YUBA COUNTY
Biographies & Family Ties
BELCHER & RELATED
FAMILIES
Appeal Democrat - Oct 13, 1938, page 5 - Pioneer Dwelling Soon To Be Razed - Here are pictures of the old home of the late Judge I. S. Belcher at Sixth and C streets, which is to be demolished to make way for the new Marysville city hall, for construction of which bids will be opened October 25. The larger picture is from a photograph (copy too dark to reproduce here) of today, while the smaller one is a reproduction of a drawing that appeared in a history published in 1879. The house dates back some 80 years. (picture above from History of Yuba County, Thompson & West.) - Pioneer Home Disappears - Work of demolishing the I. S. Belcher residence, one of the pioneer homes of Marysville, and one of the finest, is to start shortly, and every vestige of it is to be removed. The site is to be used for the new city hall. - The residence, built of brick, is still in excellent condition, despite its age. Artisans of its era did their work so well that it was enduring, as many of the old structures in the city testify. - Judge Belcher, who built it, came from Vermont in 1853 and had an active career in the community, eventually, in 1870, being chosen to a seat on the supreme court bench of the state. Before that he had served in 1856-57 as district attorney, was made city attorney in 1859, and was district judge from 1864 to 1869. He was one of the most outstanding figures of his period in Yuba county. - The residence at the southwest corner of Sixth and C streets, was an architectural triumph of its era, the brick walls being beautified by the elaborate wood trim that was favored by those of the period who sought the best. The house is shown in the Thompson & West History of Yuba County, 1879, as having been surrounded by a white picket fence. From that time until now the building itself has been unchanged as to its exterior appearance, and the walls have required no repairs. Only the roof has needed replacement from time to time. - Some years ago the property fell into the hands of the Decker-Jewett bank, now in liquidation, and the property was chosen by the city recently as the city hall site, and was purchased from the bank. - The contractor who submits the successful bid for the city hall job will get possession of the structure and will have the disposal of the materials contained in it. Several residents have applied for the opportunity to purchase the old-fashioned marble mantles of the fireplaces.
Appeal Democrat - Nov 10, 1938, page 1 - Old Belcher Home Rapidly Nearing Demolishment Before Onslaughts Of Crew on Site of City Hall - Wreckers had nearly flattened the old Belcher dwelling at Sixth and C streets Thursday, in the work of clearing the site for the new Marysville city hall. Doors and windows and marble fireplaces were first removed and some of the wood trim was torn away before the brick walls were attacked. Then tackle was used, with a truck as power, to pull down sections of the walls. - Materials salvaged are being rapidly disposed of to persons purchasing them for use in other buildings. Some pieces are taken for their antique value. - Tabor & Higgins, of Oroville, the contractors, have erected two office structures on the grounds from which to handle the construction operations. They are employing about 20 men on the wrecking job, which is being rushed in order to put a power shovel on the scene to excavate the large basement that will underlie the municipal building. - The firm has employed Frank M. Booth of Marysville to do the plumbing and sheet metal work on the city hall, the Robinson Paint Co. for the painting, the Bechtel-Kaiser Rock Co. to supply sand and crushed rock for the concrete, and is employing local workers with the exception of the foremen, according to Walter E. Taber, member of the contracting firm, who is superintending operations. In addition, he said all the material that can be supplied by local firms will be purchased here. - "This is a Marysville job," Taber said, "and I believe the benefits of business and employment emanating from it should insofar as possible be distributed here."
Adeline Belcher:
Marysville Democrat - Sep 17, 1912, p1 - married Ralph McCormick, both residents of Marysville.
Amby Belcher:
Marysville Daily Appeal - Jan. 1, 1925, p9 - married Archie Bigelow of San Jose
Edward A. Belcher:
Daily Democrat - Oct 26, 1893, p1 - Colonel Belcher is Judge - He is Named by the Bar of San Francisco and Appointed by Governor Markham Last Evening - Successor to Judge Garber - The following press telegram was received last evening too late for the issue of the Democrat of yesterday: - Sacramento, October 25. - Governor Markham to-day made known his choice in relation to a successor to Superior Judge Garber of San Francisco, who has tendered his resignation, to take effect November 1st. - The lucky man appointed to the seat soon to be vacated by Judge Garber is Colonel E. A. Belcher, a prominent atttorney [sic] of San Francisco. - Judge E. A. Belcher is a member of a well-known New England family, who came to the Pacific Coast in 1878. - He is a half brother of Judge I. S. Belcher, of the Supreme Court Commission, and of W. C. Belcher, a member of the firm of Mastic, Belcher, Van Fleet & Mastic. - He studied law with his relatives at Marysville when the firm was known as Belcher & Belcher, and eventually practiced there, until removing to San Francisco in 1890. - The appointment to the Superior Bench was unsolicited upon the part of Mr. Belcher, and it was made at the solicitation of leading members of the bar whose indorsement was such as to be in itself a distinguished honor. - At the Miners' Convention Colonel Belcher was appointed on the Executive Legislative and Revision of the Laws Committee and took an active part in the deliberations of that body. - Readers of the Democrat, particularly those who have resided in Marysville several years, will remember Colonel Belcher, who commenced the study of law in this city about fifteen years ago, and who later occupied the office of the law firm of Belcher & Belcher, and practiced his profession until he accepted a position in the Land Department of the Central Pacific Railroad with W. H. Mills. He served about three years in that capacity, then went to Seattle to look for a location where he could open a law office, but soon returned to San Francisco and located. He has met with fair success in his practice, is an affable gentleman and has been quite prominent and active in the counsels of the Republican party in that city. He is about forty years old and has been twice married, his first term as a benedict being somewhat less than that of a Judge of the Superior Court. - The Democrat does not conceded that the appointment is entirely due to the members of the bar, nor to the fact that he is a member of a prominent New England family. - The same influence that placed Judge Searls on the Supreme Court Commission is the source from which Colonel Belcher received the title of Judge.
