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Mariposa County History and Genealogy Research Historical Obituaries U ~ Z Return to Obituary Main Page
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Bernardo UBALDI
September 29, 1883 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Poor Bernardo UBALDI, who lived with his family in Yosemite Valley,
after
a hard struggle for life, yielded
to that disease known as Bronchitis, in Sonora, Tuolumne Co., on
Wednesday
the 19th instant. He had been
suffering for about a year, and his disease was hastened by a
unfortunate
trip he took into the mountains
above Yosemite Valley, as a guide for some tourist, wherein he took a
severe
cold, which so aggravated his
bronchial affection, that from that time on he gradually grew worse,
and
with all his efforts to obtain
relief from medical skill here and San Francisco and elsewhere, all
proved
unavailing. The deceased has
lived for many years about Coulterville and the Valley, was well known
as an industrious man, and well
liked by all who knew him. He was intelligent, possessed of excellent
traits
of character, amiable
disposition, and an affectionate husband. His most loving wife is all
the
relative he leaves here in the
State, that we are aware of, to morn his loss. We find the following
notice
in the Union "Democrat,"
Sonora, since the above was written: Wednesday morning, Bernardo
UBALDI,
formerly a merchant in Yosemite
Valley, died very suddenly at the City Hotel, of pleuro- pneumonia. He
was buried under the auspices of the
I.O.O.F., of which he was a member.
UBALDI- In Sonora, Tuolumne County, September 19th, 1883, Bernardo
UBALDI,
aged 33 years, a native of
Italy. Deceased was a resident of Yosemite Valley, where he leaves a
wife.
September 29, 1883 Mariposa
Gazette
Dr. N.I. UNDERWOOD at Coulterville
Mariposa Free Press February 28, 1863
(submitted by William Disbro)
On Saturday morning, February 21st, Dr. N. I. UNDERWOOD, a native of
Kentucky,
recently as resident of
Sacramento City, aged 33 years. Sudden Death - We are pained to have to
repost the death of Dr. Underwood
has been a resident of Coulterville for several months, having been
engaged
in directing and managing the
affairs of the Iona Copper Mining Company. During his residence there
he
made many warm friends, and was
universally respected by the community. He was an active business man,
ever ready to take the lead in
measures of public interest, and was relied on by all who knew him, as
a man of integrity, scientific
accquirements, and liberal views. His loss will be severely felt. His
funeral
took place on Sunday last.
UREN, Simon
October 11, 1890 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Mr. Simon UREN died very suddenly last Monday, at the residence of his
son-in-law, Mr. Frank PALMER,
at CHOWCHILLA. Mr. UREN was injured at one time, in a mine in Nevada
and
has never been quite well since.
He has been suffering for a time, from what was thought to be a common
cold. On Monday morning, he arose
apparently as well as common and after an attack of coughing, went to
the
door to expectorate, when Mr.
PALMER heard a strange noise, and began dressing in haste, to go to
him,
but before he could reach him life
was extinct. He had ruptured a main artery, and death was almost
instantaneous.
Mr. UREN formerly lived in
Mariposa, and was much respected by all who knew him. His wife was in
Nevada
and could not reach here in
time to see him. He was a native of Cornwall, England, and was 62 years
old age. The funeral took place on
Wednesday, in Mariposa, under the auspices of the Masonic
fraternity.
VALENTINE-
Stockton Daily Independent
Monday, 13 Mar 1871
DIED -- in Hornitos, March 7th, Teresa VALENTINE, aged 15 years, 5 months.
transcribed by Dee S.
VAN BEVER
Stockton Daily Independent
Stockton, San Joaquin Co., CAWednesday, 21 Aug 1872DIED -- at Mariposa, Aug. 10th, Charles Victor Eugene VAN BEVER, a native
of Belgium, aged 63 years.
transcribed by Dee S.
VAN CAMPEN, Mrs. Harriett Angeline
San Joaquin Valley Argus
September 13, 1884
(Mrs.Van Campen is the mother of Mrs. Albert O. BRUCE.)submitted by Tom Hilk
OBITUARYPassed from earth life at Merced, Cal., Sept. 9th, 1884, Mrs. Harriett
Angeline Van Campen, the beloved mother of Mrs. Albert Bruce and Mr.
Barnes Van Campen aged 66 years. This good, true woman was born in
Benson, Rutledge county Vermont, March the 1st, 1818. Her father, Mr.
Howard, moved to the State of New York while this daughter was quite
young, the settlement was afterward named for him Howard Flat. At this
pleasant home of her bright girlhood, she was married to Wm. Van Campen.
In 1860 she came to California and after living in the lower counties
for five years, settled in Mariposa county, where she lived until the
starting of the town of Merced. She was among the first who came to our
now flourishing town. Her home which is situated on M Street, was a home
of beauty, made beautiful and attractive by the bright flowers which
bloomed in the sunny windows and around the porch. For many year Mrs.
Van Campen was a cripple and was obliged to use a crutch. Still without
the aid of a servant or other assistant she kept the large cottage and
the grounds around it in perfect order. Being of a most exquisitely
refined mind she loved everything beautiful. The walls and shelves of
the interior of her home were filled with ornamental work formed by her
own deft fingers. But most of all, she loved flowers. Her love for these
sweet ministering angels amounted almost to idolatry. It seemed that
these silent, beautiful creations understood her great love and
admiration for them and bloomed with more brightness and exhaled more
sweetness under her loving touch. This noble woman possessed a great
versatility of gifts from the care of the sweet plants and the forming
of little ornaments. She would turn her great thoughtful mind to the
pages of ancient and modern history. Her mind was a perfect storehouse
of facts and fictions, arts and sciences. In conversation she was
interesting and instructive, and though while she lived she loved all
the beautiful things of earth and enjoyed her earth life, she thought
and pondered on the mysteries fo the land beyond the vail, and she
frequently said in conversation with the writer: " I am satisfied that
God will provide a better place for us in the home beyond if we are only
patient here and strive to do our duty." She once said: "I Wish that I
could be satisfied that the religion of Spiritualism is true for it is
the most beautiful of all." She afterwards said: "I know that the power
which created me for this world will surely provide for the new creation
beyond." There can be no doubt about the condition of this good, true,
noble refined, charitable woman. She lived in an atmosphere of
loveliness, such as bright, pure spirits mist love to linger in, and
when seated alone in the calm evening hours the spirits of the loved
ones who had reached the golden heights gathered around her and held
sweet communion with her, though she saw them not: All thought her long
and painful illness she evinced a patience and endurance which none but
those enjoying a full faith in a just and all-wise power could have
shown. She clung to the loved ones and to her quiet, restful home, and
cherished a hope that she might be restored to health until within a few
days of her passing away. She had no fear of the future, but she loved
her children and she would have been pleased to have remained to enjoy
the well-earned comforts by which she was surrounded; but when the angel
whispered "Come," she folded her hands and with a sweet smile whispered
– "Thy will be done." Her remains were followed by a large concourse of
friends to the Odd Fellows' Cemetery, and with the sweet, bright flowers
which had been strewn upon the casket by loving hands they left the
cold, still body in the grave, while the glad, free spirit took its
flight to mingle with kindred spirits just over the beautiful river."O! The transporting, rapturous scene
That rises to my sight,
Sweet fields arrayed in living green
And rivers of delight."MRS. R. G. STEELE.
Howard Van CAMPEN
DECEMBER 19, 1874Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
At Sumner, December 8TH, Howard Van CAMPEN, a native of Allenghany County, New York, aged 21 years 7 month and 19 days. [Mr. Van CAMPEN was a young man of promise, having a warm heart and cheerful disposition, which drew around him a large circle of friends, who morn his untimely loss. By his death and aged mother is bereft of a dutiful son, a sister of a loving brother, a brother of his bosom friend and constant companion, and the community loses a useful citizen.]
Little HENRY VANCAMPEN
January 15, 1876 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by William Disbro)
Little HENRY, only son of Ira D. VANCAMPEN, aged three years, died January 5, 1876.
VAN CAMPEN, Ira
Sept. 17,1881 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
SUICIDE - On Friday of last week, September 9, news was brought to town
that Ira D. VAN CAMPEN, an old
resident of the county, whose ranch is in the neighborhood of Indian
Gulch
about five miles from Hornitos,
had committed suicide by shooting himself in the head with a rifle.
Owing
to financial and family troubles,
Mr. VAN CAMPEN had been in a state of despondency for some time prior
to
the fatal act. For four days
immediately preceding his death his brother William was in constant
attendance
upon him, except when rest
from exhaustion, was required. Quite early on Friday morning, when all
were sleeping soundly, Ira proceeded
to the fatal deed by systematically arranging the rifle and holding it
to his forehead, the trigger was
pulled and the top of his head mostly blown off. An inquest was held
which
found a verdict of death caused
by his own hand. He was a native of Alleghany County, New York, and
came
to California in 1852. Deceased
was buried besides his little son at the home, which is now left
desolate.
JAMES M. VAN DYKE, Died
February 21, 1863 issue of the Mariposa Free Press
(submitted by William Disbro)
In Mariposa, on Wednesday, February 18th,aged 42 years- Mr. VAN DYKE
was
a native of Philadelphia, from
which place he emigrated to California early in the year 1849. He was
one
of the pioneer settlers of
Mariposa, where he came in 1850, and was engaged in mining until 1852,
when he turned his attention to
Mercantile pursuits, but though imprudent management, liberality and
ill
luck, was not one of the fortunate
class. He was a man of noble generous nature, a geniel companion in the
social circle, and was highly
esteemed by those who knew him best, for these qualities, and that
sterling
intgrity which constitutes the
principle element of that " noblest work of God- an honest man"- His
errors
partook more of the nature of
weaknesses than faults. The grave shrouded them, together with all that
was mortal of there possesor from
human kin. His memory will live in the hearts of those who knew him
well,
and the tear of honest friendship
keep green the sods over his humble grave.
VARAIN, Julius
Mariposa Gazette, July 25, 1935
Chicago Gang Victim Identified As County Native
WAS CHIEF AIDE TO AL CAPONE IN HECTIC CAREER
Local authorities are satisfied that Louis "Two-Gun" Alterie, who was shot and killed by Chicago gangsters on July 18. Was none other then Julius Varain, a native and former resident of Big Grizzly, Mariposa county.
"Alterie" is said to be a fictitious name under which Varain had been going after the death of a friend of that name who was killed in a boxing match.
He started as a bodyguard for Al Capone and worked himself up to be chief aide to the gangster, who is now in Alcatraz prison, serving time for income tax evasion. He was connected with the gangster through the long list of gang wars from illicit liquor trade, and up to Capon's powerful dominance. It is said by local officers that Varain returned here two years ago for a brief visit. The killing took place as the victim left his hotel with his wife. From the window of an apartment across the street a rain of bullets and shots met him. He died on the way to a hospital. His wife, who was by his side, was uninjured.
"Alterie's" career was marked with escapades and exploits not particularly criminal in nature, Chicago police stated, although he was suspected of being implicated in the killing of Tommy Malloy several months ago. Malloy was the movie operators' union king.
It is said that Alterie never forgot his life as a cowboy and always wore gaudy, silk, scarlet shirts and a cowboy sombrero, also a spectacular display of jewels of which he was particularly fond.
