James Bessant was born in England, November 5, 1817, and is a son of Isaac Bessant, a well-known pioneer of this valley. Our subject had to endure the hardships of the early days, but at this time he has for his labors and industry a pleasant home on Base Line, two and one half-miles northeast of San Bernardino.
He has recently built a neat residence and with his family is enjoying the comforts of life. He was married December 25, 1874, to Miss Elsie Cline, born at El Monte, Los Angeles County, in February 1856. She is a daughter of Henry Cline, a well-known pioneer of this county. This union was blessed with seven children, viz.: Sarah, Walter, Jodie, William, Rosa, Martha and Susan. Mr. Bessant is an active and enthusiastic worker in the interests of the Democratic Party.
