John's parents were:
Margaret Ada (Adam) Henderson, b. Aug. 12, 1816 in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 12, 1900 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. &
(her 2nd husband) James Easton.
Margaret's first husband, David Henderson died in 1849, leaving her with seven children (John's half brothers & sisters):
1) William McDonald Henderson, b. Nov. 17, 1833/34 in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Sep. 11, 1904 in Long Beach, Los Angeles county, CA. (William marr. Mary M. Winn)
2) Isabel/la Henderson Henderson, b. Mar. 10, 1835 in South lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 4, 1890 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. Isabella marr. William Nish.
3) Margaret Victoria Henderson, b. Jul. 26, 1837 in Glasgow, Scotland and d. Sep. 6, 1921 in San Bernardino County, CA. She marr. Charles J. Mogeau and after his death, Henry C. Yager.
4) David Glen Henderson, b. Mar. 28, 1842 in New Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Jul. 19, 1926 in Fontana, San Bernardino county, CA. He marr. Matilda Caroline Hawker.
5) Jeannette Adam Henderson, b. Jun. 7, 1844 in Calder, Old Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Dec. 8, 1936 in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. She marr. Thomas 'Tom' B. Walkinshaw, and later, William Brown Roberds of Corona, CA.
6) Mary Adam Henderson, b. May 27/31, 1848 in Scotland and d. May 24, 1904 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA. She marr. William Roberts Levick and then Thomas H. 'Tom' Ashcroft of Corona, CA.
7. Charles Henderson, who died as an infant.
After Margaret (Adam) Henderson's first husband, David Henderson died in St. Louis, MO. of a heat stroke (or cholera), Margaret became the plural wife of her sister Agnes' husband, John/James Easton. It was the Mormon custom that no woman of age remain unmarried, and this was most likely preferable to having a husband chosen for her by the Mormon Church. From this child, one child was born: John Alexander Easton who later changed his last name to Henderson.
In the 1860 U.S. census, 4 yr. old John (Alexander) Henderson, b. in CA., was living in San Salvador Twp., (Post office: San Bernardino), San Bernardino, CA. with his
43 yr. old mother, Margaret Henderson, b. in Scotland18 yr. old son, David Henderson, b. in Scotland
16 yr. old half-sister, Jennett Henderson, b. in Scotland
13 yr. old half-sister, Mary Henderson, b. in Scotland
*Note: John was Margaret's son by her 2nd husband, John/James Easton when she was briefly a plural wife with her sister, Agnes.
In the Jun. 9, 1880 United States Federal Census, 24 yr. old John Henderson, b. in CA., was unmarried and working on the Elisha Mallory family farm at Bishops Creek, Inyo, CA.
The Evening Transcript (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Dec. 26, 1899
The police made their chief, John A. Henderson, a handsome Christmas present of a cravat pin, set with four small diamonds and one ruby. The force received a box of cigars as a present from L. D. Houghton.
Chief of Police John A. Henderson made a clever capture Sunday, when he arrested a man wanted in Riverside for robbing the sporting goods and firearms store of G. D. Allen and stationery store of A. L. Derby at Riverside. The man arrested had a watch on his person which the proprietor of one of the stores owned. Goods to the value of $50 were taken. The Riverside officers came over after their man yesterday.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 42 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. May 1858 in CA., was working for the City Police and living in a home (not a farm) he owned free and clear, at 806 Mt. Vernon in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
33 yr. old wife, Senia F. Henderson, b. Mar. 1867 in CA.
This was a first marriage for John and Senia. They had been marr. for 10 years, but they had never had any children.
John had not been unemployed in the previous year.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 2
Sun., May 9, 1909
JUST BECAUSE OF THE HOME FOLKS
“Just because my folks did not want me to go on the police force again,” was John A. Henderson’s reply to the flood of inquiries that met him when he came down town yesterday, seeking to find out why Mr. Henderson had declined appointment, as told of in yesterday’s SUN.
Mrs. Henderson is probably responsible for the systematic siege that was made to Mr. Henderson, for she lined up relatives far and near, to emphasize to him the disadvantages of the job, and the fact that the salary was not such as to be attractive to him, all of which Henderson well knows, for he has had years of experience as an officer.
Chief-to-be Shay takes the defection of Henderson somewhat to heart, for Henderson was on the force under him before, and he had depended on him as one of the extremely efficient men selected for police service. Shay tried to persuade Henderson not to retire, but was not able to offset the influence that persuaded him to give up the place.
