Halfmoon Bay California

Biography of John Francis Johnson

After living in San Mateo County for fifty-nine years and holding public office for over twenty-five years, John F. Johnson takes a place among San Mateo County’s leading citizens. Few men, can boast of a longer residence and a better knowledge of the growth and development of the peninsula than Mr. Johnson. Mr. Johnson spent the first part of his life in Halfmoon Bay when that was the most important town In the county. Later he came to Redwood City where after many years of service in public office he started the J. F. Johnson Abstract Company of which he … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Rufus H. Hatch

When the discovery of gold made in California the Mecca of the hopes of so many thousand people flocking from all parts of the world, to share in the treasures proclaimed, there were some who saw at once what had escaped the eyes of those looking below the surface of the land, the rich valleys and verdant hills and sunlight as bright as the glitter of gold. With almost every day of his life, spent in tilling the soil, it was little wonder that Rufus H. Hatch felt his eyes gladdened by the sight of such productive farming land, and … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Fernand Levy

Mr. Fernand Levy, well known in San Mateo business ‘and social circles not only as the president and founder of Levy Brothers but as a man who takes a sincere interest in all matters of public importance. The firm of Levy Brothers exemplifies the saying that “Rome was not built in a day.” It grew to its present magnitude and prosperity from a small beginning. In 1872 Levy Brothers was established – not in San Mateo, strange as it may seem – but in Halfmoon Bay. In 1892 it was incorporated. Similar stores at this time also belonging to Levy … Read more

Biography of Joseph M. Francis

One of the most active workers for his own district and the county at large is Joseph M. Francis, chairman of the Board of Supervisors and Supervisor of the Fourth Township of San Mateo County. Mr. Francis is as Supervisor and his second year as chairman of the county board. Few Supervisors in California can boast of more satisfied constituents than “Joe” Francis. He secured good boulevards for his district and improved the streets of Halfmoon Bay so that they are now the best streets in any unincorporated town in the county. So well satisfied were the residents with Mr. … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Albert Mansfield

San Mateo county’s bar claims many of its best citizens. Among these is Albert Mansfield, city attorney of Redwood City, and son of former Sheriff Joel H. Mansfield, who has spent his lifetime in this county. Mr. Mansfield is one of the county’s most successful young attorneys. Although he opened up offices only eight years ago he has built up a large and growing practice. To care for this business Mr. Mansfield maintains an office in Halfmoon Bay in addition to his offices at the county seat. During the eight years that he has practiced in the county, Mr. Mansfield … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Dr. William Ansyl Brooke

Dr. Brooke was born 52 years ago at Dranion Springs, a little town near Placerville in El Dorado County. He studied medicine at Cooper Medical College in San Francisco, and practiced first in Sacramento, as intern in the City and County Hospital, later moving to Alameda. He came to Halfmoon Bay, eleven years ago, and has resided there ever since. He is a member of the San Mateo Medical Society, State Medical Society and American Medical Association. He was appointed Coroner and Public Administrator on April 7, 1915, which term he is now serving. His personal popularity and professional ability … Read more

Biographical Sketch of John Pitcher

An old and highly respected settler, being one of the original forty-niners coming across the plains from St. Louis in ox teams. He was born July 25, 1827 at Vincennes, Indiana; and has resided in San Mateo County for the past 55 years. Mr. Pitcher has the distinction of being the oldest public official, holding the office of Justice of Peace, for the past 35 years. Mr. Pitcher has been very successful during his stay in Halfmoon Bay, acquiring a large farm, town property in San Francisco and many other interests. Mr. Pitcher is today, what he has always been, … Read more