Herbert Bashford (1871–1928): Notable American Poet, Novelist, Playwright, and Editor

Herbert Bashford and Grave Marker

 Plot 56, Grave 1758

Herbert Bashford (1871–1928) was an American poet, novelist, playwright, and editor whose writings helped shape the literary identity of the American West in the early twentieth century. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, on March 4, 1871, Bashford moved west during childhood, settling in Tacoma, Washington, where he began publishing poetry and essays at a young age. His early work, marked by a lyrical reverence for the natural world, reflected the influence of the Pacific Northwest landscape and established him as a regional literary voice.

In 1897, at the age of 26, Bashford was appointed State Librarian of Washington. During his tenure, which lasted until 1901, he oversaw significant growth in the state library's collection and infrastructure. Simultaneously, he continued his literary output, publishing his first major poetry collection, Songs from Puget Sea (1898), which cemented his reputation as a nature poet. The volume was praised for its evocation of Pacific coastal imagery and its celebration of wilderness.

Bashford relocated to California around 1901, settling in the San Francisco Bay Area. There, he expanded his literary repertoire to include fiction and drama. His poetry collections included The Wolves of the Sea and Other Poems (1901), which featured one of his most enduring works, "The Song of the Forest Ranger," and At the Shrine of Song (1909), introduced by George Wharton James. These volumes continued to explore his central themes of nature, solitude, and the spiritual resonance of the western landscape.

Herbert Bashford and Songs from Puget Sea

He also published fiction, including Beyond the Gates of Care (1901), a reflective prose work, and The Tenting of the Tillicums (1906), a juvenile adventure novel set in the Pacific Northwest. The latter, published by Thomas Y. Crowell, was widely circulated and favorably reviewed. The title refers to the Chinook jargon word for "friends," and the story chronicles four boys on a wilderness camping trip, blending regional folklore with themes of camaraderie and exploration. Bashford also wrote several plays, including The Woman He Married, which was later adapted into a silent film released in 1922.

In 1921, Bashford served as editor of Overland Monthly, the influential San Francisco literary magazine originally founded by Bret Harte. Although the publication no longer commanded the national prominence it had in the late 19th century, it remained a vital forum for western voices. Bashford's brief tenure was marked by efforts to preserve the magazine's legacy while attracting contemporary talent. During his editorship, notable writers such as Mary Austin contributed to its pages. Austin, a prominent California author and advocate of environmental and indigenous issues, published fiction and commentary in Overland Monthly during this period. Bashford also curated retrospective essays on western literature, maintaining the magazine's connection to its literary past.

"The Woman He Married" from Photoplay, July 1922

One of Bashford's most ambitious later projects was A Man Unafraid: The Story of John Charles Frémont, co-authored with publisher Harr Wagner and published in 1927. This biography chronicled the life of the explorer, politician, and Civil War general, casting Frémont as a heroic figure in the American West. The book presented a celebratory narrative, emphasizing Frémont's courage and visionary spirit. Though later historians criticized the work for lacking critical depth, it contributed to popular interest in Western history during a time of growing nostalgia for frontier figures.

Bashford remained active in California literary and civic life through the 1920s. He continued writing, mentoring younger authors, and lecturing on western history and literature. He died on July 13, 1928, in Piedmont, California, at the age of 57. His death was noted in regional newspapers, which remembered him as a distinguished poet and dramatist whose work had helped define the cultural landscape of the West.

Bashford's literary legacy is rooted in his role as an interpreter of the natural and historical character of the Pacific Coast. Through poetry, fiction, biography, and editorial work, he captured both the majesty of the wilderness and the mythos of the American frontier. Though no longer widely read, his work remains a valuable window into the early twentieth-century imagination of the West.

Sources: University of Washington Libraries, Herbert Bashford Papers, 1899–1907; Library Journal, vol. 24 (1899), p. 38;  "Iowa Authors and Their Works," The Annals of Iowa 9:6 (1910); Nuwer, Hank. Overland Monthly editor timeline;  Fink, Augusta. Papers on Mary Austin; California Historical Society Quarterly, vol. 17 no. 1 (March 1938), pp. 87-89; Bashford, Herbert & Wagner, Harr. A Man Unafraid: The Story of John Charles Frémont. San Francisco: Harr Wagner Publishing Co., 1927;  Find A Grave; IMDb entry for The Woman He Married (1922 film); and, Monrovia Daily News, July 14, 1928.