In the in the 1910 United States Federal Census, 51 yr. old John A. Henderson, a City Policeman, b. in CA., was living in a home (not a farm) he owned, free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
42 yr. old wife, Senia Henderson, b. in CA.
John and Senia had been marr. for 20 years, but they had never had any children.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Senia's father was b. in MO.
The San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Jul. 30, 1918
HENDERSON TAKES SEAT
John A. Henderson, newly elected councilman from the fifth ward, took his place for the first time at the meeting of the city council last night and was given a welcome by Mayor J. W. Catick and the various members of the city administration. The vote was officially canvassed and, on motion of Councilman George Seager, seconded by Councilman Frank Giles, it was declared that henderson had been elected. Henderson filed a bond of $1,000, signed by C. J. Daly and Homer Curtis, and then took his seat and participated in the remainder of the business before the council.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 2, Col. 6
Mon., Mar. 24, 1919
CONGRATULATIONS SENT HENDERSON
The following telegram has been received by John A. Henderson from relatives in the north, formerly of this city, who are interested in the welfare of San Bernardino:
Portland, Ore., March 22, 1919.
Honorable John A. Henderson, 805 Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino.
The undersigned jointly and severally felicitate the city of San Bernardino on the result of the mayoralty election and an absolutely clean administration is assured. We also congratulate Uncle John on his splendid personal triumph. Three cheers for John Henderson.
ISABELLE HERDMAN, WINIFRED YAEGER, RUTH HERDMAN, N. J. LEVINSON.
In the 1920 U. S. census, 62 yr. old John A. Henderson, Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, b. in CA., was living in a home he owned free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
59 yr. old wife, Acenia F. Henderson, b. in CA.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Acenia's father was b. in Mississippi and her mother in IL.
*Note: John was Mayor of San Bernardino from May 12, 1919 to May 2, 1921.
He was also San Bernardino Chief of Police and President of the Pioneer Society (1928-).
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 9, Col. 1
Tue., Mar. 22, 1921
HENDERSON WILL LEAD IN CAMP GROUND PLAN
Mayor John A. Henderson proposes to lead the way in the establishment of a camping ground on the Devil Canyon property which the Water Commission is to buy, by building the first table and dedicating it to his mother.
The pioneers and children of pioneers will take hold of the project, forecasts Mr. Henderson. He proposes to do honor to the memory of his mother, Margaret Henderson, who came down through Cajon Pass and passed by Devil Canyon in 1853.
The San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P.14, Col. 2 & 3
Fri., Dec. 7, 1928
Excerpts from: Doings of the Pioneers
The log cabin of the San Bernardino Pioneer society, in Pioneer park, was the scene of another happy reunion of life-long friends at the last meeting. President John A. Henderson occupied the chair.
Mrs. Jane Smithson approached the station of the president, and called attention to a beautifully wrapped bouquet of choice san Bernardino flowers on his desk, furnished by her daughters, Mrs. Effie Smithson and Mrs. Lena McGarvey, and presented on behalf of the Pioneers to President Henderson and his wife on the occasion of their thirty-ninth wedding anniversary. The remembrance was received by President Henderson with brief but eloquent words. Several of his life-long friends joined in this happy surprise and thanks were tendered to the sisters for their thoughtfulness in providing such a delightful occasion.
Masquerade Dance Enjoyed by Pioneers
In the evening the log cabin was crowded and standing room could hardly be found. A jollier lot of people never met in the cabin. The new gentlemen represented college professors, ministers, doctors, merchants, orange pickers, sheriff, policemen, Uncle Tom, American Legion officers and caballeros. The disguised women came in such makeup as handsome señoritas, Martha Washington, school teachers, farmers’ wives, Topsy, Cinderella, flapper, music teacher and the Goddess of Columbia.
During the evening Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were presented with another testimonial of high esteem from a crowd of friends on the occasion of their anniversary.
ThePioneer orchestra, (on piano, violins and guitar) and John Mapstead, caller, caught the spirit of the evening and thrilled the dancers with their old-time tunes. Refreshments were served.
In the in the 1930 United States Federal Census, 72 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. in CA., was retired and living
in a home (not a farm) he owned, valued at $3,000, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in Ward 5 of San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
63 yr. old wife, Asinia Henderson, b. in CA.
