In 1841, the Bartleson–Bidwell Party , led by Captain John Bartleson and John Bidwell , became the first American emigrants to attempt a wagon crossing from Missouri to California .
95-593: In the winter of 1840, the Western Emigration Society was founded in Missouri, with 500 pledging to trek west into Mexican California. Members included Baldridge, Barnett, Bartleson, Bidwell and Nye. Organized on 18 May 1841, Talbot H. Green was elected president, John Bidwell secretary, and John Bartleson captain. The group joined Father Pierre Jean De Smet 's Jesuit missionary group, led by Thomas F. Fitzpatrick, westward across South Pass along
190-415: A bookbinder but disliked working for another man. His mother died in 1818 when he was 16. He had only one close family member remaining, his brother William. In 1819, he changed employer, but this did not resolve his dissatisfaction. On October 21, 1821 he sailed to Wilmington, North Carolina . The town was deserted due to a Yellow Fever epidemic. Determined to succeed, he persevered and obtained work as
285-477: A career that made him a well-known figure in northern California. Over the course of two years, the firm's name and membership changed several times, but it remained one of the largest in the city. Samuel Brannan was also involved in several business ventures with the firm. By early 1851, the Mellus brothers had sold their interests in the firm, which continued as a partnership between Green and W. D. M. Howard, under
380-605: A clerk for the secretary of the United States Senate . Green spent his final years in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania , where he lived quietly until his death in 1889, respected by his community but marked by his earlier misdeeds. Paul Geddes was born on August 11, 1810. The Geddes family, of Scottish origin, traces its descent from Paul Geddes, born in Scotland between 1660 and 1670. The earlier Paul Geddes resided for
475-464: A clerk. He was extremely observant and critical of Southern business practices and disappointed at the few books available to the general population. He contracted for a voyage to Bermuda in February 1822 as supercargo of the ship Susan . He was to be paid $ 20 a month plus 2 + 1 ⁄ 2 % of the cargo sale. The drunk captain cheated him and Larkin was never paid. In June 1822 he opened
570-465: A fraud and stole the money. There is no official record of the exact amount of money Green stole. The incident was described by Green in his letter to Thomas O. Larkin : ... They got a carpet bag and put up 105,000$ in it in my presence and sent a porter with me to the hotel. I put it in my trunk and went out. On my return I found that I had been robbed of my money. I was under the excitement of liquor (no excuse) and was, in fact, not myself. I opened
665-619: A good neighborhood. Their new home soon acquired the reputation they had gained in California for lavish hospitality. But the cold and damp eastern weather did not agree with them. Rachel and the children endured repeated bouts of illness. Thomas acquired an acute skin disease and was so ill for two months that newspapers mistakenly announced his death. When he finally began to recover, Rachel, who had helped doctor him, collapsed from exhaustion. In May 1853, they returned to San Francisco where their health improved. They found good schools for
760-696: A government office. Captain William Mervine of the United States Navy temporarily assigned him as the collector of the port of Monterey. On September 17, Larkin wrote to Commodore Robert F. Stockton , recommending that Green be given the office permanently. Likely due to this recommendation, Stockton appointed Green to the position, which he held at a salary of $ 1,000 a year until October 1847, when President Polk ordered that customs in captured ports be collected by Army and Navy officers. During Green's appointment, Walter Colton described him as
855-541: A great rancho was problematic if he could not hold it. The corrupt and unpredictable rulings by courts in California (then part of Mexico) made this questionable. With evidence that the Russians, French and English were preparing to seize the province, he determined to make it a part of the United States. He felt that the best way to go about this was to encourage emigration by Americans to California, and in this way
950-629: A job in the Washington DC post office, or join his brother in California. The first two did not materialize. He received a letter from his older half-brother, John Cooper , who persuaded him that Alta California was full of opportunity, and asked for his assistance with his business. In September 1831 Thomas left Boston in September 1831 on the brig Newcastle , engaged in the hide and tallow trade . The journey via sailing ship around Cape Horn took seven months. The only other passenger
1045-546: A large piece of property on Calle Principal between Jefferson and Madison Streets, in Monterey, California . In 1834 he opened a store on the property and began building a home on it, now known as the Larkin House . It was likely the first home in California to have an interior chimney and fireplace. The building marks a turning point in the development of California adobe buildings. The distinctive broad roof that overhangs
