San Bernardino California

Biography of Joseph C. Rich

Joseph C. Rich, born in Nauvoo, Illinois, in 1841, was the eldest son of Judge Charles C. Rich. He experienced the tumultuous journey of the Mormon exodus and contributed significantly to the settlement of the Salt Lake Valley and southeastern Idaho. An active Democrat, he held numerous political offices, advocating for women’s suffrage and fighting against the disenfranchisement of the Mormon community. Rich was elected to numerous legislative roles and served as a respected judge, recognized for his fairness and commitment to justice. He married Ann Eliza Hunter and fathered six children.

Biography of Charles C. Rich

Charles C. Rich, born in 1809 in Kentucky, was a pivotal figure in the early settlement and development of Utah, California, and Idaho. A devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he played a significant role in establishing the city of Paris, Idaho, and was instrumental in founding Santa Bernardino in California. Rich was a leader among the pioneers, actively participating in their affairs, and served multiple church missions, including a notable one in Europe. He was married six times and fathered fifty-two children, leaving a lasting legacy in the communities he helped shape. Rich passed away in 1883, remembered for his leadership and contributions to the region.

McClellan, Vella – Obituary

Vella McClellan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. McClellan of Union, passed away on February 9, 1922, in San Bernardino, California, after years of being an invalid. Her remains were sent to Union, where the funeral took place at the Latter Day Saints church on February 14, followed by interment in the Union cemetery.

Welch, Roy – Obituary

Roy Jackson Welch, a retired barber, passed away on September 20, 1973, in San Bernardino, California. Born on September 22, 1904, in Haines, Oregon, he spent fifty years in the barbering profession, owning shops in Haines and California. Welch was buried in Hemet, California. He is survived by his wife Lucille, a daughter, a step-daughter, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and siblings. He was preceded in death by a son and several siblings. Graveside services took place on September 24.

Biography of Nelson Sleppy

Nelson Sleppy, a distinguished businessman in Colton and founder of its first hardware store in 1882, was born in 1845 in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. After an apprenticeship in carpentry, he worked across the West before settling in California. In 1888, he partnered with William S. Bullis, managing Sleppy Bullis until 1890. Active in community and politics, he supported local enterprises and the Republican Party. Married to Mary A. Stoddard, they had three children, establishing a family legacy in the region.

Biographical Sketch of William J. Guthrie

William J. Guthrie, a prominent San Bernardino businessman, was originally from Detroit, Michigan, where he gained expertise in commercial practices through his work with the McKillop Mercantile Agency. After moving to California in 1878 and spending time in Colorado, he established a grocery and crockery store in San Bernardino in 1882. Following the retirement of his partner, he focused solely on the crockery business, achieving success until his temporary retirement in 1889. Additionally, he owned valuable land and an orange grove, indicating a prosperous future ahead.

Biographical Sketch of John Suverkrup

John Suverkrup, a German immigrant, has made significant contributions to San Bernardino’s lumber industry. Settling in the area sixteen years ago after a stint in grocery and farming, he co-founded Suverkrup & Hook Mill in 1887, which produces up to 20,000 feet of lumber daily, employing nearly twenty workers. Their firm manages extensive timberland and operates a dedicated lumberyard, with a robust inventory of 500,000 to 600,000 feet of lumber. Suverkrup’s investments in the mill and equipment total approximately $17,000, alongside valuable land holdings.

Biography of Fred T. Perris

Fred T. Perris, born in England, became a notable civil engineer after his education in Melbourne, Australia. He arrived in America in 1853 and significantly contributed to the Pacific coast infrastructure, including roles as Deputy U.S. Surveyor. Settling in San Bernardino in 1874, he served as City Engineer and County Surveyor, and played a crucial role in establishing railroads in the region. Perris has notably built extensive railroad lines and maintained the California sub-system of the Santa Fe, showcasing his exceptional engineering skills and commitment.

Biography of William Francis Holcomb

William Francis Holcomb, born in Indiana in 1831, became a notable figure in California history as the discoverer of gold in a valley named after him. After enduring a grueling journey to California in 1850, he spent a decade mining with limited success before uncovering a significant gold deposit near San Bernardino in 1860. Holcomb later served as County Assessor and County Clerk, contributing to local governance. A devoted family man and renowned hunter, he remains a respected member of the Society of California Pioneers.

Biography of George W. Prescott

George W. Prescott, born in New Hampshire, became a distinguished Master Mechanic for the Southern California Railroad. Orphaned at seven, he ventured westward at thirteen and honed his skills as a machinist in Chillicothe, Ohio. Prescott played a crucial role in the Mobile Ohio Railroad’s inception before joining the Union cause during the Civil War. His career spanned various prestigious positions across multiple railroads, culminating in significant advancements within the Southern California Railway. He married Miss McFarland and had one son.

