Charles D. Bates (1872–1945): Founder & First President of Peralta Hospital

Sarcophagus of Charles D. Bates

Main Mausoleum

Charles D. Bates was a distinguished civic leader, contractor, and healthcare pioneer in Northern California. Born in 1872 in Oakland, Bates dedicated his life to both community development and public service, leaving an enduring legacy through his contributions to infrastructure and healthcare in the region.Bates had a successful career as a contractor, overseeing major construction projects that shaped Northern California’s landscape. Among his most notable achievements was his involvement in building the University of California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, a landmark project that showcased his expertise in large-scale engineering and construction. His work on such projects reflected his commitment to advancing the region’s infrastructure.

In 1928, Bates founded Peralta Hospital in Oakland, California, and became its first president. Collaborating with local physicians, he played a pivotal role in establishing the hospital as a vital healthcare provider for the community. Under his leadership, Peralta Hospital became a cornerstone of medical care in Oakland, offering essential services and setting the foundation for its future growth and success. Bates’s dedication to healthcare extended beyond administration; he worked tirelessly to ensure that the hospital met the needs of its patients and contributed to the well-being of the community.

Peralta Hospital has undergone several mergers over the decades. In 1982, it merged with Samuel Merritt Hospital to form the Merritt-Peralta Medical Center. This entity then combined with Providence Hospital in 1992, resulting in the creation of Summit Medical Center. Finally, in 1999, Summit Medical Center merged with Alta Bates Medical Center in Berkeley, leading to the formation of Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. Today, the former site of Peralta Hospital is part of the Summit Campus of Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.

Peralta Hospital on a 1930s matchbook cover

Outside of his professional endeavors, Bates was known for his personal interests and civic engagement. In his youth, he was an avid sportsman and achieved championship titles in tennis, reflecting his competitive spirit and passion for athletics. He also actively participated in numerous community projects aimed at improving the quality of life for Northern California residents.

In recognition of his contributions to healthcare and education, a medical library was named in his honor in 1940. This tribute highlighted his lasting impact on public health and learning in the region. Bates’s generosity and dedication to civic welfare earned him widespread respect and admiration from colleagues and community members alike.

Charles D. Bates passed away at the age of 73 in 1945. He is not related to Alta Bates, a nurse who had a hospital named for her.

Roscoe Jones (1880-1952): First President of Oakland Port Commission

Grave Marker for Roscoe Jones

Plot 52C, Lot 139

Roscoe D. Jones was a distinguished attorney and civic leader in Oakland, California, renowned for his significant contributions to the city's development. Born in the late 19th century, Jones dedicated over four decades to the legal profession, practicing law in Oakland for 44 years. 

In 1927, Jones was appointed as one of the inaugural members of the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, a body established to oversee and revitalize the city's waterfront operations. Serving alongside notable figures such as former California Governor Dr. George Pardee and department store owner H.C. Capwell, Jones was entrusted with transforming the Port of Oakland into a self-sustaining entity. 

Under Jones's leadership as the first president of the board, the Port of Oakland achieved remarkable financial turnaround. Prior to the board's formation, the municipal harbor had incurred annual losses amounting to $400,000. However, within a year of the independent board's stewardship, the port began generating sufficient revenue to cover its expenses, marking the beginning of its long-standing self-sufficiency. In 1927, he was chosen to escort world-renowned aviator Charles Lindbergh at an event honoring him and his plane The Spirit of St. Louis.

Jones's dedication to public service extended beyond his legal practice and port leadership. He was actively involved in various civic initiatives aimed at improving Oakland's infrastructure and community well-being. His commitment to the city's progress left an indelible mark on its history.

Roscoe D. Jones passed away on July 4, 1952.

Stuart Samuel Hawley (1883–1941): Original Port of Oakland Board Member

Stuart & Harriet Hawley

Main Mausoleum

Stuart Samuel Hawley was a prominent Bay Area capitalist, civic leader, and early architect of East Bay infrastructure and commerce. Born in 1883, he was a lifelong resident of the Oakland-Piedmont area and became widely known for his leadership in finance, real estate, and public service.

Hawley served as president of the Hawley Investment Company, Pacific Metals Company, and the Alameda Investment Company, and as vice president and manager of the R.W. Meese Estate Company. He also held a director position at the American Trust Company, establishing himself as a key figure in East Bay business and finance.

A committed civic leader, Hawley was appointed in 1925 as a founding board member of the Port of Oakland, following a citywide charter amendment that created the semi-autonomous agency. His service from 1925 to 1927 helped lay the foundation for the Port’s modern governance and the administration of publicly owned tidelands. 

Beyond the Port, he was also active in campaigns to improve regional transportation systems and civic facilities. Known for his behind-the-scenes influence, Hawley worked to build consensus and implement lasting improvements across the East Bay.

He was deeply involved in the social and club life of the area, serving as past president of the Athens Athletic Club and maintaining memberships in the Claremont Country Club, Cragmont Club, Mt. Diablo Country Club, the Bohemian Club, Athenian-Nile Club, and several Masonic orders.

Stuart Hawley married Harriet Meek on June 17, 1908. They had two children: Stuart Meek Hawley, a Dean Witter & Co. executive and champion golfer, and Mrs. Loy Hager.

