California

Biographical Sketch of Jurgen Frederick Wienke

Jurgen Frederick Wienke, born in Germany on July 15, 1844, emigrated to California in 1869 at age twenty-five. An engineer by trade, he initially worked on ferryboats in Germany. In 1881, he purchased a farm at Moss Beach and opened a hotel, anticipating a nearby railroad. Though the railroad took years to develop, the value of his land increased, allowing for a comfortable retirement. Wienke married in San Francisco the same year, and they had one child, Lizzie Wienke Nash. He also served as a school trustee for 24 years.

Biographical Sketch of Asa Thomas Weeks

Asa Thomas Weeks, born on March 1, 1859, in La Honda, attended local schools before venturing into mining in Idaho in 1881, where he built a notable residence. His journey continued in Alaska, where he also served as a United States Commissioner for three years. After a five-year stint in the lumber industry in Pescadero, he returned to mining in Mexico. Weeks eventually married Elma Chandler and transitioned to successful farming and stock raising in Pescadero.

Biographical Sketch of Martin H. Walsh

Martin H. Walsh, a respected peace officer and constable of the third township, has served San Mateo County for thirty-six years, establishing his home in Menlo Park. Active in local politics, he was a founding school trustee and a deputy coroner, while completing two terms as constable. Known for maintaining law and order in the affluent Menlo and Atherton areas, Walsh has a reputation for effective policing and community involvement. Born in Iowa in 1858, he married in Menlo Park and worked as a cement worker.

Biographical Sketch of Horace H. Walling

Horace H. Walling, born on December 5, 1869, in Kirkville, Iowa, moved to California in 1882. He began his career in journalism with the Woodland Mail and later founded a newspaper in Placerville. In 1901, he transitioned to the printing industry, becoming Vice-President and Manager of the Keystone Type Foundary in San Francisco. Walling married Elisa Stevenson in 1891, and they have two children. Actively involved in community and fraternal organizations, the Walling family resides in San Mateo.

Biography of Edward Plummer Paige

Edward Plummer Paige, born in Bradford, N.H., in 1857, was a notable figure in Dunbarton. The son of Bayard P. and Louisa S. Paige, he began his career as a clerk in his brother’s store before venturing into stove-making. His business acumen led him to Boston, working with Leach & Gilmore, which operated steamboats until competition from Vanderbilt forced their exit. Later, he thrived in Montreal manufacturing farming implements before returning to Dunbarton, where he lived until his death at eighty-four, leaving behind six children.

Biographical Sketch of George H. Wallace

George H. Wallace, born in Chicago on November 22, 1873, relocated to South San Francisco eighteen years ago. Initially working for a butcher supply firm, he recognized the city’s potential early on and sold his Chicago interests to invest in South San Francisco. As a hotel owner and city trustee, Wallace actively participates in civic affairs, demonstrating his commitment to the community. He is involved with the San Mateo County Development Association and the local Chamber of Commerce, alongside numerous fraternal organizations.

Biography of W. F. Turnbull

W. F. Turnbull, born in 1847 in Alva, Scotland, is a significant figure in San Mateo County’s history, currently serving as Superintendent of the San Mateo Water Company. Initially trained in the tweed manufacturing industry, he honed his gardening skills at Tulliallan Castle before immigrating to America in 1870. Turnbull has also made notable contributions to the lumber business and actively participated in local public life, including serving on the Board of School Trustees, while maintaining a distance from political activities.

Biographical Sketch of H. C. Tuchsen

H. C. Tuchsen, born in Germany on February 11, 1864, immigrated to the United States at a young age, eventually settling in California. With over twenty years in San Mateo County, he became a notable real estate operator, improving the county by attracting settlers and fostering development. His leadership roles, including President of the Redwood City Board of Trade and City Trustee, highlight his commitment to the community. Married in 1897, he has two children and is highly regarded for his expertise in real estate appraisal.

Biographical Sketch of Frank S. Towne

Frank K. Towne, born January 11, 1875, in Santa Clara County, began his banking career as a clerk at the First National Bank in Redwood City on September 1, 1891. Over the years, he advanced to assistant cashier and cashier of the San Mateo County Savings Bank. A prominent civic leader, Towne has served as City Treasurer for fourteen years and actively supported the county highway bond issue. He has three sons and is affiliated with several local organizations, including the Elks, Native Sons, and Masons.

Biographical Sketch of William H. Toepke

William H. Toepke, an architect for eighteen years, has notably contributed to the built environment of San Francisco and San Mateo County. His projects include the San Mateo Union High School, the central fire station, and the Flatiron Building. Born in San Francisco on July 12, 1871, he has lived there most of his life, receiving his education locally. Active in fraternal organizations, Toepke is a member of the San Mateo Elks Club and has served as a Trustee for the City of San Mateo.

