Description
This small collection contains
correspondence of William Norton (died 1908) regarding his voyage to California from
Massachusetts in 1849 and his time in the gold mines, as well as 17th and 18th century items
regarding the Massachusetts ancestors of Norton and some other miscellaneous
documents.
Background
William Norton (died 1908) left Lynn, Massachusetts, for California in 1849 on the ship
"Argonaut." Norton first settled in Maxwell's Creek (also called Coulterville), Mariposa
County, and later moved to Big Oak Flat, Tuolumne County. Norton returned to Massachusetts
in 1855. He later invented the Norton Clasp for shoes, and with the money he earned in
California, opened the Norton Clasp Shoe Company. He was a member of the Society of
California Pioneers of New England and the Associated Pioneers of the Territorial Days of
California. Norton died in 1908 at the age of 76.
Extent
7.53 Linear Feet
(1 box, 3 oversize folders)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at
the Huntington Library for more information.