Materials for a History of the Sessions Family in America was compiled by Francis C. Sessions and published in 1890 as a documentary record of the descendants of Alexander Sessions of Andover, Massachusetts, who is recorded there in 1669. The volume consists largely of transcribed correspondence, genealogical notes, lineage charts, biographical sketches, and reminiscences.
The Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe resides in Pacific County, Washington, near Willapa Bay. Established by a Presidential Executive Order in 1866, their reservation encompasses 355 acres. The tribe, federally recognized since 1971, comprises descendants of various Native American groups, including the Lower Chehalis and Chinook. Historically, the tribe preserved their land and cultural practices by refusing an unfavorable treaty in 1855, thereby maintaining their fishing and hunting rights. The tribe’s constitution, ratified in 1971, solidified their sovereignty and aimed to protect tribal resources and identity.
William H. Nelson, a prominent figure in Plymouth, Massachusetts, descended from early settlers like William Nelson, who arrived before 1636. Active in his community, he held numerous positions, including selectman and president of various banks and manufacturing companies. Known for his integrity and public spirit, Nelson was deeply involved in addressing local commercial needs, particularly in navigation and industry. He married Hannah Coomer Weston in 1863 and left a legacy of service before his death in 1891, remembered as one of Plymouth’s most dedicated citizens.
Mug Books of the past have been replaced by computer databases now, but back before the days of computers and databases, they served as an effective method for Police Departments to keep track of past criminals and wanted people. The Sacramento Police Department has generously provided these scanned images to archive.org for free access to everyone. If you are not aware if one of your ancestors may have been arrested for a crime, then I suggest you first search the newspaper records available online for free of Sacramento California, so that you have a year span to choose from. Unless you’re like me and just like perusing the old mug shots…
George Carl Plump, born in Redwood City 45 years ago, has witnessed the town’s transformation from a small settlement to a thriving city. After completing his education in local schools, he became the owner of Plump’s Grocery store. His community involvement led to his election as city clerk eight years ago, a position he has successfully retained. A dedicated advocate for public interests, Mr. Plump also contributed to the local orchestra. He married in 1909 and has two young daughters.
Robert W. Mantz is completing his fifth year as the first supervising principal of Redwood City public schools, where enrollment has grown from 300 to nearly 600 students. Under his leadership, the school introduced California’s first public school playground and innovative curriculum including sewing and cooking. Mantz also established a renowned manual training laboratory and organized successful art exhibits. Previously, he served in various educational roles, and his contributions extend beyond academics to community involvement through local organizations. His family is also actively engaged in education.
Kenneth M. Green, born on July 25, 1887, in Oakland, California, is a prominent attorney based in San Mateo with a substantial legal practice. A local product, he graduated from San Mateo Grammar and Union High Schools, later attending Stanford University before studying law in San Francisco. Admitted to practice in 1909, he holds various leadership positions in fraternal organizations and is passionate about poultry, serving as President of the San Mateo County Poultry Association. He is the eldest son of the late Milton J. Green.
Loren Coburn, born on January 11, 1826, in Vermont, migrated to California in 1851, initially seeking fortune in mining. After successful ventures in the northern mines, he transitioned to the livery business in Oakland and San Francisco. Coburn acquired significant land holdings, including the Punto del Ano Nuevo Rancho and additional properties in Monterey County. He became a respected figure in Pescadero, where he engaged in dairy and stock farming. Coburn was married twice, first to Mary Antoinette Upton, followed by her sister, Satira S. Upton.
William H. Brown, Supervisor from the Second Township, played a pivotal role in developing San Mateo County’s highway system. His vision led to the creation of scenic boulevards that attract numerous visitors. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of nearly all paved roads in the township. Brown initiated the good roads movement in 1912, resulting in a significant bond issue for infrastructure. Active in local governance and community development, he also contributed to the San Mateo fire department and the County Development Association. Born in 1862, Brown dedicated much of his life to California and its communities.
Peter Goyette, born on April 5, 1841, in East Canada, near Montreal, emigrated to the United States in 1858, where he engaged in various occupations before settling in Union County. Over thirty years, he became a prominent agriculturist and stockman, cultivating a significant estate in High Valley. Married twice, he had several children and was known for his integrity and dedication to his community. A member of the Catholic Church, Goyette’s life exemplifies the achievements of immigrants in the American West.