Dr. Edward Winslow Gifford (1887–1959): Leading Anthropologist and Ethnographer; Documented Ghost Dance

Dr. E.W. Gifford and Grave Marker

Lot 70 - Plot 1152

Dr. Edward Winslow "E.W." Gifford was a pioneering American anthropologist and ethnographer whose meticulous fieldwork and scholarship helped lay the foundation for modern studies of Native American cultures, particularly those of California. He served as a central figure at the University of California, Berkeley’s Museum of Anthropology (now the Phoebe A. Hearst Museum of Anthropology), where his influence shaped both collections and generations of anthropologists.

Born in Oakland, California, Gifford was largely self-educated in his early years and began his career at UC Berkeley in 1905 as a museum assistant, despite having no formal college degree at the time. Under the mentorship of Alfred L. Kroeber—California’s first university-based anthropologist—Gifford quickly gained recognition for his fieldwork skills, attention to cultural detail, and prolific publications. His early assignments involved cataloging the vast collections amassed during the university’s archaeological expeditions, but he soon emerged as a field researcher in his own right.

Dr. Gifford and his book "Miwok Myths"

Gifford’s fieldwork focused primarily on the indigenous peoples of California, and his research was instrumental in preserving the oral traditions, social structures, religious beliefs, and material cultures of many tribes during a period of rapid cultural change and displacement. He conducted extensive ethnographic studies among groups such as the Yurok, Miwok, Pomo, and Yokuts, often collaborating directly with tribal elders and knowledge holders. His approach was characterized by an emphasis on documenting indigenous perspectives and collecting detailed genealogies, myths, and ceremonial practices.

One of his major contributions was his work on the concept of "ethnographic salvage," aimed at recording cultural traditions before they disappeared. Among his many publications, Miwok Myths (1917) and California Indian Nights (co-authored with Gwendoline Harris Block in 1930) stand out as enduring contributions to the literature. These works captured the oral narratives and cosmologies of Native Californian peoples in a format accessible to both scholars and the general public.

Gifford became curator of the Museum of Anthropology in 1925 and held the post until his retirement in 1947. During his tenure, he significantly expanded the museum’s holdings and professionalized its operations. He also played a key role in mentoring younger scholars, including several who would become influential anthropologists in their own right. Gifford’s methodical field notes, thorough documentation, and vast correspondence remain invaluable archival resources.

Despite working in an era that often viewed Native American cultures through a paternalistic or extractive lens, Gifford stood out for his respect toward Indigenous communities and commitment to accuracy. His efforts contributed to the broader understanding of cultural diversity in North America and helped elevate the status of anthropology at Berkeley into a premier research institution.

Dr. Gifford and an arrowhead illustration from his book

Among his many contributions, Gifford also studied the impact of the Ghost Dance movement among California tribes. In The Southern Maidu (1926), he documented how the Ghost Dance had been adopted by groups such as the Maidu and Pomo, albeit in modified forms. He noted that while the apocalyptic vision and millenarian elements of the Ghost Dance were less pronounced than among Plains tribes, California practitioners shared a belief in the return of ancestors and the spiritual renewal of the world. His observations underscored how the ritual was adapted to local cosmologies and social needs, becoming a response to the dislocation caused by colonization.

Gifford approached the Ghost Dance with scholarly sensitivity, recording trance-like states, visionary experiences, and symbolic meanings attached to the ceremony. He emphasized that by the early 20th century, the movement had largely faded but left traces in surviving ceremonial practices. His interpretation avoided sensationalism, instead presenting the Ghost Dance as part of a larger continuum of Indigenous spiritual resilience.

Dr. Edward Winslow Gifford passed away in 1959, leaving behind a remarkable scholarly legacy and an enduring body of work that continues to inform research and education on Native American cultures. His life’s work serves as a testament to the importance of preserving human history through direct engagement, careful documentation, and genuine cultural respect.