There was no radio in the home.
John was 32 yrs. old and Asenia was 22 when they married.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland and Asenia'a parents were both b. in MO.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 12, Col. 2
Thu., Feb. 17, 1938
John Henderson, Ex-Mayor, Is Ill
John A. Henderson, a former mayor of San Bernardino and one of the oldest native sons of the district, is ill at his home at 805 Mt. Vernon avenue.
Mr. Henderson has been in failing health for the past year.
The son of David Henderson, he was born in San Bernardino in 1857. In 1889 he was elected city marshal. He was councilman of the fifth ward from 1916 to 1918 and served as mayor from 1919 to 1921.
On Mar. 28, 1938, John Alexander Henderson died in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 6, Col. 6 & 7
Fri., Apr. 1, 1938
A TRIBUTE
John A. Henderson’s passing leaves a great vacancy in the lives of his vast number of friends. “None knew him but to love him” has been repeated over and over countless times since he was called to his last rest Monday morning. When, after 82 years, from birth to death, spent in one community, such a man is taken away from us, we cannot but grieve deeply over our loss. At the same time, we are aware that to have known him and to have felt the influence of his strong personality have been a great privilege. To have had his friendship, to have been warmed by his strong handclasp, to have been cheered by his sweet smile and his low voice are precious memories to be cherished always.
Of few could it so truthfully be said:
“His life was gentle; and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say to all the world, ‘this was a man’,”
Among these elements were a steadfast observance of the principles of loyalty, justice and truth, a deep sympathy for those in trouble or sorrow, a clear appreciation of the strength and accomplishments of others and a charitable understanding of their weaknesses and failures, a tolerance for the opinions of others, coupled with an unwavering adherence to his own convictions. Life to him was something to be lived fully but simply, earnestly and joyfully. A keen sense of humor smoothed the way for him and his friends over what might at times have been a rough and dreary road. This stayed with him to the end. Almost his last conscious breath was spent on a pleasantry meant to cheer his listener.
Whether herding cows as a boy on the Cucamonga plains, teaming with heavy loads up and down the steep mountain roads, heading the police force, serving as president of the Pioneer society or sitting in the mayor’s chair as head of the government of his beloved San Bernardino, John Henderson knew but one purpose, to do the job, and but one way to do it, the straightforward, open, honest way. To quote the remark of a friend of his, “If anybody in San Bernardino ever had all the qualities of good citizenship, John Henderson had them.”
The same charm, gentleness and sweetness, only intensified, were in his home life. No more loyal devotion ever existed between husband and wife than existed between John and Asenia Henderson. The sole thought of each seemed to be for the comfort and happiness of the other. For 49 years they journeyed together, hand in hand and heart in heart, along the pathway of married life, each loving and completely content with the other.
A FRIEND.
BIOGRAPHY FOR JOHN ALEXANDER HENDERSON
John Alexander Henderson started his working life in the saw mills of the San Bernardino Mountains, but his most prominent role was that of 7th mayor of San Bernardino from 1919 to 1921.
Henderson's mother, Margaret, came to San Bernardino from Scotland in 1856, a year before John Alexander was born. He was the youngest of her ten children and the only child fathered by her sister's husband, John/James Easton. She briefly became a plural wife after the death of her husband, David Henderson, near St. Louis, Missouri.
Mr. Easton and his wife, Agnes, moved on to Oregon and Margaret left the Mormon Church, staying behind in San Bernardino with her children. She resumed using the name of Henderson and John eventually adopted the Henderson name.
Henderson attended public schools in San Bernardino and worked on his mother's cattle ranch beginning at age 9. He helped his mom for about eight years. He then got a job in a saw mill owned by the Tyler brothers in the San Bernardino Mountains. Henderson worked there for about a year before moving on to a saw mill owned by Van Slack and Summers where he stayed for several years. His pay came in lumber, not money. The only belongings he had were a six-shooter and a watch.
Henderson was promoted to head sawyer after starting there wheeling sawdust. He already was beginning to display a talent for hard work.
After several years, Henderson decided he needed a change and moved to Santa Maria on California's Central Coast to work for his uncle, William Laird Adam, who owned a general store there. But Hendersons didn't like to stay indoors, so after a while, his uncle gave him a job driving a mule team. He also worked on a ranch.
