California Biographies
Neil, Washington

Transcribed by Peggy Hooper

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

Neil, Washington. Born in the city of Glasgow, Scotland, June 22, 1836. In the
year 1843 moved to Liverpool, England. Emigrated to California, with a younger
brother, January 9, 1850; arrived July 9, 1850. Their father at this time was
engaged in iron house building, San Francisco, at which the subject of this
memoir also engaged until 1853, when he moved with his parents to this county.
He then engaged in running a schooner between San Francisco and Petaluma. The
high fares at this time (1865) induced a number of the citizens to form a
company, which was composed of the following gentlemen: Henry Mecham, Caleb
Railsback, W. R. Roberts, W. Neil, and McNear Brothers. The last named firm
owned the controlling interest in the steamer, which was called the "Josie
McNear." The subject of this memoir was chosen master. To this company credit is
due for the low fares. After running about one year the boat was sold to Captain
Crosby, of Olympia, Washington Territory, to which place she sailed in 1872. Mr.
Neil then engaged in the milling business, which he successfully carried on
until 1876, when he embarked in the grocery and feed business. In February,
1877, Mr. J. L. Winans joined the firm, which is now known as Neil & Winans.
Married Julia A., daughter of J. L. Mock, January 3, 1865; she is a native of
Missouri, born January 3, 1845. Their children are: Francis, born April 2,1867;
Daniel Gilman, March 14, 1868; Charles Henry, April 8, 1871; Washington, May 18,
1873; Walter Scott, July 9, 1875; Sonoma, August 10, 1877; Alfred, March 2, 1879.

Source: HISTORY OF SONOMA COUNTY, Alley, Bowen & Co. 1880