History of New California Archives - Page 2 of 15

Biography of Louis E. Niestrath of Stockton

Louis E. Niestrath, a prominent figure in San Joaquin County’s agriculture, passed away on March 31, 1899. Born on November 29, 1859, in St. Louis, Missouri, to German immigrants, he moved to Illinois before settling in California. Niestrath excelled as the superintendent of the Williams estate, overseeing thousands of acres and enhancing its agricultural productivity. Though a committed Democrat, he never pursued political office, instead advocating for community improvements. He was also active in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in Stockton, reflecting his engagement in both civic and social matters.

Biography of William C. Neumiller of Stockton

William C. Neumiller, born on March 8, 1868, in Stockton, California, was the county treasurer and tax collector of San Joaquin County. He comes from a German immigrant family that settled in California in the mid-19th century. After working as a clerk in a hardware store, he entered the hardware business and later served on the city council for six years. Elected as treasurer in 1902, he was affiliated with the Republican party and multiple civic organizations. He married Lillie P. Logan and had two children by 1902: Leonora and Irving.

Biography of Thomas Alvin Nelson of Stockton

Thomas Alvin Nelson, born in 1862 in Pennsylvania, became the postmaster of Stockton, California. Raised on a farm, he taught in San Joaquin County schools before starting a mercantile business in Lathrop. His popularity led to election to the California state legislature in 1894. Appointed postmaster in 1898, he served under Presidents McKinley and Roosevelt. Nelson married Mary A. Howell in 1888, and they had two daughters: Velma and Veda. An active Republican and community member, he held various party roles and was involved in several fraternal organizations.

Biography of Henry Martin Meacham of St. Helena

Henry Martin Meacham, born on January 1, 1846, in New York, served as Napa County’s assessor for twenty years. After a diverse career in retail, due to health challenges, he moved to St. Helena, California, where he planted vines and eventually entered local politics. Elected multiple times, his popularity reflected community trust. Married in 1869 to Mary E. Cullum, they had two children: Etta and Charles. An active member of the Masonic fraternity, Elks, and Eagles, Meacham was committed to various public welfare initiatives.

Biography of John Gilmore McMillan

John Gilmore McMillan, a notable figure in California’s history, impacted railroad construction and civil engineering in Santa Clara County. Born in Rhode Island in 1851, he moved to California at a young age. His professional journey included serving as Sutter County’s surveyor and working with the Central Pacific Railroad. After 1890, he served as Santa Clara County’s surveyor, earning respect for his integrity and innovative contributions, including a new bridge system and a comprehensive county map. McMillan was a family man and active in various fraternal organizations.

Biography of Donald McLeod of Stockton

Donald McLeod, a pioneer of San Joaquin County since 1863, greatly contributed to California’s agricultural development, residing on Roberts Island near the San Joaquin River. Born on Christmas Day 1841 in Nova Scotia, he engaged in seafaring before settling in California. He cultivated his 41-acre farm and actively participated in local governance as a school district trustee. Married to Sarah Burnett in 1876, they were well-regarded in their community.

Biography of William McLaughlin of Sacramento

William McLaughlin, a prominent Sacramento county supervisor, has served the public since 1880, significantly contributing to California’s progress. Born in Ireland in 1842, he immigrated to the U.S. in 1859 and eventually settled in Sacramento in 1865, where he pioneered the trucking business and engaged in various entrepreneurial ventures, including mining and insurance. Married to Mary Ferrell, they have four children. A dedicated Democrat, McLaughlin has held numerous political positions and actively influenced county affairs, earning recognition as a self-made man of notable prestige in his community.

Biography of Hon. Frank McGowan of San Francisco

Hon. Frank McGowan, born on September 4, 1860, in Steilacoom, Washington, is a prominent California legislator and law practitioner based in San Francisco. His father, Terrance McGowan, was a pioneering Irish immigrant and Civil War soldier. Frank’s education began in San Francisco’s public schools, followed by private instruction in law, leading to his admission to the bar in 1883. He became a respected political figure, serving in the California Assembly and Senate, where he championed various laws for public welfare. A dedicated family man and member of several fraternal organizations, McGowan’s career reflects his commitment to justice and community progress.

Biography of Hon. Mark. L. McDonald of Santa Rosa

Hon. Mark L. McDonald, a prominent Californian for over forty-five years, significantly impacted the state’s financial and industrial sectors. Born in Kentucky in 1833, he moved to California in 1859, where he became a successful stock broker and a member of the state board of horticulture. He contributed to Santa Rosa’s public welfare through various projects, including the city’s water works and street railroad. Married in 1864, he had five children, including M. L. McDonald Jr., who is also notable in local enterprise.

Biography of Archibald McDonald of San Jose

Archibald McDonald, originally from Ireland, moved to America as an infant and settled in Massachusetts. He arrived in California in 1852, where he became influential in various business ventures, particularly in the lumber and woolen industries. McDonald served as superintendent of the San Jose Woolen Mills Company and held directorial positions at the Agnew State Hospital and the Garden City Bank. He was instrumental in the company’s growth, producing flannel and blankets and employing many workers. Married with two children, McDonald was an active member of the community and remains a respected figure in California’s industrial sector.