Dr. Charles Edward Chapman (1880–1941): Spanish History Academic & Baseball Scout

Dr. Charles Chapman and Funeral Urn

Main Mausoleum/Columbarium, Section 59, Niche 5, Tier 5

Dr. Charles Chapman led a uniquely multifaceted life as both a prominent historian and a professional figure in American baseball. Born in Illinois in 1880, Chapman’s early years were marked not only by academic promise but also by athletic talent. Before his distinguished scholarly career, Chapman played professional baseball in the minor leagues, including stints in the Pacific Coast League and the Imperial Valley League. He also coached at the Imperial High School, illustrating a lifelong passion for the sport.

After earning his undergraduate degree from Pomona College in 1904, Chapman continued his studies at the University of California, Berkeley, where he received his Ph.D. in 1915. That same year, he was appointed an instructor at the university, eventually rising to the rank of professor by 1927. A prolific scholar of Hispanic American and California history, Chapman was closely associated with the influential Bolton School of history, which emphasized the interrelationship between the histories of the Americas. He published widely respected works on Spanish colonial governance, Latin American history, and California’s Spanish missions.

Chapman’s most influential publication was A History of Spain, first released in 1918, which became a standard university textbook for decades. He also co-authored Colonial Hispanic America and contributed extensively to journals and historical societies. His scholarship won him acclaim both nationally and internationally, with some of his work appearing in Spanish, Cuban, and South American academic journals.

Unusually for a man of letters, Chapman maintained an active second career in professional baseball. He was a major league scout for over two decades, serving first with the Cincinnati Reds beginning in 1920 and later with the St. Louis Cardinals. His dual identity as both a historian and scout was rare and reflected a remarkable intellectual range. His involvement in baseball extended well beyond scouting—his background as a player gave him a keen eye for talent and a practical understanding of the game, which he leveraged in his work for major league teams.

A member of several professional organizations, including the California Historical Society and the American Historical Association, Chapman was also part of the prestigious Order of the Crown of Italy, an honor reflecting the international regard for his historical work. At the time of his death in Oakland in 1941, he was a respected professor at the University of California and a beloved figure among both his academic peers and the baseball community. His funeral was held at the Chapel of the Chimes, and he was buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland.

Sources: Baseball-Reference.com, Various Chapman books and periodicals, Oakland Tribune, Find a Grave

William Anthony Parker White aka Anthony Boucher (1911–1968): Mystery and Science Fiction Writer,: SF Chronicle Book Critic

 

Anthony Boucher and White Family Plot

14B - White Family Plot

William Anthony Parker White, better known by his pen name Anthony Boucher, led a multifaceted literary life that spanned mystery fiction, science fiction, literary criticism, and cultural commentary. A central figure in shaping 20th-century genre fiction, Boucher’s influence radiated through his novels, short stories, reviews, and particularly his editorial and critical work at the San Francisco Chronicle, The New York Times, and The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction. His life was one of sharp intellect, wide-ranging curiosity, and deep commitment to storytelling in all its forms.

William Anthony Parker White was born on August 21, 1911, in Oakland, California, a city that would remain a vital reference point throughout his life. He was a precocious child who suffered a serious illness in early childhood (likely encephalitis), which left him homebound for extended periods. That confinement helped ignite a voracious appetite for reading—particularly Sherlock Holmes stories, classic literature, and Golden Age detective fiction.

White’s academic path was notable. He studied at the University of Southern California and later transferred to the University of California, Berkeley, where he cultivated an early interest in languages, poetry, and literary criticism. He initially pursued graduate work in German but abandoned it in favor of a writing career.

His pseudonym, “Anthony Boucher,” came from combining his middle name with the surname of a French chess master (Boucher), and it quickly became the moniker by which he was best known.

Boucher's writing career blossomed in the 1930s with short stories that straddled mystery and speculative fiction. He became a respected author within the detective fiction community through two main avenues: his mystery novels—featuring quirky, intelligent sleuths like Sister Ursula (a nun-detective) and Fergus O’Breen (a Los Angeles private eye)—and his incisive literary reviews.

His first novel, The Case of the Seven of Calvary (1937), was a heady blend of mystery and metaphysics, reflecting Boucher’s appetite for mixing genres and intellectual playfulness. His detective fiction was clever and literate, often laced with Catholic philosophy, classical allusions, and an unusual sense of humor. His mystery output was modest—only a handful of novels—but respected for its sophistication and style.

In the world of science fiction, Boucher’s work appeared in Astounding Science Fiction, Unknown, and other magazines of the day. His stories often included sociopolitical commentary and speculative twists that placed him in the ranks of serious literary experimenters in the genre.

