USA > California > San Diego County > San Diego county, California; a record of settlement, organization, progress and achievement, Volume II > Part 31
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When the war was over Mr. Belding learned telegraphy and entered the employ of the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad at New London, Ohio, acting for that corporation as telegraph operator for five years. He was afterward transferred to Grafton, Ohio, as agent for the same company and was also agent for two express companies for eleven years. He came to the Pacific coast in December, 1885, and, establishing his home at San Diego, filled the position of agent with the Pacific Coast Steamship Company for a year and a half. On the expiration of that period he accepted the position of ticket agent with the Santa Fe Railroad and spent another year and a half in that connection. In the meantime the recognition of his ability and trustworthiness led to his selection for public office and he was appointed secretary of the city board of
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public works, in which capacity he remained for six years. Even then he did not retire from office but became secretary of the city board of education, which position he is now most acceptably filling. He is ever systematic and methodical in all that he does and his deep interest in educational progress adds to his efficiency as secretary to the board.
Mr. Belding was married in San Diego to Miss Myrtle Hartzell on the 15th of May, 1901. Theirs is a pleasant home and their hospitality is greatly enjoyed by many friends, who are constantly increasing in number as the circle of their acquaintance broadens. Mr. Belding is a republican who manifests his interest in the success of his party in tangible ways, seeking ever the welfare and progress of city and state. In Masonry he has attained high rank in the York Rite, being now a Knight Templar, and he also belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, thus maintaining pleasant relations with the boys in blue with whom he marched to the sound of fife and drum on southern battlefields. In days of peace as in times of war he has displayed an unfaltering loyalty to the stars and stripes.
GEORGE M. TRACY.
George M. Tracy, a well known rancher of Palm Avenue, is a native of Yonkers, New York, born in 1869. In that city his youth was passed and he there acquired his education, coming west in 1887 and making his first settle- ment in California in that year. Since that time he has been a prominent figure in general farming, stock-raising and mining circles in various parts of the southwest, making steady advancement toward the substantial and prominent position which he occupies today. After two years in Los Angeles he went to Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he took up a government claim of desert land, proving title on six hundred and forty acres. He sold this tract of land later in order to prospect for gold but after a few years, during which he met with only comparative success, he engaged in the cattle business on a forest reserva- tion forty miles from Carlsbad. To this he added a homestead claim of one hundred and sixty acres and upon this property fed and fattened three hundred head of high-grade cattle. He was extremely successful in this line of occupa- tion and remained engaged in it until 1909, when he came to San Diego county and bought the four and a half acre lemon ranch upon which he resides. Some idea of the fertility and productiveness of the tract and of the success with which Mr. Tracy is meeting in his latest venture may be gained from the fact that in 1912, from January to October, he picked from two acres five hundred dollars worth of fruit. Everything about the ranch is kept in excellent condi- tion and the property is well improved, indicating in its attractive appearance his careful supervision and systematic methods. Mr. Tracy owns some valuable real estate in the town and upon his ranch has erected a pretty cottage, in which he makes his home. He is active and progressive in business affairs and takes a hearty interest in the development of his community, serving at the present time as secretary of the Palm Avenue Commercial Club.
In 1908 Mr. Tracy was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Tulk, a native
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of New Mexico, and they have one daughter, Marion. Mr. Tracy's life has been quietly passed, yet the record of it contains lessons of value, for it shows what may be accomplished by determination, energy and honorable dealing. He occupies at the present time a position among the substantial citizens of Palm avenue and has gained a prosperity which has been worthily won and well used.
T. W. COATES.
T. W. Coates, well known as a contractor of San Diego, where he has been accorded an important patronage, was born in Chicago, Illinois, November 27, 1859, his parents being John and Annie Coates, who were natives of England. Reared in the city of his nativity, the son pursued his education in the public schools there and when he had put aside his text-books took up the task of mastering the building business. Gradually he worked his way upward in that connection, eventually becoming a contractor. He remained continuously a resident of Chicago until his removal to San Diego in 1887, since which time he has played an important part in the upbuilding and architectural adornment of this city. He has constructed many of the large commercial buildings as well as fine residences here and in his work has displayed a thorough knowledge of building principles as well as of the practical phases of the business. He com- bines comfort and beauty with utility, adapting scientific knowledge to modern needs, and that the public are well pleased with his labors is indicated by a growing patronage.
