This collection of two handwritten bound volumes holds the earliest records of government and judicial administration in San Joaquin County, spanning the years 1850-1855.

San Joaquin County is one of twenty-seven original counties created by the California Legislature in February 1850. Under Chapter 86 of the California Statutes of 1850, a three-man Court of Record or “Court of Sessions” was created in each county, consisting of the County Judge and two justices of the peace who had been elected by their fellow justices from each of the county’s townships. The County Clerk served as ex officio clerk. The Court of Sessions performed judicial and legislative functions until 1855, when it was replaced with an elected County Board of Supervisors by an act of the California Legislature.

1.0 Linear feet 2 bound volumes

No copyright or use restrictions.

Collection is open for research by appointment.