While Anthony Boucher had already established himself as a critic and writer in the mystery and science fiction worlds by the early 1940s, it was his tenure at the San Francisco Chronicle that further cemented his role as a tastemaker in American letters. 

From 1942 to 1947, Boucher served as the paper’s principal book critic, contributing weekly columns that examined not only detective and science fiction, but also poetry, general fiction, nonfiction, and drama. His reviews were accessible yet rigorous, frequently peppered with wit and cultural insight. He had a talent for elevating genre fiction to the level of serious literary conversation—decades before such work was taken seriously by the academic mainstream.

At the Chronicle, Boucher helped expand the scope of book coverage, pushing editors to take mystery and speculative fiction seriously, and often championing up-and-coming writers. His reputation for fairness and erudition meant that his reviews carried significant weight. Authors and publishers often saw a positive Boucher review as a vital endorsement.

During his Chronicle years, Boucher also hosted literary gatherings in the Bay Area—informal salons where science fiction and mystery writers, journalists, and intellectuals mingled. These gatherings foreshadowed his later co-founding of the annual Bouchercon mystery convention, which continues to this day as a leading conference in the crime fiction world.

After leaving the Chronicle, Boucher took on what would become one of his most enduring legacies: as founding editor of The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (F&SF) in 1949. Along with co-editor J. Francis McComas, Boucher helped elevate the magazine to the forefront of literary science fiction publishing.

Under his editorial direction, F&SF became a launchpad for some of the most important speculative fiction of the mid-20th century, including works by Ray Bradbury, Philip K. Dick, and Zenna Henderson. The magazine emphasized quality writing and imaginative storytelling, balancing fantasy and science fiction in a way that appealed to a wide range of readers. Boucher remained editor until 1958, after which he continued as a contributor.

He also wrote The Criminals at Large column in The New York Times Book Review for over 20 years, from 1951 until his death. In that position, he wielded extraordinary influence over the mystery and crime fiction market, introducing readers to writers like John le Carré, Patricia Highsmith, and Ed McBain before they became household names.

Less well known, but no less fascinating, was Boucher’s work in radio. During the 1940s, he wrote scripts for radio dramas—including some early episodes of the Sherlock Holmes radio show. He had a musical ear and was a devoted opera fan, writing opera reviews and librettos and even working as a translator of operatic texts.

Boucher was known for speaking several languages (including Latin and German), had a deep knowledge of Catholic theology, and was interested in everything from comic books to metaphysics. This breadth of knowledge infused his writing and criticism with a layered, intertextual richness that set him apart from his peers.

Boucher married Phyllis Price in 1938, and the couple settled in Berkeley, where he lived most of his adult life. Their home became a center of literary and cultural life in the Bay Area. Despite suffering from chronic health issues, including emphysema, Boucher maintained a prodigious work pace for decades.

He died on April 29, 1968, at the age of 56, leaving behind an impressive legacy not just as a writer, but as an editor, critic, and cultural bridge between “high” and “low” art.

In his honor, the Bouchercon World Mystery Convention and the Anthony Awards—named after his pseudonym—continue to celebrate excellence in crime and mystery writing.

Nathaniel Lyon Gardner (1864–1937): Expert on Pacific Algae and Funghi

Nathaniel Lyon Gardner

Nathaniel Lyon Gardner was a pioneering American botanist whose meticulous studies of marine and freshwater algae helped shape the field of phycology in the early 20th century. As a professor and curator at the University of California, Berkeley, Gardner's work laid foundational knowledge of Pacific Coast seaweeds and contributed significantly to the scientific understanding of algae taxonomy and morphology.

Born on February 26, 1864, in Keokuk, Iowa, Gardner began his career as a schoolteacher in Iowa and later in Washington state. His interest in botany was sparked during this time, leading him to collect plant specimens and seek identification assistance from experts. This pursuit connected him with William Albert Setchell, the head of the Botany Department at UC Berkeley, who would become a lifelong collaborator. Gardner earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Washington in 1900, followed by a Master of Science in 1903 and a Ph.D. in 1906 from UC Berkeley. His doctoral thesis, "Cytological Studies in Cyanophyceae," focused on the cellular biology of blue-green algae.