For a time he operated the "Diamond V" dude ranch near Denver Colorado. He was given the title of "Two-gun", Alterie after threatening to kill a man who had shot a friend of his. submitted by Tom Hilk
------------------------------------
RUBY ALBERTA VARAIN
April 5, 1919 -September 24,2008
Merced Sun-Star, October 1, 2008
Ruby was born on April 5, 1919 in Kiowa, Kansas to Chauncy and Nellie Hull. She went to Heaven on September 24, 2008 at Saint Agnes Hospital in Fresno with Ruby and Keith by her side.
At the age of 3, Ruby moved with her parents to Mariposa, California. She attended school and graduated from Indian Peak School in 1934 and Mariposa High School in 1941. After graduation, she went to work for Ryan Aeronautical Company in San Diego during WWII in the production of airplanes and parts for the United States Army and Navy. She moved back to Mariposa where she met the love of her life, Allen Varain and they were married in 1946. She worked harvesting apples in Mariposa at the Circle Nine Ranch and Lushmeadow. She then worked in janitorial services for John C. Fremont Hospital and the Mariposa County School District until she retired.
Ruby had many passions during her life, but most of all she liked to be busy. Ruby loved to raise cattle, can, crochet, quilt, bake and crack walnuts so everyone in the family had plenty for baking. Ruby loved to be outdoors where she could cut wood, weed and attend to her vegetable and flower garden. Ruby was very active supporting and baking for the Bootjack Volunteer Fire Auxiliary during fundraisers. She was an avid reader and often relaxed into the late night by reading romance novels. She loved to play board games with her family and be around her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. On birth. days everyone anticipated her special enchiladas and lemon birthday cakes with a special clown carrousel on top. Ruby was also an avid collector of clocks and had over 75 in her collection because she would say, "I need lots of time".
Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, Chauncy and Nellie Hull, her husband Allen Varain,grandson Richard Pearson Jr., three sisters and six brothers. Survivors include her children Richard and Lillian (Varain) Hulbert of Mariposa, Keith and Ruby (Varain) Pearson of Mariposa, Roland and Lois (Varain) Rambo of Chowchilla, Clara Mossman of Mariposa and Lee Varain of Auberry, 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren, sisters Georgiana Lewis and Rose Willis of Mariposa, sister-in-law, Clara Dias and numerous nieces and nephews. She was our special friend and such a beautiful and strong lady who loved her family and friends. She will be greatly missed by all.
Memorial services wil be held at the Mariposa Funeral home on Saturday October 4, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. officiating Pastor John Trujillio. Burial services will be private. submitted by Tom Hilk
VASQUEZ Died
October 21, 1882 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
At County Hospital, Mariposa, Oct. 17, 1882, Manuel VASQUEZ, native of
Chile, age 54.
VELGOTH, FreddieVASHE
Stockton Daily Independent
Stockton, San Joaquin Co., CA
Monday, 20 Jan 1873
DIED -- at Hornitos, Jan. 8th, Margaret VASHE, wife of Joseph VASHE, aged
29 years, 21 days.
transcribed by Dee S.
VELLGUTH, Max William
November 24, 1877 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
In Fresno, Nov. 19th of Diptheria, Max William, oldest son of Mr. and
Mrs.
Wm. VELLGUTH, aged 6 years and 6 months.
VERLEY, Mrs.
Helen
Modesto News Hearald, March 11, 1933
Young Mariposa
Matron Succumbs
Merced, March 10- Mrs. Helen Verley, 25, the wife of Chester
Verley, Mt. Bullion, Mariposa County rancher, died in a local hospital
yesterday morning following a brief illness. She was a native of South
Dakota and had lived in California three years.
The body is at the Ivers and Alcorn Parlos, where funeral plans are
being held in abeyance pending word from her mother ( from the Fresno
Bee obit the mothers name is given as Myrtle Youngberg) in South Dakota
and a sister in Chicago.
VIGNA, Joe- Death Certificate transcription, by Steve Miller, Feb-2005
Mariposa Co Bk 1 page 99
Coulterville
Joe Vigna died July 2, 1916
sex: male race: white marital stat: married
DOB: July 13, 1857
age 58y 11mo
occ: miner
BP: Italy
father: Dominick Vigna, bp Italy
mother: Dominia Vitteo, bp Italy
length of res 14yr, in state 35 yr
Informant: John J Vigna, Coulterville
date July 8, 1916.........J. W. Pratt
cause: Lobar pneumonia
2nd: pulmanary tuberculosis
D. E. Stratton MD, Chinese Camp
July 16, 1916
buried: Coulterville July 5, 1916
undertaker: C W Burdeau, Sonora
VIGNOLO, Guy
Fresno Bee Republican, March 21,1960
Guy Vignolo, 77, 45 Year Fresno resident, Dies
Guy R Vignolo, 77, of 2636 Mariposa Street, a former county detective and real estate and insurance broker, died yesterday in a local hospital following a brief illness.
His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Angelo Vignolo, were early residents of Buchanan, Madera County, when it was a part of Fresno County. Some of the deeds to land acquired by them were signed by Abraham Lincoln when he was president.
The family originally came Italy and settled in Mariposa County in 1852.
Vignolo served as a county investigator when W. C. Tupper was the district attorney in 1942. He previously represented Miller Lux as sales agent for West Side ranch property and had been engaged in the real estate business for 45 years.
Born Near Buchanan
He was born on a ranch at Buchanan. At an early age Vignolo engaged in the livestock business in Raymond, Madera County, and later opened the first meat market in Kerman. He had lived in Fresno 45 years.
In recent years Vignolo had represented oil companies in leasing land for oil exploration.
He was a veteran of World War 1 and a member of the Fresno Elks Lodge, Knights of Pythias and the American Legion.
Widow Survives
Surviving him are his widow, Mrs. Agnes H. Vignolo; two sisters, Mrs. Dolly Brown, San Francisco, and Mrs. Beatrice Lockton, Windsor, Sonoma County, and a number of nieces and nephews.
The Elks Lodge will be in charge of funeral rites, which will be Wednesday at 11 AM in the Lisle Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in the Belmont Memorial Park.\
c feroben
------------------------------------
VIGNOLO, Julius
Fresno Bee Republican, Wed. Dec 30, 1953
Julius Vignolo, Kin of Early Day Maderans, Dies
Madera, Madera Co- Funeral services for Julius B Vignolo, 68, a member of an early day Raymond district family and a native of Madera County, will be conducted tomorrow at 2 PM in the R C Jay Mortuary.
Vignolo died yesterday in a Sacramento hospital following a hear attack suffered while visiting relatives.
Since his retirement a few years ago, Vignolo had lived in Raymond. Before that he operated the old Vignolo home ranch, eight miles south of Raymond for many years.
He was the son of Angelo Vignolo (transcribers note: A Vignolo died 1889 in Buchanan) who came to California by sailing ship from his native Italy in the early 1850's when he was 15. The family settled in Hornitos in Mariposa County. The elder Vignolo and his wife were among the first couples married in the old Mariposa Courthouse. They operated a store in Hornitos, later moving to Bachanan (sic), an old Madera County mining town, where they operated another store and later went into the cattle business.
Vignolo is survived by a son, Julius B. Vignolo, Jr., of Carmichael, Sacramento County; a daughter, Mrs. Louise Slavich of San Francisco; two brothers, John J Vignolo, a retired Raymond rancher and former operator of the Vignolo Hotel in Berenda, and Guy R. Vignolo, a Fresno real estate broker; two sisters, Mrs. Dollie Brown of San Francisco and Mrs. Beatrice Lockton of Windsor, Sonoma County and two grandchildren.
Burial will be in the Madera Cemetery. c feroben
LEROY VINING
Mariposa Free Press MAY 9, 1863
(submitted by William Disbro)
At Aurora, Mono County, April 27th, 1863, Mr. LEROY VINING, aged 40
years.
Death of Former Resident of
Mariposa, at Aurora. A correspondent at Aurora, Mono county, sends us
the
following under the date of April
28th: "I regret to inform you that our old and much esteemed friend
LEROY
VINING has gone to his long home;
he died yesterday, the 27th inst., at 7 o'clock A.M., from the effects
of a wound inflicted in the lower
part of the abdomen by the accidental discharge of a deringer that he
had
in his pocket; he lived 36 hours
after the accident occurred, during which time he suffered a great
deal.
He was decently buried to-day, and
a large number of people attended his funeral. Leroy was well known as
one of the pioneers of this place
and was universally respected as a noble hearted, generous and high
minded
gentleman, and he leaves behind
many friends who deeply deplore the sad event which cut him off from
amongst
them, and who will ever
cherish a kind rememberance of the many noble qualities and virtues of
which he was possessed.
VREELAND, Elias
San Joaquin Republican, April 22, 1855:
(submitted by Joshua Reader)
Murder --The Union Democrat says that a man named Elias Vreeland was
shot
and instantly killed by a number
of Chilenos, at Coultersville, Mariposa County, on Saturday night last,
as he was leaving a fandango house.
Some twenty shots was fired at him. Mr. V. was formerly from New York."
Obituary
One of the largest funeral processions ever witnessed in Coulterville, was the one that followed all that was mortal of Charles WAGNER Jr. to his grave on Wednesday June 13th. Deceased was aged about 15 years and the only son of Charles WAGNER a worthy and esteemed citizen of Coulterville. This young man who so early in life surrendered to the sad call of death, was beloved by all who knew him, and his untimely death is universally lamented. Mr. WAGNER and daughters have the sincere sympathy of all in this great and irreparable affliction, they suffer in the loss of a loving and dutiful son and brother.
Mrs. Dan WAGNER
January 31, 1885 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Death of Mrs. Dan WAGNER
The death of Mrs. Daniel WAGNER, of Coulterville, in Stockton on the 23rd instant, will be a source of great sorrow to a host of friends and acquaintances, who knew her but to love her, and held her in the highest estimation, as a lady of a most exemplary character. For many years she was known as the hostess of the Coulterville Hotel, which suffered the ravages of fire a few years ago. The society of Coulterville and the community generally, in which she has lived so long, will miss those welcome smiles that reflected the soul and kindness of a noble women. In her departure, the relatives and friends have lost a true friend, and her husband a good wife, one whose love and devotion to him can never be replaced. The bereaved husband and relatives have the fullest sympathy of a multitude of friends in this irreparable loss.Wallace, Sarah
Mariposa Gazette, January 21, 1911
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
Died in Oakland Mrs. Sarah E. Wallace, widow of the late William J. Wallace, and a pioneer of Mariposa County, died in Oakland on Monday of this week, aged 64 years, 3 months, and 11 days. Mrs. Wallace was one of the early settlers of this county, having come here when but a girl with her father, the late Judge Wasburn, in the '50's. She was married in this county in 1865, and all the children of the family were born here. For many years the deceased was a resident of Cathey's Valley where her late husband was engaged in Farming. From Cathey's Valley the family moved to Fresno, and after the death of her husband, Mrs. Wallace went to Oakland and made her home with her children. Five sons and three daughters survive. The many friends of the aged lady in this county will regret to hear of her death.WALLER, Bennie
November 29, 1890 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
OBITUARY.
