R.M.F. SOTO

R.M.F. Soto, attorney, San Francisco is possessed of a name that certainly has a distinguished place in the history of early exploration in this country. It is Spanish, but is borne by but few, and doubtless these all belonged originally to one family. One of our early missionary priests was a Father Soto. In the fact that his people were originally Spanish, Mr. Soto can take pardonable pride, for to the heroic and adventurous men of that nation is owing the opening up and civilizing, not of California alone, but also of the greater part of the two Americas. The early Spaniards who went out to seek new countries, were certainly of the flower and chivalry of Spain and represented her first families. Mr. Soto's father, J. M. Soto, was born in Peru. He came to California in early days, however, and soon gained a prominent position here, owing to his ability. His counsel and assistance were of great service to the people. In politics Mr. Soto was always a staunch Republican, and very frequently has made stirring speeches during the different campaigns that were very effective for his party. For many years he was a very large land owner in this State. He owned, for instance, the large San Francisco ranch, Los Angeles county, in partnership with the late H. M. Newhall. He also owned the Santa Rita ranch, Monterey county. He was, besides, in mercantile business. He is at present engaged in various mining interests in Lower California. Many leading Republicans have suggested him as a most fitting representative of his country as consul at Mazatlan, if he would accept the post.

The present Mr. Soto was born in Monterey county. He attended Santa Clara College, where he graduated in 1876. Then he went to the law department of Harvard College, where he graduated in 1878. On his return he entered the office of Winans, Belknap & Godoy for a time, and was admitted to practice by the Supreme Court in 1879. He was also admitted by the United States Circuit Court in 1885. He began the practice of his profession in Salinas city, Monterey county. In 1884 the nomination of District Attorney of the county was tendered him, and he was elected by a handsome majority, showing the esteem in which he was held. He held the office for the term 1885-'86. Mr. Soto during his term secured the payment of some $23,000 railroad taxes. In 1887, as we stated, he became associated with Mr. Herrmann. These two gentlemen, indeed, for many years have been friends and associates. They studied at Santa Clara and graduated there the same year, also at Harvard College. In politics Mr. Soto is a staunch Republican, like his father. His practice now takes up the greater part of his time, however. He is still of a very studious disposition and spends many hours at his office. He is certainly an able and painstaking lawyer, devoted to the interests of his clients. He makes their interests his own, and owing to this and his ability great confidence is felt in him. For a great success in his chosen profession the auguries are certainly most promising.

Transcribed 4-15-05 Marilyn R. Pankey

Source: "The Bay of San Francisco," Vol. 2, pages 56-57, Lewis Publishing Co, 1892.

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