After completing his doctorate, Gardner served as the head of the biology department at Los Angeles Polytechnic High School. He returned to UC Berkeley as an acting assistant professor in 1909–10 and was appointed full-time assistant professor in 1913. He was promoted to associate professor in 1923 and retired in 1934. During his tenure, Gardner also served as the curator of the University Herbarium.

Gardner became known for his expertise in Pacific Coast seaweeds, as well as for his work with freshwater algae and fungi. He published extensively on the morphology and taxonomy of blue-green algae (on which he was recognized as a world authority) as well as red and brown algae. In addition to plant collecting and other kinds of field work, he developed special methods for cultivating algae in the lab. Although he often coauthored papers with Setchell, he also published some 30 solo-authored papers. His works include "Algae of Northwestern America" and "The Marine Algae of the Pacific Coast of North America."

In 1915, Gardner married Edith Jordan, an educator he met while both were teaching at Los Angeles Polytechnic High School. They resided in Berkeley, California, where Gardner continued his academic and research endeavors. He passed away on August 15, 1937, at his home in Berkeley.

Gardner's legacy endures through his extensive contributions to phycology and mycology. His meticulous research and publications remain valuable resources for researchers in these fields. Specimens he collected are preserved in herbaria, and his collaborative works with Setchell continue to be referenced in contemporary botanical studies.

Sources: Smithsonian, Wikipedia, Find a Grave, Biodiversity Heritage Library, UC/JEPS Herbaria

 

 

Lucile K. Czarnowski (1895–1985): Pioneer of American Folk Dance Education

 

Lucile Czarnowski UC Berkeley yearbook photo & grave

Plot 71

Lucile Katheryn Czarnowski was a leading figure in 20th-century American dance education, whose work helped preserve and popularize folk dance traditions across California and the nation. Born on February 18, 1895, in Congress, Arizona, to a Polish immigrant father and an American-born mother, she developed a lifelong commitment to movement and cultural expression. 

After earning her undergraduate degree from the University of California in 1923, Czarnowski went on to complete a master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin in 1931, where she wrote a thesis titled Some Genetic Phases of the Dance—an early scholarly contribution to the field. Her education also included study at the influential Wigman School in Dresden, Germany, and the Bennington School of the Dance in Vermont, where modern dance pioneers shaped American choreography. 

From 1923 to 1973, Czarnowski taught physical education at UC Berkeley, where she profoundly influenced generations of students through her dynamic approach to folk and square dance. She was a founder and later president (1945–1946) of the Folk Dance Federation of California, a central organization for promoting dance across the state. Nationally, she served as the dance chair of the American Association for Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. Her work was recognized internationally when she presented a paper on dance education at the 1939 World Congress of Physical Education in Stockholm—an effort that earned her an award from the King of Sweden. 

"Dances of Early California Days," her most famous book

Lucile Czarnowski authored a number of influential texts, which became widely used in classrooms and community dance settings alike. 

Her books include: Folk Dances from Near and Far (1945); Dances of Early California Days (1950); How to Teach Folk and Square Dance (1953, revised 1961, with Jack McKay); Folk Dance Teaching Cues (1963); What is Right with the Dance (1968); and, Destined from the Start for Her Lifework: Elizabeth Burchenal, 1877–1959 (1970)

Among these, Dances of Early California Days stands out for its unique cultural contribution. Published in 1950, the book documents historical dances from California’s Spanish, Mexican, and early American periods. With detailed step-by-step instructions and accompanying music, the volume preserves traditions that might otherwise have been lost. It also reflects her deep research into California history and her commitment to honoring multicultural roots. The book remains an important resource for dance historians and folklorists today. 

Lucile Czarnowski never married, dedicating her life to education, scholarship, and cultural preservation. She died in Greenbrae, California, on October 7, 1985, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape dance education and heritage arts across the country.

John West Martin (1822-1899): Banker and Reform Mayor of Oakland & The Scandalous "Wedding" of his Son

 

J. West Martin and Family Plot

Plot 2 Lot 51

J. West Martin (1822–1899) was a pivotal figure in 19th-century Oakland, remembered for his brief but impactful tenure as the city’s 22nd mayor and for his deep imprint on its business and civic life.

Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, on February 6, 1822, Martin’s early life was shaped by a pursuit of the ministry, which he later abandoned for commercial ventures in the South. The lure of the West brought him to California in 1853, where he and his brother purchased Rancho Santa Rita in Alameda County, raising cattle and horses. After selling the ranch in 1865, Martin moved to Oakland, where his influence would only grow.

Martin quickly established himself as a financial powerhouse. He became president of Union Savings Bank in 1876, a position he held until his death. He also served as director and vice-president of Union National Bank and led the Oakland Gas Light Company as president. Martin was instrumental in founding the Amador Water Company and the Home Gas Light Company, both of which played significant roles in Oakland’s infrastructure and daily life.

In 1883, Martin was elected mayor as a Democrat, defeating Republican E. M. Gibson. He campaigned on a platform of fiscal restraint and implemented sweeping austerity measures: firing city employees, slashing salaries, and even turning off half of Oakland’s gas streetlights. These cost-cutting reforms, while financially prudent, proved deeply unpopular and cost him a second term.

Beyond politics and banking, Martin served as a regent of the University of California, helping shape the young institution’s future. He was also involved in various civic and business ventures, earning a reputation as a “capitalist” and self-made millionaire.

Martin’s personal life was not without intrigue. He married Jane Carneal, and their son, Shelby Foote Martin, became the subject of local gossip due to a notorious “contract marriage” to Valeria Hickethier-a story that captivated Oakland society for years. [see more below].

J. West Martin died at his Oakland home on August 18, 1899, and was buried at Mountain View Cemetery. His legacy endures in the institutions he helped build and the reforms-however controversial-that he brought to city government.

 

News headline about Shelby Martin and Valeria Hickethier

The Scandalous “Contract Marriage” of Shelby Foote Martin: Oakland’s Gilded Age Gossip

Oakland’s Gilded Age was a time of booming fortunes, elegant mansions and society scandals that set tongues wagging from the parlor to the press. One such episode involved Shelby Foote Martin, son of prominent banker and Oakland mayor J. West Martin, and a woman named Valeria Hickethier became a story that would become one of the city’s most talked-about affairs.

Shelby Foote Martin was born into privilege and local prominence. His father, J. West Martin, was a self-made millionaire, bank president, and city leader. Shelby’s life, however, would take a dramatic turn with a peculiar event that came to be known as the “contract marriage.”

In the late 19th century, Shelby and Valeria Hickethier gathered with three witnesses and a notary for what was described as a marriage ceremony. Rather than a traditional wedding, the two signed a formal contract, an arrangement that, at the time, some described as a social formality, a joke, or perhaps a legal experiment. Whatever the intention, the contract had real consequences.

After the contract was signed, Valeria began using the name Mrs. Martin and insisted on the legitimacy of the marriage. Shelby, however, denied any true intent to wed and sought to dissolve the arrangement. The dispute quickly spilled into public view, and the local press seized on the drama, chronicling every twist and turn. For Oakland’s society set, it was a scandal that mixed legal ambiguity, social intrigue, and the complicated expectations of Victorian-era relationships.

Obituary and grave of Shelby Martin

The affair took a heartbreaking turn in November 1895, when Valeria Hickethier died, her death widely reported as a suspected suicide, but a subsequent autopsy showed that she also had tuberculosis. According to the San Francisco Call, her relatives blamed the distress of the marriage dispute and the resulting social ostracism for her demise. The newspaper somberly noted:

"His dear wife is dead. Shelby Martin has no more fear of that marriage contract. A suspicion of suicide. Her relatives declare that she was a victim of persecution."

In the weeks before her passing, negotiations were underway to annul the marriage: Shelby Martin agreed to pay Valeria $10,000 in exchange for her consent and her promise to leave Oakland. The legal agreement was ready to be signed, but Valeria died less than 48 hours before it could be finalized-had she lived just two days longer, she would have received the full settlement. Friends and relatives noted the tragic timing and commended Shelby Martin for attempting a generous resolution rather than contesting the contract’s legality

The “contract marriage” of Shelby Foote Martin and Valeria Hickethier became a cautionary tale, a topic of whispered conversation, and a lasting footnote in the annals of Oakland’s high society. It reminds us that beneath the surface of even the most gilded families, human drama and tragedy can unfold-sometimes with consequences that echo long after the headlines fade.