WALLER- At White Rock, November 14th, 1890, Bennie youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. A. WALLER, aged 23 months, after a brief illness, passed away. The funeral took place on Saturday the 15th instant, at 2 o'clock P.M. A large number of people were present at the funeral ceremony, which was conducted by the Rev. T. L. JONES, who chose for the subject of his remarks, II Samuel, 12-13. "I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me." The remains were interred in Mr. Lewis' cemetery, there to remain until the resurrection morn. The neighbors all sympathize with the family in there bereavement, but "They sorrow not as those which have no hope." Once we had a fragrant blossom, Full of sweetness, full of love,But the angels came and plucked it For the beauteous realm above. Little Bennie was our darling, Pride of all the hearts at home, But the angels floating lightly, Came an whispered, " Bennie come."Albert Massey WARD
Mariposa Free Press JUNE 13, 1863
(submitted by William Disbro)
In Mariposa, June 7th, ALBERT MASSEY WARD, youngest son of Dr. W.W. and Mrs. E. WARD; aged, 23 months.
February 14th, 1888 Mariposa Gazette
(Submitted by W. Disbro)
We are sorry to learn of the death of Miss Florence WARD, daughter of
our
worthy citizens Mr. and Mrs. Granville WARD, of Pea Ridge. She died at
Visalia on last Tuesday of measles. She was about 18 years of age
and was attending school at Visalia, where she would have soon
graduated.
This is a sad calamity to the family, whose bereavement will be
felt
in sorrow by many friends.
Death of Granville WARD
The people of Mariposa and surrounding country were surprised; on Saturday last to hear of the death of Granville WARD, one of the old citizens of the Lewis neighborhood. Mr. WARD has been a large stockraiser and rancher in this county for many years, and was always considered as one among our best citizens, quiet, industrious, and conscientious in his dealings with his neighbors. He had not been in very good health for some time, suffering from an accumulation of fatty matter around the heart, but up to eight days prior to his death he was able to go around and attend to his accustomed duties. Eight days before he died, he was returning from Plainsburg, when his horse jerked him around, and broke away from him, causing him to run quite a distance, which added to his feeble health, hastened his death. He leaves a widow and a large family to mourn his loss. The WARD family has been severely afflicted during the past two years, this being the fifth death which has occurred in it within that time. Two daughter, one son, a brother of Mr. WARD, and now himself. The funeral on Sunday was largely attended.
September 15, 1888 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
WAWONA ITEMS.
Bruce LEITCH writing from Wawona, under date of Sept. 12th, sends to us the following in regard to the accidental death of young Granville WARD. He says: I send you the verdict of the jury in the inquest on the body of young WARD. His name was Granville Lafayete WARD, aged 16 years, born in Mariposa. He shot himself accidentally in the left temple at Monroe Meadows, 18 miles from Yosemite Valley on the Glacier Point Road at about quarter past two o'clock on Saturday Sept. 8th, 1888. The pistol with which he shot himself was the first one he had ever handled and he was not used to fire arms. It goes to show how careful the parents of boy's should be in allowing them to handle firearms of any kind. The following is the verdict of the jury.Monroe Meadows, Sept. 9th, 1888.
We the jury summoned to inquire into the death of Granville L. WARD, find that he came to his death by a pistol shot in the left temple fired from a pistol in the hands of said Granville L. WARD. We further find that said shot was fired accidentally.F. W. YOCUM,
Near Lewis', Mariposa County, July 21st, 1889, Isaac WARD, a native of Virginia aged 65 years.
WARD, Russel H.
April 19, 1890 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Gone to Rest.
An Old Pioneer Of Merced County Passes Away.
The following notice of Russel H. WARD, so well-known to all the legal fraternity in this part of the State, is from the Merced Express, which also publishes the highly eulogistic and appropriate resolutions presented by the Bar Association, of Merced county, to the Court, Hon. J. M. CORCORAN, of Mariposa county, presiding. Russel H. WARD, a prominent lawyer of Merced, died at his residence, on 21st Street, in this place, on Wednesday evening last, after an illness of about 10 days, from a complication of diseases. The deceased removed from the State of Arkansas to California in the year 1852, when about sixteen years of age. He remained in Southern California until the following year, when he removed to Tuolumne County, and there resided until about 1860, thence to Merced County, where he has resided continuously until his death. Mr. WARD has filled, at different times, honorable official positions in this county. In 1865, he was elected a member of the Assembly, and served his constituents with honor and distinction. Upon his return from duties as Assemblyman, he was admitted to practice law in all the Courts of the 13th Judicial District of the State of California, and has followed his profession ever since. He was twice elected District Attorney of Merced County, which office he filled with credit to himself and satisfaction to the taxpayers. As a lawyer he stood in the first ranks, and was always true and faithful to his clients. For several years he has been in feeble health, but his great energy and indomitable will sustained him until his vital machinery gave out and he had to succumb to the will of Him who said " Dust thou art and unto dust thou shalt return." He leaves a wife, three daughters and three sons to mourn the loss of a devoted husband and father. He leaves hosts of friends behind who have been steadfast in his life time, and who deeply sympathize with his family in their bereavement.The funeral took place yesterday afternoon from the First Presbyterian Church, and was largely attended. The procession, which was led by the Merced Brass Band, was one of the largest that ever passed through the streets of our city. All the business houses were closed during the afternoon.
WARD, William
Oct. 19, 1881 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Dr. William WARD, for many years resident of Mariposa county, and a California Pioneer, died at Altamount, Alameda County, Monday, the 24th instant, and the funeral will take place at two o'clock this afternoon from the Central M. E. Church in this city. Deceased was a gentleman of fine mental culture, brilliant in his profession, and kindly and hospitable in disposition. The sad tidings of his death will be received with sorrow by his many friends in Mariposa and elsewhere in the State. Deceased leaves few relatives- one son, who resides in Mariposa, and a cousin, Judge John H. STANLEY, of San Francisco.- Stockton Independent, October 26. Thirty-two years ago on the 13th day of September last, we were one of a band of adventurers numbering about thirty, who left their native homes, relatives and friends, sacrificing worldly comforts and a competency bequeathed by our ancestors, all to gratify an insatiable desire to acquire heaps of gold which so brilliantly loomed up on the horizon of our electric imaginations, and which became a general epidemic throughout the land in the days of '49.DEATH OF A. H. WASHBURN
Thirty-two years ago Dr. W.W. WARD was a companion with us as we entered what is now the sacred precinct of Mariposa. Our little band of thirty is now diminished in number- we can only find three or four left. Billy Evans of Bear Valley, old John ALLEN living somewhere in the Chowchilla region, and poor old negro Oscar, who is somewhat demented; he can't remember much about crossing the plains, except the killing of many a fat rattlesnake. There is one other whom we came near to forgetting, Thos. EARLY, formerly Sheriff of this county, who has for several years been confined in the Insane asylum at Stockton. To the best of our recollection and information, there are but four or five left today of the hopeful band of fellows with whom we camped upon the golden banks of Mariposa Creek in the days of '49. Dr. Ward was a man of intelligence and well educated in his profession as a physician. Had he studiously applied himself to his profession while in California, he could have enjoyed heaps of gold he was always seeking to find otherwise than by utilizing his profession. Who next of our little band is to cross the mortal threshold? The number is narrowing down; perhaps we are listed for the next boat.
Untimely End of an Active and Useful Life. The death of A. H. WASHBURN, which occurred in San Francisco last Saturday, was a shock to many of our people who knew him well and to whom he had endeared himself by many acts of kindness.The following account of Mr. Washburn's life and death is from the San Francisco Call:
A. H. Washburn, one of California's sturdy citizens, a pioneer and without doubt the greatest of all developers of Yosemite Valley, passed away suddenly and peacefully at a private sanitarium in this city early yesterday (Saturday) morning. When life left the old mountaineer's body the State lost one of its grandest characters - a man who had never intentionally wrought an evil act and who had scarcely any knowledge of the existence of wrong. Washburn's nominal residence was San Francisco, but the greater portion of the past half century was spent in the rugged fastnesses of the beautiful valley he called his own, surrounded by the environments of nature that won his adoration in childhood. Those who are left to mourn are by no means limited to the Golden State. Celebrities of the world have followed the pioneer over the precipitous paths that led to splendid scenery, and in taking their departure have carried with them a remembrance of his fine character. Washburn was born in Vermont sixty-six years ago. He was a stanch Green Mountain boy. In the early fifties he came to the coast and located a Bridgeport, Mariposa County. When Galen Clark discovered the Big Tree Grove Washburn entered the Yosemite Valley and at once commenced to prepare roads and footways that would render access to the interior easy. He constructed roads from Merced, Madera and Raymond, after having run a wagon road to Mariposa and a saddle trail to the end of the route. When Charles Crocker, father of Colonel C. F. Crocker, asked Washburn why he did not complete the wagon road he replied that he had not the necessary funds. Crocker then backed him and he built a road to Wawona into the heart of the valley. Since that time Washburn had done more than any other man in constructing and improving passages, and expended thousands of dollars in such work. At the time of his death he had over 400 horses employed in the transportation of tourists, and it is estimated that during his lifetime he guided over 75,000 visitors through the paradise that had entranced him in his youth. Among the later were men of title and of foreign climes. Presidents Hayes, Grant and Garfield saw the valley under his direction, and only recently several celebrities made the trip with him. Washburn was taken ill one week ago Wednesday. His condition was serious for a time, but on Friday evening he improved and was considered out of danger. The physician in attendance pronounced the malady one of ptomaine poisoning and prescribed for such. Shortly after 3 o'clock yesterday morning a blood vessel burst in the patient's brain and he passed away soon afterward. He leaves a wife and a daughter, Mrs. Charles HIGGINS; two grandchildren, Charles H. HIGGINS, Jr. and Henrietta HIGGINS, and two brothers, E. H. WASHBURN and John W. WASHBURN. The later reside at Wawona. The funeral took place at 12 o'clock Tuesday from St. Paul's Episcopal Church on California Street. It was very largely attended and the chancel was banked with beautiful floral offerings, of which there were an unusual number from the many friends of the deceased. There was a large representation of railroad men present at the services and many prominent business men of this city. The services were conducted by Rev. W. M. REILLY, rector of the church. The honorary pallbearers were: M. S. WILSON,Thomas R. HAYES, D. W. HITCHCOCK, J. P. IRISH, J. H. GOODMAN, L. F. ROWELL and R. H. PATT. The active pall bearers were chosen from among the old stage drivers, some of whom had driven the Yosemite stages in early days and since the line was first established by Mr. Washburn. It was very affecting to see them do this last honor to the man they had known and loved as a friend. There were: S. H. OWENS. J. J. WHITE, Tom GORDON, Henry HEDGES, San WREN, James WARNER, C. K. SALMON and S. J. ASHWORTH.