Isaac Sawyer Belcher:
Marysville Daily Appeal - Dec 1, 1898, p1 - I. S. Belcher Dead - Succumbs to an Attack of Apoplexy in San Francisco - A Pioneer of Yuba County - Deceased Was One of the Most Distinguished Jurists of the State of California - Judge I. S. Belcher, the eminent jurist, and Supreme Court Commissioner, died suddenly about noon yesterday at his residence, 948 Haight street, San Francisco. - A telephone message was received in this city at 11:45 yesterday morning by his son, Attorney Richard Belcher, announcing that his father was dangerously ill. The train was half an hour late so he was able to leave for San Francisco at 12:30. Half an hour later another message came to hand with the intelligence of his death. - The news was sudden and unexpected to his relatives in this city, as when seen in San Francisco a few days ago he was apparently enjoying excellent health. Death resulted from apoplexy. - The deceased was an eminent lawyer, whose decisions were always written with great care, showing him to be a distinguished as well as an impartial jurist. During his long residence in this city he had won the respect and esteem of all classes of citizens. - The men who practiced law with him in this vicinity in early days have all passed away with the exception of William G. Murphy. He belonged to the Bar of Yuba county at a time when it had on its membership roll some of the most learned and eloquent lawyers in the State. Few men were more respected, and the announcement of his death was heard with feelings of deep regret. - Judge Isaac Sawyer Belcher was born at Stockbridge, Windsor county, State of Vermont, on February 28, 1825. He graduated at the University of Vermont, where he took the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1846. At the age of 21 he commenced the study of law, and three years later was admitted to the bar in his native State. - In 1853 he turned his face westward towards the land of gold, and arrived in this State in June of the same year. - He first made his home in Camptonville, Yuba county, where he practiced law, and after being elected District Attorney, which office he filled during the years 1856 and 1857 he took up his residence in Marysville. - In 1859 he was elected City Attorney, and served as Judge of the District Court Tenth Judicial District, comprising the counties of Sutter, Colusa, Yuba and Sierra counties from 1864 to 1969 [sic], being succeeded by Hon. Phil W. Keyser. Under the New Constitution which did not take effect until January 1880, the District Court was done away with and the Superior Court was substituted. - He was appointed Justice of the Supreme Court by Governor Booth in 1870. For many years after he practiced law in this city, the firm being known as Belcher & Belcher, his brother, W. C. Belcher, being his partner. He has been Supreme Court Commissioner for the past twelve years, and his present term would expire next February. - The deceased leaves to mourn his loss a wife to whom he was fondly attached, a son, Attorney Richard Belcher and a daughter, Mrs. Allen Cooley, both residents of this city, and two sons, Robert and Will Belcher, who resided with their parents in San Francisco and a brother, Judge E. A. Belcher, one of the Superior Court judges in San Francisco. - The late William C. Belcher, his former law partner, was his oldest brother. When he died he appointed John H. Jewett and deceased as his executors. The estate which was of considerable magnitude, was recently settled in the Probate Court of Yuba county. - The bar of Yuba county will meet Saturday afternoon at which time a committee will be appointed by Judge Davis to draft memorial resolutions touching the deceased. - The time and place of the funeral has not as yet been selected.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Dec 2, 1898, p1 - Judge Belcher's Funeral - Will Take Place From Howard Presbyterian Church San Francisco To-Morrow - The funeral of the late Judge I. S. Belcher will take place in San Francisco to-morrow (Saturday). The funeral services will be conducted at the Howard Presbyterian church at 10 o'clock. - As already announced his death was sudden. On returning home Tuesday evening he complained of a bad cold which was worse on Wednesday morning and at noon he passed away, the cause of his death being a severe attack of asthma accompanied by a complication of disorders resultant upon old age. - At the time of his death he was a trustee of the Stanford University. - The flags of Corinthian Lodge, No. 9, F. and A. M., and of Washington Chapter, No. 13, R.A.M., have been placed at half mast out of respect to his memory.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Dec 4, 1898, p1 - In Memory of Judge Belcher - A Committee Appointed by Judge Davis to Draft Resolutions of Respect - At the conclusion of the probate business in the Superior Court yesterday afternoon Judge Davis called the attention of the members of the Bar present to the death of Judge I. S. Belcher. - He stated that the deceased had been the leading member of the bar of Yuba county for many years, and had been a resident of Marysville up to a few years ago. It was in his opinion appropriate that they should take some action in respect to his memory at that time. He would suggest that a committee of three be appointed to draft a set of memorial resolutions. Mr. Murphy was the oldest member of the bar, and had known the deceased intimately for many years, and he asked what he would suggest. - Attorney W. G. Murphy stated that he was admitted to practice law in 1863, and had known the deceased from that time, he being ten years his senior at the bar. Had always known him as an able lawyer and an honorable man, who was always as ready to assist a young attorney, as he was a courteous friend. Had always liked to practice law with the Belcher brothers who had always been on friendly terms with him. Was glad to be afforded an opportunity to pay a tribute to his memory, and to give expression to his appreciation of his character. He was an able lawyer who loved only that law which was honest and just. He had been successful in his finances, successful in his family relations, and had filled many honorable positions with benefit to his people and honor to himself. He had had a successful life and an easy death. - He moved the court to appoint a committee of three to draft the necessary resolutions. - Judge Davis appointed W. G. Murphy, Waldo S. Johnson and John E. Ebert as a committee to draft the necessary memorial resolutions and present them to the court next Saturday, at which time he hoped every member of the bar would be present. - On motion of W. G. Murphy the court then adjourned to Monday afternoon out of respect to the memory of the late Judge I. S. Belcher.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Dec 7, 1898, p1 - Will of Judge Belcher - The Bulk of the Estate Goes to the Widow - The will of the late Judge I. S. Belcher, which is an olographic[sic] document, dated August 8, 1898, has been filed for probate in the Superior Court, San Francisco, by her son, Attorney Richard Belcher, of Marysville. - The estate is valued at $100,000, the deceased having owned property in San Francisco, Yuba, Sutter, Butte, Colusa and Glenn counties. - After bequeathing $100 to each of his four children he directs that the residue of his estate be given to his wife, Adeline Belcher, who is named as executrix without bonds.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Dec 8, 1899, p1 - Judge Belcher's Estate - Distribution of the Same to His Heirs as Per His Last Will - The valuable estate of the late I. S. Belcher was distributed in San Francisco last Tuesday to the widow, Adeline N. Belcher, with the exception of $100 to each of the four children-Martha B. Cooley, Richard Belcher, William J. Belcher and Robert Belcher. It consists of $42,461 in cash, 225 shares of Bank of Willows stock, 15 shares of Decker, Jewett & Co. Bank stock, 600 shares of Pacific Lighting Co. stock, 52 shares of Marysville Woolen Mill Co. stock, furniture and residence at 948 Haight street, and land in Butte, Glenn, Colusa and Sutter counties.
Mary J. Belcher
Marysville Daily Democrat - Sep 12, 1891, page 4 - Died: Belcher - At Pacific Grove, Monterey county, Cal., September 10, 1891, Miss Mary Belcher, a native of Vermont.
Marysville Daily Democrat - Sep 15, 1891, page 1 - Miss Belcher's Funeral - The funeral of Miss Mary J. Belcher took place from the residence of Allen Cooley yesterday afternoon. Services were conducted by Rev. Chas. L. Fitchett. J. H. Jewett, George S. Cooley, J. C. White and A. D. Cutts officiated as pall-bearers. A number of beautiful floral pieces were contributed by friends.
Mattie A. Belcher [see Martha Belcher Cooley]
Marysville Daily Appeal - July 25, 1890, page 2 - Marriages: In San Francisco, July 23d, by the Rev. J. E. Anderson, Mattie A. Belcher and Allen Cooley, both of Marysville.
