California Genealogy, Author at California Genealogy

Biography of William Henry Langdon

Professor William Henry Langdon, born September 25, 1873, in Alameda County, California, served as the superintendent of San Francisco’s public schools. He introduced numerous progressive educational methods during his tenure, enhancing the practical value of schooling. Educated in Alameda and Contra Costa counties, he graduated from Haywards’ high school and San Jose Normal School. Langdon’s career included teaching positions in San Leandro and Fresno, and in 1902, he was elected superintendent of San Francisco’s schools. He abolished written examinations, reduced class sizes, and emphasized merit-based appointments. Active in various fraternal organizations, Langdon was also a respected lawyer and educator.

Biography of Edward Lande of San Francisco

Edward Lande, born July 21, 1859, in Independence, Oregon, moved to San Francisco at age two. Educated in local public schools, he graduated from the boys’ high school at sixteen. Pursuing law under Judge W. W. Morrow, Lande was admitted to the bar in 1880 and later co-founded the law firm Riordan & Lande in 1894. He gained recognition as an official reporter for notable trials and a legislative commission on hydraulic mining. A Republican, Lande was active in the Union League Club and a thirty-second degree Mason. His career was marked by legal acumen, dedication to justice, and extensive study, including a year in Europe.

Biography of John Lackmann of San Francisco

John Lackmann, born February 27, 1863, in Germany, served as the sheriff of San Francisco County with exemplary dedication. Immigrating to San Francisco in 1878, Lackmann initially worked as a grocery clerk before opening his own store in 1885. His political career began in 1896 when he was elected supervisor, a role he reprised in 1898. In 1899, he became sheriff, earning re-election through his integrity and effective service. Married to Elizabeth Schortemeier in 1891, with whom he had a daughter, Mary, Lackmann was also an active Mason and member of the A. O. F., admired for his commitment to honesty and public service.

A History of the New California

Birds Eye View of Sacramento from Dome of Capitol

A History of the New California delves into the multifaceted history of California, providing a wealth of information for genealogists and history enthusiasts alike. The book is organized into chapters that cover a broad spectrum of topics, from California’s contributions to civilization and its diverse climate to detailed accounts of early Californian history and the discovery of gold. Notable sections include insights into the habits and lives of native Californians, the role of vigilance committees, and the development of major institutions such as the public school system and universities. Additionally, the book offers a detailed alphabetical list of biographies, presenting the lives of individuals who played significant roles in California’s history. This resource is invaluable for genealogists seeking to trace lineage and understand the historical context of their ancestors’ lives in California.

Biography of George A. Knight of San Francisco

George A. Knight, born in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 1851, has been a significant figure in California’s legal and political spheres for over twenty-five years. His family moved to California in 1853, settling in Eureka, Humboldt County. Knight’s legal career began after studying under Judge J. E. Wyman, leading to his admission to the bar in 1872. He served as district attorney for Humboldt County for six years. Moving to San Francisco in 1880, Knight formed prominent law partnerships and held various public offices, including state insurance commissioner and judge advocate. A dedicated Republican, Knight has been a delegate to five national conventions. He married Frances H. Wyman in 1870, and they have two sons.

Biography of Frederick William Kiesel of Sacramento

Frederick William Kiesel, born February 11, 1874, in Corinne, Utah, is the general manager of the California Winery and cashier of the California State Bank of Sacramento. Son of Frederick J. and Julia Kiesel, who emigrated from Germany, Frederick was educated in Germany, at Greylock Institute in Massachusetts, and at Harvard College, graduating in 1896. He moved to Sacramento, founding the California Winery and later joining the California State Bank, where he became cashier. In 1901, he married Jane Birdsall of Sacramento. Kiesel is a member of the Masons and Elks, and an active Republican.

Biography of General Thomas E. Ketcham of Stockton

General Thomas E. Ketcham, born July 3, 1821, in New York City, was a prominent figure in San Joaquin County for over fifty years. A veteran of the Mexican War, he later served throughout the Civil War. Ketcham arrived in California in 1848, shortly after the discovery of gold, and transitioned from a military career to become a successful landowner and rancher in San Joaquin County. He married Esther Sedgwick in 1852, with whom he had three children. Ketcham was active in local organizations, including the G.A.R. and the Grange, and held various community leadership roles.

Biography of Thomas Kelley, M.D. of San Jose

For over thirty years, Dr. Thomas Kelley practiced medicine in Santa Clara County, establishing himself as a pioneer physician. Born in Logan County, Illinois, on September 18, 1836, he was the son of Alexander and Lucinda (Anderson) Kelley. A Civil War veteran, Dr. Kelley pursued medical studies at Rush Medical College, graduating in 1871. He began his practice in Santa Clara and moved to San Jose in 1876. A dedicated Republican, he served as postmaster of San Jose and was an active member of the G.A.R. Dr. Kelley was twice married, fathering four children. His second wife, Sarah, died in 1903.

Biography of Bernard Eugene Kell of San Jose

Bernard Eugene Kell, born May 3, 1876, in San Jose, served as coroner and public administrator of Santa Clara County. Son of Martin D. and Mary A. (Ward) Kell, Bernard followed in his father’s civic footsteps. Martin, originally from Canada, settled in Santa Clara County in 1846 and became a prominent local figure. Bernard, educated at St. Joseph College, succeeded his father as coroner in 1902. A Democrat active in local politics, Bernard was associated with the Native Sons of the Golden West, Fraternal Eagles, and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and was esteemed in his community.

Biography of George B. Katzenstein of Sacramento

George B. Katzenstein, born on November 28, 1848, in New Orleans, Louisiana, significantly contributed to California’s business and agricultural development. His family relocated to California in 1853, where his father ran a hotel in Marysville. Educated in Marysville, George later moved to Sacramento, working in insurance and fraternal organizations. He co-founded the Orange Vale Colonization Company, promoting fruit cultivation in northern California. Katzenstein also managed the Sacramento and northern California business for the Earl Fruit Company and became a key figure in the California Fruit Distributors. Married to Ida M. Richards in 1869, he was active in various fraternal organizations and the Republican Party.