J.J. AND C.H. MERKLEY

       The name of Merkley is so well known in central California in connection with agricultural and professional interests that these gentlemen scarcely need an introduction to the readers of this volume, for they have always been residents of the state, and are now leading business men, actively associated with interests that contribute not alone to their individual success, but also to the general welfare of this city, for the prosperity of a community in this present utilitarian age depends upon business activity.  John J. Merkley was born July 1, 1865 and Charles H. Merkley was born September 28, 1868, their birthplace being the family home near Sacramento. Under the parental roof they spent the days of their childhood.  Their residence is in Yolo county, just across the line from Sacramento, which is the market for the extensive products of their farm. They are engaged in hop growing on a very large scale.  They have not only their farm in Yolo county, but are also proprietors of a ranch in Sacramento county.

       John J. Merkley was married  December 23, 1889 to Miss Elizabeth Flanders, who was born in Sacramento county, and died at her home in Yolo county, leaving one daughter.  The other child of that marriage died prior to the mother's death. On the 22nd of November, 1893, Mr. Merkley was again married, his second union being with Kate C. Flanders, a sister of his first wife, by whom he has three children, a son and two daughters.

       John J. Merkley remained at home until 1885, and then removed to his present residence.  In connection with his brother he owns two hundred and two acres of land in Yolo county, and two hundred and fifteen acres in Sacramento county.

       Judge C. H. Merkley continued under the parental roof until he had attained his majority, the public schools of Sacramento affording him his educational privileges.  He was married on the 5th of December, 1893, to Miss Minnie Beitzel, who was born in Oakland, California.  They now have two children. After his marriage Judge Merkley located on the ranch and has since devoted his energies largely to the management of his extensive hop fields.  In 1849  he was elected judge of Sutter township for a four year term, and he filled the office so capably that he was re-elected in 1898 for a second term of four years, so he is the present incumbent.  The brothers both cast their first presidential vote for Benjamin Harrison in 1888.