San Jacinto California

A History of California’s Great Hemet-San Jacinto Valley

Down memory lane : a historical record of people and events in California's great Hemet-San Jacinto Valley

“Down Memory Lane: A Historical Record of People and Events in California’s Great Hemet-San Jacinto Valley,” compiled by Homer D. King in an Anniversary Supplement to the Hemet News on September 15, 1960, offers a detailed and vibrant exploration of this unique area’s past and present. This comprehensive guide is an invaluable resource for genealogists, historians, and anyone fascinated by the intricate web of stories that constitute our collective past.

Biography of John Down

John Down, born in England in 1849, arrived in Riverside in 1874 as a skilled bricklayer. He established a brickyard with E.M. Sheldon, later forming the firm Down & Alguire. A successful businessman, he owned substantial land and contributed to Riverside’s brick construction. An active community member, Down supported local enterprises and was involved in various organizations, including the Methodist Church. Married to Lois Sheldon, he faced personal tragedy with the loss of their only child. His legacy is intertwined with Riverside’s growth and development.