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#17327724410351140-1156: A lengthy courtship, on October 25, 1849. She divorced him in January 1854. They had a son who was later adopted by Sarah's third husband, Joseph S. Wallis, and took his name to become Talbot H. Wallis. A series of letters written by Green are currently stored in the Bancroft Library of the University of California. Green Street in San Francisco was named in honor of Talbot H. Green, along with other streets named after California pioneers such as Larkin, Brannan, Folsom and Howard. Green Street runs through several neighborhoods, including North Beach and Russian Hill , which are areas rich in San Francisco's history. Thomas O. Larkin Thomas Oliver Larkin (September 16, 1802 – October 27, 1858), known later in life in Spanish as Don Tomás Larquin ,
1235-452: A native of Pennsylvania who "enjoys a wide reputation for business habits and sterling integrity of character." Green was chosen to sit on the first jury ever summoned in California. Meeting on September 4, 1846, this jury, in the case of Isaac Graham vs. Charles Roussillon, delivered the well-known "enlightened and impartial verdict" to which "both parties bowed without a dissenting word." There are indications that Green's conduct during
1330-510: A procession and escorted him on board the steamer, continuing to shake his hand until the boat departed from the wharf. One of the attendees stated, "We all turned away with a sad, sickening feeling, as the conviction grew that Green was ... Geddes." After several months, there was no news from Green. Reports occasionally stated that he had been seen in the East, but there were no indications that he had attempted to clear his name. Over time, it
1425-515: A smallpox hospital in Monterey. With the rise of James K. Polk to the Presidency in 1845, war with Mexico seemed unavoidable. Larkin hired William Leidesdorff as Vice Consul in San Francisco, thus relieving himself of some of the burden of the office. Early in 1846, Larkin received instructions from Secretary of State James Buchanan to begin working covertly to assure all concerned that
1520-474: A store for four years and later worked as an assistant engineer on the canal for two years. His father then provided him with $ 3,000 to start a merchandising business. They eventually bought another store in a neighboring town. On February 21, 1832, Paul Geddes was married to Henrietta Fredrick. After their marriage, Paul Geddes and his wife moved to a neighboring town where they established a new branch store. In this town, Geddes took on another business partner and
1615-519: A store in Wilmington in partnership with his friend, F.G. Thurston. He returned to Boston for a visit and felt like he didn't belong. His brother William and he bought $ 5,000 in goods in the North and had them shipped to North Carolina. When Thurston tried to discredit Larkin, Larkin successfully turned back the attack on his character, but when William died on September 4, 1825, Larkin lost interest in
1710-711: A time in Ireland, near Randallstown , County Antrim, where his son James was born in 1704. James Geddes, his wife Margaret Muir, and their three sons, Paul, William, and Samuel, emigrated to America in August 1752, settling in what is now Dauphin County, Pennsylvania . James's sons became prominent locally, with at least one active in the American Revolution . Samuel Geddes, the youngest son, died in 1788, leaving four children. His second child, James Geddes (1781–1867),
1805-645: A week. He was buried in what was the Laurel Hill Cemetery in San Francisco, but he is now interred at Cypress Lawn Memorial Park in Colma, California . An obituary was published in the Sacramento Daily Union on October 29, 1858. Thomas Oliver Larkin married Rachel M. Hobson ( Ipswich, Massachusetts , April 30, 1807 – San Francisco, October 29, 1873), the daughter of Daniel and Eliza Hobson, on June 10, 1833. Children: Larkin bought
1900-742: The California Trail , was based on the prior experiences of Jedediah Smith , Peter Skene Ogden , and Joseph R. Walker . That route led southwest from Soda Springs along the Bear River and the Cache Valley . On August 24, 1841, the party headed west and north around the Great Salt Lake , camping in the vicinity of the Hansel Mountains until September 9 while they scouted the route to Mary's River (known today as
1995-513: The House of the Four Winds in 1834 (or 1840). The building was used as the first State of California Hall of Records . At that time, all foreign ships had to stop at the port of Monterey to pay import/export tariffs and obtain permission to trade. Larkin was well-positioned to engage in trade with Mexico , the United States and other countries. British and American trade with China came to
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#17327724410352090-568: The House of the Four Winds on the same property. It served as headquarters for Henry Halleck , Secretary of State. After the Mexican–American War , the building was first used as a residence and by the Spanish Governor of Alta California Juan Bautista Alvarado . In 1846, William S. Johnson designated it as the first State of California Hall of Records for the newly formed County of Monterey. Johnson had his office and home in
2185-705: The Humboldt River ). By September 12 wagons and possessions were beginning to be abandoned. By October 9 they crossed Mary's River and headed west to Lake Humboldt , Humboldt Sink , and Carson Sink . On October 30 they passed through the Stanislaus River canyon into the San Joaquin Valley . On November 4, 1841, the party made it to Marsh's ranch . According to Doyce Nunis, "...the Bidwell-Bartleson party had successfully made
