GOLD HUNTERS OF '49

The gold excitement drew many to California in 1849-50.

Among those who went from Rockford was Giles C. Hard, A. C. Spafford, D. K. Lyon, H. B. Potter, Dexter Clark, William Hamilton. H. H. Silsby, Isaac Rowley, Obadiah E. Lamb, a Mr. Smith, a Mr. Lewis, Sylvester Robinson, and Henry L. Simpson.

Mr. Robertson died at Mud .Springs, forty-five miles east of Sacramento, a few days after his arrival.

Mr. Robinson was a native of Connecticut, and came to Rockford in 1847. He was the father of Mrs. E. P. Catlin and H. H. and N. S. Robinson.

Mr. Simpson died while on his return home, at Peru, Illinois, in March, 1851. His remains were brought to Rockford for burial. Mr. Simpson was the father of E. L. Simpson and Mrs. Z. B. Sturtevant. He came to Rockford about 1839. He built a brick house which still stands on Leonard Schmauss' lot on North Second street ; and part of another brick house on the southwest corner of First and Market streets. Mr. Simpson was engaged in the business of blacksmithing. He owned a one-half interest in a gristmill at Cherry Valley, and property in Rockford.

Mr. Lamb died in California. As in all similar ventures, some were successful: while others received no adequate returns for their journey into this far country.

History of Winnebago County-1877

 

 

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