Donnell (Charles C.) correspondence, Sacramento, California, January 26, 1853 – February 3, 1860

Collection context

Summary

Title:
Charles C. Donnell correspondence, Sacramento, California
Dates:
January 26, 1853 – February 3, 1860
Creators:
Donnell, Charles C., 1825-1910
Abstract:
Extent:
2 folders
Language:
Preferred citation:

Charles C. Donnell correspondence, Sacramento, California . San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco History Center

Background

Scope and content:

One folder includes letter to his sister dated Jan. 26, 1853, describing heavy rains, flooding, and mud in Sacramento; letter of May 13, 1853 remarks about continued rain; letter of April 3, 1859 discusses weather and the possibility of Charles returning to Newburyport; a letter addressed to his parents, Dec. 2, 1859 mentions Thanksgiving dinner with cousin John Bayley in Marysville; and one addressed to sister Mary, Feb. 3, 1860 discusses the bereavement of another sister. Several letters mention John Bayley. One folder includes transcripts of letters.

Biographical / historical:

Born in Newburyport, Donnell sailed from that city in November 1849 for California. In 1850 he worked as a drayman for Harmon & Co., boot and shoe importers and dealers at 79 J St. in Sacramento, living with cousin John T. Bayley in that city. Bayley was later superintendent of the Marysville Water Works (1860) and president of the Marysville Water Co. (1862). In 1862 Donnell returned to Newburyport, working as a rope maker, remaining there until his death.

Acquisition information:
Purchase.

About this collection guide

Collection Guide Author:
Finding aid created by San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco History Center staff.
Date Prepared:
January 26, 1853 – February 3, 1860
Date Encoded:
This finding aid was produced using Record Express for OAC5 on July 14, 2025, 2:54 p.m.

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center hours, with photographs available during Photo Desk hours. Collections that are stored offsite should be requested 48 hours in advance.

Terms of access:

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.

Preferred citation:

Charles C. Donnell correspondence, Sacramento, California . San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco History Center

Location of this collection:
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102, US
Contact:
(415) 557-4567