California

Biography of Hon. Wilder W. Parker

Hon. Wilder W. Parker, born in Orange, Vermont, in 1824, significantly impacted the business and social fabric of Astoria, Oregon. A pioneer with a strong intellect, he engaged in various ventures, from engineering to mining, and owned a successful restaurant before a devastating fire. As a city council member, he helped manage San Francisco’s debts. Parker promoted temperance, free public schools, and supported numerous community initiatives. He served as Astoria’s mayor and remains influential in local real estate and insurance, alongside his wife, Inez, known for her philanthropic efforts.

Biography of Elisha J. Parker

Elisha J. Parker, born in 1845 in Missouri, exemplified the pioneer spirit through his resilience and industriousness. After a challenging journey across the plains in 1852, he settled in Sonoma County and later moved to Union County in 1863. Parker engaged in various ventures, including freighting to Idaho mining camps and agriculture. He became a prominent stockman and farmer, owning a substantial estate. Married in 1871, he fathered several children and earned respect for his character, integrity, and contributions to the community.

Online California Vital Records

This page links to a variety of sources, both primary and secondary where you may obtain vital records facts about your Californian ancestors.

Biographical Sketch of Henry Wade

Henry Wade, originally from Culpepper County, Virginia, married Lucy Turner and had several children before marrying Mary D. Waller in 1810. The couple settled in Lincoln County, Missouri, in 1835, where they raised a large family including William, Henry, John, and Martha, among others. Several of their children married and had families of their own, with various adventures and tragedies marking their lives. Notably, Polly Wade preserved her mother’s wedding costume, a cherished heirloom from 1810, amidst their familial history.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph England

Joseph England, originally from Virginia, married Mary Reed and established his family in Montgomery County, Missouri, in 1833. Together, they had eight children: David, William, Joseph Jr., James, John, Riley, Elizabeth, and Nancy. James later married Elizabeth Russel, but she passed away in 1874. John moved to California and remained unmarried, while the other siblings married and dispersed across various states, contributing to the family’s legacy in different regions.

Biographical Sketch of George Godfrey

George Godfrey resided in Ritford, England, and with his wife Mary Ostick, settled in several locations in Pennsylvania and Missouri during the early 19th century. His lineage includes several sons, notably Thomas, who moved to Canada, and John, who ventured to California. Godfrey’s contributions extended to his active role within the Methodist Church, reflecting a strong commitment to his faith. His family also spread across the United States, with branches in Kentucky and Missouri, showcasing a diverse and widespread legacy.

Biographical Sketch of Solomon Fisher

Solomon Fisher, originally from Virginia, wed Mary A. Petty and fathered ten children: Adam, George, William, John, Solomon Jr., Eunice, Maxmillian, Parthena, Selemer, and Emmarilla. The family journeyed to Louisiana, Missouri, via keel-boat. Adam, who married Dulcinea Powers and settled in Pike County in 1824, had four children. George Fisher passed away in California, while Solomon served in the United States Army. Notably, Adam Fisher contributed to the establishment of Frankford in Pike County.

Biographies of Southern California

The biographies featured in “An Illustrated History of Southern California,” published by the Lewis Publishing Company in 1890, highlight prominent figures from the counties of San Bernardino, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Orange. This extensive collection currently focuses on San Bernardino County, with plans to expand to other regions. It provides insights into the lives and contributions of numerous individuals, including professionals, politicians, and community leaders, thus offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Southern California’s historical narrative.

Biographical Sketch of Hon. F. C. Sels

Hon. F. C. Sels, born in 1837 in Germany, emigrated to the U.S. in 1854 and settled in Canyon City, Oregon. He initially mined before opening a general merchandise store in 1863. After a fire in 1870 destroyed his brewery, he rebuilt it with fireproof structures. Sels played a significant role in local politics as a justice of the peace, postmaster, County Treasurer, and State Senator, known for his influence within the Republican party. He remains a respected figure in Grant County.

Biographical Sketch of Hon. George Hazeltine

Hon. George Hazeltine, born in New York in 1838, moved to California at 17 and later settled in Grant County in 1862, engaging in mining. He co-founded the John Day flouring mills in 1864 and transitioned to photography afterward. A Democratic politician, he served as County Judge twice and was elected County Treasurer in 1890. Hazeltine has been active in fraternal organizations and has a family with four children, including notable connections to local judges and mayors.

Biographical Sketch of Minot Austin

Minot Austin, born in 1853 in Sacramento, California, moved to the Willamette Valley as a child before settling in Eastern Oregon’s John Day Valley. In 1878, he established his home in what is now Austin, where he focused on farming, stock raising, and operating the Sumpter-Canyon City Stage Line. He also owns a store to cater to local needs. In 1888, he married Linda Edwards, who is noted for her esteemed catering service.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph Cushman

Joseph Cushman, born March 13, 1807, in Massachusetts, was a notable figure in Washington’s early history. He served as the first probate judge of Thurston County and was influential in Olympia’s establishment. After moving from South America to California, he managed a trading business before becoming an attorney in 1857. Cushman participated in the Indian War and was pivotal in local governance, holding several leadership roles, including receiver of public moneys under President Lincoln. He passed away on February 29, 1872.

Biography of Charles Kingsley

Charles Kingsley

Charles Kingsley, a significant figure in 19th-century England, served as a parish priest in Eversley for over thirty years, marrying his Norse heritage with modern culture and Christian virtues. Born into a clergyman’s family, he embraced nature and education, leading community engagement through improved parish services. Kingsley was deeply interested in social reform, advocating for sanitation and the support of the working class. His literary contributions, though varied in style, were influential, embodying themes of morality and sympathy, ultimately establishing him as a revered national figure.

Biography of William T. Carden

Barbara Hildebrand, born in Tennessee in 1828, was first married to Robert Woodard and later to William Longknife, both Cherokees. In 1850, they joined a group of California argonauts, traveling six months to their destination. During this journey, their first child, Mary Jane, was born. Barbara had two daughters, including Anna Diane, who graduated from Sacred Heart Convent. She later married John Joseph Carden, with whom she had four children, including William Thomas Carden, an attorney, and John Joseph, a medical officer.