Richard Belcher
Appeal Democrat - Mar 21, 1947, page1 - [photo] Richard Belcher, Civil Leader, Is Summoned - Richard Belcher, 79, widely known Marysville attorney and civic leader, who served continuously since 1898 as referee in bankruptcy in 15 northern California counties, died early this morning at his home, 706 G street. Although in failing health for some time, he was critically ill for only a brief period before death. - Belcher was a native of Marysville. He was born Jan. 17, 1868, the son of Isaac S. and Adeline M. Belcher. He attended Marysville grammar school and in 1880 went to a boarding school in San Francisco. In 1882 he entered the Sackett school in Oakland and was graduated from Amherst college in 1889. - At Amherst, his name is high on the athletic rolls of that college as one of the best right fielders ever to play on the Amherst baseball team. He was a member of D. K. E. fraternity. - Was a Graduate of Hastings School - Richard Belcher was graduated from Hastings law school in San Francisco in 1892. June 6, 1892 he was married to Anna Josephine Ward of Amherst. Following their wedding, the two returned to Marysville where they have resided since. - Belcher was admitted to the bar June 29, 1892 and opened a law office in Marysville on July 10, 1892, in the Belcher building, where he practiced for 48 years, after which he moved his office to the ground floor on the order of his physician. He was said to be the oldest practicing graduate of Hastings law school in northern California. - In 1898 he and Mrs. Belcher purchased the old McDonald place on G street, where they have lived ever since. He was a member of the Elks club and as chairman of the Elks building committee he was largely responsible for the construction of the Elks home on lower D street, which burned in 1927. - Belcher was appointed a referee in bankruptcy in August, 1898, and served continuously since that time, having 15 northern California district counties in his district. He served as president of the water company from 1917 until it was sold to the California Water Service Co. - On State Bar Association Board - In 1932, Belcher became a member of the board of governors of the State Bar association and served on the board for five years. He also served as vice president of the bar association for three years and was offered the presidency, but declined. He was a member of the Yuba county bar association for years. - Belcher received his degree as a Mason on Nov. 16, 1895, and was a member of Corinthian Lodge, F. and A.M., No. 9, a life member of Washington chapter, No. 13, Royal Arch Masons, of Marysville Council No. 13, Royal Commandery No. 17. - He served on the board of the Napa state hospital and in 1899 on the board of the normal school in Chico. He maintained a life-long interest in baseball and served as president of two semi-professional baseball leagues. - A few years ago Mr. and Mrs. Belcher celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. - Other than his wife, Mrs. Anna Josephine Belcher, he is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Vail Aikin of Marysville and Mrs. Harold W. Beard of Santa Barbara; one granddaughter, Mrs. George F. Edmonds, two great-grandchildren, Jean and Richard W. Edmonds, all of Santa Barbara and a brother, William J. Belcher of Martinez. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Lipp & Sullivan.
Appeal Democrat - Mar 22, 1947, page 1 - Belcher Services Set For Monday - Funeral services for Richard Belcher, widely known Marysville attorney and civic leader who died in his home at 706 G street, will be held in the residence at 10 o'clock Monday morning. Lipp & Sullivan will be in charge of arrangements. - Belcher, who was dean of the Yuba-Sutter county bar and had served continuously since 1898 as referee in bankruptcy in 15 northern California counties is remembered for his many contributions to the city's progress and development. One of his contributions was his interest in the building and equipping of the Marysville public library. He was a close friend of John Q. Packard, philanthropist, who donated the library building to the City of Marysville. While the library was under construction and in the years immediately following, Belcher supervised the selection and purchase of books. - Honored in Yuba Superior Court - Judge Arthur Coats, presiding at yesterday afternoon's session of the Yuba county superior court, announced the death of Richard Belcher to the attorneys assembled and briefly adjourned the court as a mark of respect to Belcher. - "It is the duty of this court and of members of the bar to show our respect for this man who was dean of the bar in these two counties," Judge Coats said. "I am appointing every member of the Yuba-Sutter bar as a general committee to attend the funeral of Mr. Belcher. - "I also appoint as a special committee to prepare a memorial and arrange for a suitable floral tribute, Alvin Weis, Ray Manwell, Homer Lingenfelter, Arthur E. Hewitt, Erling S. Norby and Arthur Coats jr. - "I think it is the duty of every member of the bar to attend Belcher's funeral if he can possibly do so. Mr. Belcher was an honorable, just and outstanding citizen and member of the bar. I do not think I need say more." - Among relatives here to attend the funeral are Mrs. Frank Vail Akin and Mrs. Harold W. Beard, daughters of Belcher, who were visiting here at the time of their father's death; Harold W. Beard, son-in-law, Santa Barbara; Frank Vail Akin, son-in-law, who arrived by plane from Mexico; Mr. and Mrs. George W. Edmonds, the latter a granddaughter, Santa Barbara; William J. Belcher, brother, Martinez and Richard Belcher II, nephew, Oakland.
Appeal Democrat - Mar 25, 1947, page 9 - Belcher - Funeral services for Richard Belcher, dean of the Yuba-Sutter bar who died Friday, were held yesterday morning at 10 o'clock in the family home, 706 G street. Rev. Carl Tamblyn conducted services. The Yuba-Sutter bar association attended in a body. The Lipp & Sullivan staff acted as pallbearers. Cremation followed in Sierra View Memorial park.
Robert Belcher
Marysville Daily Appeal - July 26, 1916, page 4 - Former Marysville Resident Drowns - Robert Belcher, brother of Richard Belcher, local attorney, and Will Belcher, a farmer in District 10, was drowned in Fresno county Monday while fishing. News of the drowning was received yesterday by Richard Belcher. - Belcher was born and raised in Marysville. He was 37 years old, and besides two brothers, leaves a mother, Mrs. I. S. Belcher, who resides in Berkeley. Robert Belcher lived in Berkeley.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Jul 28, 1916, page 5 - Body Of Robert Belcher, Drowned in Sierra, Found - Fresno, July 27. - The body of Robert Belcher, Berkeley oil man, who was drowned in Evolution creek, 40 miles above Huntington lake, in the high Sierra of Fresno county, was found this morning by George Lewis of San Francisco. The body was brought to Fresno this afternoon. The body was found in the water two miles below the spot where Belcher was plunged into the rapid stream, when his horse stumbled while crossing the creek.
