Biographies
JOHN T. FAIRBAIRN
JOHN T. FAIRBAIRN.--An old pioneer of Sacramento County, and one who helped in upbuilding and developing it to the present-day era of
prosperity, was John T. Fairbairn, who was born of
pure Scotch ancestry, at Lancaster, Erie County, N.Y., February 5, 1856.
He was the son of John and Isabella (Brackey) Fairbairn, the father a native of
An only son, John T. Fairbairn
was educated in the public schools of Canada, and when sixteen years of age
started in life for himself, came west to California, and was employed by J. D.
Morrison in Sacramento County, later going to Yolo, and there worked as a ranch
hand until 1879, when he was made foreman of the Dr. P. H. Merritt ranch,
remaining in that position until 1883.
January 3, 1883, in Seaforth,
Ontario, the young pioneer was married to Agnes Houston, a schoolmate who had
given him her promise to join him on life's journey when he could provide for
her; she was of Scotch parentage, the daughter of James Houston, farmer. Mr.
and Mrs. Fairbairn came to California and located at
Welsh Station, where the young husband bought 200 acres and began ranching, and
that continued to be their family home until his death, in 1914. He added to
his holdings from time to time and eventually owned 500 acres, raising grain
and stock. He took an active part in county affairs, helping to build up the
district and to protect and further the best interests of the people. A
Republican in politics, he was a delegate to both county and state conventions;
a member of the County Central Committee, he was active in its various affairs
and always a worker for the good of his fellow citizens. He was school trustee
of the
James H. Fairbairn,
the eldest son, was born on the old home place, and attended the local schools;
growing up on the ranch, he early learned the rudiments of agriculture, and his
years of experience have added to that knowledge. He makes the management of
the 700 acres he now operates his real life work, for which he was fitted by
early environment and training; and he has won success through attention to
details and the use of up-to-date methods and implements. Fraternally Mr. Fairbairn is a member of the Royal Arch Masons, and of
Sacramento Parlor No. 3, Native Sons. Like his father, he is a Republican in
political adherence, though in local affairs he acts without partisanship in
all matters pertaining to district development, and the community could not
look for a more loyal supporter. The two brothers are also working in
partnership with James H. on the ranch.
Transcribed by Sally Kaleta.
Source: Reed, G.
Walter, History of
© 2006 Sally Kaleta.