Mrs. Jean Bruce WASHBURN
Mariposa Gazette, Feb. 6, 1904
(submitted by T Hilk)
Death of Mrs. Washburn widow of the late Henry Washburn of the Yosemite Stage and Turnpike Company, and known as "The Poetess of Yosemite," died at her home, 2525 Fillmore street, January 30th, after a prolonged illness. Mrs. Washburn was an accomplished and brilliant woman and her poems had a high reputation in the East as well as in California. Particularly beautiful were her many verses of familiar spots in Yosemite valley, where she spent all her summers until the last few years, when invalidism confined her to her city home. Her poem on the valley itself has been recited by many famous tourists. During the Civi War she wrote several patriotic verses which became popular and her poem on flogging in the Navy led to Congress abolishing the custom.Mariposa Gazette, Saturday, June 28, 1917
Mrs. WASHBURN was one of the first to visit Yosemite, going in with her husband on horseback. She named the Virgin's tears falls, which recent year were especially large and beautiful. She was full of womanly grace, generous and kindly, and beloved by mountain and city friends as a good neighbor and a true friend. She leaves a daughter, Mrs. Charles HIGGINS. Funeral services were held at her home yesterday morning and her remains will be cremated at 10 o'clock today (Monday) at the Odd Fellows cemetery. – San Francisco Chronicle. Mrs. Washburn was well known to many of our older inhabitants, having lived here for many years. It was here that she and A. H. WASHBURN were married on December 18, 1865.
JOHN S WASHBURN
PIONEER HOTEL MAN CALLED BY DEATH Known to Californians and world tourists generally as the pioneer stage and hotel man of Yosemite park, John S. Washburn died at the age of 78 Thursday night, at the Fabiola hospital in Oakland, following a long illness. Mr. Washburn was born in Randolph Vermont, December 30, 1838, where he spent his youth, arriving in San Jose in 1874. He returned east during that year and again coming to the State in 1875, settled at Wawona, Mariposa County. He was a brother of and associated with the late Henry Washburn, who established stage lines running from Merced, Madera and Raymond to Yosemite and the Mariposa grove of big trees. He is survived by his widow, who is the daughter of the late Thomas Hill, a well known artist of this state, and a son Clarence A. WASHBURN. The funeral was held on Monday, interment being private.
AGNES WASS
Mariposa Gazette Thursday, November 11, 1999
(submitted by Chriss Kleiman)
Agnes Wass, a long time resident of Mariposa, died Nov. 5 at the family ranch on Allred Road.
Mrs. Wass was born in San Francisco on June 1, 1904. Her parents and grandparents were early settlers in Mariposa. She married Herman Wass on Dec. 10, 1921, and they made their home and raised their family on the Wass Ranch. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Wass, in October 1981, and one son, Ernest Clinton, on Aug 27, 1963. Mrs. Wass is survived by three sons, James and Melvin Wass of Mariposa and Alfred Wass of Walla Walla Wash., two daughters, Lois Sparks of Mariposa and Edna Washburn of Atwater, 15grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.
Funeral serviced were held Wednesday Nov 10 at 1pm at the Mariposa Funeral Home. Burial immediately followed at the Mariposa Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to friends of Hospice.
WASS, Eliza A.
Merced Express, Jan. 6, 1933
(Submitted by Thomas Hilk)
MARIPOSA WOMAN IS CALLED BY DEATH
Mrs. Eliza A. Wass, aged 67 years, wife of Louis M. Wass, Mariposa county ranch, died at her home Sunday morning. Funeral services in charge of Welch & Griffin were held Tuesday afternoon in Mariposa. Mrs. Wass was born in Mariposa county March 15, 1865, and had spent practically her entire life there. Surviving are the husband, six sons and daughters, two brothers and a sister. The brothers are Joel Ashworth of Raymond and Jack Ashworth of Wawona; the sister is Mrs. Nora Gordon of Mariposa; the sons are William H. Wass of Usona, L. M. Wass of Mariposa; the daughters are Mrs. Ethel DeMoss of Le Grand and Mrs. Aileen Phillips of Usona.
WASS, Elisa A.
Elisa A. Wass Dies Sunday At Ranch Home
Funeral
services were held in Mariposa Tuesday
afternoon for Mrs. Eliza
A. Wass, 67, native of Mariposa county, who died
at the home Sunday
morning. Services were in charge of the Welch
and Griffin funeral home
of Merced.
Mrs.
Wass was the wife of Louis M. Wass, Mariposa
rancher. She was born
March 15, 1865 in Mariposa county and had spent
practically her entire
life in the vicinity.
Surviving
are the husband six sons and daughters,
a sister and two
brothers. Sons and daughters are Mrs. Ethel De
Moss of Le Grand, William
Mariposa Gazette JANUARY 22, 1876
(submitted by William Disbro)
At Mussel Slough, Tulare County, January 15th, 1876, aged about 80.
WEBB, Clara
Mariposa Gazette [Mariposa, CA.]
Thursday, June 21, 1945
Clara Webb, 85, Called By Death
Sunday, June 17th
The passing of Mrs. Clara Webb, 85, at her home at Webb Station last Sunday,
marked the close of a pioneer life in Mariposa county.
Mrs. Webb was born Aug. 7, 1859, at Mariposa and had lived all of her life
here.
The Webbs operated a stage station on the Coulterville road in the early
Yosemite days. The late William Webb died Aug. 19, 1894. They were the parents of
seven children, five girls and two boys. Mrs. Lillian Webb Varain Jr. died
March, 1931, and Magnolia Webb Drake died in January, 1919.
The three daughters surviving are Mrs. Maude Thomas and Mrs. Mattie Founts
of Merced, and Mrs. Georgia Francis of Hughson. The sons surviving are Joe Webb
of Webb Station and Eddie Webb of Moccasin Creek.
Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at 9:30 at Our Lady of Mercy
Catholic church, Merced, with the Rev. Father Thomas Morgan officiating.
Recitation of the Rosary was Tuesday night at 8:30 at Ivers and Alcorn Mission chapel.
Burial was in the family plot at Snelling cemetery.
WEBB CLARA 08/07/1859 CATHERS BETTES F CALIFORNIA MARIPOSA
06/17/1945 85 yrs
Transcribed by Alma Stone
Merced Sun Star [Merced, CA.]
Saturday, Feb. 3, 1962
Obituaries
Eddie Webb
Eddie Webb, 82, one of the last of the oldtime stage drivers, died in a Sonora hospital Friday after a brief illness. One of his sisters, Mrs. Mattie Founts, resides in Merced.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Terzich and Wilson Funeral Home in Sonora.
He was born on a ranch near Hornitos and was reared at Webb Station, about six miles north of Merced Falls. The family said he drove stage coaches from Merced to Coulterville and about the turn of the century opened up his own line. He worked for a construction firm building Hetch Hetchy project and retired in the middle of 1940's.
He also leaves two other sisters, Mrs. Maude Thomas of Modesto, and Mrs. Georgiana Francis of Hughson, a brother, Joe Webb of Merced Falls, and several nieces and nephews.
Transcribed by Alma Stone
WEBB, JOE
Merced Sun Star [Merced, CA.]
Aug. 29, 1980, page 9.
Obituaries
Joe Webb
MERCED FALLS _ Graveside services are scheduled Saturday at 2 p.m. in Snelling Cemetery for Joe Webb, 95, a retired farmer, who died Thursday in a Merced hospital.
Robert Monroe, New Testament Church of Snelling, will conduct the services.
Born April 11, 1885, at Merced Falls, Webb had a prominent role in the early transportation business of Merced County. In 1909 he drove the last stagecoach to take tourist from Coulterville into Yosemite Valley.
He was the survivor of seven children of Billy and Clara Webb, a native of Hornitos. The family operated Webb Station in the foothills between Merced Falls and Coulterville during the stagecoach era. Webb Station was a regular stop on the stage line from Stoddard Stables in Merced to Coulterville.
He is survived by a niece, Clara Dias of Modesto; two nephews, John Varain and Allen Varain, both of Mariposa, and numerious grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
Friends may call at Ivers and Alcorn Funeral Home, Merced.
Transcribed by Alma Stone
May, 14, 1881 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Stockton's founder and Greatest Philanthropist Gone.
We publish in another column, on the first page, a notice of the death of one of California's earliest pioneers, announced in the Stockton Herald of May 4th. We first met with Captain WEBER in Stockton in October 1849. We were there at the time from Mariposa with a small pack train of our own for the purpose of laying in a supply of provisions for winter. Stockton then was but a small village of canvass tents, there being but one board house standing on the bank of the slough near the foot of Centre street, and known as WEBER'S old store or trading post. From 1850 to the fall of 1854 we resided in Stockton, where we were engaged in the express and stage business. Our office, which was situated on Levees near the corner of Centre Street, was the principle business mart of the town. The arrival every morning of a steamboat from San Francisco loaded with passengers destined for every prominent point in the southern mines, booking passengers and collecting fares- $25 each, two days through to Sonora, Mokelumne Hill or Mariposa, all anxious to get off to the gold fields, where they expected to bag a fortune in a few days made it at that time a lively and exciting business for the office of "Reynolds & Co.'s Express and Stage Office," the only one of its kind at that time in Stockton. One department of our office was a newspaper, stationary and periodical depot, which attracted a great deal of attention and interest at that early period. Mr. WEBER, the subject of our sketch, was a constant visitor, and for two years and upwards, as certain as the sun went down and the office was eliminated for the evening, he was equally certain to appear and spend a hour or two in perusing the newspapers and looking through the stationary department. He wore an unobtrusive manner, was extremely courteous, agreeable in conversation, and, notwithstanding his great wealth, he was not above yielding to the necessities of many poor people in want of homes. He would give them city lots to build upon and acres of land outside the city limits to cultivate, which afterwards resulted in fortunes to many of those so beneficently contributed to. If our memory serves us correctly, he was married to a Miss MURPHY, a beautiful lady resident of San Jose, or somewhere in that section of California, in 1850. Upon his arrival home in Stockton with his bride, it was deemed necessary to have a convivial of some sort, sometimes styled an infair, in commemoration of the important event. A few friends and acquaintances were gathered in, and the next thing in importance to make the little party agreeable was music. Stockton was traversed over and over in search of someone who could play the fiddle suitable for a dance, but no one could be found. By some means it leaked out that we could play a violin, and we were pressed into service for the occasion, terminating with a enjoyable time. We speak of this simply as a pleasurable reminiscence connected with Captain WEBER, the founder of Stockton, whose name, accompanied with many excellent virtues, will always be an interesting chapter of its early history. The event of the funeral, which took place on the 7th instant, an account of which we publish in another column of this paper, taken from the Evening Mail, a daily paper published in Stockton, goes to prove that the citizens of that city en masse were fully appreciative of the loss they had sustained in the death of one whose noble impulses predominated with love and philanthropy for the citizens of one of the greatest commercial cities of the Pacific Coast, and of which he was the founder. Too much cannot be said or written in praise of this great and good man. Trading post. From 1850 to the fall of 1854 we resided in Stockton, where we were engaged in the express and stage business.WEILER, John
October 29, 1892 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
John WEILER.
