Biographies
JOHN W. JOHNSTON
A seeming misfortune in
the life of Mr. Johnston, when ill health forced him to relinquish a splendid
professional practice in a most desirable location and seek a change of
climate, proved to possess a recompense of no small value. The practice
of law in Sacramento has brought him into prominence throughout the northern
part of the state and, while enjoying the benefits accruing from restored
health, he also receives gratifying returns from his practice, so that he has
no reason to regret the apparent handicap occasioned from the removal. Since
coming to Sacramento in 1899 he has built up an important clientele and during
the past seven or more years he has been associated with Hon. Grove L. Johnson
in professional work.
Among the thousands of Union soldiers whom
Ohio furnished to protect the stars and stripes during the civil war not the
least conspicuous was Henry Johnston, a volunteer for three months at the
opening of the Rebellion, then a re-enlisted veteran for the entire remainder
of the struggle. Eventually he received an honorable discharge after peace had
been declared. When he had entered the army he had left at home a wife and
children, among the latter being John W., who was born in Pike county, Ohio, in 1857. The wife, bore the maiden name of
Louisa Slaughter, was a native of Ohio of southern family and had among her
relatives a distinguished general, Slaughter, of the Confederate army. During
the fall of 1865 the family removed to Missouri and settled at Kirksville,
Adair county. The son, at that time a lad of eight
years, received his education almost wholly in Kirksville and in 1881 he was
admitted to the bar. Two years later he was elected city attorney of Kirksville
and for a period of three consecutive terms he served satisfactorily in that
capacity. Before the third term had expired he was elected prosecuting attorney
of Adair county and for two terms he filled that
office with conspicuous zeal and tireless energy.
When his long period of official service
had been completed Mr. Johnston removed to Nebraska and opened an office at
Omaha, where immediately he rose to professional prominence. During 1894 he was
elected to represent Douglas county in the Nebraska
state legislature and during his term he promoted the interests of his home
city to the extent of his ability. The legislature of which he was a member
elected Hon. John M. Thurston to the United States
senate. The exciting and long continued campaign, however, seriously impaired
the health of Mr. Johnston and developed throat troubles that did not yield to
ordinary treatment. A change of climate was advised and he therefore came to
California during 1896, settling at Ukiah, Mendocino county,
where he engaged in the practice of law for three years, then removing to the
capital city, his present headquarters.
While still making his home in Missouri
Mr. Johnston married Miss Juliet M. Hollaway, a native of that state and a descendant through her
mother of the illustrious Lee family of Virginia. One of her cousins at present
is serving his second term as a judge of the supreme court of Montana. Mr. and
Mrs. Johnston are the parents of five children. The eldest, Thomas D. Johnston,
the present district attorney of Contra Costa County, represented that county
in the California state legislature during the sessions of 1905-06, 1908-09,
and 1912-13. Volney C., the second son, resides in
Sacramento. The three youngest children are Pauline, a graduate of King's
Conservatory of Music in San Jose; Lucille, a student in a business college;
and J. Willard, who remains with his parents at the family home, No. 1010 F
street. The broad and congenial fraternal relations of Mr. Johnston have
included membership with the Ancient Order of Druids, the Woodmen of the World,
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Masonic Order, all of which at
various time have benefited by his professional
knowledge, tactful spirit and unwavering adherence to the highest principles of
honor.
Transcribed by Sally Kaleta.
Source: Willis,
William L., History of Sacramento County,
California, Pages 953-954. Historic
Record Company,
© 2006 Sally Kaleta.