San
Joaquin County
Biographies
AUSTIN HOWARD BEECHER
A young man connected with the Parks
Department of Stockton, Austin Howard Beecher was born near Stockton, November
21, 1888. His father, John L. Beecher,
is also a native son, being born in San Joaquin County about sixty-seven years
ago. Grandfather John L. Beecher, a
native of Connecticut, crossed the plains in the early gold rush. Following mining for a short time he later
engaged in teaming and freighting, having his headquarters in Stockton. He hauled provisions to the mines on the
Mother Lode and on the return trips came through Knights Ferry. When he quit teaming he settled on his large
ranch where he resided until he died.
His son, John L., was a successful rancher
until he retired and now makes his home in Stockton. He served as a member of the California
Legislature. In his younger days he had
made several trips back to Massachusetts and on one of these he was married to
Miss Cora Gibson, a native of that state who had spent his boyhood on the home
ranch, attending the full enjoyment of the delightful California climate.
Austin Howard, the youngest of their
five children, spent his boyhood on the home ranch, attending the local public
schools. When seventeen years old he struck
out for himself and for a time followed ranching, and then came to Stockton
where he was employed until 1920, when he was appointed to a position in the
Parks Department of Stockton, and now has charge of Fremont Park.
Mr. Beecher was married in Stockton
to Miss Margaret Ida Sheehan, who was born near Stockton, a daughter of Timothy
and Margaret Sheehan, early settlers of this county, her father being engaged
in the hotel business. Mrs. Beecher is a
graduate of St. Mary’s Academy, where she majored in vocal music. Possessing a fine soprano voice she sings at
churches and in concerts and has delighted audiences with her singing. Mr. Beecher is a member of the Loyal Order of
Moose.
Transcribed by V. Gerald Iaquinta.
Source: Tinkham, George
H., History of San Joaquin County, California , Page
1521. Los Angeles, Calif.: Historic
Record Co., 1923.
© 2012 V. Gerald Iaquinta.
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