2280-460: The Oregon Trail . That trail took them past Courthouse and Jail Rocks , Chimney Rock , Scotts Bluff , Fort Laramie , and Independence Rock . The Bartleson-Bidwell party separated from Fitzpatrick, and the missionary group, at Soda Springs on 11 Aug. The western Emigration Society had resolved to follow the route suggested by Dr. John Marsh . As early as 1837, Marsh realized that owning
2375-600: The Pacific Squadron and John C. Frémont . Gillespie, after traveling in secret across Mexico and catching a ship to California, arrived early in June 1846 with the verbal messages from Polk. What was in the messages are unknown but the Bear Flag revolt came as a surprise to Larkin. On July 7, 1846, Commodore John D. Sloat entered Monterey Bay with three ships. His marines and "blue-jackets" (enlisted sailors) raised
2470-576: The Sherman Quarters in 1834. In 1835 he built the first two-story house in California, a combination of New England and California building materials and methods that is today known as Monterey Colonial architecture . Larkin House is now part of Monterey State Historic Park . Larkin also built the first wharf at Monterey harbor and was commissioned to rebuild the Customhouse . He built
2565-471: The Sierra Nevada range, the load became too heavy for the pack animal, so Green and Grove Cook hid the lead in a gulch. After reaching John Marsh 's ranch near Mount Diablo , Green hired an Indian guide and, with Cook, retrieved the hidden pack. A year later in Monterey , Dawson met Green again, now wealthy with plenty of cash. Dawson was surprised by Green's sudden wealth, suggesting that the "lead"
2660-823: The American Conquest of California and the end of the Mexican-American War , Larkin was a delegate to the Monterey Constitutional Convention in 1849 and a signatory of the Constitution of California . Larkin was born in Charlestown, Massachusetts , the son of Thomas Larkin and Ann Rogers, and great nephew of the Deacon John Larkin who provided the horse for Paul Revere 's famous ride. He
2755-836: The American flag over the Customs House. Commodore (Rear Admiral) Robert Field Stockton replaced Sloat a week later as commander of the Pacific Squadron. Stockton appointed Fremont commander of the volunteer militia formed around his 60-man Corps of Topographical Engineers and the Bear Flag Republicans as the California Battalion . He dispatched 160 of the forces on the USS Cyane to occupy San Diego and Los Angeles. Larkin joined
2850-512: The Cooper house. Upon learning she was carrying Thomas' child, Rachel moved to Santa Barbara where her husband's ship was expected. Faced with the dilemma of explaining the child to her husband, she learned in October that he had died the year before while at sea enroute from Acapulco to Lima, Peru. In January 1833, Rachel gave birth to a daughter she named Isabel Ann. In Monterey, Larkin found
2945-524: The Democratic nomination for mayor in April 1851. His involvement in this contest ultimately led to his downfall. Rumors began circulating in San Francisco that Talbot H. Green was actually Paul Geddes, a man who had absconded with funds from a Pennsylvania bank and left a deserted wife and family. The exact time when these rumors started is unclear. Some sources suggest that a woman recognized him during
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3040-563: The Eagle Saloon to bid him farewell, as reported by the next day's Alta California . When the room was filled to capacity, champagne was opened, and Thomas O. Larkin proposed a toast: "The health and prosperity of our friend and fellow citizen, Talbot H. Green; may the best among us be as worthy as we believe him to be." Green responded briefly, thanking everyone for their support and promising to return soon. A witness reported that Green broke down and "sobbed." The entire company then formed
3135-546: The King of Spain.... The missionaries objected to any settlements in the country but the missions; the presidios they regarded as a necessary evil. Larkin remained in Monterey, working as a clerk for his brother John B. R. Cooper. In early 1833, he sailed to Santa Barbara and was reunited with Hobson. They were married on board the American bark Volunteer , on June 10, 1833. The U. S. Consul for Hawai'i , John Coffin Jones , performed
3230-506: The Monterey area, and was not one of those sent to prison in chains in 1840. Larkin loaned money to Alvarado 's successor, Micheltorena , which he lost when the Governor was overthrown by Alvarado in 1844. He never applied for Mexican citizenship, which required conversion to Catholicism; instead he renewed his visa annually to maintain his legal status. As a non-citizen, he could not legally own land, but he managed to obtain land grants in
3325-602: The Pacific Coast by way of Hawai'i . As a prominent figure in the occasional capital of a distant province of an occasionally unstable nation, Larkin stood in a position of influence that could easily have been his undoing if he chose the wrong side. The fact that he was able to survive through shifting administrations is testimony to his political skills. Despite being a supporter of Governor Juan Bautista Alvarado , he did not involve himself with Alvarado's accusations against Isaac Graham and other foreign residents of
3420-452: The United States took over California in July 1846, Green benefited from this event. Acting as Larkin's agent, he supplied a significant portion of the goods purchased by the United States military and naval forces at Monterey in 1846 and 1847. He provided clothing, ordnance, and foodstuffs to figures like Fremont , Fauntleroy, and Maddox . In the late summer of 1846, Green was appointed to