William Caldwell Belcher:
Marysville Daily Appeal - Sep 3, 1895, p1 - Passed Beyond - Death of Wm. C. Belcher in San Francisco - A Very Eminent Attorney - One of Marysville's Old and Most Respected Citizens-End of a Brilliant Career. - Ex-Judge William C. Belcher, the well known attorney, brother of Isaac S. Belcher of the Supreme Court Commission, and of Judge Edward A. Belcher of the Superior Court of San Francisco, died at his rooms in the Palace Hotel, at 3 o'clock Sunday. - The Chronicle of yesterday publishes the following: - "Judge Belcher had been ill for two weeks preceding his death, and for seven or eight days was confined to his bed. He had been in feeble health for several years past, as a result of an accident which he met with while visiting the Yosemite Valley, and when stricken down with sickness two weeks ago he was poorly prepared to struggle against the ravages of his physical affliction. After he took to his bed he became rapidly worse, and on Friday last it became evident that his hours were numbered. - He passed away quietly yesterday morning, surrounded by his brothers and the attending physicians. - Dr. Levi C. Lane, who has been Judge Belcher's physician for years, says that his death is directly traceable to the accident which happened at the Yosemite. That was six years ago. - Judge Belcher had been visiting the Valley with his neice [sic], Miss Taggart, and on their way back to the city they were passengers on one of the big stage coaches. Judge Belcher occupied a part of the driver's seat. - The horses ran away and the coach upset. Judge Belcher was thrown from his seat and landed on a pile of rocks. One of his knees was broken and he was badly bruised and injured internally. Miss Taggart, his neice [sic], was also badly injured, and she is now confined to her bed. Judge Belcher was kept to his room for a year after the accident happened. After that he managed to get about with the aid of crutches, which he never succeeded in dispensing with. He was always reluctant to confess that he was ill, and, it is said, attended to his legal business at times when he should have been under a doctor's care. - A few weeks ago the internal injuries which he received in the Yosemite accident began to trouble him. Pus began to gather and the poisonous matter was disseminated throughout his system. This was the direct cause of his death. - Judge Belcher was a native of Gaysville, Stockbridge, Vt., and was 74 years of age. He graduated from the University of Vermont and afterward studied law and was admitted to the bar. In 1856 he came to California and located at Marysville, where his brother, Isaac S. Belcher, had already opened a law office. The two brothers formed a partnership under the name of Belcher & Belcher, which continued until Isaac S. Belcher went upon the bench. - About twenty years ago he came to San Francisco and associated himself with E. B. Mastick & Son in the practice of the law. Subsequently Judge Van Fleet became a member of the law partnership, but withdrew when appointed to the Supreme Bench by Governor Markham. The firm name has recently been Mastick, Belcher & Mastick. Judge Belcher was one of the leading men in his profession in the State, and had been attorney and counsel in some of the most important cases brought before the courts. - Deceased was a past grand master of the Grand Lodge of Masons, past grand commander of the Grand Commandery, past grand high priest of Royal Arch Masons, member of the 33d degree in the Scottish Rite, and for more than thirty years had been chairman of the judiciary committee of the Grand Lodge. - The deceased leaves, besides two brothers in this city, two sisters and one brother in the East. They are Mrs. Nathan Whitney of Bennington, Vt., Mrs. J. B. Taggart of Stockbridge, Vt., and James M. Belcher of Pepperell, Mass. - The funeral will be held under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Masons on Saturday afternoon of this week, at 2 o'clock. The services will be held at the Masonic Temple and the interment will be in the Masonic Cemetery." - Judge Belcher was also a member of Corinthian Lodge, No. 9, of this city; of Marysville Council, No. 3; Washington Chapter, No. 13; Marysville Commandery No. 7, and of Pacific Lodge of Perfection, No. 3, of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rites. - He never lost his residence in Marysville, and came here at each election to vote. He was unmarried and leaves quite a large estate which will probably be divided among brothers, sisters and other relatives.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Sep 8, 1895, p1 - Mark of Respect - Resolutions of Sincere Respect for the Departed Jurist - The Personal Expressions - Show the High Esteem in Which He Was Held by Those Who Knew Him Earliest - After the probate business of the Superior Court had been disposed of yesterday afternoon Attorney E. A. Forbes stated that as chairman of the committee appointed by the Court to prepare resolutions of respect to the memory of the late W. C. Belcher he was now ready to report, and as they had been written out by Judge J. H. Craddock he would ask him to read them. - Judge J. H. Craddock then stated that the committee appointed by the Court to draw up the resolutions respecting the death of their late brother had prepared the following resolutions which, with the Court's permission, he would proceed to read. - Recognizing the loss occasioned by the recent death of William C. Belcher as a State bereavement, we feel that the bereavement falls with fullest force upon this community of which the deceased was for so long a time a worthy and an honored member, and particularly upon the Bar of Yuba county, which was the forum of his early labors and his most successful achievements, where, because, he was best known, he was most highly appreciated. Therefore, we, the members of the Bar of Yuba county assembled for the purpose of paying to his memory the tribute of the expression of our appreciation of his merits as a lawyer and of our sorrow at the loss of the companionship which has been closed to us forever, do adopt the following resolutions, which we ask may be entered upon the minutes of this Court: - Resolved, That in the death of our brother the profession has lost one of its ablest and most learned members, and the Bar of Yuba county, one of the brightest and few remaining lights of its early galaxy, from which has shone the gladsome light of jurisprudence. - Resolved, That while we, his junior brethren of the bar, deeply feel and sincerely deplore the loss of our departed brother, we recall with gratitude the legacy he has left us in the example of his life of studious habits and upright conduct, his uniform courtrsy [sic] and kindness in all his intercourse with his brethren of the bar, his qualities of untiring industry, his delicate sense of honor, and the profound and varied learning which enriched his mind, and endeared his companionship. - Whom now we mourn - Fell laurel crowned, and full of years; Beloved and loving, honor worn; While friendship weeps, if he but hears The mingled sobs, to him 'tis sweet. That bar and bench like this should meet. - Signed, E. A. Forbes, W. H. Carlin, J. H. Craddock, W. G. Murphy, Wallace Dinsmore. - Attorney W. G. Murphy then moved the adoption of the resolutions, and that they be spread on the minutes. - Attorney W. T. Phipps seconded the motion and it was adopted. - Judge Davis asked if any members of the bar wished to make any remarks. - Attorney Murphy, the senior member of the Bar, said he had been a member of the Bar with the deceased for over thirty-two years, and had always the greatest respect for him. He was a man of bright intellect and kind heart and all that knew him were delighted in his __[blurred-unable to read]_______________ been a member of the Bar so long with such a man as few men were noted for such honesty, integrity and manliness as the late W. C. Belcher. It was a melancholy duty to speak such words almost over the bier of their departed friend, who was a great jurist, scholar and gentleman. - Judge J. H. Craddock said he valued the occasion for the opportunity it afforded him of expressing his appreciation of the high worth of his deceased brother. - He had known him intimately for a quarter of a century and had met him as opposing counsel in many of the important cases with which he had been connected. He was a modest man of retiring nature and he certainly made a few enemies. He knew of no one more instructive, and his high sense of honor, and his studious habits was the legacy he left to his brother members of the Bar. He knew of no man who labored more incessantly, he was very seldom idle and his successes in life was due to his industry, more than to any natural gifts. - "There is a view of this mater