Alameda County Biographies

WILLIAM WHIDDEN

Transcribed by Kathy Sedler

This file is part of the California Genealogy & History Archives http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cagha/index.htm

(deceased).  The subject of this sketch, whose portrait appears in this work, 
was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, July 8, 1822, where he learned and 
followed the blacksmith�s trade until 1847, when he moved to Exeter, and worked 
at his calling until April, 1850.  At this period he came to California, 
followed mining for a short time, and located in Stockton, and engaged at his 
trade.  In 1851 he returned to the Eastern States, but in the month of November 
came back with his family and recommenced work.  In August, 1852, he moved to 
San Francisco, and opened a blacksmith shop on Pine Street, between Montgomery 
and Sansome Streets, where he continued until 1855, when he once more visited 
the East, being accompanied by his friend, Henry Vesey.  In October, 1855, the 
two companions returned, and passed the following winter in the mines at Alpha, 
Nevada.  In the spring of 1858 he came to Alameda County, and engaged in farming 
near Centreville, but a few years after purchasing the Eighnbrodt Ranch near 
Alvarado, he took up his residence there for some years, being associated with 
A. E. Crane.  Subsequently proceeding to Haywards, he resided there for three 
years, and while there was Justice of the Peace.  In 1878 he removed to Alameda, 
where he resided until his death on September 10, 1882, leaving a widow and 
three sons.  During life Mr. Whidden was distinguished for his many excellent 
qualities, and his numerous charities to the poor.  In death he is remembered as 
the kind husband and parent, the good friend and the excellent neighbor.  Mr. 
Whidden was a member of the Board of Trustees of Alameda, and a member of high 
standing in the Masonic and Independent Order of Chosen Friends Lodges of that 
city.  Married, August 14, 1845, Sarah H. A. Kennan, by whom there is a family 
consisting of George A., William G., and Myron A.
 
History of Alameda County, California�, Oakland, M.W. Wood Publ., 1883, p.993-994