History of the Buena Vista Tribe

casus oliver on reservation

The Me-Wuk Indians of the Buena Vista Rancheria are an integral part of California’s Native American history. They lived in and around what is now Amador County for thousands of years.

Biography of Olney N. Morse

Olney N. Morse, born December 4, 1826, in Westfield, New York, was a key figure among the 1849 gold rush argonauts. After organizing a group to California, he achieved initial success in mining and later opened a restaurant in Sacramento. Morse ventured into freight transport and then general merchandising before establishing stage lines. He also engaged in ranching and hotel management, notably leasing the Arlington Hotel in Seattle and constructing the Morse Building. He was married in 1859 and had three children.

Biography of Melvin Fenwick

Melvin Fenwick, born in 1855 in California, emerged as a prominent figure in Harney County’s history. The son of Kentucky natives who migrated west, he settled in the Harney Valley in 1883. A successful farmer and cattleman, Fenwick was instrumental in establishing the Harney Valley Dam and Ditch Company, fighting against adversarial forces to secure water for irrigation. His perseverance contributed significantly to the area’s agricultural development. A respected community member, he has demonstrated strong leadership and dedication throughout his life and work.

Biographical Sketch of John Hosking

John Hosking, born February 22, 1839, in Cornwall, England, immigrated to California in 1867, working initially in Tuolumne and Amador County mines before becoming foreman and later superintendent of the Plumas Eureka Mines. He married Catherine H. in 1863, fathering six children. A member of the I.O.O.F. and Royal St. George lodges, he acquired land in Redlands in 1882, cultivating citrus and grapes. By 1888, he had established a successful residence and became known for innovations in mining machinery.

Buena Vista Tribe

The Buena Vista Tribe, encompassing the Buena Vista Band and the Me-Wuk Indians, resides in California’s Amador County and has a rich historical presence since before European contact. The tribe secured land through the 1851 treaty, which later diminished due to colonization, the Gold Rush, and disease. By the late 19th century, their population had significantly decreased. Recognized federally since 1985, the Buena Vista Rancheria comprises 67 acres. Despite historical hardships, the tribe has maintained its cultural practices and communal identity.

Hesner, Elton Ellis – Obituary

Elton Ellis Hesner, aged 77, passed away on March 29, 2003, in Jackson, California. A graveside service was conducted on April 4 at Sunset View Cemetery in Martell. Born on May 10, 1925, in Pleasant Valley, he spent significant time in Stockton before moving to Amador County. Hesner worked as a truck driver and salesman, was a Teamsters Union member, and enjoyed community activities. He is survived by his wife, Merlyn “Jean” Hesner, and sister Delma Harrison.

Smith, Dora D. Mrs. – Obituary

Dora D. Smith, 73, of Ione, California, passed away on September 13, 2001. Born on December 19, 1927, in Driggs, Idaho, she had lived in Ione for the last decade and worked as a room service chef at Harrah’s Casino in Lake Tahoe. Her graveside funeral is set for September 23 at Mount Hope Cemetery. She is survived by her daughters Shellan B. Mora and Cheryl M. Huppler, son Mark L. Searles, numerous siblings, and 20 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.