Robert Andrew Leet (1872–1965): Pharmacist & Inaugural Member of Oakland Board of Port Commissioners

Robert Leet and an Oakland Tribune ad for his pharmacy

Main Mausoleum

Robert Andrew Leet was a respected Oakland-based pharmacist, civic leader, and businessman whose contributions to the city spanned both healthcare and public infrastructure. Born in 1872 in San Francisco, California, Leet spent the majority of his life in the East Bay, where he became a well-known figure in the business and civic communities.

Leet operated R.A. Leet & Co., a prominent pharmacy located at 1111 Broadway in downtown Oakland. His establishment became a staple of the community, known not only for dispensing pharmaceutical remedies but also for specializing in Kodak products and offering high-quality photo development services. Advertisements from the early 20th century emphasized the pharmacy's precision in Kodak developing, reflecting Leet’s commitment to innovation and customer service in an era when photography was becoming increasingly popular with the public.

Robert Leet and his sister Nettie

In addition to his career in pharmacy, Robert Leet played a key role in shaping the future of Oakland’s maritime economy. In 1927, he was appointed one of the first members of the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, an influential body responsible for overseeing the development of what would become one of the most important ports on the West Coast. His fellow commissioners included notable local figures such as Dr. George Pardee, a former Governor of California, and H.C. Capwell, founder of the Capwell's department store chain. 

Leet’s presence on the board signaled both his stature in the community and his investment in Oakland’s economic and infrastructural growth.

Ralph Talcott Fisher (1877–1948): Business Leader & Oakland Port Commissioner

Ralph T. Fisher and Grave Marker

Plot 11

Ralph Talcott Fisher was born in Oakland, California, in 1877, the son of Galen Merriam Fisher. A lifelong resident of the city, Fisher devoted much of his professional life to civic engagement, regional planning, and economic development in the Bay Area.

He graduated from the University of California in 1899 and went on to hold executive positions with the Oakland Chamber of Commerce, including secretary and executive vice president. Through this work, he was involved in urban and economic planning initiatives, promoting infrastructure development and regional cooperation among East Bay communities.

1937 Oakland Port Commission and Staff (L-R) Eugene Roland, Ralph Fisher, Arthur Abel, James McElroy, Merkell Baer, George Pardee and Frank Colbourn

From 1928 to 1939, Fisher served on the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners. His tenure coincided with an important period of modernization and expansion at the Port of Oakland. During these years, the port undertook improvements in cargo handling infrastructure, deepened harbor channels, and expanded terminal facilities to accommodate growing maritime trade. The port also played a greater role in Pacific commerce, responding to shifts in shipping and trade patterns between California and Asia. Fisher’s involvement contributed to the long-term planning and institutional growth of the port, which was positioning itself as a competitive regional hub during a period of national economic uncertainty and recovery.

Fisher’s broader public service included work during World War I with the U.S. Shipping Board and the Emergency Fleet Corporation. In the postwar years, he served on the California State Reconstruction Commission, helping to shape policies for the state’s economic transition after the war.

Fisher Family Plot 

He was active in civic organizations such as the Oakland Forum, the Berkeley Club, the Commonwealth Club of California, and the American Planning and Civic Association. Fisher frequently contributed articles and lectures on urban planning, transportation, and intergovernmental coordination. His writings addressed topics such as harbor policy, regional governance, and city planning strategies.

In 1915, Fisher married Margaret Merriam of Newburyport, Massachusetts. They had one son, Ralph Talcott Fisher Jr., who became a historian and university professor.

Ralph Talcott Fisher died in Oakland in 1948 at the age of 70, following a brief illness

 

Peter M. Tripp (Tripodes) (1911-1996): Businessman; City Councilmember; Oakland Port Commissioner

Peter Tripp and Grave Marker

Plot 5

Peter M. Tripp, born in Pyrgos, Greece, in 1911 and brought to Oakland as a child in 1914, was a dynamic public servant and civic leader whose career spanned athletics, business, and decades of political engagement. Legally shortening his name from Tripodes, Tripp left an indelible mark on Oakland as a two-term City Councilman and serving in the Board of Port Commissioners from 1959-1975, including three stints as President.

Before entering public life, Tripp had careers as a middleweight boxer and professional wrestler in the 1930s. He later founded the Peter Tripp Insurance Agency and became one of Oakland’s most recognized Greek-American business figures. His wife, Lois Poulos Tripp, whom he married in 1942, and their daughter Lois Gail Tripp Harpham were central to his life.

Tripp served on the Oakland City Council from 1951-1959 including a term as Vice Mayor. He chaired several influential committees, including a health department consolidation task force that saved the city $800,000 and the capital improvement committee responsible for the successful bond issue of 1958. He also led efforts to launch construction of the Alameda County Hall of Justice.

Easter Seals Campaign

Tripp retired from the Council in 1959 but was appointed to the Oakland Port Commission two years later. In 1961, he stirred controversy by proposing that all five Port Commissioners—including himself—resign so the newly elected Mayor John C. Houlihan could appoint a fresh board after the city changed who the mayor was selected. Although his motion failed, the bold move highlighted his commitment to reform and democratic governance.

Known for his independence and outspokenness, Tripp did not shy away from challenging colleagues. In 1962, he exposed conflicts of interest on the Port Commission, prompting Mayor Houlihan to demand corrective action. He clashed with fellow Councilmembers and Port Commissioners alike, including public arguments with Councilman Robert Osborne and a fiery exchange over being misaddressed by his birth name.

