Biographies
WILLIAM D. MORRILL
An identification with California during the eventful era of
the '50's gave to Mr. Morrill a thorough knowledge of the crude, undeveloped
conditions that eventually were replaced by a cultured citizenship and a
prosperous commercial environment. Although it was not his privilege to survive
until the accomplishments of the great aims of the pioneers were realized he
contributed his quota thereto and when his earth life came to an end in 1885 at
the age of fifty years, there were not wanting friends to bear testimony to the
integrity of his character nor old settlers to witness concerning his
helpfulness in the strenuous tasks devolving upon the pioneers in their loyal
and patriotic attempts to raise the standard of citizenship in their adopted
commonwealth. Before coming to the west in 1851 at the age of sixteen he had
seen much of the east and had enjoyed the excellent advantages of the Boston
schools, as well as a brief attendance in the schools of Pittsburg. He was, however,
a native of Van Diemen's Land, Australia, and was
born in 1835 during the residence of the family there while his father held the
position of American consul. It was not until he was almost twelve years of age
that the family returned to Pittsburg and in 1849 his father joined the vast
throng of gold-seekers leaving the Atlantic coast for the then unknown regions
of the far west. Early in life he learned the trade of boiler maker and in 1869
he had the honor of putting together the first train that started for the east
over the newly completed system of the Southern Pacific Company. From the first
he was interested in all movements for the upbuilding
of the state and gave liberally of his time to promote progressive projects.
The
marriage of William D. Morrill in 1864 united him with Mary H. Pulaski, who was
born in Galveston, Tex. and now resides at No. 1529 E street, Sacramento. Five
children came to bless their union, but they suffered a deep bereavement in the
early demise of three of these, the only survivors being Jessie and William H.,
both of whom are married and living in Sacramento. As early as 1852
Mrs. Morrill was brought to California by the family and afterward she
attended school in Sacramento, where her father, August Pulaski, opened the first
harness shop and for years carried on a large trade along the line of his
chosen occupation. It was said that he was an expert in the manufacture of
harness and few of the men of his day and locality could compete with him in
the line of his specialty. As a citizen he was quiet but progressive,
unostentatious but liberal, and in all measures for the civic welfare he stood
on the side of progress and development. At one time he owned many acres within
the limits of Sacramento, a part of the tract covering the present site of
Eighth and J streets, but he disposed of the property before it had become
valuable. Three of his family, all of them being daughters, continue to make
their home in Sacramento, among them Mrs. Morrill, who has witnessed the slow but
sure growth of the capital city, has kept posted concerning its advancement and
recalls with pride the remarkable transformation wrought in its aspect since
she first saw it as an insignificant village with a transient and undevoted population, forming a striking contrast to the
progress and patriotism noticeable in the twentieth century.
Transcribed by Sally Kaleta.
Source: Willis,
William L., History of Sacramento County,
California, Pages 921-922. Historic
Record Company,
© 2006 Sally Kaleta.