Biographies
JOSEPH
A. FRANCIS
JOSEPH A.
FRANCIS.–Since 1902 Joseph A. Francis has been connected with the public
service of the city of Sacramento and he has contributed in a substantial
manner to the general growth and expansion of the city; since 1918 Mr. Francis has
been chief engineer at Sump No. 1 of the drainage system of the city, a most
important position that requires ability and experience. Sacramento is the
native city of Joseph A. Francis, who was born there on July 4, 1876, a son of
G. H. L. and Catherine (Preston) Francis, natives of Boston, Mass., and
Ireland, respectively. G. H. L. Francis came to California in 1850 and was
an engineer on a steamboat on the Sacramento River; later with his father, G.
H. L. Francis, Sr., he ran two trading boats on the river, carrying farm
products. One of these burned and the other sank. The mother of our
subject came to California by way of Cape Horn in 1865, and was married to G.
H. L. Francis in Sacramento. They had eight children, three of whom are living. Both
parents are now deceased.
Joseph A. Francis
attended the public schools in Sacramento; then became an employee of the
Western Union Telegraph Company as messenger, where he remained for six years,
during which time he learned operating; then for two seasons he worked in a box
factory; he also learned the confectionery business and was engaged in that
business for six years; in 1902 he became a fireman in the employ of the city
of Sacramento in Sump No. 1 then at the foot of S Street, under his father, and
in 1910 was advanced to the position of engineer; in the meantime the plant was
moved to Front and U Streets. He worked in this capacity until 1918, when
he was put in charge as chief engineer of Station No. 1 of the drainage system
of the city.
Mr. Francis’ marriage,
in 1900, united him with Miss Mary J. Mitchell, a native of Canada, and they
have one son, Joseph A., Jr. Mr.
Francis’ political allegiance is not confined to any one party, but he prefers
to cast his vote for the candidate best fitted to serve the
public. Fraternally he is a member of the Eagles and Red Men.
Transcribed 2-7-07
Marilyn R. Pankey.
Source: Reed, G.
Walter, History of Sacramento County,
California With Biographical Sketches, Page 398. Historic Record Company,
© 2007 Marilyn R. Pankey.