Under Tripp’s leadership, the Port of Oakland experienced extraordinary growth. When he joined, the port’s gross income was $3.9 million; by the time he stepped down in 1975, it exceeded $20 million. He championed containerization, international trade with Japan, and regional cooperation. In 1972, he advocated limiting the size of Oakland International Airport to avoid the unchecked sprawl of cities like Los Angeles, emphasizing quality of life over expansion.

(L-R) Floyd Olson, Vice Mayor Peter Tripp, Henry Worthington and George Warn

Tripp was a consistent voice for regionalism, urging collaboration between East Bay cities to streamline port operations and development. He also formed a citizen advisory committee to examine the ecological importance of San Leandro Bay’s mudflats, only to later criticize it for lacking business acumen.

His legacy includes championing bold ideas ahead of their time—like naming Oakland’s airport “Golden Gate International” to compete with San Francisco, and opposing entrenched business interests in the produce industry. Known for a sharp tongue and passionate advocacy, he also cultivated a softer public image later in life, emphasizing family, philanthropy, and his Greek heritage. A past master of the Plymouth Masonic Lodge and active member of Oakland’s Scottish Rite Bodies, Tripp remained an influential civic figure into retirement.

By the time he left public life, Peter Tripp had helped transform the Port of Oakland into the West Coast’s leading container shipping hub—second only to New York in the U.S. and third worldwide.

Claire Vernon “Pep” Goodwin (1891–1972): Baseball Player & Oakland Port Commissioner

Pep Goodwin from his baseball days

MM Lawn Terrace, 154, T4

Claire Vernon “Pep” Goodwin led a life that bridged the seemingly disparate worlds of professional baseball and civic leadership, earning admiration in both arenas. Born on December 19, 1891, in Pocatello, Idaho, Goodwin's path took him from the dusty fields of early 20th-century baseball diamonds to the boardrooms of one of the nation’s most important maritime centers: the Port of Oakland.

Goodwin's early promise as an athlete led him to the University of California, where he was a standout shortstop. His natural athleticism, quick reflexes, and sharp instincts caught the eye of professional scouts, leading him to join the Kansas City Packers of the short-lived Federal League. His Major League debut came on April 16, 1914. Over the course of two seasons, he played in more than 150 games, achieving a .235 batting average, hitting one home run, and driving in 48 runs. While the Federal League was a rival to the National and American Leagues and lasted only briefly, Goodwin’s contributions to the Kansas City Packers secured his place in baseball history. His final game took place on October 3, 1915.

After his professional baseball career, Goodwin transitioned to public service, where he would make an even longer-lasting mark. Settling in Oakland, California, Goodwin became deeply involved in civic affairs. He was appointed to the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners in 1939, one of the busiest and most strategically important ports on the U.S. West Coast. 

Port of Oakland during WWII

During Goodwin’s tenure at the Port of Oakland from 1939 to 1951, the port underwent significant transformation, driven in part by the demands of World War II and the postwar economic boom. As a key West Coast logistics hub, the port played a critical role in supporting the war effort, serving as a departure and arrival point for military personnel and materiel, and expanding its shipbuilding and repair facilities. In the years that followed, the port capitalized on federal and state investment to modernize infrastructure, deepen channels, and prepare for the coming era of containerization. Goodwin, known for his attention to operational detail and his steady, pragmatic leadership, was instrumental in supporting policies that improved maritime access, fostered industrial growth along the waterfront, and helped transition the port from wartime urgency to peacetime prosperity. His work on the Port Commission contributed to positioning Oakland as a competitive global trade gateway in the decades that followed.

His colleagues described him as diligent and civic-minded, a man who brought the same discipline and focus from his baseball days into the boardroom. He was particularly involved in promoting industrial development around the harbor and ensuring that port policies balanced economic progress with public accountability.

Beyond his professional roles, Goodwin was a devoted family man and active community member. He married Alice G. Goodwin, who predeceased him. The couple had a daughter, Mrs. William W. Reusch, and two grandchildren. Friends remembered him for his humility and quiet confidence—a man who rarely spoke of his baseball days unless prompted, but who lit up when asked about the early years of America’s pastime or his adopted hometown of Oakland.

Claire Goodwin passed away on February 15, 1972, at the age of 80. Upon his death, the Port of Oakland adopted a resolution expressing deep appreciation for his leadership and mourning his loss. 

Today, Claire “Pep” Goodwin is remembered not only for the stats he posted on the field but for the steady leadership he provided in one of the most important eras in Oakland’s maritime history. 

Benjamin Horn Pendleton (1862-1949): Oakland City Councilman & First Port Commissioner

Port of Oakland's Market St. Pier (1928) & Ben Pendleton

Benjamin H. Pendleton was a deeply respected civic leader, philanthropist, and public servant who played a foundational role in shaping modern Oakland. Born in 1862 in Shanghai, China during a time that his father was a sea captain and partner in a shipping firm operating between Shanghai and San Francisco. In the late 19th century, Shanghai was a major international port and commercial hub, particularly for Western maritime trade. American shipping firms frequently operated routes between the U.S. West Coast and East Asia, especially in tea, silk, and other goods.

Pendleton served multiple terms on the Oakland City Council representing Ward 5 from 1903 to 1909, where he became known for his quiet determination, vision, and integrity. His civic leadership extended beyond legislative duties—he was widely credited with pressing for infrastructure improvements and civic planning that laid the groundwork for Oakland’s emergence as a regional transportation hub.