Early last Monday morning, John WEILER breathed his last, after an illness which had extended over several weeks. Mr. WEILER was among our oldest residents, and was well known all over the county. He had at one time been a prosperous business man, but poor health and reverses had come with later years. Always a quite and well respected citizen, he had many friends throughout Mariposa county. He was a member, both of the Masonic and Odd Fellows' Lodges of this town. Both orders turned out to bury him but he was buried in the Masonic yard under their auspices. Many friends and acquaintances followed him to the grave. He left a widow and four children.WELCH, Thomas
WEILER
MARIPOSA PUBLISHER IS DEAD AT MERCED
Modesto News-Herald, May 5 1927
Merced, May 4- John L Weiler, 52, pioneer of Mariposa and publisher of the Mariposa Gazette, from 1901 until 1919, died in Merced today. After selling the Maripsoa Gazette in 1919 he established the Mariposa News which he was publishing at the time of his death.- c feroben
August 12, 1893 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Thomas WELCH, one of Mariposa's pioneers of 1853, died in San
Francisco,
Aug. 7th. He was well known in Sherlocks.
William E. WELLS
February 15,1863 Mariposa Free Press
(submitted by W Disbro)
In Cathey's Valley, on Thursday, January 29th, aged 50 years and 4 months.
WEST, Thos.
Mariposa Gazette November 6, 1877
(submitted by W Disbro)
In Mariposa, November 1st, 1875, Thos. C. WEST, a native of Missouri, aged 37 years.
WHEATON, Chas.
Sept. 28,1878 Mariposa Gazette
Homicide - A homicide occurred at Michael's ranch, on Course Gold Gulch, last Friday. We are unable to learn much of the affair, but from what we can glean it seems that Chas WHEATON and George JOHNSON got into a dispute over money matters, and from words the parties came to blows. In the melee JOHNSON stabbed WHEATON in the neck, cutting a frightful gash, and also in the breast, in the region of the heart, besides inflicting other minor wounds. The affray took place near the lower end of Michael's fence. There were no witnesses to the affair. After cutting WHEATON, JOHNSON went to Michael's house, where he told what he had done, and a number of persons at the store went down to the spot where the affray occurred. WHEATON only lived a few moments after they arrived. WHEATON was a elderly man and was a carpenter by trade. JOHNSON is a new comer and has been mining in the vicinity. He gave himself up and was brought to this place by Deputy Sheriff PICKETT, and lodged in jail to await examination. There was much indignation expressed over the killing, and we learn that there was at one time talk of lynching JOHNSON, He, however, claims the killing was done in self defense; that WHEATON first attacked him with a pick handle. Fresno Expositor of Sept. 25. This is, we understand, the George JOHNSON, a miner, who for many years has resided in this section, and for a long time worked in the Hite mine, at Hite's Cove, and is well known to this community. He is particularly noted here for his peaceable and quiet disposition; he was never known to have any difficulty that we can hear of, or ever to disturb the peace in any manner. He enjoys the reputation among the people of this section where he is generally known, of being an honest and industrious miner; and the people here express surprise at the sad difficulty in which he s entangled, and give it freely as an opinion that the difficulty must have been forced upon him by the unfortunate man whom he killed.
CAROLINE WHITE
died April 1, 1859- age 26 years, wife of Captain White (this is from a
tombstone found at the Mariposa Cemetery - C Feroben)
Captain White
March 10, 1877 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by William Disbro)
Found Dead- Saturday morning last a Mexican came into town and informed some of our citizens that a man was laying dead in a gulch about a mile north of the town of Mariposa. A number of citizens went to the place designated, and found the body of Cap. WHITE, a laborer, for some time past in the employ of Jas.MALONE, a miner. Mr. WHITE had been in town on a spree, for a day or two prior to his death, and Thursday, March 1st, started to go home, being under the influence of liquor. It appears that when he got to the place where his body was found, he lay down to sleep, putting his coat under his head for a pillow. During the night it began to rain, and it is supposed that he died from exposure. His remains were bought to town and taken charge of by Mr. Malone, who had them interred in a becoming manner. No quest was held on the body as it was evident that he died from Exposure.Benjamin F. WHITE
This gentleman whose death occurred near this place, on the 2nd instant, of which notice was given in last weeks paper, was a native of New Hampshire and a veteran of the Mexican War, where he served as a captain in Caleb CUSHINGS Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers. He came to California in 1849 and has resided in Mariposa County since 1852, where he followed the pursuit of mining up to the time of his death. He was 65 years old.H. H. WHITE
Death of Dr. H. H. WHITE.
We find in the Homer INDEX, published at Lundy, a notice of the death of Dr. H. H. WHITE the dentist. That papers states he died in Bodie on the night of October 9th of pneumonia after a few hours of illness. For ten years prior to the last two, Dr. WHITE was a frequenter of this section in the business of his profession, dentistry, and was well known throughout the county. He was a great friend of J. H. MILLER, of Miller's Saloon of this place, and prior to MILLER's death, when here, the doctor spent most of his leisure moments at Miller's Saloon in company with his friend who he esteemed so highly, and who like himself, was of a convivial turn of mind and of a lively disposition. The town of Mariposa was never dull when the two got together, and many happy hours have been spent in their company by a large number who still live and can well recollect the features and smiling faces of the two amiables who were always so cordial and ready to greet you with a welcome. But both have been called away and their magic laugh and gifted inspirations, with which they had together so many admirers have ceased, and all is silent as the tomb. The deceased leaves a wife and two grown children, a daughter and a son, residing in Stockton.Joseph WHITE
Mariposa Gazette APRIL 17, 1875
(submitted by W Disbro)
Near Mount Gaines Mill, April 12, 1875, Joseph WHITE, Jr. a native of Louisiana, aged 44 years.
Sudden Death - Frank CLOW, who was in town on Wednesday last, informs us that the day previous a very sudden death occurred at the home of Mr. and Mrs. WHITFIELD, on the Bolton Hill, Chowchilla. One of their children, a four-year-old boy, who a few minutes before was playing at the woodpile and not exceeding 15 minutes after being discovered he was dead. He must have died of strangulation as Mrs. WHITFIELD decided it was the coup; which was, no doubt, of the worst form, known as membranous croup. Mr. CLOW was in a hurry to return as he said he had made a coffin and that the child was to be buried the next day. Mr. WHITFIELD was temporarily absent when the sad affliction occurred.WHITFORD, Frank
December 30, 1870 Mariposa Free Press
(submitted by William Disbro)
Shocking Accident - On Friday last, Frank WHITFORD, an employee of the Pine Tree Vein, in Bear Valley, was descending the ladder in the mine with powder and fuse, when, from some unknown cause, the powder exploded, mangling and mutilating him in a dreadful manner. Both eyes were put out, his nose blown off, one arm torn off below the elbow, and other portions of his body literally torn in shreds. His mangled remains were born to the surface of the ground, and notwithstanding the frightful nature of the injuries, the unfortunate man survived an hour and a half- had perfect consciousness of his condition, and dictated his will and gave directions about his affairs. No one knows with any certainty as to the cause of the explosion. Mr. WHITFORD's duty was superintending the loading and firing of blasts, and at the time of the occurrence had attached to his person a number of cartridges, some fuse and caps. The powder used is a compound of giant powder and ordinary gun powder, and is called Hercules powder. It only burns slowly upon application of ordinary fire, but explodes by percussion. It is supposed that in descending one of the cartridges may have suddenly struck a rung of the ladder. Mr. WHITFORD has resided in this county several years, and was highly respected by all who knew him. He was a native of Ohio, and forty-two years of age.WHITNEY, Eugene A.
Death of Eugene A. WHITNEY - Mr. Eugene A. WHITNEY, a young man but 27> years of age, after a brief illness, died on the 12th inst. Mr. WHITNEY was a native of Vermont, and came to California six or seven years ago, and has made Mariposa his home ever since. About a year since he married Miss Eugenia RIDGEWAY of this place, who is left with an infant but a few weeks old, to mourn his untimely taking away. He was a young man of exemplary habits, industrious, kindhearted and generous to a fault. His death is regretted by the entire community, and the sympathies of a sorrowing people are extended to the bereaved widow and her orphaned babe.
WICKAM, James
January 14,1882 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Killed by Falling Tree.
The following dispatch was received at this office about noon on
Wednesday
last: Ditch Camp. January 9, 1882. Editor Gazette: James WICKAM,
residing
near Fish Camp, and about six miles from
Big Tree Station, who was well and favorably known to many in this
section
and Mariposa, was instantly killed near Mr. Martin DILLON's
cabin, about two miles from Fish Camp. The particulars as I learned
them
from Mr. DILLON, are as follows: Mr. WICHAM went over to
Mr.
DILLON's place this morning to assist Mr. DILLON in falling some
timber.
At about half past two this afternoon, they had just finished chopping
down a large
fir
tree which in falling, struck a dry tree about midway breaking it in
two,
the upper half flying back and striking WICKAM in the forehead, killing
him instantly. (signed) E. L. HOWARD
Immediately
following the dispatch appeared Mr. HOWARD and Mr. DILLON with two
horses
and wagon, containing a rough box, in which were
deposited
the remains of poor WICKAM, who, but a few days since, was here on a
visit,
stopping at our house. As the remains were being
placed
temporarily in the back room of the Templar's Hall, our little boys,
who
thought so much of " Wick," for little Willie's face was covered with
tears,
and his grief was so great, that he refused to eat his
regular
dinner, which was ready at the time. Deceased was a printer, well known
to the fraternity, which profession
he
followed from boyhood up to about three years ago, when he took to the
mountains and located a timber claim, where he has since been engaged
making
shakes and shingles for a livelihood up to the time of his death.
He was a man possessed of generous impulses, honest in his business
transactions
with men, quite intelligent and industrious. He was a native of
Indiana,
aged about 50 years. He came to California in an early day, and for the
first fifteen years was a roving printer. He never sought
society,
and with the exception of little children, was devoid of fraternal love
for any one. The next day (Thursday), the remains of the
unfortunate
WICHAM were followed by a number of friends and acquaintances to the
public
cemetery, where the last sad rites were religiously bestowed, and all
that
remains of him on earth was peacefully laid away to rest.
WIGGIN
MAY 19, 1877 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
In Coulterville, May 10th, 1877, M. WIGGIN, a native of Maine, aged 64 years. Maine papers please copy.
WILCOX, Ann
Mariposa Gazette, June 19, 1875
(submitted by William Disbro)
In San Francisco, June 16th, 1875, Mrs. Ann WILCOX, wife of Hon. J.W. WILCOX, of Bear Valley, Mariposa County, aged 38 years.
WILEY, John W.
December 12, 1891 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Baxter B. BERRY, an old pioneer of Sebastopol and for twenty years Justice of the Peace, died at his home, this place, Wednesday morning: Just after the corpse of Mr. BERRY was placed by the pall bearers ready for the ceremony John W. WILEY, another old pioneer, fell from his chair and expired in a few seconds. He had acted as pall-bearer and had made an extra effort in lifting the corpse up the stairway, which caused his sudden demise.
John H. Wilkinson
Mariposa Gazette Nov. 24 1906
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
One of the saddest deaths we have been called upon to chronicle is that of John H. WILKINSON, who during the early part of the week died at Sonora, Mexico. The deceased was a son of J. B. WILKINSON our well known teach, and was a young man whose exemplary habits made him popular. He married a daughter of the late Ralph BARCROFT of Hornitos and his widow and four children are left to mourn his early demise. Johnny WILKINSON was an educated, industrious and a God Fearing man and his death in the prime of life is keenly felt by friends as well as by relatives.