I should like to impress on the members of the bar," said the Judge, "and that is is appreciating and honoring his life, as well as pronouncing the eulogy. - "Let us not forget that if honor be for the dead, gratitude can only be for the living. He who has once stood beside the grave, to look back upon the companionship whish has been forever closed, feeling how impotent there are the wild love, or the keen sorrow, to give one instant's pleasure to the priceless heart, or to atone in the lowest measure to the departed spirit for the hour of unkindness, will scarcely for the future incur that debt to the heart, which can only be discharged to the dust. But the lessons which men receive as individuals, they do not learn as nations. Again and again they have seen their noblest descend into the grave, and have thought it enough to garland the tombstone when they had not crowned the brow, and to pay honor to the ashes which they had denied to the spirit. Let it not displease them that they are bidden, amidst the tumult and dazzle of their busy life, to listen to the few voices, and watch for the few lamps, which God has toned and lighted to charm and guide them, that they may not leave their sweetness by their silence, nor their light by their decay. - "Life, says Goethe, is not a holiday, it is a discipline; the world is not a play ground, it is a school room, and the one eternal lesson for us all is how better to live. - "With Carlyle and Tolstoi, I believe that work is worship. - "The best things in this world do not come to us ready made. God has given us the material conditions of a blessed life. In Christ we have the pattern and principle of such a life. Yet the actual work of making life noble and beautiful and enjoyable he has left to ourselves. Truith [sic] must be searched for with patient toil. Beauty must be wrought out with painstaking devotion. Food and raiment must be wrested from the furrow and woven in the loom. And all our social and political institutions must be fought for on the field of battle, defended in the forum, and vindicated in the Courts. - "There is not a member of the Bar but who can achieve the same success as our deceased brother by industry, although he was an exceptionally learned man. I hope the lesson to be taken from his life will not be forgotten." - Attorney E. A. Forbes stated that he had transacted considerable business with the deceased for the past ten years, and while he was District Attorney had received much assistance from him. In his judgment he had the greatest legal mind of any man with whom he had been connected. His industry was marvelous, and the lights were often to be seen burning in his office at 2 o'clock in the morning. His great judgment and learning will be missed form the counsels of the Bar of the State." - Attorney W. H. Carlin also passed a brief eulogy on the deceased in whose life he said there was much to emulate, as it had not been spent in vain. - Judge Davis said that more beautiful sentiments had been expressed by the members of the Bar, and it had gratified no one more than himself. When he first came to Marysville he was one of his most intimate friends. For private reasons he owed more to the late W. C. Belcher than to any living man, friend or relative. He could not say enough in eulogy of him as a friend or lawyer. He was one of the kindest hearted men he ever knew, and was generous to a fault. He often thought he was too much so. No member of the Bar ever knew him to quarrel; in Court he was always affable, polite and kind and he wished they could all practice his virtue. His example was a good one to follow; he always spoke well of everyone, his good heart always dictated something good, and he made no display of his generosity. No one suffering or in want ever went away without receiving some assistance. He was a great lawyer, and was one of the greatest jurists in the State, the peer of almost anyone; no man had a broader or more generous nature. - In conclusion he ordered that the resolutions be inserted in the minutes by a rising vote of the members of the Bar, and ordered that the Court stand adjourned out of respect to the memory of the late W. C. Belcher.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Oct 2, 1895, p1 - The Belcher Will - It Provides for the Maintenance of Numerous Relatives - Our Library Remembered - His Birthplace Also Favored With a Goodly Portion of His Wealth - No Value Given. - In the matter of the estate of the late Attorney Caldwell Belcher, deceased, who died in San Francisco on September the will was filed for probate in the Superior Court yesterday on the petition of I. S. Belcher and John H. Jewett who asked that the same be admitted to probate and that letter testamentary be issued to them. He bequeaths his interest in his law books to his brother I. S. Belcher. He also bequeaths to him his miscellaneous library to be by him held in trust for a library to be formed in the village of Gaysville, Vermont. It is the desire of the deceased that all of said library be shipped at the expense of his estate to the officers and trustees of such library whenever a proper board to manage the same shall be organized. - He also bequeaths to him his interest in the old home farm at Stockbridge, Vermont, to be by him held in trust for the use of his sister Cornelia, and her husband so long as either of them shall live, and upon the death of the survivor of them to be conveyed to their two children, Minnie and Hattie, share and share alike. - To the executors I. S. Belcher and John H. Jewett, is bequeathed all the rest and residue of his property, real and personal, and mixed to be by them held in trust for the following purposes: - First: to pay the expenses of his last sickness and burial. Second: to pay all his just debts and the expenses of administering his estate. Third: to pay his sister, Mary J. Belcher, $50 per month so long as she lives. Fifth: to pay his sister Charolotte M. Whitney, $600 per year for the education of his nephew, William B. Whitney, so long as he shall continue at college or at a professional school either in America or Europe. Sixth: to pay the expenses of the education of his niece, Ann Belcher, daughter of his brother James, at such school as he may select for her, and to conclude a full course at Wellesley or other like college for girls, if she should desire to take such course, provided that such expense shall not exceed $600 a year. - In I. S. Belcher and John H. Jewett is vested the power to sell all of his estate, after the close of administration, using their best judgment and without application to or order from the Superior Court, or any Court whatever. The proceeds of the sale are directed to be invested in interest bearing securities in such wise that the income from the estate may be sufficient to meet the payments herein before mentioned in this article. In case the interest money is insufficient to meet the demands the principal is to be used. - The executors are instructed to upon the death of his aunt, Phoebe W. Brooks, set aside $10,000 and keep the same invested, and pay over the income therefrom annually to his sister, Charlotte, during her life. Upon her death they are to pay the principal to her two sons, William and Edward or the survivor of them, share and share alike. - Upon the death of his sister, Mary J. Belcher, the executors are to pay to Edward A. Belcher the sum of $8,000, and to his nieces, Minnie A. and Hattie Taggart, $5,000 each, and to the trustees of the Gaysville Library $10,000, which sum must be invested in interest bearing securities for the purchase of books. - Upon the completion of the education of his nephew, Wm. B. Whitney, the executors are to pay the young man the sum of $8,000, and to his brother, Edward, a like sum. At the same time the city of Marysville is to receive for its public library, $1,000, and Minnie and Bessie Rogers, daughters of his sister, Augusta, $5,000 each. - Upon the completion of the education of his niece, Ann Belcher, the following payments are directed to be made: Ann Belcher, $8,000; her sister, Alice Belcher, $8,000; to Mattie Belcher, (now Mrs. Allen Cooley) daughter of I. S. Belcher, $8,000. The residue of the property then remaining in the hands of the executors is to be given to the University of Vermont, to be invested and the interest used for the purchase of books for its library. - In the case of the death of both executors, the Superior Court of Yuba county is directed to appoint a suitable person to carry out the trusts of the will. - This will is dated June 12, 1885, and letters testamentary are directed to be issued to the executors without bonds. - The hearing has been set for Saturday, October 12, at 2 p.m. - From the petition nothing can be learned of the extent or character of the estate.