A key architect of Oakland's transportation infrastructure, Pendleton helped spearhead the early development of the city's harbor and rail connections. He recognized the city’s strategic location on the San Francisco Bay and advocated for integrated port and rail systems to support growing industrial and commercial activity. His insights and advocacy were instrumental in linking Oakland to national and international shipping routes.

In 1927, Pendleton was appointed as one of the inaugural members of the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, alongside such prominent figures as former California Governor George Pardee and department store magnate H.C. Capwell. This marked the beginning of the formal oversight of the Port of Oakland. Under his leadership, the port reversed its financial losses and became self-sustaining within a year—an achievement that set the tone for the Port’s future growth and reputation as one of the busiest container ports in the U.S.

Hangar 1 at Oakland Airport circa 1927

 

Pendleton also played a decisive role in the creation and development of the Oakland Municipal Airport. His long-range vision for air transportation helped elevate the airport to national prominence, further integrating Oakland into national and global networks. He understood the economic and strategic importance of a municipal airport and helped lead the city through the complex process of planning, acquiring land, and developing the facility in the early days of American aviation.

His civic contributions extended beyond transportation. He worked tirelessly with the Associated Charities, civil service and library boards, and was involved in numerous welfare initiatives. Throughout his life, Pendleton inspired others through his example—giving freely of his time, energy, and resources to benefit the public good.

Though a successful businessman in the tobacco importing industry, Pendleton retired early to focus on public service. A lifelong bachelor, he shared his family home at 564 Oakland Avenue with his sister, Helen Pendleton. He passed away in 1948, leaving an estate of $264,578 (approximately $3.4 million in today's dollars), the majority of which he bequeathed to his sister and their longtime family friend Ann Webster.

Benjamin H. Pendleton never sought public acclaim, yet his impact on Oakland’s infrastructure, transportation systems, and civic life remains indelible.

Frederick K. Krauth Sr. (1824–1898): Pioneer Journalist and Publisher

Oakland Tribune obituary for Frederick Krauth

Plot 38, Lot 17

Frederick K. Krauth Sr. was a pioneering figure in California journalism and the founder of The Encinal, the oldest newspaper in Alameda County. Born in 1824 in Hagerstown, Maryland, Krauth grew up in nearby Frederick, where he received his early education and began his lifelong career in the printing and newspaper business. From a young age, he displayed a keen aptitude for typography and editorial work, skills that would later establish him as one of California’s most respected newspapermen.

Krauth’s professional journey took him first to New York City, where he worked on the Sunday Mercury, a paper owned by his brother Augustus. In 1845, at the age of 21, he married a woman who would remain his partner for over half a century. Their enduring marriage lasted until her death in February 1898, just days before Krauth’s own passing—a loss from which he never recovered.

Drawn westward by the 1849 California Gold Rush, Krauth joined the stream of hopeful "Argonauts" seeking fortune. Though he initially tried his hand at mining at Mormon Bar on the American River, he soon recognized that his talents lay elsewhere. Returning to his trade, he found work with the Mountain Democrat in Placerville, one of California’s earliest newspapers, and later contributed to other publications including the Sacramento Union. In partnership with Thomas McElroy, he briefly co-published the Santa Cruz Sentinel before eventually settling in San Francisco.

Krauth’s most significant contribution came in 1869 when he moved to Alameda and founded The Encinal. Under his leadership, the paper grew into one of the most prominent weeklies in California. Krauth was known for his sharp editorial insight, typographic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to civic betterment. He later expanded The Encinal into a daily, continuing its publication until declining health forced him to retire just two years before his death.

Alameda Encinal newspaper & Krauth Family Plot

Beyond journalism, Krauth was deeply involved in community affairs. He was vice president of the Alameda Board of Education and played a key role in establishing the city’s high school. He was also active in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and served in various leadership capacities within that fraternal organization, as well as being a member of the Society of California Pioneers and the Veteran Odd Fellows Association.

Though he never sought public office himself, Krauth wielded substantial influence through his newspaper, which he kept free of personal political ambition. He believed in using the press to uplift the community and advocate for public improvements, and his integrity earned him widespread respect across the state.

Frederick Krauth passed away peacefully at his Alameda home on February 17, 1898, at the age of 74, just nine days after the death of his wife.

Sources: Oakland Tribune, San Francisco Call, Find a Grave

Walter "Biff" Schaller (1889-1939): MLB Player & Pacific Coast League Star

Biff Schaller

Plot 65 Grave 104

Walter "Biff" Schaller (September 23, 1889 – October 9, 1939) was an American professional baseball outfielder whose career spanned from 1910 to 1920. He played two seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Detroit Tigers in 1911 and the Chicago White Sox in 1913, and had a significant presence in the minor leagues, particularly in the Pacific Coast League (PCL).​

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Schaller began his professional baseball journey in 1910. His early career saw him playing for the Kansas City Blues of the American Association during the 1911 and 1912 seasons. His performance there paved the way for his entry into the major leagues.​

Schaller made his MLB debut with the Detroit Tigers on April 30, 1911. During his tenure with the Tigers, he played in various positions: seven games in left field, nine in center field, one at first base, and made 23 appearances as a pinch hitter. Over 60 at-bats, he recorded a batting average of .133. After one season, he was released from the Tigers.​

In 1913, Schaller joined the Chicago White Sox. He played 32 games in the outfield and had 96 at-bats, achieving a batting average of .219. His major league career concluded on July 21, 1913.​

Joe Berger (L) Walter "Biff" Schaller (center) & Kid Gleason (R) Chicago White Sox