Henderson must have been a restless sort because in 1878, a year after heading to Santa Maria, he moved back to San Bernardino to work for his former employer, Van Slack and Summers. Henderson drove a team for them until 1880. Then, he wound up in Bishop Creek, working at a 320-acre farm owned by a man named Mallory.
The ranch featured grain, cattle, hogs and chickens that were being sold to miners around Bellville. After only a month on the job, Henderson was made foreman and began hauling grain to Bellville. The grain sold for five cents a pound. Henderson also took out hogs, chicken and cattle.
In 1882, Henderson returned once again to San Bernardino. He got a job with his first employer, the Tyler brothers, and worked as a lumberman for two years. Then, Henderson decided to go into business himself.
He bought a mule team and began hauling freight into the mountains and lumber on the return trips. He did this for seven years until he was elected city marshal of San Bernardino in 1889.
This started Henderson's journey to the mayor's seat. Henderson was also elected ex officio tax collector and held that office, as well as being city marshal, until 1901. But he lost his bid for re-election, so he worked in the Police Department for four years and as a special officer with the Santa Fe Railway for seven years.
The same year he was elected city marshal, he married Asenia Ferrel Wilson, but he had to resign from the railroad job when she became ill.
Henderson, though, couldn't stay away from political office. He was later elected councilman from the 5th Ward and mayor in 1919. He served for two years. He died in 1938.
Courtesy of Chloe, Find A Grave Contributor #47159257.
Margaret Ada (Adam) Henderson, b. Aug. 12, 1816 in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 12, 1900 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. &
(her 2nd husband) James Easton.
Margaret's first husband, David Henderson died in 1849, leaving her with seven children (John's half brothers & sisters):
1) William McDonald Henderson, b. Nov. 17, 1833/34 in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Sep. 11, 1904 in Long Beach, Los Angeles county, CA. (William marr. Mary M. Winn)
2) Isabel/la Henderson Henderson, b. Mar. 10, 1835 in South lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 4, 1890 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. Isabella marr. William Nish.
3) Margaret Victoria Henderson, b. Jul. 26, 1837 in Glasgow, Scotland and d. Sep. 6, 1921 in San Bernardino County, CA. She marr. Charles J. Mogeau and after his death, Henry C. Yager.
4) David Glen Henderson, b. Mar. 28, 1842 in New Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Jul. 19, 1926 in Fontana, San Bernardino county, CA. He marr. Matilda Caroline Hawker.
5) Jeannette Adam Henderson, b. Jun. 7, 1844 in Calder, Old Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Dec. 8, 1936 in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. She marr. Thomas 'Tom' B. Walkinshaw, and later, William Brown Roberds of Corona, CA.
6) Mary Adam Henderson, b. May 27/31, 1848 in Scotland and d. May 24, 1904 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA. She marr. William Roberts Levick and then Thomas H. 'Tom' Ashcroft of Corona, CA.
7. Charles Henderson, who died as an infant.
After Margaret (Adam) Henderson's first husband, David Henderson died in St. Louis, MO. of a heat stroke (or cholera), Margaret became the plural wife of her sister Agnes' husband, John/James Easton. It was the Mormon custom that no woman of age remain unmarried, and this was most likely preferable to having a husband chosen for her by the Mormon Church. From this child, one child was born: John Alexander Easton who later changed his last name to Henderson.
In the 1860 U.S. census, 4 yr. old John (Alexander) Henderson, b. in CA., was living in San Salvador Twp., (Post office: San Bernardino), San Bernardino, CA. with his
43 yr. old mother, Margaret Henderson, b. in Scotland18 yr. old son, David Henderson, b. in Scotland
16 yr. old half-sister, Jennett Henderson, b. in Scotland
13 yr. old half-sister, Mary Henderson, b. in Scotland
*Note: John was Margaret's son by her 2nd husband, John/James Easton when she was briefly a plural wife with her sister, Agnes.
In the Jun. 9, 1880 United States Federal Census, 24 yr. old John Henderson, b. in CA., was unmarried and working on the Elisha Mallory family farm at Bishops Creek, Inyo, CA.
The Evening Transcript (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Dec. 26, 1899
The police made their chief, John A. Henderson, a handsome Christmas present of a cravat pin, set with four small diamonds and one ruby. The force received a box of cigars as a present from L. D. Houghton.