3515-470: The United States would support any attempt at secession from Mexico . Toward this end, he secretly employed Abel Stearns to work in southern California. He volunteered to go to Mexico City on behalf of the United States to work out a peaceful settlement, but Congress had already declared war by the time his letter arrived in Washington. Larkin had entered into a dialog with General Mariano Vallejo with
3610-703: The alias Talbot H. Green. In 1841, Green joined the Bartleson–Bidwell Party , a pioneering group of emigrants heading to California. Known for his friendly demeanor and leadership skills, he quickly established himself in the Californian business community. Green worked closely with Thomas O. Larkin , a prominent merchant in Monterey , and became a key figure in Larkin's mercantile operations. Green's influence extended beyond business; he played an active role in California's early political and social life. He
3705-518: The business venture. He moved to Rockfish and opened another store. He was appointed Justice of the Peace, his first taste of government service, but he gave first priority to his business. He made money from the store, but was left $ 1,500 in debt by a sawmill operation. In 1830 he returned to Massachusetts, destitute. Larkin felt he had three options: marry a cousin in Massachusetts, get
3800-493: The carpet bag and took out nearly 8000$ and done the parcel up again. I then went to bed. In the morning [...] I then took the carpet bag to a merchant and told him what it contained and wished him to keep it until next day. The next day I went and paid a good many of my debts with the money and sent some 3000$ to my partner to pay notes we owed in the bank; and that night I left Philadelphia with 375$ determined that my people should never hear of me again. I went West and fell in with
3895-559: The celebrations for California's admission into the Union in 1850. Others claim that a woman publicly accused him of being Paul Geddes at a ball, while still others state that a lawyer from Philadelphia identified him on the street. Upon being recognized, Green reportedly turned pale, trembled, but firmly denied the accusation. Prior to the mayoralty campaign of 1851, rumors about Green being Paul Geddes did not gain enough traction to harm his reputation significantly. However, his entry into
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3990-552: The ceremony. The infant Isabel died in July 1833, a month after the wedding. Years later they discovered Jones did not have the authority to perform the service and they had to be remarried. With an investment of $ 500, aided by his wife's and Captain Holmes' former accounts, he opened his own store in Monterey, selling dry goods, grog, produce, and groceries. They had eight more children, five of whom survived to adulthood. Their son Thomas Oliver, Jr., born in Monterey on April 13, 1834,
4085-494: The city at the Carquinez Straits that became Benicia , but Larkin's business interests were in San Francisco and he sold out his share after a few years. As he took control of his own affairs, his relationship with Leidesdorff fell apart. By the time gold was discovered , Larkin had permanently settled in the San Francisco and was in the next few years able to reap a fortune from the economic boom that followed. It
4180-529: The condemnation and sale of the merchant ship Admittance by the Admiralty Court at Monterey and Mazatlan. However, this transaction was not widely known until Green disclosed it. In 1847 and 1848, Green was involved in various business ventures. He traveled to Mazatlan, was in San Francisco in January 1848 selling goods, went to Benicia in March to address construction matters for Larkin, and visited
4275-598: The confidence and respect of the community. Green never discussed his experiences in California. He died on July 2, 1889, and was survived by his wife and two children. Those who knew Green described him as a short, square-built man with plain but kindly features. He was "well-known and well-liked". As Paul Geddes, he married Henrietta Fredrick Geddes. They had children James F. Geddes (1832–1840), Harriet Jenkins Geddes (1835–1855), Mary Elizabeth Geddes (1837–1921), and William Cameron Geddes (1839–1890). As Talbot H. Green, he married Sarah Armstrong Montgomery (1825–1905), after
4370-414: The councilmen accused of using their positions to secure titles to city property. Records indicate that Green purchased thirty-four lots at sales of town lots in 1849 and 1850. These accusations resulted in a public dispute involving Green. Reports suggest that Green might have been elected mayor of San Francisco in 1850 if he had not declined to run, allowing John W. Geary to win the office. Green sought
4465-466: The economics of land and commerce were controlled by the Spanish missions, presidios, pueblos, and a few ranchos. The lands of each mission joined those of other missions on either side, so that all were connected, or, in other words, the missionaries occupied all the land along the coast, except the presidios, the three pueblos and their lands, and a few ranchos which were held by virtue of grants from
4560-609: The emigration for California ... [ sic ] Paul Geddes left Pennsylvania, abandoning his wife and four children. He traveled to New Orleans by ship from New York City . From New Orleans, he continued his journey by steamboat up the Mississippi River . On board the boat Geddes met an Englishman, Talbot H. Green, who fell ill and died. In gratitude for Geddes's care, the Englishman left him his name and some papers, which he believed might be valuable in