Following his time in the majors, Schaller had a notable minor league career, especially in the PCL. He played for the San Francisco Seals from 1913 to 1917 and returned in 1919, also spending time with the Seattle Rainiers and Portland Beavers during the 1919 and 1920 seasons.​

Between 1914 and 1917, Schaller appeared in 807 games for the Seals and set a PCL record by playing in 642 consecutive games. In the 1915 season, he played 208 games, compiled a .301 batting average, and led the league with 20 home runs. Defensively, he recorded 441 putouts and 20 assists with a .957 fielding percentage.​

In the 1917 season, Schaller maintained a strong performance with a .314 batting average over 181 games, contributing significantly to the Seals' PCL pennant win that year.​

Schaller was known for his humorous misuse of the English language. During a batting slump, he reportedly said, "the high multitude of Salt Lake City bothers me." He also summarized his baseball philosophy by stating, "What's the use to get excited. It's either dis or dat."​

After retiring from baseball, Schaller settled in Emeryville, California, where he lived for the last 15 years of his life. He operated a bar in the Oakland area. Schaller and his wife, Lucille, had a daughter named Lorraine. On October 9, 1939, Schaller died of a heart attack at his home in Emeryville. He was laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland, California.​

Career Statistics

Major League Baseball:

• Batting Average: .186​

• Hits: 29​

• Home Runs: 1​

• Runs Batted In (RBIs): 11

• Stolen Bases: 6​

Pacific Coast League Highlights:

• 1915 Season: .301 batting average, 20 home runs, 208 games played.​

• 1917 Season: .314 batting average, contributing to the Seals' pennant win.​

Sources: Oakland Tribune, MLB, Wikipedia, Ancestry.com

Bernard Crosby Whitman (1828-1885): Chief Justice of the Nevada Supreme Court

Chief Justice Bernard Whitman and Grave Marker

Plot 21 Lot 2

Bernard Crosby Whitman (1827–1885) was a prominent figure in 19th-century law and politics, leaving an indelible mark on both California and Nevada during his career. Born in Waltham, Massachusetts, Whitman was the son of attorney Levi Whitman and the nephew of Ezekiel Whitman, a Chief Justice of Maine's Supreme Judicial Court. He graduated from Harvard College in 1846 and pursued legal studies under the mentorship of the Portland, Maine law firm Fessenden & Deblois before being admitted to the bar in 1849.

Whitman moved to San Francisco, California, in 1850 during the Gold Rush era. He quickly became involved in law and politics, serving as a member of the California State Assembly when the state capital was located in Benicia. His tenure as a legislator coincided with a transformative period for California as it worked to establish its governance structures. After his time in the legislature, he served as the Benicia City Clerk, further contributing to the development of this early California capital.

In 1864, Whitman relocated to Virginia City, Nevada, during the height of the Comstock Lode mining boom. His legal expertise positioned him as a key figure in litigation surrounding mining claims and disputes, which were central to the region's economy at the time. His reputation for integrity and skill earned him an appointment to the Nevada Supreme Court in 1868. Whitman served on the court for over six years, including a term as Chief Justice from 1873 to 1874. As Chief Justice, he was lauded for his quick grasp of complex cases, thorough knowledge of legal principles, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Mary Elizabeth Church Whitman and Crosby Church Whitman, who are also listed on the grave marker, were integral parts of Bernard Crosby Whitman's family, each contributing to the family's remarkable legacy. However, these are likely cenotaphs, as Crosby was cremated and buried at Suresnes American Cemetery outside of Paris, while records show his mother's ashes were brought to the American Cathedral in Paris.

Mary Elizabeth Church was born in Albion, Michigan, in 1842 and moved to California as a child, settling in Nevada County. She married Bernard Whitman on July 14, 1858, when she was just 16 years old. Their union marked the beginning of a partnership that spanned Bernard's political and legal career. Mary Elizabeth was educated at Mills College when it was known as the Benicia Female Seminary. 

Crosby Whitman's ashes are likely in France

Crosby Church Whitman, their only child, was born in Benicia in 1864 during Bernard's tenure as a legislator and city clerk. Crosby pursued an illustrious career in medicine after graduating from Harvard College in 1886. He studied medicine in France and Germany and practiced briefly at Johns Hopkins before dedicating much of his life to medical service in France. Crosby became one of the founding physicians of the American Hospital in Neuilly-sur-Seine near Paris. During World War I, he organized a field hospital under the French Red Cross to treat wounded soldiers. His tireless efforts during the war eventually led to his death from exhaustion in 1916.

In private life, Whitman was admired for his refined manners and dedication to his family. His colleagues remembered him as a kind and courteous associate whose contributions enriched Nevada's legal system. After retiring from public service in Nevada, he returned to California in 1882 and continued practicing law until his death from an apoplectic stroke on August 5, 1885.

Captain Aaron Milton Burns (1826–1912): Gold Rush Mariner Involved in Famous Act of Vigilante Justice

Captain Aaron Burns and Grave Marker

Plot 9, Lot 19 

Captain Aaron Milton Burns was a central figure in the story of early California—a man whose life bridged the lawless chaos of Gold Rush San Francisco and the growing push toward civic order. Born in 1826, Burns arrived in the city during its most turbulent years, where he earned a reputation both as a fearless sea captain and as a citizen committed to public integrity.

