FRANK D RYAN

The Ryan Family, of which Frank D. Ryan is a representative member, was founded in America by his grandfather, John C. Ryan, who came to Sacramento, Cal., from Ireland, around Cape Horn, in the early ‘40s and for years was in the brick manufacturing busi-ness at his extensive yards in this city, south of Y street and the railroad. The father of our subject was Frank D. Ryan, Sr., an attorney at law in Sacramento and well known throughout the state as a prominent politician. He is a past grand president of the Native Sons of the Golden West, past president of the Eagles and also of the Young Men’s Institute, and past exalted ruler of the Elks. In his family were one son, Frank D., Jr., and three daughters, Estelle Regina, Ruth Marie and Irene Eleanor. Estelle is the wife of L. E. Starkweather of Walnut Creek. The mother was Miss Ella Boutwell, born near Roseville, Cal.

The younger F. D. Ryan was born in Sacramento, which was also the birth city of his father. Raised under such favorable surroundings, with the opportunities of education and culture as a foundation, in the capital of this naturally-favored state, he passed his youth, equipping himself for the serious portions and problems of life. After eight years spent in the Christian Brothers’ College at Sacramento, he attended the city high school for two years, and then for three years studied in the Santa Clara College. After the years of excellent training at these institutions he was a year in the government survey. Then followed four years with the Capital National Bank, from which he resigned his position April 18, 1911, and immediately opened the Ryan’s Palace of Sweets, at No. 725 K street, which is said to be the finest confectionery and ice cream establish-ment in northern California. Fitted in solid mahogany, the panels, frames and plate rail present a beautiful background to the walls which are lined with large mirrors, and the large onyx soda fountain with large mirror and mahogany background perfects the arrangement, giving the entire scheme an appearance of beauty and splendor. It is also equipped with richly furnished quarters in the balconies, which are given over to special parties or for club gather-ings of a social nature. The personal popularity of the proprietor and the artistic elegance of the establishment combine to make it a commercial success, as well as a beautiful addition to the business center.

Mr. Ryan was married October 16, 1909, to Ethel Rocca Holden, daughter of Frederick Holden, a native of Sacramento and in business as an electrician in that city.

Transcribed by Betty Vickroy.

Source: Willis, William L., History of Sacramento County, California, Pages 520-523. Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, CA. 1913.