Mrs. M. Wilkinson (nee Barcroft) October 9, 1940
(submitted by: Harriet Sturk)
Dies in Merced Hospital Tuesday
DEATH CLAMIS PIONEER WOMAN YESTERDAY
Death in a Merced Hospital claimed the life of Mrs. Mary Barcroft
WILKINSON
one of Madera's well known retired school instructors late
Tuesday.
Mrs.. Wilkinson was born in Hornitos and attended the public schools
there
and the state normal. She lived in Stockton for several years and was
married
to John WILKINSON in Madera October 14, 1893, by Judge Wm.
CONLEY. They moved to Mexico where WILKINSON was a distributor for the
Victrola Company. After his death Mrs. WILKINSON
moved
to Madera with her children where she engaged in teaching school until
her retirement two years ago. To mourn her passing she leaves
four
children: Mrs. Miriam SCHELL and Mrs. Carol DALY OF Stockton, Mrs.
Helen
MCFEELEY of Merced and Ralph WILKENSON of
Salinas, one brother Joe BARCROFT of
Madera, and three nephews, Will and Frank BARCROFT of Merced and David
BARCROFT of Madera, and four Nieces: Mr. Isabell NESSLER
and
Evelyn QUINN of Sacramento, Mrs. Genevieve CONN of Madera and Mrs. Iola
BARCROFT-SMITH of Santa Maria. Services will be
held at the St. Joachim's church Friday morning at 8:30 followed by
aramgerment
in the Arbor Vitae cemetery in the BARCROFT Family plot. R. S. Jay is
in
charge of the arrangements. Pallbearers
were
Harry MUNTER, D. P. BARCROFT, A. E. PRECIADO, Merv DALEY, Rex SCHELL
AND
Y. V. PRECIADO.
WILLIAMS, Robert
April 24, 1886 Mariposa Gazette
(Submitted by W. Disbro)
Death Of Robert WILLIAMS
Last Sunday morning, April 17th, 1886, at 3 o'clock A. M., after a
brief
illness, ended the career of the long and arduous life of Robert
WILLIAMS.
He was a pioneer to this section, and has followed
the
business of saloon keeper a greater portion of the time. Other than
that,
he has made several efforts to realize a speedy fortune in
mining, but has never succeeded. The last fire, which occurred in
Mariposa
about a year ago, carried away his saloon building and most of
the
fixtures. He was a very popular saloon keeper, and usually prospered at
the business. But he was an exceedingly generous man, always giving and
dividing withsomeone as long as he had a cent. He lived to a good old
age
(71 years), and had the appearance of a much younger man. But for the
disease,
abcess in the
stomach, he would, no doubt, have lived yet, many years. He seemed to
have
been lost to all of his relations, having been absent so long and not
hearing
of, or from any of them since he was here. He was a great
friend
to Mrs. Georgiana ADAMS and her mother, with whom he has boarded for
many
years. He received from them the best attention and care in his
last
illness. Poor Bob, as he was always called, will be greatly missed by
his
many friends, who knew him but to like him for his many
kindnesses
shown in life. He was a truly honest, high minded and generous to a
fault.
His funeral was largely attended, and John HITE, Chas. BOGAN,
Jarvis
STREETER, Adam VOLK, Wm. R. KNIGHT, John MITCHELL, George ROBINSON and
George KNIGHT were pall bearers. The services (owing to the
absence
of Rev. Joel HEDGPETH) were conducted at the grave by Mrs. GALLISON.
The
deceased was a native of Ireland, aged 71 years.
B. M. WILLIS
November 24, 1883 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
The last sickness and death of B. M. WILLIS at Pea Ridge, on Thursday
last,
is said to have been distressing and sorrowful in the extreme. He had
been
suffering for some time with disease of the
bladder,
from which, in his efforts to obtain medical relief, he had exhausted
the
last farthing of his worldly means, leaving nothing for the support of
his wife and three children, who have no relatives in the State, and
are
thus left dependent on public charity. It is to be hoped that the
afflicted
family will be cared for by the generous public. Owing to the
decomposed
state of the body, it was found necessary to bury the deceased at Pea
Ridge
instead of Mariposa as first contemplated.
WILLIS-
At Pea Ridge, Mariposa County, November 22d, 1883, B. M. WILLIS, aged
45
years, a native of Tennessee.
WILLIS, William
March 5, 1887 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
The late William WILLIS - William WILLIS whose death occurred in San
Francisco,
was at a early day a resident of Sonora, Tuolumne county, and
subsequently
removed to Mariposa, where he was Deputy- County clerk. Many of the
pioneer
settlers recollect "Bill WILLIS," and the earliest records of the
county
show, in his hand writing, some of the most magnificent specimens
of penmanship extant. Mr. WILLIS left Mariposa about, 1854, and since
that
date has lived in San Francisco and for over twenty years has been
employed
as the Secretary of the Belcher Mining Company. At a meeting of the
Board
of Directors a preamble and resolutions were adopted paying
a handsome tribute to his efficiency and worth, and expressing their
sympathy
with his afflicted family. The resolutions were entered upon the
minutes of the Company and a copy sent to Mrs. WILLIS.
Mariposa Gazette, Mariposa, Ca., Thurs.
June 19, 1947
Emily Willoughby Dies Suddenly at Mt. Bullion Home
Mrs. Emily Willoughby, 62, of Mt. Bullion, died at her home there early
this morning, apparently as the result of a heart attack.
Although Mrs. Willoughby had been receiving medical attention recently,
her condition was not thought to be critical.
A native of Minnesota, she had resided in Mariposa county 15 years. She
is survived by her husband, Rupert A. Willoughby of Mt. Bullion, and
two sons, Ralph Willoughby of Sacramento and Lawrence Willoughby of the
U.S. Navy.
Funeral arrangements have not been made, awaiting the arrival of her
sons. transcribed by Alma Stone
WILLS, Violet Cathay
DEATH -- in Cathay's Valley, Mariposa county, Sept. 29th, Violet
Cathay, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin WILLS,
in the 6th year of her age. Stockton Daily
Independent, Oct 6, 1868. submitted by Dee S
WILSON, Christopher
October 7, 1865 Mariposa Free Press
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Fatal Encounter
On Saturday last, an affray occurred on Main Street between James H.
LAWRENCE,
proprietor of this paper, and Christopher WILSON, which resulted in
the
death of the latter. It appears from the evidence that a difficulty
occurred
between them on the 5th of August last, in which Mr. WILSON drew a
pistol
on Mr. Lawrence, at the same time catching him around the neck
with
one arm and applying many harsh epithets to him. Mr. Lawrence at that
time
being unarmed and entirely at the mercy of his antagonist,
made no resistance; and WILSON afterwards told one of the witnesses
that
in case he shown fight on that occasion, he (W.)
would
have killed him. On Saturday last WILSON came into town, and before
night
was drinking conciderably, and while under the influence of liquor made
treats against the life of LAWRENCE. Some two hours before the shooting
took place he told a friend of his that " if LAWRENCE looked at him" he
intended to kill him. Mr. LAWRENCE was standing in frount
of
BACHMAN'S saloon, talking with another man, when he first saw WILSON,
and
having been cautioned he avoided him, as the latter was seeking a
difficulty,
he started up the street toward home, when WILSON stepped in front of
him
and said: "Jim LAWRENCE, you don't like me." LAWRENCE replied, "Chris,
I have nothing against you." WILSON responded, " G-d d--n you, I know
you
don't like me." LAWRENCE replied, "Chris, if you say
so, I will give you my hand in friendship now," and stepped forward and
extended his hand. WILSON cocked his pistol, wheeled directly
in
front of him, and said, " G-d d--n you, if you want anything out of me
come on." Lawrence jumped back two steps, pulled a dragoon six-shooter
and fired twice, one of his shots taking effect in the left side,
just below the heart. LAWRENCE cocked his pistol to fire again, when
WILSON
bent over, placed his hand upon his side, and said he was shot, and
walked
in through the saloon to a back room, where he sat down in a chair.
Only
two reports were distinquished, although the evidence showed that
WILSON's
pistol had been recently fired. Mr. LAWRENCE gave himself up on Sunday
morning, and appeared before Justice McVICAR to answer to
the
charge of assault with a deadly weapon, when that magistrate to avoid
any
illegality in the proceedings, placed him under bonds to appear on the
day following. At three o'clock on Monday morning WILSON died, and in
the
afternoon of that day Mr. LAWRENCE appeared before Justice GILTNER
to
answer to a charge of murder, and upon examination, was discharged.
In Mariposa, Monday, October 2d,
1865,
Mr. CHRISTOPHER CHASE WILSON, aged 35 years, a native of Ellsworth,
Maine.
Mariposa
Gazette July 1, 1948
Front
Page
FREDERICK
WILSON KILLED IN HIGHWAY CRASH AT WAWONA
Frederrick
E. Wilson, 25, Wawona, was instantly killed Friday after noon when the
car in which he was a passenger turned over in front ofThe Wawona hotel
at Wawona.
Funeral services were held in the Ticornia and Ivers chapel here Sunday
afternoon and burial was made In the Mariposa cemetery. The
Rev.Charles Anderson officiated at theServices.
He is survived by his father, Clarence R. Wilson,
Fred
had lived all his life in California and 14 years in Wawona.
Park rangers, who
investigated the accident, reported the car Owned and driven by
transcribed by Steve Miller
Copied from the
Mariposa Gazette, May 16, 1930
by Steve Miller
MARY WILSON INDIAN PRINCESS CALLED BY DEATH
Funeral services were held at Madera on the afternoon of Sunday, May 11,
for Princess Mrs. Mary Wilson, 78, who died in Yosemite Valley Friday.
She was
born in Red Cloud, Mariposa County, and was the wife of Frank Wilson,
Chief of
the Chumhungy Tribe, Mariposa County, and the daughter of Chief Jim of
the
Eu-wah-alshe Tribe. Her mother was a princess and she inherited the
title.
which
will now go to some member of the Wilson family. Her mohter's Indian
name was
Ha-ka-pa.
Mrs. Wilson associated with the whites for about thirty five years and
then
returned to her own people. She was an honor guest at the Pendleton
Round-up
in Oregon, last fall and received and received a hearty welcome by
Oregon
officials.
In 1924 she won first prize at Yosemite for the best costume.
She was awarded many prizes for her basket work, which was beautiful.
The funeral ceremony, called the Ah-ha-one, started at the Wilson home
on
A street at 11 o'clock Saturday and continued until 1:30 Sunday, when
the
casket was moved to the Jay Chapel and then to the Arbor Vitae Cemetery.
The rites at the cemetery are known as the Ya-ho-ho.
Chris Brown, chief of the Yosemite tribe, was the leader and danced in
front of the casket when leaving the home, while going into the chapel
and when
entering the cemetery. Seven other dancers accompanied him.
Rev. C. T. Axworthy conducted the services at the chapel and offered
prayer at the cemetery.
It was one of the largest Indian funerals ever held in this part of the
country. There were two leading mourners.
Mrs. Wilson was buried with her beads, two blankets, two baskets and her
dancing costume. The dancers were the pallbearers.
