This collection contains 25 pieces of correspondence, invoices, ledgers, papers, and stock certificates from Benjamin David Wilson. Documents are dated from 1856-1872 and some have notations written on verso from 1936.

Benjamin Davis Wilson (1811 December 1 – 1878 March 11) was a California statesman and politician. He was known to the Native Americans as Don Benito because of his benevolent manner in his treatment of Indian affairs. Wilson, a native of Tennessee, was a fur trapper and trader before coming to California. He married Ramona Yorba, daughter of Bernardo Yorba, a wealthy and prominent landowner, and purchased part of Rancho Jurupa in what would become Riverside County. Wilson was made Justice of the Peace for the Inland Territory and was entrusted with the care of Indian affairs. He was also commissioned to deal with the hostile Ute tribe over their cattle rustling and other crimes against the ranchers.

0.1 Linear Feet (1 folder)

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