This collection contains records from the files of Fred S. Howell, attorney based in Petaluma, California in the early 20th century, Includes records from various legal cases argued by Fred S. Howell between 1911 and 1934; papers related to the Charles C. Ellis and E. D. Woodward bankruptcy (1917); and two miscellaneous documents from Howell's files.

Fred Sanborn Howell was a prominent Petaluma, California attorney who also served as Petaluma's City Attorney for many years. Howell was born on March 31, 1884 in Hopland, California and graduated from law school at the University of California, Berkeley; he was admitted to the bar in 1911. He represented thousands of Sonoma County residents during his career as a private attorney. In his role as Petaluma City Attorney, Howell drafted the Petaluma city charter, as well as scores of ordinances. Howell, with Tom Glatt of Ukiah, was also a partner in the Howell and Glatt placer mine, located 2.5 miles east of Hopland, which--according to the 1922 report of the California State Geologist--yielded trace amounts of gold and platinum. He died unexpectedly of a heart attack at age 53 on November 9, 1937 in Petaluma.

2.2 linear feet 2 legal file box

Collection does not circulate and may be photocopied or photographed by arrangement only.

Conditions Governing Access: This collection is partially processed. Please contact the Petaluma History Room for access; for contact info and current hours, see