Phoebe W. Brooks
Ref: PHOEBE W. BROOKS
Probate Court R. Island Co June 16 1851
William S. Jacks being first duly sworn deposes & says that in September AD. 1849 he went to reside at San Francisco California – that he resided there till the 15th of April last when he left for this place – that he has for several years been acquainted with Charles Brooks, formerly of this city & now deceased – That he (the said Brooks) left here for California about the time your affiant left in the year 1849, & for a considerable portion of the time after his arrival in California resided in the town of Marysville, Cal. That he the said Brooks came to San Francisco in Oct. last, on his way as he said for this place – That while at said San Francisco & near the close of said month of October, he was as your affiant was informed & believes taken sick with the cholera & there died - .
Your affiant obtained his information from those who were with him at the time of his sickness, & at whose hands he died, & has no doubt of this death of __ Brooks as stated above - . Sworn and subscribed
before me this 16th day of W S Jacks
June AD 1851 John W. Spencer
A full and perfect inventory of the estate goods chattels and effects of Charles Brooks late of the county of Rock Island deceased. So far as the same has come to the knowledge of the undersigned administratrix.
Real Estate. The decedent had no real estate in this State. The Admx has heard that he had some claim to lot or lots in the town of Marysville California, but know nothing of the value or validity thereof.
Personal Estate. The same as set forth in an appraisement bill thereof filed in said estate, amounting to 47.00
Notes & accounts. Note & Mortgage against George Wilson Rock Island with int good. 83.00.
Note against John W. Rigby dated “California February 27, 1846. plus two
months after date. which is regarded as disperate. (The payee thereof having
gone to Texas, and ____ ____ the end_____ thereof being dead this estate
insolvent.) 200.00
Cash on hand 15.00
Phoebe W. Brooks
administratrix
Note: Charles Brooks died intestate and his widow, Phoebe W. Brooks, was appointed “administratrix” by the court of Rock Island, Illinois on 6 Oct. 1851
On January 28, 1858, Phoebe W. Brooks asks the court to discharge her as administratrix of the estate “that no debts have been presented against said estate” and “that all of the property of the deceased was insufficient to pay to me the amount that was set to me for specific articles by the appraisers of said estate” and “ that all expenses of administration have been paid by me” [Transcribed and submitted by Carolee Moore.]
Arthur Brooks Caldwell
Marysville Daily Appeal - Jan 22, 1884, page 2 - Died: In Marysville, January 20th, Arthur Brooks Caldwell, aged 35 years and 18 days. - Friends are invited to attend the funeral from the residence to-day at 11 o'clock.
Martha Augusta Belcher Cooley
Marysville Daily Appeal - May 5, 1901, page 1 - Death The Reaper - Mrs. Allen Cooley Succumbs to the Ravages of Pneumonia - "Forenoon and afternoon and night - forenoon, - And afternoon and night, - Forenoon, and - what! - The empty song repeats itself. No more? Yea, that is life; make this forenoon sublime, - This afternoon a psalm, this night a prayer, - And time is conquered, and they crown is won." - These beautiful words have been well exemplified in the life which has just been taken from among us. In the death of Mrs. Allen Cooley, Marysville has sustained a great loss and profound grief is the universal sentiment of the entire community, for she was beloved by all, a woman of sterling worth and gentle nature, a true friend, one who strove to make each day sublime. - Mrs. Cooley was taken ill but a few days ago, and her death resulting from pneumonia, comes as a great shock to all her friends. - Martha Agusta [sic] Cooley, daughter of the late Judge and Mrs. I. S. Belcher, was born in Marysville August 24, 1862. After a course in the Marysville public schools, she was graduated from Mill's College in East Oakland and subsequently from Mt. Holyoke College in Massachusetts. On July 23, 1890, she was married to Mr. Allen Cooley at her home in San Francisco, Judge Belcher having removed his family there upon being appointed Supreme Court Commissioner. After an extended Eastern tour, Mr. and Mrs. Cooley returned to Marysville and re-opened the Belcher residence on the corner of Sixth and C streets, where they have resided during their married life. - Mrs. Cooley was an accomplished musician and literary woman, and a most prominent member of the Presbyterian Church of this city. Her loss will be keenly felt in church and social circles. A Marysville girl born and raised, she has lived her pure, Christian life among us as though to say: "I expect to pass through this life but once. If therefore there is any kindness I can show, or any good I can do to any fellow-being, let me do it now, let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again." - Besides her husband, Mrs. Cooley leaves to mourn her loss two sons, Belcher and William Belcher, aged respectively nine and five years; her mother, Mrs. I. S. Belcher; three brothers, Richard Belcher of Marysville, and William J. Belcher and Robert Belcher of San Francisco, and a step daughter, Mrs. W. S. Rose of Antioch. - The sympathy of the entire community is with them in this sad bereavement. - The funeral services, to which all friends will be welcome, will be held at the residence Monday morning at 11 o'clock. The remains will be taken to San Francisco on afternoon train Monday for cremation at the Odd Fellows' Crematory.
Marysville Daily Appeal - May 7, 1901, page 1 - The Last of Earth - Loving Friends Unite in Final Rites for the Late Mrs. Allen Cooley. - The many friends of the late Mrs. Allen Cooley gathered at the family residence yesterday morning at 11 o'clock to pay a last tribute to her memory. Flowers in profusion, all the sweet-breathed blossoms of the springtime, roses of every hue, sweet peas of every shade, had been brought by friends, and the casket was almost hidden with the starry blossoms of the lupine, together with maidenhair fern, white sweet peas and Easter lillies. A handsome floral easel with the emblem "Rest," in violets, had been sent by the employees of the firm of which the bereaved husband was a member. - At the foot of the casket stood a large floral harp, the tribute of the "Ladies' Aid Society" of the Presbyterian Church while quantities of wreaths and other floral offering were sent by friends. - The Rev. Arery G. Hunt, Pastor of the Presbyterian Church, officiated, taking for the theme of his remarks those beautiful words from the thirteenth verse of the fourth chapter of I Thessalonians. "Them which are asleep." He spoke in a eloquent and feeling manner. - "Asleep in Jesus" and "Abide With Me" were sung by Miss Shirley White, Mrs. J. U. Hofstetter, Dr. Allen H. Suggett and Mr. Edward Cooley, and a soprano solo, "Crossing the Bar," was tenderly rendered by Miss Shirley White, Miss Alice Swain playing the piano accompaniments. - Following the services the remains were taken on the afternoon train to San Francisco for cremation.
H. Augusta Belcher Rogers
Marysville Daily Appeal - Apr. 19, 1877, page 2 - Died: In this city, April 16th, H. Augusta Belcher, wife of Dr. S. J. S. Rogers, aged 35 years, 8 months and 17 days. - Funeral this afternoon from the Presbyterian Church at 2 o'clock. Friends and acquaintances are respectfully invited to attend.