As skipper for the Pacific Mail Steamship Company, Burns ferried prospectors, merchants, and adventurers from Panama through the Golden Gate, navigating treacherous waters and booming demand. He commanded steamships up the Sacramento River during the height of the Gold Rush, when San Francisco’s waterfront was lined with abandoned ships and the streets teemed with gamblers, fugitives, and dreamers.

But it was on land that Burns's name became etched into San Francisco's civic history. In 1856, he played a role in one of the most consequential episodes of frontier justice: the hanging of gamblers Charles Cora and James P. Casey by the Second Committee of Vigilance. Burns was one of twelve men assigned to guard Cora while he awaited judgment—not in a court of law, but before a citizen-led tribunal.

The hanging of Charles Cora and James Casey

The drama began the year prior when Charles Cora shot and killed U.S. Marshal William H. Richardson. Cora’s lavish lifestyle and political connections led many to fear that justice would be subverted, especially after his trial ended in a hung jury. Then, in May 1856, the situation exploded when James King of William, a crusading newspaper editor, was gunned down in broad daylight by Supervisor James P. Casey—an act of political retaliation after King had published damning reports about Casey’s criminal past.

King’s murder was the final straw. Outraged citizens, already furious at the corruption and lawlessness plaguing their city, reactivated the Committee of Vigilance. Within days, thousands had joined. They arrested both Cora and Casey, tried them in a private tribunal, and hanged them side by side before a massive crowd. Captain Burns, a respected civic figure even then, stood guard over the process—ensuring it would not be interrupted.

In the decades that followed, Burns transitioned from maritime work to insurance and business. He remained deeply involved in public life, culminating in his election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1887, during the administration of Mayor Washington Bartlett.

Captain Burns lived to the age of 86, passing away in 1912 at San Francisco’s Hotel Bellevue. At the time of his death, he was the last surviving skipper of the early Pacific Mail fleet and one of the few living witnesses to the transformation of San Francisco from a wild frontier town into a city governed by law, order, and civic vision.

 

Emelie Swett Parkhurst (1863–1892): Literary Advocate and Organizer for Women Writers

Emelie Swett Parkhurst and Grave Marker

Plot 30

Emelie Tracy Young Swett Parkhurst was a gifted American poet, writer, editor, and tireless advocate for women in literature. Born in San Francisco on March 9, 1863, she was the daughter of John Swett, a pioneering figure in California’s public education system. Emelie showed literary promise from an early age, receiving her education from private tutors and public schools before graduating from the Normal School. She would go on to teach French, Greek, and music at a women’s college, while simultaneously launching her career as a writer.

At just sixteen, Emelie earned her first public recognition by winning a prize for a Christmas story published in a daily newspaper. This success set her on a prolific path, contributing poetry and prose to The Call, Bulletin, Overland Monthly, and other prominent San Francisco and Eastern publications. Her work was known for its elegance and emotional clarity, often bridging literary and journalistic styles. She translated French, German, and Greek works, and adapted Helen Hunt Jackson’s novel Ramona for the stage. Her talents extended to editing, and she served as assistant editor of the Californian Illustrated Magazine during the final year of her life.

Swett Parkhurst's literary accomplishments were matched by her commitment to supporting other writers, especially women. She founded a literary bureau to help place the works of Pacific Coast women with publishers, and from that endeavor emerged her most lasting contribution: the Pacific Coast Women’s Press Association (PCWPA). As its founder and leader, she became a central figure in fostering a professional network for women journalists and authors, offering mentorship and promoting higher standards of literary achievement. Newspaperwomen across the West Coast responded to her call for solidarity and professional development.

Collection of works by PCWPA members

In 1889, she married John W. Parkhurst, a Bank of California employee. Her promising life was tragically cut short just three years later. After giving birth to a daughter on April 1, 1892, Emelie fell gravely ill. Despite hopes of recovery, she passed away on April 21, at the age of 29. Her death, following complications of childbirth, was sadly not uncommon for women of her time. In the late 19th century, maternal mortality remained a major health risk; medical understanding of infection and postpartum care was still limited, and childbirth was one of the leading causes of death for women of childbearing age.

The loss of Emelie Swett Parkhurst was deeply felt by the literary and journalistic communities she had so vigorously championed. Her legacy lives on through the institutions she built and the many lives she inspired.

"Captain" Andrew Williams (1813 or 1814–1871): Oakland Mayor & Bret Harte's Stepfather

The home of Andrew Williams, 5th and Clay Streets, Oakland. Bret Harte lived there during his childhood. 

 Lot 19, Plot 8

Captain Andrew Williams (1814–1871) was a prominent early civic leader in California and served as the 4th Mayor of Oakland from 1857 to 1858. A native of Cherry Valley, New York, Williams moved west during the transformative years of the California Gold Rush. He was frequently referred to as “Captain,” a title likely connected to militia or community leadership, as was common for respected men in early American frontier society.

Oakland had been incorporated in 1852 and, the city was transitioning from a small settlement into a more structured municipality. By the late 1850s, there was growing interest in expanding port facilities and rail connections, which would later lead to the development of the Central Pacific Railroad terminus in the 1860s. This period was also marked by land disputes between settlers, speculators, and original land grantees. The legal status of Rancho San Antonio (which much of Oakland was built on) continued to generate litigation and conflict during this time. In 1858, Oakland was beginning to see the establishment of more formal schools, and efforts to organize religious and civic institutions were gaining traction.

Before settling in California, Williams had been active as a teacher and Unitarian minister, and he became part of the intellectual and civic fabric of Oakland during its formative years. His contributions helped shape the city’s early governance and public life.