4655-552: The entreaties of friends, and allowed his name to be used." On October 25, 1849, Green married Sarah Montgomery , the widow of Allen Montgomery, at the San Jose home of his old friend, Grove C. Cook. The event was noted by the editor of the San Francisco Daily Alta California . Soon after his arrival in San Francisco, Green became actively involved in public affairs. On February 21, 1849, he
4750-457: The exposure resulted from a newspaper notice. News of the event quickly spread through the city. Green's closest friends visited him to inquire about the truth of the charges, assuring him of their continued friendship and their determination to support him despite any past misdeeds. Green firmly insisted that the case was one of mistaken identity. Realizing that verbal denials would not clear him of suspicion, he offered to return East to resolve
4845-567: The first planned overland emigrant journey to California, bearing with courage and great fortitude the vicissitudes of their ordeal. These hardy pioneers were the harbingers of many thousands to come." Missionary Party The Bidwell-Bartleson who arrived in California The Bidwell-Bartleson who arrived in Oregon Talbot H. Green Talbot H. Green (born Paul Geddes ; August 11, 1810 – July 2, 1889)
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#17327724410354940-517: The force sailing for southern California which by August 13, had peacefully occupied San Diego, California and Los Angeles . General José Castro and Governor Pío Pico fled south. Commodore Stockton, the senior military officer in California, appointed Larkin as Naval agent, and Larkin returned to Monterey. The apparently peaceful conquest of California soon began to fray at the edges in southern California. Revolts broke out in Los Angeles, and
5035-530: The future. Geddes took the name Talbot H. Green and kept the papers. Green continued from St. Louis up the Missouri River until he reached Westport, Missouri , which served as a departure point for the western plains. In 1841, Talbot H. Green joined the Bartleson–Bidwell Party , a group of emigrants heading to California. The group gathered near the Kansas River in the spring, with Green, who
5130-582: The future. He expressed a desire to make amends and clear his debts. Larkin sent Green a draft for $ 200 in December 1853, which lifted Green's spirits temporarily. Green detailed his early life and the circumstances that led him to adopt the name Talbot H. Green. He explained how he had fled westward, joining the emigration to California with little money. Throughout early 1854, Green continued to receive newspapers and pamphlets from Larkin but no additional funds. He wrote letters describing his dire situation and
5225-636: The goal of arranging a peaceful annexation of California when the Bear Flag Revolt began on 14 June 1846 and the General was captured and imprisoned by a band of Americans who had heard a rumor that the Mexican authorities were thinking of arresting all Americans. In 1846, Marine Lieutenant Archibald Gillespie was sent by President James Polk with secret messages to U.S. Consul Larkin in Monterey, California , Commodore John D. Sloat commanding
5320-519: The gold mines in the fall. During these two years, his focus shifted from Monterey to San Francisco, especially after the discovery of gold, when he anticipated that San Francisco would soon expand significantly. Green had owned property in San Francisco for some time, but his significant involvement in the town's business life began on January 1, 1849, when he joined the prominent trading firm of Mellus & Howard. With William D. M. Howard , Henry Mellus , and Francis Mellus as partners, Green started
5415-535: The history of Texas would be repeated. Marsh conducted a letter-writing campaign espousing the California climate, soil and other reasons to settle there, as well as the best route to follow, which became known as "Marsh's route." His letters were read, reread, passed around, and printed in newspapers throughout the country, and started the first significant immigration to California. He invited immigrants to stay on his ranch until they could get settled, and assisted in their obtaining passports. Marsh's recommended route,
5510-468: The kindness and support he received and his intention to write from the East. In October 1856, Green returned to Pennsylvania and reunited with his wife and family. He observed the unchanged state of his parents and household but found it challenging to reacquaint himself with his own children. Despite the warm reception from former acquaintances, Green felt a sense of emptiness and decided to travel westward with his wife. After leaving Pennsylvania, Green
5605-523: The kindness of others. By mid-1854, Green's letters indicated increasing distrust of his former associates, William D. M. Howard and Joseph P. Thompson. He detailed his grievances and the financial disputes he had with them. Green's health began to suffer due to the stress and anxiety caused by his uncertain situation. In late 1854, Green learned that Sarah had remarried, which further devastated him. Despite this, he expressed his hope for her happiness and continued concern for their child. Green struggled with
5700-423: The matter and prove his innocence. Within a day or two, he dissolved his partnership with Howard, transferred some of his property to his wife, and settled his affairs as best he could. On the afternoon of April 15, 1851, Green left San Francisco on the steamer Panama . His friends stood by him until his departure. Just before he left for the boat, many prominent citizens, merchants, bankers, and others gathered at