John B. Rogers
Marysville Daily Appeal - June 3,1898, page 1 - Dr. Rogers Missing - Removed From the Woman's Hospital Leaving No Word - Relatives Badly Worried - The Young Man a Son of Dr. S. J. S. Rogers of This City - Had Resigned His Position - "The relatives and friends of Dr. John B. Rogers, an interne in the California Women's Hospital," says yesterday's Chronicle, "are seriously alarmed over his sudden and unexplained disappearance. Dr. Rogers has dropped out of sight as completely as though the earth had swallowed him. He is a nephew of Judge Belcher of this city and the Belchers have made diligent inquiry for him at the various hospitals and other places where he might have been conveyed if injuried [sic] or suddenly taken ill. They have also notified the authorities of the disappearance and detectives are working on the case. - "Dr. Rogers was last seen on Sunday night. For years he has lived with his relatives, the Belchers, at 948 Haight street. Since becoming an interne at the California Women's Hospital, five months ago, he has lived at the hospital, but has dined on Sunday with the Belchers. Last Sunday he left the hospital at 9 o'clock in the morning and was expected to return at 8 in the evening. He went to the Belchers as usual, and left between 6 and 7 o'clock. When he did not return to the hospital, the house physician telephoned to the Belchers, but they knew nothing of Dr. Rogers' whereabouts. - "On Monday a letter from Rogers was received by the lady managers of the hospital. It had been mailed in San Francisco at 7:30 on Sunday evening. It contained his resignation as an interne at the hospital. That resignation was accepted by the board yesterday. It gave no reason for the sudden withdrawal." - Attorney Richard Belcher left for San Francisco on the noon train yesterday and will endeavor to locate his cousin. His many acquaintances in this city hope that he will be heard from before many days.
Marysville Daily Appeal - June 5, 1898, page 1 - Dr. Rogers Was In Oakland - Has Resigned His Position and Will Take Up the Practice of Medicine - It was announced in the Appeal yesterday morning that Dr. John B. Rogers had been located. The following notice with regard to that gentleman appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle yesterday: - "Dr. John B. Rogers, whose mysterious disappearance last Sunday caused his relatives and friends considerable worry and trouble, returned to his home at 948 Haight street yesterday. Rogers says that he has been in Oakland and Alameda with friends on business of a private nature, and makes no explanation of his unusual manner of disappearing without notice and remaining away several days without communicating with his friends. - He has resigned his place as an interne at the California Woman's Hospital, and intends to take up the practice of medicine."
Mary A. Rogers
Marysville Daily Appeal - Feb 13, 1914, page 1 - Mary Rogers, Former Resident, Dead In East - Left Here When Little Girl To Live In East - Miss Mary A. Rogers, daughter of the late Dr. S. J. S. Rogers and a sister of Dr. John B. Rogers of the Napa state hospital, died in Bennington, New Hampshire, on February 10th and was buried there yesterday. - Deceased will be remembered by many of the old-timers here. She left this city when a small girl after the death of her father. The family occupied the old Ewell house on D street.
Samuel Josiah Smith Rogers
Daily Democrat - Nov 7, 1904, page 5 - The Tomb: Rogers - In North Bloomfield, Nevada county, November 7, 1904, Dr. S. J. S. Rogers, a native of Massachusetts, resident of Marysville, aged 80 years. - Funeral in Marysville, November 9, at 2 p.m. under auspices Yuba Lodge, No. 39, F. & A.M., and Pacific Lodge of Perfection, No. 2. Interment in City cemetery.
Daily Democrat - Nov 7, 1904, page 8 - Death Of A Good Man - Dr. S. J. S. Rogers Passed to the Great Majority Today - Dr. Samuel Josiah Smith Rogers died in North Bloomfield, Nevada county, at an early hour this morning, where he had been some time with his son, Dr. John B. Rogers. Dr. Rogers was a native of Massachusetts, aged 80 years, and had resided in this city about fifty years. - He graduated and gained his physician's certificate in Baltimore in 1848, and came here to practice soon afterward, he and Dr. C. E. Stone being the pioneer physicians in this city and county. - Besides his son, deceased is survived by two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth Rogers, residents of Bennington, New Hampshire, and one brother, a resident of Michigan. Attorney Richard Belcher is distantly related to deceased, his father having married a half sister of deceased. - Dr. Rogers had been making his home with his son at North Bloomfield nearly a year. It was while there some time ago that he met with a serious accident. While driving in a cart and leading a horse the whole outfit went off a grade, Dr. Rogers falling on one horse and the other falling on him. He sustained several broken bones, and the accident is believed to have brought death several years earlier than would have otherwise been the case. - The body will arrive here Tuesday and the funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock under the auspices of Yuba Lodge, F. & A.M., of which deceased was a respected member many years.
Daily Democrat - Nov 8, 1904, page 5 - Funeral of Dr. Rogers - The funeral of the late Dr. S. J. S. Rogers will take place Wednesday afternoon. Services will be held in Masonic Hall at 2 o'clock under auspices of Yuba Lodge, No. 39, F. & A.M. Deceased was prominent in Masonic circles. He was past master of Rose Bar Lodge, member of Yuba Lodge, No. 39, F. and A. M., past high priest of Washington Chapter, No. 13, R.A.M., member of Marysville Council, No. 3, R. and S.M., Marysville Commandery, No. 7, K.T., and Scottish Rite Masons, 32d degree.
Daily Appeal - Nov 8, 1904, page 1- Article regarding his life in Yuba County given - microfilm copy has left part of column cut off due to binding.
Daily Appeal - Nov 10, 1904, page 8 - A Pioneer At Rest - Remains of the Late Dr. S. J. S. Rogers Find Final Repose - The funeral of the late Dr. S. J. S. Rogers took place yesterday afternoon under the auspices of Yuba Lodge, No. 39, F. and A.M., and was well attended. - The services were held at the Masonic Hall and were read by Worshipful Master John Hutchins and by the chaplain, Rev. W. H. Stoy. During the services Mrs. George H. Baird sang several appropriate hymns, being accompanied by Miss Edith Featherly. - Numerous floral pieces were sent by friends who had known the deceased for many years. The following gentlemen acted as pall bearers: J. A. Maben and E. Brow, C. E. Stone, David Powell, G. W. Stratton and J. H. Barr. - A large cortege followed by the remains to the City Cemetery, where the interment took place. - C. J. Covillaud acted as marshal for the members of Yuba Lodge.
Mary A. Swain:
Marysville Appeal - Mar 28, 1925, page 1 - Death Summons Mrs. W. B.[C.] Swain - Mrs. W. C. Swain, one of the best known women in Marysville and a resident here for a long time, passed away late last night at the family home at 409 D street. She was the mother of W. B. Swain, Miss Elizabeth Swain, and Mrs. John F. Kelly of Marysville, and Mrs. H. P. Stabler of Yuba City. She had been ill for some time. The Bevan-Bricker funeral home will announce funeral arrangements later.