Williams is also remembered as the stepfather of Bret Harte, the celebrated American writer best known for his vivid short stories about the California Gold Rush, including “The Luck of Roaring Camp” and “The Outcasts of Poker Flat.” Williams married Elizabeth Ostrander Harte, Bret Harte’s mother, during the boy’s youth. Their relationship was reportedly strained, and young Harte left home at an early age, later achieving literary fame in California and abroad.

Ashmun Cooke Henry (1828–1907): Mayor of Oakland, Banker, Pioneer Entrepreneur

Ashmun Henry obituary and grave marker

 Plot 12

Ashmun C. Henry was a pioneering Californian businessman and civic leader whose political and entrepreneurial legacy helped shape 19th-century Oakland. Born on December 6, 1828, in Millersburg, Ohio, he was the eldest son of Samuel S. Henry, a merchant and early Ohio state legislator. Raised amidst the rigors of frontier enterprise, Ashmun benefited from both his father’s business experience and public service example.

In 1851, drawn by opportunity in the West, Henry sailed aboard the North American to San Francisco. After a brief stay, he established himself in Georgetown, El Dorado County, and soon after moved to Placerville. He prospered during the early gold rush economy, and when silver was discovered in Nevada's Washoe region, Henry organized a company that constructed a key wagon road linking El Dorado to Placerville and onward through the Sierra Nevada to the booming silver mines. This “River Road” would be praised as “one of the finest mountain highways ever constructed in the state.”

Henry’s contributions to transportation continued when he became one of the original founders and incorporators of the Placerville and Sacramento Valley Railroad, aiming to connect the mining regions with key markets and ports.

Following a return visit to his family in Ohio in 1856, Henry settled permanently in Oakland, California, then a small but growing city on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay. Recognizing the city’s need for financial infrastructure, he established the Oakland Bank of Savings—the first banking house in Alameda County—with a capital of $150,000. He served as its president until 1869, when he helped organize both the Union Savings Bank and the Union National Gold Bank, presiding over the latter. His reputation as a prudent banker and civic leader grew in parallel with Oakland’s rise.

The Horton School opened during Ashmun Henry's mayorality

 

A committed Republican, Henry entered local politics during a time of fierce party competition. In 1884, he defeated the Democratic incumbent, J. West Martin, to become Mayor of Oakland, winning 2,531 votes to Martin’s 2,216. His victory was seen as a triumph for the city’s business-minded reformers. During his term Oakland's educational and cultural landscape began expanding, including the founding of the Horton School, a private school for girls (that later became coed).

 Following his mayoral term, he was elected as both city clerk and city treasurer from 1887 to 1888, continuing his public service with characteristic efficiency and integrity.

Throughout his adult life, Henry resided at 1221 Harrison Street, a home he occupied from before his election as mayor until his passing. He died on January 15, 1907

Daniel DeWitt.Tompkins Nestell (1819-1900): Civil War P.O.W & Notable Physician

Luty Family Plot and Daniel Nestell, M.D.

Plot 15, Lot 65 - Luty Family Plot

Daniel D. T. Nestell was born in New York between 1815 and 1819. He pursued a career in medicine, graduating in 1843 with honors from the University of the City of New York's University Medical College (later known as the New York University School of Medicine). Following his graduation, Nestell traveled abroad for two years to further his medical studies, accompanied by one of his professors, Dr. Valentine Mott.

Upon returning to the United States, Nestell worked as a physician or apothecary until 1862. On January 25, 1862, he was appointed Acting Assistant Surgeon on the U.S.S. Clifton, participating in several significant battles during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Phillip (the decisive battle for possession of New Orleans) and the Siege of Vicksburg. He was captured by Confederate forces at Sabine Pass, Texas, in September 1863 and held as a prisoner of war until January 1864.

U.S.S. Clifton during the Civil War

 

After his release, Nestell was assigned to the U.S.S. Alabama, where he served in the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron. During the Union attacks on Fort Fisher, he suffered irreversible hearing damage. His appointment as Acting Assistant Surgeon was revoked on June 6, 1865, and he was honorably discharged from the Navy in August of that year.

Nestell later received an appointment as Acting Assistant Surgeon in the U.S. Army on September 9, 1869, serving at Camp Warner, Oregon, until April 1871. He briefly served in California and the Arizona Territory before returning to civilian life in May 1872. Nestell then practiced medicine privately in California.

Daniel D. T. Nestell married Maria Louisa Whaites in 1864 and had a daughter named Ella. He passed away on October 24, 1900 and his cause of death was listed as "senility." He is buried in the Luty Family plot with no notable marker. The 1880 census shows him living with Frederick Luty, who is identified as his son-in-law.

F. McGrew Willis (1891–1957): Screen Writer in Early Hollywood

 

F. McGrew Willis and Midshipman movie poster

Plot 36, Lot 268 W ½ - Wilson Family Plot

Frank McGrew Willis was a prolific American screenwriter and occasional producer whose career spanned the silent and early sound film eras. Born Frank McGrew Willis in Pleasanton, Iowa, he emerged as a prominent voice in early Hollywood, beginning his career writing film shorts in 1914 and 1915. His first credited feature film, The Quest, appeared in 1915, launching a productive career that included screenwriting or story credits for more than 60 films over three decades.

