Description
All letters are copies printed from microfilmed originals. Letters primarily to Ralston, dealing with William W. Cargill of
the Oriental Bank Corporation of London and Charles de Long, U.S. Envoy and Minister to Japan. Also included are letters asking
for money or a position, thank you letters, letters of introduction, letters containing information on his Belmont home and
stables, monetary matters, the Bank of California, mines, San Francisco industries, economic matters and conditions, and construction.
The letters also show Ralston's influence in relation to both national and state legislation. Collection also includes research
notes, transcriptions, and material from other archives.
Background
William Chapman Ralston, born 12 June 1826 in Ohio, was a banker and steamship owner. In 1864 he helped organize the Bank
of California and served as its first president. He died 27 August 1875.