Arthur Douglas Baldwin, born on April 8, 1876, in the Hawaiian Islands, was a prominent lawyer educated at Yale and Harvard. He married Reba Louise Williams in 1902 and had five children. Baldwin served on the Ohio Children’s Law codification commission and was a Progressive candidate for state representation in 1912. He contributed to various civic organizations, including the Cleveland Federation for Charity, and was involved in local governance. His leisure interests included horseback riding and tennis.
S. H. Weis was born in New York City in September 1888 and received his education in Cleveland’s grammar and high schools, as well as at the University of California. He married in Cleveland in 1911 and later became the president and treasurer of Esplanade Realty Co. His involvement in the local community is noted through his membership in the Chamber of Commerce.
Keith Earl Sprague, born in 1881 in Wilson County, Kansas, emerged as a prominent figure in local finance, becoming president of the Benedict State Bank in 1913. A graduate of Kansas University, Sprague’s career included pharmacy, a stint in California during the San Francisco earthquake, and partnership in a mercantile venture with his father. Active in community affairs and politics, he is a member of several Masonic organizations and owns significant property in Wilson County. Sprague’s legacy is deeply rooted in the development of the region’s financial institutions.
Lucy E. Tierney, born April 12, 1889, in Wallowa County, passed away on June 19, 1919, in Richmond, California, after enduring declining health. She had moved to California in hopes of recovery, with her mother by her side during her final moments. She is survived by her parents, T.C. and Mrs. Bunnell, and siblings Thomas E., Clarence M. Bunnell, and Mrs. C. E. Hart. Funeral services were held in Enterprise, where she was laid to rest.
Robert “Bob” Cowden, 74, of Joseph, Oregon, passed away on May 10, 2006, in Davis, California. Born on October 8, 1931, in Oakland, he served in the Navy during the Korean War before graduating from the University of California at Davis. A dedicated professional in agricultural engineering, he contributed to various environmental projects over his 30-year career. Bob enjoyed flying, fishing, and trapshooting, earning accolades in the sport. He is survived by his wife Diane, three sons, four grandchildren, and extended family. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Maggie P. Ames, a pioneering figure in Union, Oregon, passed away on January 7, 1925, at 89 years old in Oakland, California. Born in Iowa, she married George W. Ames in 1861 and traveled by covered wagon to the Grande Ronde Valley in 1862, becoming one of the first settlers in the area. The couple homesteaded land that contributed to the establishment of Union. A dedicated member of the Adventist Church, she continued farming until her husband’s death in 1904, later moving to California to live with her sister.
Mrs. Osie Deshaver passed away on January 6 at the age of 26 in Oakland, California. A former resident of the area, she is survived by her husband, Lester Deshaver, and their two children, Ruth and Roger. Her siblings include Mrs. A. Willis, Mrs. Daisy Long, and Mrs. Edna Best, as well as her brother Carlie Toney. Funeral services were conducted in Oakland, with burial in California City.
Bessie G. Ruckman, aged 81, passed away on May 3 in Oakland, California. Born on November 4, 1903, in Jackson, Missouri, she moved to Imbler in 1912. She married Virgil Audmer Ruckman in 1922 and worked at the Pacific Telephone Co. until her retirement in 1957. Mrs. Ruckman is survived by two daughters, grandchildren, and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1975. Private family services were conducted at Summerville Cemetery.
Virgil Ruckman, aged 74, passed away on February 25, 1975, in Oakland, California. Born on April 27, 1900, in Alicel to Samuel and Lillian Ruckman, he married Bessie Kasinger in 1922 and initially farmed in Imbler before relocating to California. He is survived by his daughters, Betty Gene Graybeal and Audrea Seitz, a sister, a brother, a stepbrother, and two grandchildren. Private graveside services are planned at Summerville.
Stanley Eugene Thompson, 59, of Island City, passed away unexpectedly on August 24. Born on August 11, 1947, in Arcata, California, he served in the Navy and later worked for the City of Island City for 21 years. He enjoyed cooking, hunting, and fishing, and recently embarked on a new venture with his wife, Lynne, at The Hells Canyon Inn. He is survived by his wife, children, and a sister. A celebration of life will be held at Island City School on Sunday at 6 p.m.