Biography of David H. Wixom

David H. Wixom, born in 1848 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was part of a large family that journeyed to California in 1850. They initially settled in Monterey County before moving to San Bernardino. A farmer by trade, Wixom was elected City Marshal of San Bernardino, notably arresting a murderer during his tenure. He later ran for Sheriff and constructed a prominent home and commercial property in the city. Married to Mary A. Stuchbury, they had five children and remained influential members of the community until his death in 1867.

Biography of Samuel Alder

Samuel Alder, born in 1845 in Wiltshire, England, was a pioneer mechanic who played a crucial role in Riverside’s development. After apprenticing as a wagon-maker, Alder emigrated to the U.S. in 1864, eventually establishing the city’s first carriage-making and blacksmithing shop in partnership with Frank Petchner. A dedicated community member, he contributed to local initiatives like the Citrus Fair and the YMCA building. Alder, an industrious businessman and horticulturist, settled in Riverside with his wife, Margaret, and their six children, making a lasting impact on the city.

Biography of Mrs. Ellen Woods Crafts Meacham

Mrs. Ellen Woods Crafts Meacham, originally from Jackson, Michigan, is a notable figure in San Bernardino County, residing at Crafton Retreat, a site established by her father, Myron Harwood Crafts. After a diverse education spanning several states, she moved to California in 1865 and enjoyed a successful career in teaching and real estate. Mrs. Meacham, a strong advocate for women’s issues, continues to enhance Crafton Retreat, a beautiful locale surrounded by orchards and scenic views, reflecting her commitment to community and nature.

Biographical Sketch of David Meacham

David Meacham, born on May 3, 1835, in Genesee County, New York, learned carpentry before moving to California in 1858. He traveled with General Harney, assisting in the aftermath of the Mountain Meadow Massacre and contributing to the memorial for the victims. After settling in Bloomfield and later San Bernardino, he made significant contributions to local construction, including building Riverside’s first house. Aside from a year spent in Virginia City, Nevada, Meacham has lived in California, known for his integrity and character.

Biography of Clarence Stewart

Clarence Stewart, born in 1848 in Rockford, Illinois, became a prominent businessman in Riverside, California. His father, John N. Stewart, moved the family to California in 1852, where Clarence was raised. After various roles, including serving as a deputy Indian agent, he settled in San Bernardino and established a successful agricultural and business career. He was pivotal in developing Riverside’s economy through real estate and manufacturing, while also engaging in community affairs and holding several important positions, including notary public and vice-president of the Stewart Hotel Association.

Biographical Sketch of Amos Stiles

Amos Stiles, born in 1823 in Kennebec, Maine, moved to New Brunswick as a child. After spending time in Ohio and Nova Scotia, he settled in Utah following his marriage to Rebecca O’Brien in 1849. In 1860, he journeyed to California, arriving in San Bernardino, where he engaged in farming and stock raising until his retirement. A well-educated man, Stiles taught school and has four children—Rebecca, Edward, William E., and Rose. He identifies as a Free-thinker or Agnostic.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph David Gilbert, Sr.

Joseph David Gilbert, Sr. was born in 1827 in Cattaraugus County, New York, to a lineage with roots in military service. After relocating across several states, he settled near San Bernardino, California, in 1850, arriving when only one house stood in the area. Gilbert worked on numerous adobe buildings and developed his farm from barren land into a fruitful estate. He married Margaret M. Barney in 1854 and together they had five children. A staunch Republican, Gilbert actively supported his party’s interests throughout his life.

Biography of James W. Waters

James W. Waters, born June 20, 1813, near Rensselaer County, New York, was a renowned mountaineer and guide who ventured into the Rocky Mountains in 1835. He spent nine years trapping and hunting alongside famous frontiersmen, enduring perilous encounters with Native American tribes. After various exploits, including guiding expeditions and engaging in the livestock business, Waters settled in San Bernardino, California. There, he became a respected community figure and served on the Board of Supervisors. He passed away on September 20, 1889.

Biography of Hon. Byron Waters

The Hon. Byron Waters, born in June 1849 in Georgia, exemplifies the self-made man, overcoming adversity to shape his destiny. After moving to California in 1867, he pursued law, quickly establishing himself as a prominent member of the bar. His leadership in the General Assembly and the Constitutional Convention showcased his legal acumen and commitment to integrity. Waters also founded the Farmers Exchange Bank of San Bernardino and maintained a successful legal career. Married to Louisa Brown, he is respected for his modesty, sharp intellect, and dedication to his clients and community.

Biography of George W. Suttonfield

George W. Suttonfield, born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on February 14, 1825, faced hardships during his journey to California in 1849. After arriving in San Francisco nearly destitute, he began his career selling pies and mining, ultimately achieving success in various businesses, including stock and livery. His first marriage, recorded in Mariposa County, produced five children. A notable pioneer, he organized the Pioneer Society in San Bernardino in 1866 and is remembered as a respected figure in the community, now residing on Mount Vernon Avenue.