Biographical Sketch of Stephen Edward Throwell

Stephen Edward Throwell, a lifelong resident of San Mateo County, has dedicated 45 years to his community, choosing to remain in his hometown despite opportunities elsewhere. An influential figure in Lomita Park, he envisioned its potential for middle-class living amidst expansive ranches. Active in civic affairs, he has served on multiple boards, including the Board of Health and as a sanitary inspector, where he implemented an exemplary inspection system. Additionally, he manages the Lomita Park Water Works and operates a real estate and insurance business.

Biographical Sketch of Dr. Clarence Victor Thompson

Born on October 27, 1881, in Eureka, California, Dr. Clarence Victor Thompson pursued his education in local schools and a business college before turning to medicine. He graduated from Cooper Medical College and served as a house physician in San Francisco’s City and County Hospital. After practicing in Alaska, he settled in Pescadero, achieving significant success. Recently, he ventured into politics, winning election as a district supervisor. Dr. Thompson is also affiliated with the Masonic and Elk Lodges.

Biographical Sketch of James Vincent Swift

James Vincent Swift, born in January 1862 in West Union, has been a prominent figure in San Mateo County as postmaster of Redwood City and proprietor of the Redwood City Democrat. After starting his career in journalism at 17, he became a full owner of the Democrat in 1892, enhancing its progressive stance. Swift has served multiple terms in local government, advocating for civic improvement while remaining dedicated to the Democratic Party. He is married with a son, Arthur, and a daughter, Eileen.

Biographical Sketch of Franklin Swart

Franklin Swart, born June 25, 1878, in New Paris, Indiana, is a highly regarded district attorney of San Mateo County, currently serving his second term. A self-made man, he worked his way through Stanford University, earning degrees in A.B. and Juris Doctor. Elected in 1910, Swart has successfully managed numerous civil cases, improved local conditions, and contributed significantly to legal matters regarding school bonds and road funding. Married in 1914, he is also active in community organizations, including the Odd Fellows and Masons.

Biographical Sketch of Richard Charles Stickle

Richard Charles Stickle, born in Illinois on August 23, 1878, moved to California twelve years ago, first settling in Sonoma County before relocating to San Mateo County. Starting his career in San Bruno with limited resources, Stickle established himself as a successful carpenter and contractor. Over the past year alone, he has built fourteen houses, surpassing his competitors. Now comfortably well-off, he owns significant property in San Bruno and resides in a beautiful home with his two children, Cecil and Logar.

Biographical Sketch of Jesse O. Snyder

Jesse O. Snyder has been a prominent figure in South San Francisco for over twenty years, serving as the General Superintendent of the Western Meat Company, the largest packing plant on the Pacific coast. Originally from Pennsylvania, he developed his expertise in the packing industry in Chicago before relocating to California. An active community member, Mr. Snyder contributes to local development through his involvement with the Chamber of Commerce and the Bank of South San Francisco. He was born in February 1876 and is a family man with Masonic and Elks affiliations.

Biography of Dr. F. Holmes Smith

Dr. F. Holmes Smith, born on October 29, 1879, in Lake City, Minnesota, has experienced a varied career. He served as the company doctor for the North American Commercial Company in Alaska before returning to practice medicine in San Bruno in 1909. Educated at Stanford University and Cooper Medical College, he gained practical experience at the French Hospital. After marrying in 1911, he established a successful practice and became San Bruno’s health officer. Active socially, he is affiliated with the B.P.O.E. and the Masonic Lodge, and he has property and business interests in the area.

Biographical Sketch of Frank P. Simmen

Frank P. Simmen, who served as mayor of San Mateo, was noted for his progressive administration focused on business efficiency rather than political popularity. His accomplishments include improving city finances, completing a new city hall, and enhancing street infrastructure. A successful businessman, Simmen also manages Rudgear Merle Company, a leading ornamental ironworks firm. He is active in local fraternal organizations, having held significant leadership roles, including Exalted Ruler of the San Mateo lodge of Elks. Born in Chicago in 1870, he resides with his family in San Mateo.

Biographical Sketch of Miss. Mercedes Silvia

Miss Mercedes Silvia, born on July 23, 1887, in San Bruno, represents a prominent family involved in the early development of San Mateo County. Despite her wealth, she has remained in her birthplace, reflecting her attachment to the area. She inherited valuable land from her late father, Custodio Silvia, and is actively engaged in church activities, particularly advancing the Catholic faith in San Bruno. The Silvia family’s significant contribution includes donating land for the Mission San Bruno, a testament to their generosity and community spirit.

Biographical Sketch of John J. Shields

John J. Shields, elected auditor of San Mateo County by a significant majority, has transformed the office with modern bookkeeping systems, earning praise from accounting experts. Previously, he served as under sheriff and was known for his efficiency. A prominent figure in local politics, Shields is active in community organizations and has property interests in Redwood City and San Francisco. Born in Colfax in 1866, he has spent fifteen years in San Mateo County and is a member of several fraternal organizations.