This collection contains materials belonging to the Sheppard family of Ontario, who were early pioneers. The bulk of the collection belonged to Elizabeth "Bessie" Sheppard, daughter of Dr. Christopher Sheppard. Included in this collection are family photos, correspondence, financial and legal papers, bank statements and checks, and much of Bessie Sheppard's coursework from library school. Also included are programs, minutes and notes from the Shakespeare and Friday Afternoon Clubs and the Humane Society as well as medical papers, invoices, and appointment books from Dr. Sheppard’s practice.

Bessie Sheppard was born in Ontario, Canada Jan. 17, 1895. In 1899, her father, Dr. Christopher Sheppard, decided to move to Ontario, California permanently, as the family had been wintering here for a few years. He took over the medical practice of the late Dr. Orville Ensign and rented his home on South Laurel. In 1906, Dr. Sheppard bought a house on the northwest corner of “C” and Euclid and remodeled it to accommodate his practice. Elizabeth “Bessie” Sheppard graduated from Chaffey High School in 1913 and went to the Riverside Library Service School, graduating in either 1917 or 1918. By 1925 she was employed as a cataloger at Pomona Public Library. She held several different positions until her retirement in 1973. Dr. Sheppard bought a lot in 1923 on the southeast corner of El Morado Court for a house and office but died in 1924 before they were built. Plans for this house are in the Model Colony Architectural Files. Bessie and her mother moved into a smaller residence at 112 El Morado Court. Bessie lived there until her death Sept. 15, 1985. She is buried at Bellevue Cemetery. She was involved with the Shakespeare and Friday Afternoon Clubs and was on the Board of Directors of the Chaffey Community (now West End) Humane Society.

15 linear feet

Collection is open for research.

Collection is open for research during the operating hours of the Robert E. Ellingwood Model Colony History Room, or by appointment. Please contact the history room in advance for access.