California

Biography of Joseph M. Francis

Joseph M. Francis, a prominent figure in San Mateo County, serves as the chairman of the Board of Supervisors and Supervisor of the Fourth Township. Born in Halfmoon Bay in 1872, he has dedicated his career to improving local infrastructure, securing notable upgrades to streets and boulevards. His commitment has garnered broad support, leading to his re-election in 1912 as a candidate for all three major parties. A respected community member and business leader, he also advocates for future road enhancements, demonstrating his deep knowledge of the region.

Biographical Sketch of E. W. Florence

E. W. Florence is a prominent figure in the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, having begun his career with the organization on February 2, 1901. A Chico native and a graduate of Healds Business College, Florence spent 8.5 years representing the company in Chico before moving to Fresno for two years. He has been based in Redwood City for the past four and a half years, solidifying his reputation within the industry.

Biographical Sketch of Dr. Leo J. Flanagan

Dr. Leo J. Flanagan is a prominent physician and surgeon practicing in South San Francisco, having moved from a successful practice in San Francisco to capitalize on the region’s growth potential. Born in Napa, California, on August 6, 1885, he graduated from Santa Clara College and completed his medical training at Johnstown University. With experience as a resident physician at various hospitals and as part of the San Francisco emergency service, Dr. Flanagan is also involved in several fraternal organizations and married in Portland in 1913.

Biographical Sketch of Mrs. Henry C. Finkler

Mrs. Henry C. Finkler, president of the Redwood City Womans Club, is a central figure in the club life of both the county and state. A longtime California resident, she actively contributed to the formation of her club and has played a vital role in its activities, earning her presidency last year. Renowned for her leadership in community events, she was recognized with a loving cup for her efforts in organizing the annual May festival. Additionally, she serves with the George F. Evans Relief Corps and the Red Cross Society.

Biographical Sketch of Frank L. Eksward

Frank L. Eksward, born in 1870 in Brooklyn, New York, serves as the Secretary Manager of the San Mateo County Development Association, playing a vital role in the county’s development. With seven years in San Mateo County, five dedicated to promotion, he has led numerous successful projects, especially advocating for good roads. Prior to his focus on community development, Eksward practiced law in various eastern cities, showcasing his diverse background and commitment to enhancing San Mateo County.

Biographical Sketch of Clarence M. Doxsee

Clarence M. Doxsee, manager of the George H. Rice Abstract Company in Redwood City, has notably led the firm for ten years, maintaining its status as a premier provider of abstract services in San Mateo County. Originally from Iowa, Doxsee brought substantial experience in the field and has contributed significantly to the company, which is recognized for abstracting nearly all large properties in the area. In addition to his work, he is an authority on horticulture and actively involved in community interests. Born in Ohio in 1861, he graduated from Iowa State College and is a member of the local Congregational Church.

Biographical Sketch of Mrs. William Douglas

Mrs. William Douglas, a prominent figure in San Mateo County’s early history, has lived there for fifty years, witnessing its transformation from scattered settlements to thriving cities. Arriving in San Francisco in 1850 after an eight-month voyage, she married and later settled in San Mateo. A mother of ten, Mrs. Douglas outlived her husband and most of her children, sharing captivating stories of the area’s early days, including its business landscape and the foresight that led her to retain valuable property amid rapid growth.

Biographical Sketch of Dr. Frank S. Dolley

Dr. Frank S. Dolley is the owner and operator of South San Francisco General Hospital, a vital healthcare institution in northern San Mateo County. Established by Dr. Harry G. Plymire, the hospital serves residents of nearby areas, reducing their need to travel for medical care. Dr. Dolley, a Maine native born on July 26, 1883, brought extensive medical and surgical experience to the role, having trained at prestigious New York hospitals and spent time at Lane Hospital in San Francisco before taking over the facility.

Biographical Sketch of John V. Doherty

John V. Doherty is a prominent insurance broker and the city treasurer of Burlingame, known for his passionate promotion of the city. With eight years of residence, he possesses extensive knowledge of Burlingame’s growth and real estate trends. Beyond his official duties, Doherty actively supports city initiatives and assists fellow officials. He also engages in real estate and other business ventures while maintaining affiliations with organizations such as the Knights of Columbus and the Burlingame Commercial Club.

Biographical Sketch of George W. Dickie

George W. Dickie, born on July 17, 1844, in Scotland, is a renowned marine architect and naval designer from San Mateo County. His most notable achievements include designing the battleship Oregon and several notable vessels for the U.S. Navy, such as the Wisconsin, Ohio, and cruisers Olympia and Colorado. Additionally, he contributed to the design of large freighters and mining machinery. A respected figure in his field, Dickie is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and vice president of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.