In 1886 Mr. Coates was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Strote, and to them have been born two children, Silver and Senora. Mr. Coates holds mem- bership with the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Independent Order of Foresters, and his name is also on the membership roll of the Pastime Gun Club. Reared in a city whose marvelous growth has been one of the wonders of the world and early imbued with the spirit of enterprise that has ever dom- inated Chicago, he brought to the west the qualities which made for his success in Chicago, and in his present connection is achieving-notable prominence and prosperity.
LINCOLN MOORE.
Lincoln Moore, founder of the section of the town of Nestor known as Palm Avenue and since 1902 one of the leading factors in its business develop- ment, was born in Sheboygan county, Wisconsin, February 11, 1865. He acquired his early education in the public schools of his native section and supplemented this by a two years' course in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. When he had completed his education he determined to begin his business career in the west, believing that that section offered the greatest opportunities to the enter- prising and energetic man. He settled in San Diego in 1886 and obtained employment in the freight and passenger department of the Santa Fe Railroad,
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where for fifteen years he did able, conscientious and useful work. In 1902 he came to Nestor, having previously purchased five acres of land fronting on National avenue. This he divided into twenty-eight lots, fifty by one hundred and forty feet, and developed and improved the property, selling it to investors. From this beginning has grown the thriving section of Palm avenue, which stands as a monument to Mr. Moore's resourceful business ability, his recognition of favorable opportunity, his energy and his business enterprise. He opened the first store in the subdivision and conducted it successfully for eight years, dur- ing which time other business enterprises sprang up and prospered. Stores and houses have been erected upon the lots, Mr. Moore continuing his active interest in the welfare of the section, which is today one of the most attractive and flourishing parts of Nestor. Mr. Moore has recently completed a new two-story business block upon a busy corner and has other important projects under contemplation. He is a member of the Palm Avenue Commercial Club and this affords him a. valuable field for his development work. He has always been interested in the methods by which steady progress is promoted and city insti- tutions are built up, and while a resident of San Diego took an active part in the affairs of the chamber of commerce in that city.
In 1907 Mr. Moore was united in marriage to Miss Alice Francisco, a native of California and a daughter of C. F. Francisco, a pioneer of San Diego county. They have two children, Charlotte and Mabel. Mr. Moore is well known in Nestor and throughout this part of San Diego county, where his enterprising and progressive spirit has gained him the widespread respect of many friends.
HERBERT N. NEALE.
Working diligently and persistently in the real-estate field, Herbert N. Neale has secured a good clientage in that connection, specializing in the handling of high-class property. He is also conducting important insurance and financial departments in his business and his enterprise and enthusiasm are contagious. He was born in Toronto, Canada, November 29, 1873, his parents being George and Elizabeth P. Neale. He was only eighteen months old when brought to San Diego and here at the usual age he entered the public schools, in which he remained a student through consecutive grades until leaving high school. When his education was finished he looked about him for a favorable opening in which to start upon his business career and, accepting the clerkship in connection with a superior court, was thus employed for twelve years, occupying various posi- tions in that department. He afterward became clerk of the board of super- visors and eventually advanced to the position of manager of the Abstract Title & Trust Company. A further step in his onward career was made when he entered the real-estate field. He has since dealt in and handled property and is now making a specialty of high-class real estate. He is also local representative of the largest bonding company doing business in the United States-the Em- ployers Assurance Corporation of London-and he is likewise a representative of a number of leading fire insurance companies, this department of his business proving a resourceful factor in his success. He is alert and energetic, under-
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taking nothing that he does not accomplish, for he recognizes the fact that industry and perseverance constitute a key that will at all times unlock the portals of success.
