feet
  669. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Olsen Canyon
  670. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Black Rocks
  671. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Monument Peak
  672. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Gavilan Peak
  673. ^ USGS Map: Lake Mathews, CA, Temescal Mountain Summit 2729, Elevation: 2,729 feet, 33°46′24″N 117°22′37″W / 33.77333°N 117.37694°W / 33.77333; -117.37694
  674. ^ USGS Map: Steele Peak, CA, Temescal Mountain Summit 2,615, Elevation: 2,6125 feet, 33°46′07″N 117°20′35″W / 33.76861°N 117.34306°W / 33.76861; -117.34306
  675. ^ USGS Map: Steele Peak, CA, Temescal Mountain Summit 2625, Elevation: 2,625 feet, 33°45′44″N 117°19′55″W / 33.76222°N 117.33194°W / 33.76222; -117.33194
  676. ^ USGS Map: Alberhill, CA, Ceramic Factory Canyon, Elevation: 1200 feet, Mouth33°43′48″N 117°24′08″W / 33.73000°N 117.40222°W / 33.73000; -117.40222, head 33°46′10″N 117°22′39″W / 33.76944°N 117.37750°W / 33.76944; -117.37750
  677. ^ USGS Map: Steele Peak, CA, Temescal Mountain Summit 2557, Elevation: 2,557 feet, 33°47′53″N 117°19′23″W / 33.79806°N 117.32306°W / 33.79806; -117.32306
  678. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Santa Rosa Mine
  679. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Steele Peak, Elevation: 2520 feet
  680. ^ USGS Map: Alberhill, CA, Gavilan Wash (mouth), Elevation: approx. 1230 feet, 33°43′31″N 117°22′27″W / 33.72528°N 117.37417°W / 33.72528; -117.37417
  681. ^ INTERSTATE 15 SB over GAVILAN WASH from uglybridges.com accessed June 2, 2015
  682. ^ USGS Map: Lake Elsinore, CA, Alberhill Summit, Elevation: 1741 feet, 33°42′51″N 117°22′16″W / 33.71417°N 117.37111°W / 33.71417; -117.37111
  683. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Warm Springs Valley
  684. ^ USGS Map: Lake Elsinore, CA, Stovepipe Canyon, head 33°44′30″N 117°20′38″W / 33.74167°N 117.34389°W / 33.74167; -117.34389, mouth 33°42′29″N 117°20′35″W / 33.70806°N 117.34306°W / 33.70806; -117.34306
  685. ^ USGS Map: Lake Elsinore, CA, Rosetta Canyon 33°41′55″N 117°19′28″W / 33.69861°N 117.32444°W / 33.69861; -117.32444
  686. ^ USGS Map: Lake Elsinore, CA, Wasson Canyon 33°40′51″N 117°19′54″W / 33.68083°N 117.33167°W / 33.68083; -117.33167
  687. ^ Gripp Hill, California; from peakbagger.com accessed November 18, 2013, 2279 feet 33°43′0″N 117°14′0″W / 33.71667°N 117.23333°W / 33.71667; -117.23333
  688. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Cottonwood Canyon
  689. ^ Guadalupe Hill, California; from peakbagger.com accessed February 25, 2015, 2267 feet 33°39′09″N 117°15′56″W / 33.65250°N 117.26556°W / 33.65250; -117.26556
  690. ^ Wildomar Peak; from peakbagger.com accessed September 24, 2014, 2432 feet, 741 meters 33°38′18″N 117°15′2″W / 33.63833°N 117.25056°W / 33.63833; -117.25056
  691. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bundy Canyon
  692. ^ USGS Map: Murrieta, CA, Iodine Spring Summit, Elevation: 2191 feet, 33°37′06″N 117°14′02″W / 33.61833°N 117.23389°W / 33.61833; -117.23389
  693. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Iodine Spring
  694. ^ Adelaide Peak, California; from peakbagger.com accessed November 18, 2013, 2279 feet, 33°37′23″N 117°12′7″W / 33.62306°N 117.20194°W / 33.62306; -117.20194
  695. ^ Hogbacks, California; from peakbagger.com accessed September 11, 2014, Elevation: 1781 feet, 543 meters, 33°35′9″N 117°9′14″W / 33.58583°N 117.15389°W / 33.58583; -117.15389
  696. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hogbacks
  697. ^ Hubert Howe Bancroft, History of the Pacific States of North America, Vol. XIV, California Vol.II, 1801-1824, A.L. Bancroft & Co., San Francisco, 1885
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