Dr. Frederic Lister Burk (1862–1924): Founding president of San Francisco State University

 

Dr. Frederic Burk and SFSU seal

Main Mausoleum

Dr. Frederic Burk was a pioneering educator and educational reformer, best known as the founding president of San Francisco State University (originally the San Francisco State Normal School). Born on September 1, 1862, in Blenheim, Ontario, Canada, he moved to California during his youth and pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley (B.L., 1883), Stanford University (M.A., 1892), and Clark University (Ph.D., 1898).​

Before entering academia, Burk worked as a journalist in San Francisco from 1883 to 1889. He then transitioned into education, serving as superintendent of public schools in Santa Rosa (1892–1896) and Santa Barbara (1897–1899). In 1899, he was appointed the first president of the San Francisco State Normal School, a position he held until his death in 1924.​

Burk was an advocate for individualized instruction, opposing the traditional "lockstep" system of education. He believed that allowing students to progress at their own pace would enhance learning and efficiency. This philosophy influenced educational practices both in the United States and abroad.​

Burk Hall at SFSU

 

Burk's contributions to education were significant. He was a member of the California State Board of Education and served as president of the California State Teachers Association. His work laid the foundation for modern educational methods that emphasize personalized learning. In recognition of his impact, Burk Hall at San Francisco State University is named in his honor.​

Dr. Burk passed away on June 12, 1924, in Oakland, California, and is interred with his equally famous son, Dr. Dean Burk (profiled in following bio).

Dr. Dean Turner Burk (1904–1988): Prominent Biochemist and Cancer Researcher

Dr. Dean Burk and Burial Niche

 

Main Mausoleum, Section 12, Crypt Niche 2, Tier 1

Dr. Dean Turner Burk (1904–1988) was a prominent American biochemist and medical researcher, born in Oakland, California. He is best known for co-developing the Lineweaver–Burk plot, a foundational tool in enzyme kinetics, and for his extensive work in cancer research at the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

Burk was the second of four sons of Frederic Lister Burk, the founding president of what is now San Francisco State University. He entered the University of California, Davis at age 15 and transferred a year later to UC Berkeley, where he earned a B.S. in Entomology in 1923. He completed his Ph.D. in biochemistry in 1927. Burk then pursued postdoctoral research at University College London, the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute in Berlin, and Harvard University, working with Nobel laureates such as A.V. Hill and Otto Warburg.

In 1929, Burk joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fixed Nitrogen Research Laboratory. By 1939, he became a senior chemist at the newly established National Cancer Institute, where he led the cytochemistry laboratory until his retirement in 1974. He co-authored over 250 scientific papers and collaborated closely with Otto Warburg, translating many of Warburg’s works into English

Burk’s notable scientific contributions include:​

• Lineweaver–Burk Plot: Developed in 1934 with Hans Lineweaver, this double-reciprocal plot became a standard method for analyzing enzyme kinetics .​

• Photosynthesis Research: He received the Hillebrand Prize in 1952 for his work on photosynthesis, demonstrating high quantum efficiency in the process.

• Cancer Cell Differentiation: Awarded the Gerhard Domagk Prize in 1965 for developing techniques to distinguish between normal and cancerous cells.

• Medical Imaging: Co-developed a prototype of the Magnetic Resonance Scanner, a precursor to modern MRI technology.

 

After retiring from the NCI, Burk became an outspoken critic of water fluoridation, claiming it was linked to increased cancer mortality. His studies, co-authored with John Yiamouyiannis, were widely criticized for methodological flaws and lack of scientific rigor.

Burk also advocated for the use of Laetrile (amygdalin or "vitamin B17") as a cancer treatment, despite its classification as ineffective and potentially dangerous by the FDA and mainstream medical community. His public support led to reprimands from the NCI, which emphasized that his views did not represent the agency.​

Dean Burk passed away from cancer on October 6, 1988, in Washington, D.C., at the home of his daughter.

Sources: Wikipedia, Find a Grave, Univ of CA Berkeley

William Albee "Bill" Palmer (1911-1996): Pioneering Film and Audio Innovator

 

Bill Albee from 1928 Palo Alto H.S. yearbook and grave marker

Plot 18A

Bill Palmer was a visionary filmmaker, engineer, and audio pioneer whose work helped define the modern media landscape. From his base in San Francisco, Palmer revolutionized industrial and educational filmmaking, co-developed the first American magnetic tape recorder, and proved that a city outside of Hollywood could be a national center for media innovation.