5795-406: The military occupation of California was questionable. In 1848, Lieutenant William A. T. Maddox accused Green in a letter to Larkin of making false statements about payments for supplies furnished to the naval forces. Green was evidently able to explain the charges satisfactorily, as Larkin's respect for him did not diminish. In later years, Green admitted to dishonorable conduct and bribery related to
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#17327724410355890-530: The name Howard & Green. Green was a popular figure in California with one author claiming, "the widow or the orphan ever found in him a generous friend." One acquaintance described him as "just about the all-around best man I had ever known." Along with his business success, Green gained social prominence and was well known on the streets of San Francisco. Despite his plain appearance, his "kind and off-hand" manner, common sense, and fine judgment made him welcome everywhere. According to another acquaintance, "He
5985-431: The names of his children. In 1842, Monterey was surprised by the actions of U.S. Commodore Thomas ap Catesby Jones , who landed Marines to take over Monterey in the mistaken belief that war had broken out between the United States and Mexico . Larkin and William Hartnell worked to smooth over the situation. Jones was induced to submit a written apology to the angry Mexican officials and withdraw his troops. The Commodore
6080-417: The need for financial support to clear his debts and return to California. Green's correspondence revealed his growing despair and frustration with his circumstances. In January 1854, Green received Sarah's application for a divorce, which deeply affected him. He expressed his continued love for her and concern for their child. Despite his financial struggles, Green managed to survive by working and relying on
6175-403: The next year, he put Green in charge of all the goods in his Monterey store and warehouse, worth a total of $ 4,292. Green was to manage Larkin's Monterey business for a year, collecting debts, conducting trade, and overseeing his interests. For these services, he was to receive $ 400 and five percent of the profits. Later that month, Larkin gave Green $ 2,500 in cash to take to Los Angeles, where he
6270-447: The occupation forces under Archibald Gillespie and his 30-40 men were driven out. José Castro returned, and Larkin moved his family to Yerba Buena (San Francisco) as the Californios throughout the province were attempting to repel the thinly spread out California Battalion garrison troops and Navy forces. Larkin was captured outside of the city when, against advice, he tried to go to his deathly ill daughter, still in Monterey. Larkin
6365-413: The political contest brought these rumors to the forefront. A day or two before the candidates were to be announced, an incident led Green to withdraw his candidacy. Reports vary on the exact nature of the incident: William Heath Davis suggested that H. P. Hepburn from Philadelphia confronted Green on Montgomery Street and accused him of being Geddes in front of friends, while William White indicated that
6460-582: The reality of his situation and the loss of his former life. In early 1855, friends and former associates, including Samuel Brannan and William D. M. Howard, began to take steps to help Green settle his affairs. Ebenezer Childs played a crucial role in facilitating communication between Green and his benefactors. Green was eventually able to meet with Brannan in New York City, where arrangements were made to resolve his financial issues. By March 1855, Green successfully settled his accounts with Howard and planned to return to California. He expressed gratitude for
6555-411: The rest of the journey. As the group moved westward, Green traveled as a regular member of the party. He joined the mess of John Bartleson, the party's captain, along with Charles Hopper, a well-known bear hunter; Gwynn Patton; Nicholas Dawson; and Grove C. Cook, a young man known for his likable but unruly nature, with whom Green developed a close friendship. Green carried a case of medicines and earned
6650-413: The same block of Mission Street , between Third and Fourth streets. Green was elected as the first treasurer of the Society of California Pioneers upon its founding in 1850. In the summer of 1849, a gold-seeker who knew Green described him as "the most popular man of all the old Californians." He noted that Green would have likely been elected as one of California's first senators "had he listened to
6745-592: The second floor windows and the second story balcony are stylish as well as practical and became the standard for adobe buildings of the period. It is a National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark. The Sherman Quarters shares a parcel of land with the Larkin House. Larkin built it in 1834 and made it available as a service to U.S. troops during the U.S. occupation of California. This small adobe building served as headquarters for Lieutenant William Tecumseh Sherman and military secretary of state Henry W. Halleck from 1847 to 1849. Larkin also built
6840-637: The support from his friends and the hope of starting anew. However, upon his return to California, Green found it difficult to reintegrate into society. He faced awkward and strained interactions with former acquaintances, leading him to seek refuge in the Sacramento Valley . In January 1856, Green learned of Howard's death, which saddened him. Green eventually decided to leave California and return to his family in Pennsylvania. In his farewell letter to Larkin, Green expressed his gratitude for