Biographical Sketch of Leonides R. Dennison

Leonides R. Dennison has played a pivotal role in South San Francisco’s industrial growth as the superintendent of the Steiger Terra Cotta and Pottery Works. His tenure of thirteen years, with ten as superintendent, has seen the plant transform into a leading industrial facility. Dennison attributes this success to the city’s excellent workforce and favorable conditions. A resident for eighteen years, he was born in Yosemite Valley in 1885 and is involved in several Masonic organizations.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph Debenedetti

Joseph Debenedetti, born in Italy in 1849, emigrated to California in 1867, inspired by his father, John, who had immigrated in 1855. After initial ventures in Calaveras County and San Francisco, he settled in Halfmoon Bay, establishing a general merchandise store in 1873. Debenedetti, a Democrat, served as postmaster and was a San Mateo County supervisor for 12 years, overseeing the construction of the county’s first concrete bridge. He married Teresa Scarpa and had nine children, passing away on May 18, 1914.

Biography of John Francis Johnson

John F. Johnson, a prominent figure in San Mateo County, has resided there for fifty-nine years and held public office for over twenty-five years. His career includes roles as deputy county clerk, county clerk, and county recorder. He founded the J. F. Johnson Abstract Company and was active in local organizations, including the Redwood Native Sons and the Chamber of Commerce. Born in Halfmoon Bay in 1856, he lives in Redwood City with his two grown children, both Stanford graduates.

Biographical Sketch of John F. Davis

John F. Davis, a prominent young lawyer and justice of the Peace, has significantly contributed to Burlingame as City Attorney. Over the past eleven years, he has managed legal affairs related to substantial municipal projects, including infrastructure improvements and city boundary expansions. Noteworthy achievements include saving property owners thousands of dollars and orchestrating a $30,000 investment from the United Railroads for local improvements. Born on June 19, 1879, in Sacramento, he graduated from Stanford and the University of Michigan, and actively participates in Burlingame’s social life.

Biographical Sketch of Henry T. Daley

Henry T. Daley, a prominent dentist in Burlingame since 1909, was born in Lockeford in 1885. He initially practiced in San Francisco before establishing his office in Burlingame. A product of California’s educational system, he married on June 25, 1911, and is actively involved in various college and business organizations, including the San Mateo Lodge of Elks and the Royal Arcanum. Daley represents a notable figure among the peninsula’s young professionals.

Biographical Sketch of Fred A. Cunningham

Fred A. Cunningham is a prominent figure in South San Francisco, known for his civic engagement and leadership in the community. A real estate dealer and trustee, he served as mayor and is a member of the Board of Governors of the San Mateo County Development Association. He was instrumental in various local initiatives, including a significant bond campaign for road improvements. Born in Nebraska in 1872, Cunningham has a military background in the Spanish-American War and has contributed extensively to local commerce and infrastructure.

Biographical Sketch of Ebenezer E. Cunningham

Ebenezer E. Cunningham, born on April 6, 1839, in Missouri, received his education in Iowa before emigrating to Nebraska at 18. He served in the Civil War as a 2nd Duty Sergeant and later as a 1st Lieutenant. Elected to the Nebraska State Senate in 1868, he became its President and oversaw Governor Butler’s impeachment trial. Appointed U.S. Surveyor General in 1871, Cunningham later pursued mining for 15 years. In 1886, he moved to San Francisco, where he has served as postmaster since 1892 and was also a Justice of the Peace for fourteen years.

Biographical Sketch of William Albert Crowell

William Albert Crowell, a seasoned undertaker and manager of James Crowe Co. in Redwood City, has gained significant recognition since his arrival three years ago. He took over the establishment, founded in 1868, bringing extensive experience from previous ventures, including a nine-year tenure in Sacramento. Appointed deputy to Coroner W. A. Brooke, Mr. Crowell also served as coroner in Placer County. A Massachusetts native, he has lived in California for thirty-five years and is active in Masonic and Knights of Pythias organizations. He has three children.

Biography of Clarence S. Crary

Clarence S. Crary, born on March 30, 1879, in Boone, Iowa, is recognized as a prominent banker and “Builder of Banks.” He graduated from Stanford University in 1903. Crary has served as Cashier of the Bank of Burlingame and holds leadership roles in local organizations, including the Burlingame Commercial Club and Merchants Association. His banking career began in 1906, where he played a vital role in establishing banks in California’s oil fields and has been instrumental in doubling the business volume of the Bank of Burlingame.

Biography of Eugene Charlie Cottier

Eugene Charlie Cottier, born on September 10, 1868, in Owatonna, Minnesota, learned plumbing at a young age by standing on a soap box in a shop that still exists today. Over his career, he operated in five cities, including Sacramento and San Francisco, before establishing a successful plumbing and tinning business in San Mateo. Despite facing hardships, Cottier built one of the largest establishments on the peninsula in just ten years. He enjoys traveling with his wife and son and resides in San Mateo.