Chief of Police John A. Henderson made a clever capture Sunday, when he arrested a man wanted in Riverside for robbing the sporting goods and firearms store of G. D. Allen and stationery store of A. L. Derby at Riverside. The man arrested had a watch on his person which the proprietor of one of the stores owned. Goods to the value of $50 were taken. The Riverside officers came over after their man yesterday.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 42 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. May 1858 in CA., was working for the City Police and living in a home (not a farm) he owned free and clear, at 806 Mt. Vernon in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
33 yr. old wife, Senia F. Henderson, b. Mar. 1867 in CA.
This was a first marriage for John and Senia. They had been marr. for 10 years, but they had never had any children.
John had not been unemployed in the previous year.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 2
Sun., May 9, 1909
JUST BECAUSE OF THE HOME FOLKS
“Just because my folks did not want me to go on the police force again,” was John A. Henderson’s reply to the flood of inquiries that met him when he came down town yesterday, seeking to find out why Mr. Henderson had declined appointment, as told of in yesterday’s SUN.
Mrs. Henderson is probably responsible for the systematic siege that was made to Mr. Henderson, for she lined up relatives far and near, to emphasize to him the disadvantages of the job, and the fact that the salary was not such as to be attractive to him, all of which Henderson well knows, for he has had years of experience as an officer.
Chief-to-be Shay takes the defection of Henderson somewhat to heart, for Henderson was on the force under him before, and he had depended on him as one of the extremely efficient men selected for police service. Shay tried to persuade Henderson not to retire, but was not able to offset the influence that persuaded him to give up the place.
In the in the 1910 United States Federal Census, 51 yr. old John A. Henderson, a City Policeman, b. in CA., was living in a home (not a farm) he owned, free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
42 yr. old wife, Senia Henderson, b. in CA.
John and Senia had been marr. for 20 years, but they had never had any children.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Senia's father was b. in MO.
The San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Jul. 30, 1918
HENDERSON TAKES SEAT
John A. Henderson, newly elected councilman from the fifth ward, took his place for the first time at the meeting of the city council last night and was given a welcome by Mayor J. W. Catick and the various members of the city administration. The vote was officially canvassed and, on motion of Councilman George Seager, seconded by Councilman Frank Giles, it was declared that henderson had been elected. Henderson filed a bond of $1,000, signed by C. J. Daly and Homer Curtis, and then took his seat and participated in the remainder of the business before the council.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 2, Col. 6
Mon., Mar. 24, 1919
CONGRATULATIONS SENT HENDERSON
The following telegram has been received by John A. Henderson from relatives in the north, formerly of this city, who are interested in the welfare of San Bernardino:
Portland, Ore., March 22, 1919.
Honorable John A. Henderson, 805 Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino.
The undersigned jointly and severally felicitate the city of San Bernardino on the result of the mayoralty election and an absolutely clean administration is assured. We also congratulate Uncle John on his splendid personal triumph. Three cheers for John Henderson.
ISABELLE HERDMAN, WINIFRED YAEGER, RUTH HERDMAN, N. J. LEVINSON.
In the 1920 U. S. census, 62 yr. old John A. Henderson, Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, b. in CA., was living in a home he owned free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
59 yr. old wife, Acenia F. Henderson, b. in CA.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Acenia's father was b. in Mississippi and her mother in IL.
*Note: John was Mayor of San Bernardino from May 12, 1919 to May 2, 1921.
He was also San Bernardino Chief of Police and President of the Pioneer Society (1928-).
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 9, Col. 1
Tue., Mar. 22, 1921
HENDERSON WILL LEAD IN CAMP GROUND PLAN
Mayor John A. Henderson proposes to lead the way in the establishment of a camping ground on the Devil Canyon property which the Water Commission is to buy, by building the first table and dedicating it to his mother.
The pioneers and children of pioneers will take hold of the project, forecasts Mr. Henderson. He proposes to do honor to the memory of his mother, Margaret Henderson, who came down through Cajon Pass and passed by Devil Canyon in 1853.
The San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P.14, Col. 2 & 3
Fri., Dec. 7, 1928
Excerpts from: Doings of the Pioneers
The log cabin of the San Bernardino Pioneer society, in Pioneer park, was the scene of another happy reunion of life-long friends at the last meeting. President John A. Henderson occupied the chair.
