John sowed the land to beets. Notes John came to California with his parents in 1854. He went into partnership with his father and brother on a ranch of 300 acres in Sonoma County upon attaining maturity. From 1864 to 1888, John owned his own ranch engaged in mixed farming. John was found on the 1880 census for Sonoma County, California.
All children are from that census.
John was a staunch Republican, and was elected Justice of the Peace on that party's ticket. He served for 12 years, until resigning to become Postmaster. In March of 1910, John and Tammy made the trip to Coalinga, California to attend the 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration of R.J. and Martha Cheney. John was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows from 1878 until his death. He received his 50 year jewel.