Rancher, farmer, hotel owner, postmaster. Married Elizabeth Summers in 1839. Built the Prairie House at Cottonwood in 1856 on the south side of Cottonwood Creek (now Tehama County). Purchased the American Ranch from Thomas Freeman in 1856 and built the American Ranch Hotel. The post office was inside the hotel. Purchased 210 acres from Pierson B. Reading in 1865 for $1313. Deeded a right-of-way through his property to Central Pacific Railroad in 1872; in return the railroad gave the depot his name. Had his home built in 1873 at 2865 East Street; it no longer exists. While it stood, the house was designated as California Historical Landmark No. 12. In 1876 he moved the ranch hotel to the corner of Main and Ferry Streets. Sold his hotel to son George in 1880 and retired. Lived in his daughter Annie’s house at the corner of Howard and East Streets until his death.

SOURCE: The Dictionary of Early Shasta County History
Transcribed by Dottie Smith - copyright 1999