Mr. Neale was married in 1897 to Miss Jennie Bovyer and they have two children, George Neale and Claire Neale. Mr. Neale and his wife are well and favorably known socially and their hospitable home is a favorite gathering place for their many friends. Mr. Neale is particularly enthusiastic over the possi- bilities of San Diego and is demonstrating his faith in the future of the city by his active aid and support of various measures for the public good.
EDWIN PHILLIPS WATKINS, D. O.
The capability and prominence of Dr. Edwin P. Watkins in his profession are indicated in the extensive and growing patronage accorded him in San Diego. He is constantly overburdened by the demands made upon his professional skill but does with conscientious thoroughness all that devolves upon him. He was born in St. Clair, Pennsylvania, February 5, 1872, a son of Thomas and Nancy Watkins. The early educational opportunities of his youth were those furnished by the public schools and after leaving high school he came to Cali- fornia at the age of sixteen years. Here he resumed his studies, entering the Pacific College of Osteopathy in Los Angeles, and following his graduation from that institution he became professor of osteopathic technique. Subsequently he practiced osteopathy in Los Angeles until 1908, when he came to San Diego. For about five years he has here resided and almost from the beginning has been accorded a liberal practice which is constantly growing in volume and importance. He has an elegantly equipped suite of rooms in the Union building and his suc- cess is far exceeding his most sanguine expectations. It is practically impossible to visit him in his office and not find patients there awaiting treatment. Dr. Watkins is a most competent osteopathic practitioner who is not only thoroughly scientifically trained but also has that comprehensive knowledge which arises from practical experience and a deep interest in the humanitarian side of his work.
Immediately after coming to San Diego, Dr. Watkins became greatly inter- ested in the city, its possibilities and the efforts being put forth for its substan- tial growth and development. As one of the charter members he joined the 50,000 Boosters Club, the membership of which is now fast approaching the one hundred thousand mark. He realizes that with its splendid situation and semi-tropical climate the city has every advantage to become a metropolitan center on the coast if its activities and growth are guided by men of sound judgment and enter- prise. He is public-spirited and gives active aid and cooperation to many move- ments for the public good.
On the 17th of June, 1902, in Los Angeles, Dr. Watkins was married to Miss Lavinia Adele Moses, a lady of charming personality and liberal culture, who presides with gracious hospitality over their home. They have one son, Edwin Arden, four years of age, who is a handsome little fellow and the counterpart of his father. The Watkins home is the center of a cultured social circle and
Edwin Phillips Watkins. D.O.
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its doors are ever hospitably open for the reception of their many friends. Dr. Watkins is a member of the Country Club and the San Diego Rowing Club, and his fraternal connections are with the Masons. He is an exemplary repre- sentative of the craft and finds ample opportunity to practice its tenets and its teachings in his relations to his fellowmen.
WILLIAM OBER.