6935-409: The title of "doctor" by attending to the sick. He did not stand out from his companions during the journey, and mentions of him by chroniclers are due to his later notoriety rather than his actions on the trek. His fellow travelers later emphasized his presence, influenced by his future reputation. Nicholas Dawson noted that Green's most valued possession was a quantity of lead. On the western slope of
7030-628: The two youngest children and resumed their busy social and business lives. They built an opulent mansion and enjoyed the civic improvements that had taken place in San Francisco as a consequence of the California Gold Rush since they left for New York. During this time Larkin pressed the Federal government for compensation for money he claimed he had spent on Naval supplies and for work on the Monterey Customs House and
7125-482: The wharf there, without satisfaction. Larkin acquired several land grants including Rancho Jimeno , Rancho Boga , Rancho Cienega del Gabilan , Rancho Pleyto , Rancho Cotate , and Rancho Larkin's Children . In his last years, Larkin engaged in land speculation and was thought by some to be the richest man in America. On October 27, 1858, while at Colusa, California , he contracted typhoid fever and died within
7220-482: Was 24 year old Mrs. Rachel Hobson Holmes, who was traveling to Alta California to join her husband, Captain A. C. Holmes, a Danish sea captain and international trader. During the months-long voyage the two had an intimate relationship. The Newcastle made a stopover in Hawai'i before arriving in San Francisco and then Monterey in April 1832. There were no accommodations in the small town and they both were guests at
7315-545: Was a descendant of Richard Warren , a passenger on the Mayflower , and his grandfather, Ebenezer Larkin, took part in the Battle of Bunker Hill . Larkin's mother was married three times, to Thomas Cooper, Thomas Oliver Larkin, and Amariah Childs. On April 8, 1808, at age 6, Larkin's father died, and in 1813 Larkin's mother moved the family to Lynn, Massachusetts. At the age of 15, Larkin went to Boston to apprentice as
7410-478: Was a founding member of the Society of California Pioneers , served on San Francisco's first city council, and participated in significant land transactions. His contributions during the U.S. military conquest of California included supplying goods to American forces. In 1851, rumors of Green's true identity as Paul Geddes surfaced, leading to his departure from California. He relocated to Texas and later worked as
7505-873: Was accepted that Talbot H. Green was Paul Geddes, who had left his home in the East, leaving behind a wife and four children. Two years later, Thomas O. Larkin received a letter from Talbot H. Green, revealing that Green was indeed Paul Geddes. Green admitted to deceiving his California friends and acknowledged his dishonorable actions. Despite his feelings of betrayal, Larkin decided to support his former clerk and agent. Green, hiding in Tennessee, wrote several desperate letters to Larkin, seeking financial assistance and expressing his remorse. Green described his hardships and financial struggles, having lost $ 3,200 and being left penniless. He requested drafts from Larkin to sustain himself. In one of his letters, Green admitted to taking liquor excessively and promised to abstain from it in
7600-408: Was actually a more precious metal. Green quickly established himself in California's business and social circles. Using John Marsh's bond, dated November 13, 1841, as security for his good behavior, Green moved to Monterey and began working for Thomas O. Larkin , the town's largest merchant, as a clerk and agent. Green soon earned the confidence of his new employer, and by the summer of 1842, he
7695-413: Was also responsible for ensuring that Mrs. Larkin had sufficient funds and that the servants behaved properly. Over the next few years, Green continued working for Larkin, steadily increasing his prestige and standing in the community. In January 1846, he made a contract to manage Larkin's mercantile business, handling goods valued at $ 10,000 for a period of three years, for one-third of the profits. When
7790-448: Was an American diplomat and businessman. After some success and several business failures on the east coast, his elder half-brother, Alta California pioneer businessman Juan B. R. Cooper , invited him to join him in on the west coast, propelling him to success and wealth. Larkin served as the only U.S. consul to Alta California during the Mexican era and was covertly involved in U.S. plans to annex California from Mexico. Following
7885-518: Was an American merchant and politician during the mid-19th century, who was exposed as Paul Geddes, an absconder and embezzler of funds from a Philadelphia bank. Born in Pennsylvania to an influential family of Scottish descent, Geddes initially worked in merchandising and engineering. His early career in Philadelphia ended abruptly after financial mismanagement and embezzlement led him to leave his wife and four children, flee westward, and adopt
7980-481: Was as a representative from San Francisco that he served at the 1849 Constitutional Convention , held in Monterey. Early in 1850, he built the first brick building in San Francisco at 1116 Stockton Street. In 1850 they moved to New York. They rented a comfortable suite at the Irving House, a hotel that was popular with Californians. In November they bought and renovated at great expense an eighteen-room home in
