Looking at a photo of William Richardson, it’s hard to believe that he was a party guy. However, it's true. He went to one party and his life (and San
Francisco's history) was changed forever.
Francisco's history) was changed forever.
According to the Sonoma State Library, Richardson was the first mate on a whaling ship as it entered San Francisco Bay in 1822. He was sent off to find supplies. Of course in 1822, there were only two places to go for supplies; the Mission and the Presidio. The Presidio was hosting a fiesta when he arrived and he was invited to join the party.
Much like a Disney movie, Richardson fell immediately in love with the Commandants
daughter, Maria Antonia Martinez. He left his ship (or was discharged), became a Mexican
citizen, and married her in 1825. They eventually became the first couple to build a home
in the cove of Yerba Buena on the street he founded Calle de la Fundacion (now 827 Grant
Ave). Richardson was an active founder of Yerba Buena but also continued his work in the
maritime industry. In 1838, he was granted 19,572 acres called Rancho Saucelito (sound
familiar?) by the Mexican government and established his own reputation for hosting
entertaining events. Sounds like a story that should end with a happy ever after, right?
daughter, Maria Antonia Martinez. He left his ship (or was discharged), became a Mexican
citizen, and married her in 1825. They eventually became the first couple to build a home
in the cove of Yerba Buena on the street he founded Calle de la Fundacion (now 827 Grant
Ave). Richardson was an active founder of Yerba Buena but also continued his work in the
maritime industry. In 1838, he was granted 19,572 acres called Rancho Saucelito (sound
familiar?) by the Mexican government and established his own reputation for hosting
entertaining events. Sounds like a story that should end with a happy ever after, right?
I guess we can say that William Richardson’s story is a great example of how life can twist
and turn. Time marches on, events happen, and luck can change. Richardson was not good
at managing his money and often borrowed money to cover the shortfalls. When three
ships of his were lost at sea, he took a huge loss. To make up for it, Richardson borrowed
more money at a rate he couldn’t afford to pay and ended up losing most of his land. He
died in 1856 having lost everything. He was buried in the hills of San Rafael but the marker
for his grave is gone so even his bones are now lost. In 1999 a memorial plaque was placed
in his honor facing the bay which bears his name.
and turn. Time marches on, events happen, and luck can change. Richardson was not good
at managing his money and often borrowed money to cover the shortfalls. When three
ships of his were lost at sea, he took a huge loss. To make up for it, Richardson borrowed
more money at a rate he couldn’t afford to pay and ended up losing most of his land. He
died in 1856 having lost everything. He was buried in the hills of San Rafael but the marker
for his grave is gone so even his bones are now lost. In 1999 a memorial plaque was placed
in his honor facing the bay which bears his name.
Gabrielson Park Anchor St. and Humboldt Ave Sausalito, CA 94965 Gabrielson Park is located on the shoreline of Sausalito right near the Ferry Terminal. Richardson's plaque is on the rocks, near the steps facing the water. There benches and picnic tables as well as metered parking on streets nearby. * The Sausalito Visitor Center is a short walk away at 780 Bridgeway . They are open Tuesday to SUnday, 11 am to 4 pm. They also offer school programs and online information. * A public restroom is also close by. |