Alameda County Archives - 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 Newel K. Foster of Oakland

Dr. Newel K. Foster, born in Canterbury, New Hampshire, in 1849, was a prominent physician and legislator. The son of David M. and Sarah (Robertson) Foster, he hailed from a family with deep roots in New England history, including military service in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Foster earned a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University in 1873 and a Doctor of Medicine from Long Island College Hospital in 1878. He practiced in New York and Wyoming before settling in Oakland, California. Foster served as a state legislator and secretary of the state board of health, significantly contributing to public health and politics.

Biography of James L. Flanagan of San Francisco

James L. Flanagan, born December 24, 1865, in Sunol, Alameda County, California, was the manager of the State House Hotel in Sacramento. Known for his integrity and engaging personality, Flanagan significantly improved and expanded the hotel, making it a hub for politicians during conventions and legislative sessions. He began his career in San Francisco, later working at the Western Hotel before managing the State House Hotel in 1902. Flanagan was also involved in mining and banking, serving as the president of the Roseville Banking Company. He married Mamie Baker in 1896, and they were active in various fraternal organizations.

Biography of James William Ives of Los Banos

1925 History of Merced County - title page

We may respect the reticence of a modest man with regard to his good deeds, but it is right for the public to know something of them as it is a great stimulus to others to emulate his example. When any one begins at the bottom and builds up a successful business, triumphing over adverse conditions and becomes a public benefactor, it is of general interest and benefit to know how it was accomplished. James William Ives was born on June 3, 1874, in Alameda County, California, a son of James H. and Emma J. (Adamson) Ives. Up to twelve … Read more

Biography of Alfred Pressly Black

On the roll of capable attorneys at the San Francisco bar appears the name of Alfred Pressly Black, and the extent and importance of his clientage is an indication of the confidence reposed in his professional skills and ability. He was born in Butler county, Pennsylvania, November 26, 1856, and is a son of James Black, who was likewise a native of the keystone state, born in 1808. The family is of Scotch-Irish descent and was established in America about the middle of the eighteenth century, the grandfather having located in Pennsylvania in 1796. James Black was a farmer by … Read more

Biography of Samuel J. Miller of Carmel California

History of Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, California Volume 2 Title Page

What extraordinary progress has been made in both the designing and building of superior houses in Monterey county is pleasantly evidenced in the broad, progressive and very enterprising operations of Samuel J. Miller, of Twelfth street, Carmel. He was born in the state of Washington, February 6, 1888, and learned the trade of a carpenter in San Francisco, where he was afterward for seven years foreman of construction for L. H. Sly, one of the leading contractors of the Bay City. He added to his experience rapidly, and during that time superintended the construction of ten large apartment houses in … Read more

Newspapers in Alameda County California

Alameda County Newspapers compiled from various sources. Shows dates available on microfilm at city, county, and university libraries in Alameda County. The dates are complete ranges for the newspapers known to be available, but not particularly for any single microfilm or library.