8075-608: Was elected to the San Francisco district Legislative Assembly. When that body was replaced by the Ayuntamiento (City Council) , he was elected to the Council in August 1849. He was re-elected as councilman on January 8, 1850, and served until May of that year. As a city official, Green actively participated in civic affairs. He served on the finance committee of the Council and chaired the committee for fencing Portsmouth Square . Early in 1850, Green and Samuel Brannan were among
8170-568: Was forced to ride to Santa Barbara . En route, he witnessed the inconclusive Battle of Natividad (near Salinas ) from General Castro's side. He was later imprisoned in Los Angeles and was not reunited with his family until after the signing of the Treaty of Cahuenga which ended four months of skirmishes. His daughter Sophia Adeline died while he was a captive. Now free to own land in his own name, Larkin turned his attention to his new opportunities. In partnership with Robert Semple , he established
8265-420: Was in his early thirties at the time. Known for his friendly and cultured demeanor, Green, "of evident culture and very pleasant address," quickly became well-liked by his fellow travelers. On May 18, during a meeting to organize the party, he was chosen to lead the gathering, highlighting his early leadership within the group. Although Green initially held a prominent role, his influence did not continue during
8360-559: Was known as a respected and trusted businessman. In the spring of 1840, Paul Geddes traveled to Philadelphia to buy goods and had a large quantity of wheat consigned to a trading house there. He withdrew $ 3,000 on account of the wheat but lost the money after a night of drinking. That afternoon, the cashier of the Farmers & Merchants Bank of Philadelphia asked him to carry $ 105,000 to the Northumberland bank. Green committed
8455-494: Was next heard of in Texas, where he was engaged in land speculation under his true name, Paul Geddes. He later lost most of his money and took a position as a clerk to the secretary of the United States Senate . In this capacity, he visited California in 1876 and held the office until at least 1878. By 1880, Green returned to his boyhood home in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania . He spent the remainder of his life there, reportedly enjoying
8550-563: Was respected by all." In business disputes, Green was often chosen as an arbitrator, frequently serving as the sole arbitrator, even in cases involving large sums. One friend noted, "I cannot recall an instance where his decision was disputed or appealed from by either party." Prominent figures such as W. D. M. Howard, Samuel Brannan , Thomas O. Larkin , and Captain Folsom acknowledged their close personal friendship with Green. In 1851, Howard, Brannan, and Green all lived in similar cottages on
8645-691: Was sent out into the countryside to sell merchandise and conduct general trading. In July of that year, he wrote back to Larkin from Gilroy's rancho, reporting on his business activities. He mentioned, "I find some difficulty in getting along, on account of not speaking the language." A few days later, he wrote again, urging Larkin to come in person as many of the rancheros "would trade with you that won't with me." Continued trading helped Green become familiar with Californian customs, and his genial personality and open-hearted manners made him very successful in business. Larkin had so much confidence in him that, in May of
8740-542: Was subsequently removed from his command, but U.S.–Mexican relations remained tense. The successful conclusion to the affair brought Larkin to the attention of officials in Washington , and in 1843 President Tyler appointed Larkin as the first (and last) American consul to Alta California . The following year, he thwarted a British attempt to acquire California while he was assisting the Mexican government in building
8835-549: Was the first white child born of American parents in California. Holmes was the first American woman in California. In 1834 he built a "double geared" flour mill , the first of its kind on the West Coast. He pursued trading opportunities with Hawai'i and Mexico. In 1842 Larkin opened a second sawmill in Santa Cruz run by Josiah Belden. Larkin developed a reputation for his success in land speculation. Larkin built
8930-444: Was the father of Paul Geddes, later known as Talbot H. Green. James Geddes married his cousin, Mary Geddes (1781–1874), on February 12, 1807, and lived in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania , where he was known for his character and integrity, serving as treasurer of a corporation for over forty years. He and his wife were Presbyterians and raised their three children, Paul, Margaret, and James, in this faith. Paul left school early to work in
9025-559: Was to collect a debt of $ 500 and offer the total amount to the Governor of the province as a loan. In November 1843, Larkin showed even more trust in Green's honesty and ability by putting him in charge of all his "outdoor business" when he left for a voyage to Mazatlan . This included overseeing his corral, house, garden, sheds, and warehouses. On January 1, 1844, Green was tasked with taking an "exact inventory" of all of Larkin's property except his private house. During Larkin's absence, Green
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