John Pitcher, born on July 25, 1827, in Vincennes, Indiana, is a prominent figure in San Mateo County, where he has lived for 55 years. An original forty-niner who traveled from St. Louis, he has served as the Justice of the Peace for 35 years, making him the oldest public official in the area. A successful landowner in Halfmoon Bay and San Francisco, Pitcher is known for his integrity and loyalty to his community and friends.
Albert Mansfield, born on October 21, 1884, in Halfmoon Bay, is a prominent attorney and city attorney of Redwood City. The son of former Sheriff Joel H. Mansfield, he opened his practice eight years ago and has since achieved considerable success, handling notable cases like the Coburn case. He is active in civic affairs and maintains an office in Halfmoon Bay. A graduate of Hastings College of Law, he has been a lifelong resident of San Mateo County and is affiliated with several fraternal organizations. He married Elizabeth P. Winter on August 27, 1911.
Fernand Levy is a prominent figure in San Mateo, recognized as the founder and president of Levy Brothers, a firm that began in Halfmoon Bay in 1872 and relocated to San Mateo in 1898. Under his leadership, the business evolved into the largest department store in the county, noted for its exceptional service and quality. Born in Lorraine, France in 1848, Levy emigrated to America as a young man and, alongside his brother Jo, has significantly contributed to the local economy and community affairs.
Rufus H. Hatch, born on September 22, 1829, in South Reading, Vermont, moved to California in 1853, drawn by the promising agricultural land amid the gold rush. Settling near Halfmoon Bay, he cultivated 320 acres for approximately twenty years while also engaging in stockraising and timber operations. He married Martha Schuyler, with whom he had three children. Following his wife’s death in 1888, Hatch remained active in his community and was affiliated with the Odd Fellows and Freemasons in San Mateo.
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.
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.
Dr. William Ansyl Brooke, born 52 years ago near Placerville, studied medicine at Cooper Medical College in San Francisco. He began his career in Sacramento before relocating to Alameda and eventually settling in Halfmoon Bay eleven years ago. A respected member of the San Mateo Medical Society, he was appointed Coroner and Public Administrator in 1915. His professional skill and personal charm have endeared him to the community, and he is also affiliated with several fraternal organizations, including the Masons and Eagles.