Willis made his mark in the silent film industry with 43 scripts or stories, including The Girl in the Pullman (1927), Annapolis (1928), and A Blonde for a Night (1928). One of his most successful and enduring works was The Midshipman (1925), a romantic drama set at the U.S. Naval Academy and starring Ramón Novarro. The film was a significant box office hit and is often considered one of Willis’s biggest commercial successes. Notably, it also featured an early uncredited appearance by Joan Crawford, who would go on to become one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses.

F. McGrew Willis and Secret Sinners movie poster

During this prolific period, Willis worked with major production houses such as De Mille Pictures and Pathé Exchange, and he occasionally produced films himself. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, he successfully transitioned into the era of talking pictures, continuing to write screenplays for another 18 films. He later spent time in England in the late 1930s, scripting six more features before returning to the U.S. for his final screenwriting credit on Sis Hopkins (1941).

Later in life, Willis settled in Menlo Park, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area. He died there in 1957 at the age of 66 and was buried at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland, California. His work helped shape the formative years of Hollywood, bridging the silent and sound eras with a talent for storytelling that remains part of cinema history.

Willis was married to Viola Barry (nee Wilson), a prominent silent film actress known for her roles in early 20th-century cinema. He is buried in the Wilson family plot along with her father Jackson Stitt Wilson, the socialist Mayor of Berkeley, who died 1942; Violette Wilson, a noted B-actress, who died 1964; and, Irving Pichel, an actor and director who was blacklisted, who died 1954.

William "Will" Sharkey (1876-1948): Publisher and Politician

 

Will Sharkey's vault in Mausoleum

Main Mausoleum Section E, 36, T4

William Richard Sharkey, born on June 6, 1876, in Sierra City, California, was a notable figure in early 20th-century Californian politics and journalism. He married Nancy "Nannie" Elizabeth Gott in 1899, and they had two children: Muriel M. Hexner and William R. Sharkey Jr. Sharkey passed away on July 25, 1948, in Martinez, California.

His son, William R. Sharkey Jr., was born in San Francisco in 1903. He became one of the first officers of the California Highway Patrol (CHP), holding badge number 5. Sharkey Jr. played a pivotal role in developing vehicle safety regulations in the 1930s, including the development of the sealed beam headlight, which replaced the bulb-type headlamp used in vehicles at the time. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he became the publisher of the family-owned Contra Costa Gazette in 1948. 

Will Sharkey for State Senate Billboard

 

Will Sharkey's political career began with his election to the California State Assembly in 1914 as a member of the Progressive (Bull Moose) Party, representing the 18th Assembly District. He later transitioned to the Republican Party and was elected to the California State Senate in 1916, representing the 9th Senate District. He was re-elected in 1920, 1924, and 1928. Following redistricting, he represented the 17th Senate District after winning the 1932 election. 

His legislative successes included the creation of the Mt. Diablo and Mt. Tamalpais State Parks, championship of the Central Valley Water Project and the development of highway, labor and school legislation. His Senate district included parts of Marin County.

In addition to his political endeavors, Sharkey made significant contributions to journalism. In the 1920s, he served as the editor and manager of the Martinez Daily Standard and the Contra Costa Daily Standard. Under his leadership, these publications played a crucial role in informing the public and shaping community discourse in Contra Costa County. 

Dr. Penelope “Penny” Vrachopoulos (1922-2019): Founder of Gilbert & Sullivan Theater Company

 

Grave Marker for Penny Vrachopoulos

Plot 13

Dr. Penelope Helen Vrachopoulos, was a gifted musician, educator, and pioneering director. Born in New York City to Emmanuel and Theresa Vrachopoulos, Penny pursued a life steeped in music and scholarship. She studied at Queens College and Columbia University, ultimately earning her Doctorate in Music from Stanford University in 1971—cementing a lifelong connection to the Bay Area.

Her distinguished teaching career spanned several respected institutions, including Cornish College of the Arts, SUNY Potsdam, and Washington State University. Known for her fierce dedication to her students, Penny inspired generations of young musicians to pursue their craft with discipline, heart, and humor.

In 1972, Penny founded The Peccadillo Players, a Gilbert & Sullivan repertory company in Bellevue, Washington, which she led for nearly four decades. Under her baton, the group staged all 14 comic operas in the G&S canon, delighting Pacific Northwest audiences and introducing many to the delights of rarely performed works. She also founded The Bellevue Opera and the chamber opera company Eastside Lyric Theatre, further nurturing the operatic arts in the region.

Posters for the Peccadillo Players

 

Beyond her musical achievements, Penny had a remarkable eye for talent. She played a pivotal role in launching the careers of many outstanding performers, including NY Metropolitan Opera tenor Rob McPherson, Berlin Opera mezzo Julia Benzinger, Broadway star Megan Hilty, TV personality Mary Votava, and Hollywood actress Deidre Kilgore. 

Penny’s love for music and performance also lived on in her family. Her daughter, Penelope Houston, became a central figure in the San Francisco Bay Area’s punk and folk scenes. As the lead singer of the seminal punk rock band The Avengers and later as a solo artist, Houston carved out her own legacy—recording albums like On Market Street at Berkeley’s famed Fantasy Studios. It was a different genre, but the same fierce spirit of artistry that Penny passed on.

Though her most public work took place in the Pacific Northwest, Penny remained deeply connected to the Bay Area, both through her academic roots at Stanford and her later years in Oakland. Her funeral service was held on July 22, 2019, at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland and was attended by a vast community of artists, musicians, students, and collaborators whose lives she touched.