Early in the year 1870 an old side-wheel steamer, Orazaba, under com- mand of Captain Johnson, cast anchor in the San Diego harbor and among her passengers was William Ober, pioneer in southern California, and since that time a dominating factor in its agricultural development. The enterprises with which he has been connected since his arrival have been of the kind which directly influence and effect growth and progress. He has advanced his pros- perity step by step until today he stands among the successful and representative men of Nestor. He was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, on the 24th of August, 1847, and grew to manhood in that section, acquiring his education in the public schools. He learned the blacksmith's trade and followed it for some time in Pennsylvania, only abandoning it in order to offer his services to the United States government as a volunteer in the Federal army. He enlisted in 1864 in Company G, Ninety-third Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Sixth Corps, First Brigade, Second Division, and was immediately mustered into service, campaigning through West Virginia and the Shenandoah valley. He was present at the battle of Petersburg on the 3d of April, 1864, and at many other important engagements, proving himself loyal to the interests of the government and a brave and intelligent soldier. He was discharged at Pitts- burgh, Pennsylvania, June 20, 1865, and after being mustered out determined to complete his education. He, therefore, spent one year in school, but in 1866 left Pennsylvania and went to Ionia county, Michigan, where he worked upon a farm and at the same time followed the blacksmith's trade for three years in Michigan. He then went to Chicago and thence to Grass Lake, Michigan, in 1869. After a short period of residence in Bates county, Missouri, he traveled west, settling in California in December, 1869. He worked at the blacksmith's trade in San Francisco, San Mateo and Duncans Mills, but in 1870 engaged his passage on the old side-wheel steamer Orazaba and went to San Diego, arriving there in the fall of 1870. He worked for a short time at his trade and then drove stage from San Diego to Yuma, Arizona. When he abandoned that work he obtained a position in the cigar store conducted by John W. Wescott and remained in this position for three years. In 1873 he opened a blacksmith shop in Bernardo, where he also took up government land, farming it successfully for nine years. In 1882 he went to the present site of Ramona and built the first house in that community, being still known as the father of the town. His son Guy was the first white child born within its borders. Mr. Ober remained in Ramona for three years but in 1885 turned his attention to farming, purchasing a six hundred acre ranch at Julian, upon which he ran stock until 1902. In that year he moved to his present ranch of one hundred and seventy-five acres Vol. II-16
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in the Tia Juana valley and has since given his entire time to its scientific development and improvement. He provided it with a fine water system, having installed two electric pumps, one of which gives sixty thousand gallons of water per hour and the other thirty thousand. He cleared the land of the overgrowing brush and has planted thirty acres in alfalfa, harvesting many fine crops yearly. Mr. Ober is likewise extensively interested in dairying and conducts one of the finest and most sanitary dairy enterprises in this part of the state, keeping an excellent herd of forty milch cows. He has installed all of the most modern dairy equipment and has erected a fine milk house, where the milk is handled in a clean and sanitary manner, being absolutely pure when it reaches the consumer. As a farmer Mr. Ober is ranked among the most progressive in the state and few men have accomplished more beneficial and lasting results in the promotion of higher and more scientific agricultural standards. Under his able management his ranch has become a most valuable and productive property and in addition to this he owns one hundred acres in Bernardo.
In 1882 Mr. Ober was united in marriage to Miss Cora Leabo, a native of Kentucky, and they have nine children, Glen, Guy, Cora, Lida, Gertrude, Clyde, Wilbur, Howard and Gladys. Mr. Ober is recognized by those who know him as an earnest, intelligent and public-spirited citizen and his life has been an important factor in the upbuilding of this part of the state. He has many friends in the county, where he has made his home for forty years, and where he has attained the success which always follows industry and persevering labor.
GRIFFING BANCROFT.
Griffing Bancroft is a Harvard man who has studied and practiced law but is now concentrating his energies upon the management of the family real estate, the Bancroft holdings being quite extensive in San Diego county. He was born in New Haven, Connecticut, January 21, 1879, his parents being H. H. and Matilda C. (Griffing) Bancroft. He supplemented his preliminary education by study in the Phillips Exeter Endowed School, which he attended until 1895. He then entered Harvard and was graduated within the classic walls of that old institution in 1899. With the completion of his university course he came to San Diego and studied law in the office and under the direction of Jolin D. Works, the well known attorney, and in 1901 was admitted to the bar. His. mastery of the principles of jurisprudence, however, was as a preparation for the business cares which he knew would devolve upon him, rather than as a training for active law work in the courts. With his admission to the bar he took charge of the extensive real-estate interests owned by the family in San Diego county and is now managing the property, in which connection he displays marked business enterprise, keen discernment and sound judgment.
