Frank C. Pollard, the under sheriff of Siskiyou County, was influential in Yreka’s business and governance for over fifteen years. Born on April 2, 1864, in Magalia, California, he is the son of pioneer J. D. Pollard. Pollard served in various roles, including deputy county clerk and city clerk, before becoming under sheriff in 1903. He was an active Republican and member of the Masons and Odd Fellows, married to Anna Fried, with one son, Bernard.
Hon. George C. Perkins, a prominent U.S. senator from California, began his life in 1839 in Kennebunkport, Maine. After early struggles, he found success in various industries, notably with the firm Goodall, Perkins and Company, enhancing California’s transportation sector. A successful businessman and influential Republican politician, he served two terms in the California State Senate, was elected governor in 1879, and appointed to the U.S. Senate in 1893. Beyond politics, Perkins contributed to numerous charitable organizations and Masonic activities, and had a large family with his wife, Ruth.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A captain of industry who well merits the laurels bestowed upon him for his contribution to the expansion of local trade, is Alexander M. Allan, president of the Monterey Canning Company, Point Lobos, Monterey. He was born at Scranton, Pennsylvania, the son of Charles M. and Margaret Allan, the former a miner who had the misfortune to be killed at Nevada City, California. He was a hard-working, honest man, who gave his life, as have so many, in the pursuit of his occupation. Mrs. Allan died in 1924, and will long be pleasantly remembered by many who knew her and … Read more
Judge John K. Alexander, born in 1839 in Mississippi and later brought to California, exemplified the ideal jurist, valuing impartiality, integrity, and a serious commitment to law. After studying law, he began his practice in 1862 and formed significant partnerships, including with his mentor, Geo. R. Moore. Elected District Attorney, he later became Superior Judge in 1879 at the request of a diverse group of citizens. Renowned for few reversals of his judgments, his legal writings were praised for clarity. Married in 1865, he had two sons and stayed engaged in community and Masonic activities, receiving an LL.D. in 1888.