She is survived by four daughters: Mrs. Elizabeth Goff, Mrs. Phoebe
Lavine,
Mrs. Bessie Valenzuela and Alfretta Wilson; two sons, John S. Wilson
and
Wesley A.Wilson, all of Madera
(follow up note:From:
KatieGoff@aol.com
Subject: Re: [CAMARIPO] MARY WILSON INDIAN PRINCESS CALLED BY
DEATH
Date: Mon, 13 May 2002 22:14:54 EDT
Thanks, Steve, for this great transcript!
It should be noted that Mary WILSON's maiden name was JOHNSON; and,
according to her daughter Phoebe, she was Miwok Indian, while her
husband
Frank 'Hooky' WILSON was from a different tribe.
Phoebe LAVINE (or LOVINE?) was later married to HOGAN and was well
known by
that name during the forty years she lived in the Yosemite Indian
Village, a
neighbor of Julia Parker, a noted Pomo basketmaker.
Mary's daughter, Elizabeth GOFF nee WILSON, was married to my
granduncle
Edwin Sherman GOFF, who was half-breed Yosemite Miwok son of NORTH STAR
(who
married Frank S. GOFF). Their daughter (Mary's granddaughter) Kathleen
C.
MYERS nee GOFF passed away a few months ago, leaving survivors who are
still
living in Snelling. She was my mother's first cousin.
Mary's daughters were known in the Mariposa community (when my mother
was
growing up ca 1910) as "The Wilson Girls," just as my granduncles were
known
as "The Goff Boys."
My mother once did an oil painting of an Indian funeral. She told me
the
funerals were held in the roundhouse and went on for several days,
while the
mourners had a 'Big Cry' (earlier issues of the Mariposa Gazette
frequently
complained about the "loud wailing set up by the Indians"). There would
be a
fire in the center of the roundhouse, and the mourners would file
around the
fire in a circle and gradually throw in the deceased's personal
possessions
to burn. I'm not sure what the reason was for this custom, possibly
they felt
this was a way to send the belongings along to the deceased in the
Happy
Hunting Grounds. Anyway, this is what I was told as a child.
Regarding the "titles" held by Indian 'Princesses' and 'Chiefs', Aunt
Phoebe
Hogan told me that there were various titles given for performing
different
functions within the tribe. She told me she was 'Chief of Ceremonies'.
I do
not know whether these titles were always hereditary. The term "Indian
Princess," of course, is a white invention, based on European ideas of
royalty, which may bear little resemblance to the actual role of these
personages within the American Indian tribes which tended to be
grassroots
democratic rather than monarchical.
Joan Burnett Nichols
aka
KatieGoff@aol.com
Obit Mrs.(Cornelia) N. H. Wilson
Mariposa Gazette, January 31, 1914
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
Death of Mrs. Wilson
Mrs. N. H. Wilson passed away at an early hour this morning at the
family
home in this city, after an illness extending over a period of a year.
She submitted to an operation yesterday morning at 11
o'clock at her home which was performed by Dr. Robertson, assisted by
Dr.
Surrhyne, both of Modesto. Everything possible was done for
the comfort and care of the fferer, several nurses being in attendance,
and while the operation was successful, the shock proved greater than
she
could stand, and at 3 o'clock this morning she sank into eternal sleep.
Mrs. Wilson's maiden name was Cornelia BECKNEL, and she was born at Los
Angeles, October 13, 1856. Her parents moved to Mariposa in
the early days and lived on Pea Ridge for many years. Mr. Becknel was a
prominent stock raiser in that section. At the
time of her marriage to Mr. Wilson in 1884 she resided at Plainsburg,
Merced
County, with her mother. She then came to Merced to Live and
had
resided here continuously ever since a period of 30 years. Surviving
Mrs.
Wilson is the grief stricken Husband and the daughter Helen M. who is
the
wife of Walter P. Shoemake, of Modesto.
--
Merced Sun, Jan 23.
WILSON, John
February 27, 1892 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
February 24th John WILSON, a stock raiser and rancher near Hornitos was found dead at his home. He had been dead several hours when found. His health had been poor for some time but he was able to be up and had been in Hornitos the day before he died. Mr. WILSON had lived in this county many years and leaves considerable property. He has no relatives in this county that we are aware of.
John WILSON
Mariposa Gazette, June 3, 1937 Front page
Transcribed by Steve Miller
JOHN WILSON, 90, YOSEMITE INDIAN GUIDE
BURIED AT EL PORTAL
Funeral service were held at El Portal Thursday afternoon of last week for Johnnie Wilson, 90, former Indian guide and stage driver in Yosemite National Park. Wilson died in his cabin near El Portal the previous Sunday night, from a heart attack. His body was found by neighbors who went to the cabin when they failed to see him about his cabin or to notice smoke coming from the chimney for several days. Wilson was a native of this county, the son of Lancisco, a well known early Yosemite guide. He had spent all his life in and around Yosemite. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Lucy Wilson.
Samuel WILSON (missing person)
Sept. 8, 1877 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
Not Found - The search which was made by a number of people on Saturday last, from Mormon Bar to Pea Ridge, for Samuel WILSON, who has been missing for some time past, and supposed to be murdered proved to be fruitless. No clue whatever was developed except a rumor that he was probably murdered by the Fresno Indians, who were having a pow wow at Little Mariposite, near Wilson's ranch, at the time he was first missing, which appears quite improbable.
WINDSOR, Joseph
December 12, 1891 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Death's Harvest. Joseph WINDSOR.
Very few who saw poor Joe WINDSOR on Thanksgiving Day, here in town,
thought
that in a week from that time, he would join the silent majority. But
on
the mourning of December 5th, he answered the
summons,
which comes to all at some time. He was not well when he was in town,
but
thought it only a bad cold, and did not take proper care of
himself, and it ran into pneumonia. Mr. WINDSOR was a quiet,
industrious
young man, who had lived his entire life within a
few
miles of here, and who numbered many friends, both among the country
and
townspeople. He was kindly cared for by relatives and friends, but he
could
not rally from the dread disease. He leaves one sister,
Mrs.
Nancy FISHER, to grieve him. His large funeral on Sunday, was an
evidence
of the good will borne him.
Wm. B. WINDSOR
June 3, 1882 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
Dead- On Tuesday last all that remains of Wm. B. WINDSOR, an old and estimable citizen of this section, passed from this world, where ends the chapter of a troublesome life on earth. He had lived and toiled for near four score years, and up to the last he was ambitious for life, and entertained hopes of comfort and happiness in the future. In life he was a hard laboring and industrious man, upright in his course of business, and regarded as one of our best citizen. He was 79 years of age, born in North Carolina. He leaves a son Joseph, a young man who was with his father at the time of his decease.
Death Certificate transcript by Steve Miller
#2250-51
Mariposa Co, town of Mariposa
Fannie Clifford Wiswall June 29, 1970 1:30pm
sex Female race White Bp Idaho Dob July 5,
1887
age 83 yrs
father Charles H. Wright Illinois
mother Emma Clifford England
cit USA ss#565-80-0447 marital status
Widowed
occupation Reg Nurse 50 years last
employer
Willows Co. Hospital
place of death John C Fremont Hospital Hospital Rd
Mariposa,
Mariposa Co
length time in Co 3mo in State 50 yrs
usual res 1317 Lockbrae Rd Sacramento, Sacramento Co, CA
informant Hattie Wiswall P. O. Box 516, Yosemite, CA
burial July 1, 1970 Sierra Hills Memorial Park
embalmer Louis M Donhost II # 5891
Fun Dir Nightinggales Funeral Chapel
Regist Robert John Evans MD June 30, 1930
cause Anterior mycardial infarction (minutes)
arteriosclerotic heart disease (years),
diabetes
and age
autopsy no
WILLIAM WIVELL, former Coulterville man summoned,
Mariposa Gazette, December 4, 1925
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
For the past six years a warehouse employee of the Standard Oil company here, died Sunday noon at his home, 111 Twentieth. He had been ill for 18 months. The body will be laid to rest in the receiving vault at the Asphodel cemetery following services from the Welch & Griffin chapel Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Officers and members of the Knights of Pythias lodge, of which Mr. WIVELL was a member, will conduct the funeral services. Mr. WIIVELL has resided in Merced since 1919. Prior to establishing residence here he was employed at Oakland by the Pacific Gas & Electric Company and spent a number of years in Coulterville in mining pursuits. He was born in Ishpeming, Michigan, May 24, 1880. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Anna WIVELL, two sons, W. M.WIVELL Jr. and Vernon L. WIVELL and several brothers and sisters. One brother, R. J. WIVELL resides in Merced. -- Sun-Star, November 30.
WOLLESON
May 10, 1879 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
------------------------------------------------------------
WOLLESON
September 30, 1882 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
At Granite Springs, Mariposa County, September 23d, 1882, the youngest
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.P. WOLLESON, aged two years.
_________________________________________________________________________-
October 27, 1883 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W Disbro)
In Merced, October 21, 1883, Sarah Frances, wife of W. T. WOODBUFF of Merced Falls, aged 19 years, 7 months and 8 days.
August 2, 1884 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
The death of Baby WOODARD which occurred here after a week's illness last Saturday morning, and the funeral which followed on Monday evening, was attended with more melancholy than usual, the parents and dear friends, the latter of whom had by association become wonderfully attached to the dear baby, which was unusually smart and in advance of its age for cuteness in various simple ways, so well calculated to attract attention and to win the esteem of all who came in contact with it. It was the first child of Mr. and Mrs. WOODARD and the first and only grandchild of the writer of this notice, which in the course of filial affection and parential ties makes the loss of the dear baby so much harder to endure. But such is the order of mortality, and our experience teaches us to bow submissively to him who giveth and taketh away. It has been our fate since our long residence here to bury nine little ones of various ages, most of whom had grown to an interesting age, and each in his turn was the loveliest and seemed the hardest to part with; but the words of our savior when he said " let all little children come unto me," and the belief that they are now in his charge is a consoling thought and one that should be cherished by every parent, for Him the good book affirms the little ones shall find life everlasting. Mr. and Mrs. WOODARD should be consoled with the happy thought that a lifetime of troubles, perhaps in store for their dear one, had it lived, has been saved and it is now in peace. The funeral, which took place from Schlageter's Hotel, and proceeded to the Odd Fellows cemetery, was well attended. There was a group of youthful pallbearers with many children who appeared eager to bestow the last solemn rite upon poor Baby WOODARD, who in life was the center of their affections. At the grave the services by Rev. Joel HEDGEPETH were varied by appropriate singing, which gave the ceremonies a beautiful cast, calculated to inspire the hearers with feelings of cheerfulness and relieve the aggrieved ones from the thoughts that death alone there is nothing but pain.
WRIGHT, Harry
September 29, 1888 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Sad Accident - On Thursday, *October 20th, in the Yosemite Valley, was a day which terminated in sorrow and affliction to the parents and grand parents of Little Harry WRIGHT (as he was called) a lad nearly six years old who was thrown out of a spring seated carriage or wagon, run over and killed. We understand that the mother; Mrs. WRIGHT, and son were enjoying a ride in the Valley, the carriage and team were in the charge of John CAYNOR, who was driving, and while passing over a rocky piece of road in the vicinity of "Bridal Veil Falls," the boy by some means was tossed out, or fell out between the wheels and was run over, probably by the hind wheel of the carriage, and so badly injured that he lived but a short time. It is said he was sitting in the same seat with his mother when he fell out of the wagon. The boy as well as his mother and all who were aboard were no doubt suddenly shocked, and the accident was quite as instantaneous as the firing of a gun. If the accident occurred at or near the Bridal Veils Falls, a painful task it must have been to take the unfortunate boy into the carriage back some four or five miles to the Hotel kept by his grandfather J. J. COOK. We have been unable to learn full particulars of all that attended the sad scene, but sufficient to know it was an unfortunate affair, which the numerous friends and acquaintances of the family deeply deplore. The body was taken to San Francisco for interment as can be seen by the funeral notice appearing elsewhere in this paper. (* Since this is published on September 29, 1888 the stating that this accident was on October 20 seems like a typo on the part of the printers. But have written it as written with this note.)