Mrs. Jane Smithson approached the station of the president, and called attention to a beautifully wrapped bouquet of choice san Bernardino flowers on his desk, furnished by her daughters, Mrs. Effie Smithson and Mrs. Lena McGarvey, and presented on behalf of the Pioneers to President Henderson and his wife on the occasion of their thirty-ninth wedding anniversary. The remembrance was received by President Henderson with brief but eloquent words. Several of his life-long friends joined in this happy surprise and thanks were tendered to the sisters for their thoughtfulness in providing such a delightful occasion.
Masquerade Dance Enjoyed by Pioneers
In the evening the log cabin was crowded and standing room could hardly be found. A jollier lot of people never met in the cabin. The new gentlemen represented college professors, ministers, doctors, merchants, orange pickers, sheriff, policemen, Uncle Tom, American Legion officers and caballeros. The disguised women came in such makeup as handsome señoritas, Martha Washington, school teachers, farmers’ wives, Topsy, Cinderella, flapper, music teacher and the Goddess of Columbia.
During the evening Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were presented with another testimonial of high esteem from a crowd of friends on the occasion of their anniversary.
ThePioneer orchestra, (on piano, violins and guitar) and John Mapstead, caller, caught the spirit of the evening and thrilled the dancers with their old-time tunes. Refreshments were served.
In the in the 1930 United States Federal Census, 72 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. in CA., was retired and living
in a home (not a farm) he owned, valued at $3,000, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in Ward 5 of San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
63 yr. old wife, Asinia Henderson, b. in CA.
There was no radio in the home.
John was 32 yrs. old and Asenia was 22 when they married.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland and Asenia'a parents were both b. in MO.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 12, Col. 2
Thu., Feb. 17, 1938
John Henderson, Ex-Mayor, Is Ill
John A. Henderson, a former mayor of San Bernardino and one of the oldest native sons of the district, is ill at his home at 805 Mt. Vernon avenue.
Mr. Henderson has been in failing health for the past year.
The son of David Henderson, he was born in San Bernardino in 1857. In 1889 he was elected city marshal. He was councilman of the fifth ward from 1916 to 1918 and served as mayor from 1919 to 1921.
On Mar. 28, 1938, John Alexander Henderson died in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 6, Col. 6 & 7
Fri., Apr. 1, 1938
A TRIBUTE
John A. Henderson’s passing leaves a great vacancy in the lives of his vast number of friends. “None knew him but to love him” has been repeated over and over countless times since he was called to his last rest Monday morning. When, after 82 years, from birth to death, spent in one community, such a man is taken away from us, we cannot but grieve deeply over our loss. At the same time, we are aware that to have known him and to have felt the influence of his strong personality have been a great privilege. To have had his friendship, to have been warmed by his strong handclasp, to have been cheered by his sweet smile and his low voice are precious memories to be cherished always.
Of few could it so truthfully be said:
“His life was gentle; and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say to all the world, ‘this was a man’,”
Among these elements were a steadfast observance of the principles of loyalty, justice and truth, a deep sympathy for those in trouble or sorrow, a clear appreciation of the strength and accomplishments of others and a charitable understanding of their weaknesses and failures, a tolerance for the opinions of others, coupled with an unwavering adherence to his own convictions. Life to him was something to be lived fully but simply, earnestly and joyfully. A keen sense of humor smoothed the way for him and his friends over what might at times have been a rough and dreary road. This stayed with him to the end. Almost his last conscious breath was spent on a pleasantry meant to cheer his listener.
Whether herding cows as a boy on the Cucamonga plains, teaming with heavy loads up and down the steep mountain roads, heading the police force, serving as president of the Pioneer society or sitting in the mayor’s chair as head of the government of his beloved San Bernardino, John Henderson knew but one purpose, to do the job, and but one way to do it, the straightforward, open, honest way. To quote the remark of a friend of his, “If anybody in San Bernardino ever had all the qualities of good citizenship, John Henderson had them.”
The same charm, gentleness and sweetness, only intensified, were in his home life. No more loyal devotion ever existed between husband and wife than existed between John and Asenia Henderson. The sole thought of each seemed to be for the comfort and happiness of the other. For 49 years they journeyed together, hand in hand and heart in heart, along the pathway of married life, each loving and completely content with the other.
A FRIEND.
BIOGRAPHY FOR JOHN ALEXANDER HENDERSON
John Alexander Henderson started his working life in the saw mills of the San Bernardino Mountains, but his most prominent role was that of 7th mayor of San Bernardino from 1919 to 1921.