On the 30th of October, 1901, in Los Angeles, Mr. Bancroft was married to Miss Ethel Works, a daughter of Senator John D. Works, a prominent factor in political circles of the state. The three children of this marriage are Ethel Barbara, Griffing and Hubert Howe, aged respectively, nine, five and three years. The family is one of social prominence and their attractive home is
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a most hospitable one. Mr. Bancroft holds membership with the Elks and is prominent in club life in San Diego, belonging to the Country Club, the Univer- sity Club, the Cuyamaca Club, the Bohemian Club, the local Harvard, Automo- bile and Aero Clubs, the Point Loma Club and the Coronado Country Club. He is a progressive and keeps in touch with the advanced thought of the day. His belief that the old parties should no longer hold to the course and policy which they have long pursued but should advance with the spirit of the age has led him to ally his interests with that movement which is the most hopeful political sign of the times and which is gradually bringing about wholesome and purify- ing reforms in the management of municipal and federal affairs.
LUTHER JOHNSON.
No history of the early agricultural development of San Diego county would. be complete without mention of Luther Johnson, whose name stands high on the list of the section's honored dead. He came as an early settler to Nestor and through many years of honorable and upright manhood left the impress of his forceful personality upon its history.
Mr. Johnson was born in Connecticut but moved with his parents to Massa- chusetts when he was a small child and there grew to manhood, acquiring his education in the public schools. At the age of twenty-one he came to Macomb, Illinois, and there he entered the dry-goods business and engaged in it independ- ently. He established a chain of dry-goods stores and through his honorable business methods, high standards of integrity and his policy of fair dealing greatly influenced and hastened commercial development. In 1886 he came to San Diego county and was among the first settlers in Nestor, where he pur- chased a two hundred acre ranch. This was a tract of raw land covered with brush which Mr. Johnson cleared, after which he began the work of develop- ment and improvement, carrying it forward along modern and progressive lines. He spent the later years of his life in his comfortable home in San Diego and there his death occurred on January 30, 1911. He was a progressive and resource- ful business man and in matters of citizenship public-spirited and loyal, taking a deep interest in those measures and projects which had for their object the upbuilding and development of the section. Thus it was that in his passing San Diego county lost not only an early settler but a representative and valued citizen.
Mr. Johnson married Miss Sarah J. Tatham, who still resides on the old homestead in Nestor. Seven children were born to this union, all of whom sur- vive, namely: George A .; C. Ray; Mrs. C. W. Hiatt, whose husband is a min- ister of the American church in Paris, France; Frank I., a professor of music in Dewey College in Springfield, Missouri; Luther L., an electrician of Chicago; Mrs. Anna A. Church, whose husband is physician and surgeon for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and who resides in Newark, Ohio; and Dr. R. H. Johnson, a physician and surgeon in Los Angeles, California.
The home ranch is in charge of George A. Johnson. In the early days twenty acres were planted in lemons and oranges but these trees were taken up at the time of the drouth and in 1893 a large dairy was substituted, in which were kept
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eighty-seven high-grade cows. At present the tract is planted in grain and alfalfa, of which Mr. Johnson harvests valuable crops every year. Everything about the place is kept in excellent condition and it is in all things worthy of the man who broke its soil for the first time twenty-six years ago.
DANIEL BOONE NORTHRUP, M. D.
Traits of character descend in a family from generation to generation, grow- ing in force or declining as the individual is predisposed by birth, and these traits and talents being the heritage from father to son make for certain fitness for occupations and are often intensified in the younger generation. Such is the case of Dr. Daniel Boone Northrup, an eminent physician and surgeon of San Diego and one of the foremost men in his line of work. Dr. Northrup was born in Lima, Ohio, May 27, 1855, and is a son of Dr. Lorenzo Northrup and Jane (Brooks) Northrup. The father was a noted physician and surgeon who prac- ticed in the state of Ohio for fifteen years and later in Kansas, to the remark- . able age of ninety-four years. He was the first surgeon in the United States who operated successfully for dead bones and he enjoys an unusually large prac- tice. On account of his wide experience and thorough knowledge in surgery he was frequently called into consultation by his colleagues. He enjoyed perfect health from childhood until within a few hours of his demise, which was brought about by the dread disease of pneumonia, which took him suddenly from his activities.
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