WULBERN, Frank Lewis
June 21, 1 890 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Death Of A Respected Citizen.
On Saturday morning last our people were startled to learn that Frank
Lewis
WULBERN was dying of a overdose of laudanum, taken while suffering
severe
pain. His health had been feeble for years, and his physician, had of
late,
allowed him to have small doses of laudanum, to alleviate his misery.
His
daughter in law, Mrs. Henry WULBERN, had drriven into town
on an errand, and during his absence, he possessed himself of the
bottle,
and took the fatal dose. Upon her return she
found
him in a heavy sleep with the empty bottle besides him. Physicians were
at once summoned, but with no avail, as he was to weak and
debilitated
to rally when the effects of the drug finally wore off a little. Had he
been stronger he would of thrown off the evil result of the dose, but
having
so long been afflicted with serious chronic diseases, be was to
enfeebled,
and death from heart failure soon resulted. Mr. WULBERN has long been
identified
with Mariposa, having lived here since the early fifties, near the
town.
He was a very energetic man and a good citizen, and by untiring
industry
had accumulated quite a large fortune. During the last year, he had
lost
his wife and son by death, and these troubles added to his failing
health
had caused him to become rather morbid, and melancholy. At first
the idea was prevalent that he had committed suicide; but the Coroner's
examination made it clear that death resulted from heart failure
hastened
by the overdose of laudanum. His funeral, was largely attended, took
place
on Monday.
Death of Henry WULBERN
John Henry WULBERN, eldest son of Frank Lewis WULBERN, died at the
residence
of his father, near Mariposa, last Wednesday evening about 7:30
P.M.
Mr. WULBERN has been sick for nearly two years, suffering from that
often
slow but relentless disease consumption. In the early spring, he was
taken
to the German Hospital at San Francisco, in the hope that
something
might be done for him. But he was always already too far-gone for human
help, and returned home to linger a few months, and has now
passed away at the early age of 26. Mr. WULBERN was a young man of good
character and hopeful prospects, who, if he had
lived, would have continued to shown himself a valuable and worthy
member
of society. His death is a serious loss to his family, friends and to
our
community. He leaves a wife and two children. His family and relatives
have the sympathy of a large number of friends. The funeral
took place on Friday at 2 o'clock P.M., and was largely attended.
WULBERN, Zilphia
January 9, 1892 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Death of Zilphia WULBERN.
On Saturday night, January 2nd, 1892, near midnight, the soul of Mrs. Zilphia WULBERN passed quietly to the other side. For many months she has lingered just on the verge, suffering from that dread disease, consumption. Although enduring agony, nearly every moment, she was patient and brave, bearing up so cheerfully that few realized her constant pain. Mrs. WULBERN was the daughter of Mr. A. B. REDMAN, of Cathey's Valley and was twenty-nine years and three months of age. She was born in Cathey's Valley and spent all her brief life there, until the past three years, which she has passed in Mariposa. Her short bright life of girlhood, was made as happy as fond parents and loving brothers and sisters could render it, as she was a delicate child and unused to any hardships. With married life, came sickness and more than usual troubles which generally beset life, but under all she ever maintained a brave cheerful spirit which no amount of sorrow seemed able to break down. For over two years she had been widowed, and had made the best fight she could, to make a way for herself and two little children. For several months she had been almost entirely confined to her room, but she never lacked for care and attention. She belonged to the Mariposa Parlor N.D.G.W., and they as well as other kind ladies of the town, have been unremitting in their endeavors to smooth her pathway to the grave. Every wish of hers that could be gratified was cheerfully complied with. Her funeral on Monday was under the auspices of the Native Daughters assisted by the Native Sons, and the service for the dead, in their ritual impressed all, by its beauty and sincerity. A very large assemblage followed her remains to the grave, and many tears fell over her coffin, as for the last time we gazed on the calm lovely face which had regained the look of her happy girlhood. Two young children are left to the care of her father.
Died In San Francisco, August 3d, 1876, Peter WYNANTS, aged 53 years
Death of A. D. De Yoe
Mariposa Gazette, May 19, 1906
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
A. S. De Yoe died in Los Angeles yesterday morning. He was well known
here,
he and his wife having lived here about six years ago. Deceased had
been
incapacitated, to the point of utter helplessness during most of the
time,
for four years, as result of a clot of blood on the brain. The clot
formed
gradually from an injury sustained in a runaway
accident.
Treatment by specialists far and near failed to afford relief. At the
last
the clot burst and almost total paralysis followed,
but
at the same time the brain cleared and in his dying hours Mr. D. Yoe
had
full command of his mental faculties. He was taken to Los Angeles from
Merced six months ago. Deceased was about 60 years of age a
native of New York. He was the trusted representative of large piano
and
organ houses all his life, a vocation with which a musical
temperament
and accomplishments placed him in sympathy. At one time he was
associated
with Chas. H. GABRIEL, noted as a composer and collaborated
with him. He was a pianist and was quite widely known as a singer,
possessing
an unusually rich deep and cultivated bass voice. He leaves a
wife
and one son, the latter a resident of San Francisco, and two brothers.
– Madera Tribune
Cruz YDIERTE
November 3, 1883 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
Mysteriously Killed. Last Sunday evening, about eight o'clock, near
Dublin
House on Missouri Gulch, and about one- fourth of a mile above town,
several
shots were heard to fire which at the moment
attracted
little or no attention. Soon after screams were heard in that direction
which proved to emanate from a Mexican boy aged about 17
years,
and son of Librado YDIERTE, who lives with his family on Bear Creek
below
Clark's old saw mill. The boy had been about town the
same evening, and was, to all appearances, on his way out, when he
received
from an unknown source the fatal shot. The ball passed through the leg
below the knee, cutting the main artery, and before
surgical
assistance could be had - which was rendered by Dr. BELL- the boy lost
a large amount of blood. "Cherokee Tom," and another
Indian,
it is said, were with him at the time of the shooting. The following
Monday
afternoon the father of the boy had him removed to his home on Bear
Creek,
where, from loss of blood and exhaustion he soon after died. It is
thought
the boy knew more about the shooting than he was willing to
confess. It is also pretty well established that his companions were
under
the influence of liquor, and the shot may have occurred from
carelessness
of some one of his associates, which the boy desired to
conceal.
YDIERTE-
On Bear Creek, near Clark's old saw mill, October 29th, 1883, Cruz
YDIERTE,
a native of California, aged 17 years. November 3, 1883 Mariposa Gazette
YOUNG, A. H.
October 15, 1887 Mariposa Gazette
(submitted by W. Disbro)
We exceedingly regret having to chronicle the death of our dear friend,
A. H. YOUNG, of Bridgeport, who died at his residence on Thursday
morning
of this week. He had been ill for a year or two, suffering
with the kidney complaint and finally the dropsy, which assisted to
conclude
his long career upon this earth. He was about
70
years of age, and has spent a life of industry and devotedness to his
family.
In his departure the community have lost a good neighbor,
an
esteemed citizen, and his family a kind-hearted husband and father. He
leaves a wife and three children to mourn his loss. The funeral will
take
place to-day at 10 A.M. We are informed that he will
be buried near Bridgeport.
Mrs. Abner H. YOUNG
Mariposa Gazette April 22, 1905
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
Old Lady's Death
On Tuesday, the remains of were buried at the old YOUNG place, in
Buckeye
district, having been brought there from San Francisco by her
grandsons,
William DODSON and William CLIFT. Dr.
TITCHWORTH
of San Francisco accompanied them. The funeral was the closing chapter
in the life of a woman who for many years was a resident of
this county. While here she was esteemed and loved for her gentle and
kindly
ways and goodness of heart. After leaving the county
she
was remembered for her noble qualities, and it is with regret that our
older citizens, who knew her will, learn of her death. Mrs. YOUNG was
the
widow of Abner H. YOUNG; they came to this county in the
early
fifties and made their home at Buckeye, where they lived for about
thirty
years. About fifteen years ago they moved to San Francisco
where the deceased has since lived. She had reached the ripe old age of
90 years She was the mother of William YOUNG and Mrs. A. McCurdey
CATHEY of Cathey's Valley.
John YSTRIEN
Mariposa Gazette December 15, 1877
(submitted by William Disbro)
Aged 40 years. Native of Tyrol Austria, Hornitos, Mariposa County,
December
9th, 1877
George ZEIS,
an old resident of the county, died suddenly in his room at the Star
Hotel
between 4 and 6 o'clock Thursday afternoon. He went to his room at 4
o'clock
and was found dead at about 6. At the time we go to press the
causes
of death are being investigated by a Coroners jury, and we are unable
to
obtain any definite information. The deceased had been complaining of
ill
health for some time, and had not long since been to some of the
springs
for the benefit of his health. He
was a native of Germany, about 60 years of age. - Fresno Republican.
ZINNKANN, Sturm
October 1, 1864 Mariposa Free Press
(submitted by W. Disbro)
F atal Accident - A young man, a German by birth named Sturm ZINNKANN
who
was stopping Zinnkann's toll house was accidentally shot by
a
friend and old schoolmate who had lately come from San Francisco for
the
purpose of paying him a visit. He had picked up a six- shooter and
was
carelessly handling it- not knowing that it was loaded- when it was
accidentally
discharged while pointing at the unfortunate man. The ball
entered
the lower portion of the abdomen. The wounded man lived till Tuesday
when
death relieved his sufferings. The deceased was highly respected by
a
large circle of friends and relations, a large number of whom paid the
last tribute of respect to his mortal remains by attending them to
their
last resting place on Wednesday last.
ZINKAND
Mariposa Gazette December 15, 1877
(submitted by William Disbro)
DIED.
Infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew ZINKAND, Dec. 10, aged 2 days
Andrew ZINKAND
Mariposa Gazette, October 28, 1905
(submitted by Tom Hilk)
Death of a Pioneer one of Mariposa County’s oldest and earliest pioneers, died at the Toll House last Saturday. His death followed a long illness. He was a native of Germany, aged 79 years, 9 months and 4 days. In the early fifties he came to this county where, like nearly all of the early settlers, he followed mining. For several years he kept the Zinkand toll road between Mt. Bullion (then Princeton) and the Burkhalter road. He was a man who was always upright in his dealings, and had the respect and confidence of all who knew him. He leaves an aged widow, one daughter, Mrs. Frank McMASTER, and two sons, Andrew and Henry Zinkand, all residents of this county. Funeral services were held at the Mariposa Catholic church on Monday afternoon.
Mariposa County History and Genealogy Research
Oct 2011
Carolyn Feroben