Marysville Democrat - Mar 28, 1925, page 1 - Mrs. Mary Swain, Beloved Pioneer, Taken By Death - Mrs. Mary Swain, a widely known and beloved pioneer resident of Marysville, died shortly before 12 o'clock last night at her home in D Street. She was born in Akron, Ohio, 85 years ago. - Seven children are left to mourn the passing of Mrs. Swain. They are: Miss Elizabeth Swain, William B. Swain, and Mrs. John F. Kelly of Marysville; Mrs. Harry P. Stabler, of Yuba City; Mrs. Charles W. McGonaughy and Miss Ethel Swain, of Berkeley; and Mrs. J. Owen Hansen, of San Jose. - Several grand children also survive. - Mrs. Swain had been a resident of Marysville for more than fifty years and was highly respected and beloved by scores of friends. Her husband, the late W. C. Swain, was among the prominent pioneers of this city where he was engaged in the planing mill business for many years as a partner in the Swain & Hudson Mill. - Funeral Private - Funeral services will be held Monday morning at 10:30 o'clock from the family home in D street and will be private. It is the wish of the family that flowers be omitted. The arrangements are in charge of the Bevan-Bricker Funeral Home.
Marysville Appeal - Mar 29, 1925, page 7 - Funeral For Mrs. Mary Swain Will Be Monday A.M. - The funeral of Mrs. Mary Swain, who passed away Friday night at her home, 409 D street, will be held at 10:30 o'clock Monday morning and will not be private. It is the wish of the family that flowers be omitted. Interment, however, will be private. - In the passing of Mrs. Swain, Marysville loses an old and highly esteemed citizen, who has resided here for more than 50 years. She was 85 years old. - Deceased was the widow of W. C. Swain, early pioneer of Yuba county, and who was extensively engaged in the lumber business. The Swain & Hudson planing mill in former years was a well-known industry. - Mrs. Swain was born in Akron, Ohio, a member of a highly esteemed family whose sterling traits she emulated during her life time. She won a host of friends in this community, who regret her passing, although she long had passed the allotted span of life. - Seven children are left to mourn the passing of Mrs. Swain. They are: Miss Elizabeth Swain, William B. Swain, and Mrs. John F. Kelly, of Marysville; Mrs. Harry P. Stabler of Yuba City; Mrs. Charles W. McGonaughy and Miss Ethel Swain of Berkeley; and Mrs. J. Owen Hansen of San Jose. - Several grand children also survive.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Mar 31, 1925, page 5 - Mrs. Mary Swain Is Laid To Rest - Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Swain were held yesterday morning at 10:30 o'clock at the family home on D street, where Rev. Benjamin F. Butts, pastor of the Presbyterian church, spoke words of comfort and hope based on Holy Writ. Burial, which was private, was conducted by the Bevan-Bricker funeral home at the family plot in the city cemetery. Casketbearers were John Kelly, Dr. J. H. Barr, Dunning "Red" Rideout, Richard Belcher, Frank Aaron and E. B. Stanwood.
William Caldwell Swain:
Marysville Daily Democrat - Jan 4, 1904, page 5 - Death of Wm. C. Swain - One of the Most Active Citizens of Marysville and Respected For His Many Good Qualities - Monday morning shortly before 4 o'clock W. C. Swain passed from this life, after an extended illness. The deceased was a prominent citizen of Marysville and highly respected. He had lived here for many years, being a member of the firm of Swain & Hudson since 1871. - William Caldwell Swain was born in Newberryport, Mass., February 8, 1831, and he was married in this State to Miss Mary A. Beecher, November 2, 1861. He leaves a surviving widow and six daughters and one son. - Deceased held the office of City Treasurer at the time of his death and the flag over the City Hall is at half-mast in respect to his memory. - He was a member of Corinthian Lodge, No. 9, F. and A.M., Washington Chapter, No. 13, R.A.M., and Marysville Commandery, No. 7, K.T. - The funeral will take place at 2 p.m. Tuesday, from the Episcopal Church and the body will be taken to San Francisco Wednesday morning for cremation.
Marysville Daily Appeal - Jan 5, 1904, page 1 - W. C. Swain Dead - One of Our Most Substantial Citizens Removed From His Sphere of Usefulness Among Us - About 4 o'clock yesterday morning after a protracted illness, W. C. Swain breathed his last at his home on D street. Mr. Swain was a prominent citizen of Marysville and at the time of his death was City Treasurer. His loss will be keenly felt in business and social circles and the entire community join in heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family. - William Caldwell Swain was born on February 8, 1831, at Newberryport, Mass. His early life was spent in Virginia and later in Vermont and New York. He came to California in 1852 and to Marysville in 1854, residing here ever since. In 1861 he was married to Miss Mary A. Beecher. In 1872 Mr. Swain formed a partnership with E. H. Hudson and during all these years the name of Swain & Hudson has been a familiar one not alone in this community, but in all Northern California. - Mr. Swain leaves a wife, six daughters and one son to mourn his loss. The funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock this afternoon from St. John's Episcopal Church, Rev. W. H. Stoy officiating. Mr. Swain was a member of several fraternal organizations, among which were Corinthian Lodge, No. 9 :F. and A.M.; Washington Chapter, No. 13, R.A.M., and Marysville Commandery, No. 7, K.T. The latter order will attend the funeral services, as will the members of Corinthian Lodge, who will hold services at the house at 1:30 P.M. The remains will lay in state at the residence from 9 until 12 this morning. On Wednesday morning they will be conveyed to San Francisco for cremation.
Marysville Daily Democrat - Jan 5, 1904, page 5 - Funeral of W. C. Swain - Last Mark of Respect Paid by Sorrowing Friends and Many Lodge Members Today - The funeral of the late W. C. Swain took place from his late residence on D street this afternoon at 2 o'clock. At 1:30 at the residence the members of Corinthian Lodge held their impressive funeral services. At 2 o'clock the funeral cortege started for the Episcopal Church under escort of Marysville Commandery, No. 7, K.T., followed by a large concourse of friends and relatives. At the church the services were conducted by Rev. W. H. Stoy, and Mrs. G. H. Baird rendered appropriate vocal selections. - The funeral was largely attended, the principal business houses of the city being closed during the exercises. Members of the City Council and other city officers attended in a body, as also the employes of the firm of Swain & Hudson. - Many handsome floral pieces were in evidence. - The following gentlemen were pall-bearers: John C. White, R. G. Stanwood, A. J. Binney, Justus Greely, John Learmont and A. J. Hatch. - The remains will be taken to San Francisco on the California Express for cremation.
For further information on the Belcher family - Stockbridge, Windsor County, VT - http://www.rootsweb.com/~vtgenweb/vtwindsor/StockbridgeVT.htm