Born in Oakland, California, in 1911, Palmer grew up in Palo Alto and studied engineering at Stanford University. After graduating in 1932, he quickly turned his passion for film and technology into a career. In 1936, at just 25 years old, Palmer founded W.A. Palmer & Co. in San Francisco. What began as a small film production company grew into W.A. Palmer Films, Inc., a leading force in non-theatrical filmmaking.

From the beginning, Palmer showed a deep interest in technical innovation. In the early 1930s, he was one of the first to experiment with synchronized sound on 16mm film. Frustrated by the lack of available technology, he engineered his own sound-on-film camera system. This innovation helped him win a contract to document the construction of the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge. The film became an industrial classic and cemented his reputation as a serious filmmaker and technician.

During World War II, Palmer’s company was commissioned to produce training films for the U.S. Navy. His team shot in full color aboard aircraft carriers and at military bases around the world, using lightweight 16mm cameras that allowed for flexibility and speed in high-pressure environments. These films were instrumental in quickly training Navy personnel and demonstrated the professional viability of 16mm film.

By war’s end, W.A. Palmer & Co. had produced hundreds of short films. The company also operated a state-of-the-art laboratory for processing and editing film, making it a key resource for Bay Area media producers. At a time when nearly all film infrastructure was in Los Angeles, Palmer built a one-stop shop in San Francisco, helping to establish the city as a serious player in the film industry.

Palmer’s contributions didn’t end with film. In 1946, he began working with Jack Mullin, a fellow engineer and friend, to adapt the German Magnetophon—an early high-fidelity magnetic tape recorder—for American use. Palmer provided the workspace and engineering know-how to help transform the device into something commercially viable in the U.S.

Crooner Bing Crosby 

 

Their breakthrough came when they demonstrated their tape recorder to major studios in Hollywood. Bing Crosby was so impressed that he adopted it to pre-record his national radio show. This marked the first major use of magnetic tape in American broadcasting and revolutionized the radio industry. For the first time, shows could be recorded, edited, and rebroadcast with high fidelity.

Palmer and Mullin’s prototype became the foundation for the Ampex Model 200—the first commercially successful American professional tape recorder. Palmer’s work ushered in the magnetic recording era, paving the way for studio editing, music recording, videotape, and even computer data storage.

Palmer’s company continued to produce hundreds of films over the decades. Notable early projects included the Bay Bridge documentary and promotional films for major industries. During the postwar years, W.A. Palmer & Co. also played a critical role in capturing early television broadcasts. Using his own improved kinescope recording process, Palmer preserved live TV shows on film before videotape was available.

One highlight was the preservation of classical music programs such as “The Standard Hour,” which aired in San Francisco in the early 1950s. These recordings remain valuable artifacts of local television history.

The company also created industrial safety films, advertising reels, educational shorts, and travelogues. Palmer’s clients ranged from corporations and government agencies to television stations and universities. His Belmont-based lab continued to serve local and national clients well into the 1990s.

More than just a filmmaker and inventor, Palmer helped build the Bay Area’s creative infrastructure. He was deeply involved in local arts communities, including the Bohemian Club, and mentored generations of cinematographers, engineers, and editors. His facility was often the first stop for aspiring filmmakers seeking technical help or lab services.

At a time when Hollywood dominated media, Palmer showed that San Francisco could be an independent center for high-quality production and technical innovation. His legacy lives on in the region’s strong documentary, tech, and media arts scenes.

Palmer’s impact on film and audio technology is difficult to overstate. He was a pioneer of synchronized sound for 16mm film, a wartime documentarian, a trailblazer in television preservation, and a co-inventor of magnetic tape recording in the United States.

He was named a Fellow of the Audio Engineering Society and the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers for his technical achievements. His inventions helped change the way the world recorded and shared information, and his films preserved some of the most important moments in California’s mid-century development.

Palmer continued working into his eighties and remained deeply involved in his company until his death in 1996 at the age of 85. His life exemplifies the creative spirit that has always defined San Francisco: an intersection of art, innovation, and a belief in doing things differently.

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Sources: Palo Alto online, GaryCoates.net, SFGate, Society, Audio Engineer Society, Palo Alto H.S. yearbook