Henderson's mother, Margaret, came to San Bernardino from Scotland in 1856, a year before John Alexander was born. He was the youngest of her ten children and the only child fathered by her sister's husband, John/James Easton. She briefly became a plural wife after the death of her husband, David Henderson, near St. Louis, Missouri.
Mr. Easton and his wife, Agnes, moved on to Oregon and Margaret left the Mormon Church, staying behind in San Bernardino with her children. She resumed using the name of Henderson and John eventually adopted the Henderson name.
Henderson attended public schools in San Bernardino and worked on his mother's cattle ranch beginning at age 9. He helped his mom for about eight years. He then got a job in a saw mill owned by the Tyler brothers in the San Bernardino Mountains. Henderson worked there for about a year before moving on to a saw mill owned by Van Slack and Summers where he stayed for several years. His pay came in lumber, not money. The only belongings he had were a six-shooter and a watch.
Henderson was promoted to head sawyer after starting there wheeling sawdust. He already was beginning to display a talent for hard work.
After several years, Henderson decided he needed a change and moved to Santa Maria on California's Central Coast to work for his uncle, William Laird Adam, who owned a general store there. But Hendersons didn't like to stay indoors, so after a while, his uncle gave him a job driving a mule team. He also worked on a ranch.
Henderson must have been a restless sort because in 1878, a year after heading to Santa Maria, he moved back to San Bernardino to work for his former employer, Van Slack and Summers. Henderson drove a team for them until 1880. Then, he wound up in Bishop Creek, working at a 320-acre farm owned by a man named Mallory.
The ranch featured grain, cattle, hogs and chickens that were being sold to miners around Bellville. After only a month on the job, Henderson was made foreman and began hauling grain to Bellville. The grain sold for five cents a pound. Henderson also took out hogs, chicken and cattle.
In 1882, Henderson returned once again to San Bernardino. He got a job with his first employer, the Tyler brothers, and worked as a lumberman for two years. Then, Henderson decided to go into business himself.
He bought a mule team and began hauling freight into the mountains and lumber on the return trips. He did this for seven years until he was elected city marshal of San Bernardino in 1889.
This started Henderson's journey to the mayor's seat. Henderson was also elected ex officio tax collector and held that office, as well as being city marshal, until 1901. But he lost his bid for re-election, so he worked in the Police Department for four years and as a special officer with the Santa Fe Railway for seven years.
The same year he was elected city marshal, he married Asenia Ferrel Wilson, but he had to resign from the railroad job when she became ill.
Henderson, though, couldn't stay away from political office. He was later elected councilman from the 5th Ward and mayor in 1919. He served for two years. He died in 1938.
Courtesy of Chloe, Find A Grave Contributor #47159257.
John's parents were:
Margaret Ada (Adam) Henderson, b. Aug. 12, 1816 in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 12, 1900 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. &
(her 2nd husband) James Easton.
Margaret's first husband, David Henderson died in 1849, leaving her with seven children (John's half brothers & sisters):
1) William McDonald Henderson, b. Nov. 17, 1833/34 in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Sep. 11, 1904 in Long Beach, Los Angeles county, CA. (William marr. Mary M. Winn)
2) Isabel/la Henderson Henderson, b. Mar. 10, 1835 in South lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 4, 1890 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. Isabella marr. William Nish.
3) Margaret Victoria Henderson, b. Jul. 26, 1837 in Glasgow, Scotland and d. Sep. 6, 1921 in San Bernardino County, CA. She marr. Charles J. Mogeau and after his death, Henry C. Yager.
4) David Glen Henderson, b. Mar. 28, 1842 in New Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Jul. 19, 1926 in Fontana, San Bernardino county, CA. He marr. Matilda Caroline Hawker.
5) Jeannette Adam Henderson, b. Jun. 7, 1844 in Calder, Old Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Dec. 8, 1936 in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. She marr. Thomas 'Tom' B. Walkinshaw, and later, William Brown Roberds of Corona, CA.
6) Mary Adam Henderson, b. May 27/31, 1848 in Scotland and d. May 24, 1904 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA. She marr. William Roberts Levick and then Thomas H. 'Tom' Ashcroft of Corona, CA.
7. Charles Henderson, who died as an infant.
After Margaret (Adam) Henderson's first husband, David Henderson died in St. Louis, MO. of a heat stroke (or cholera), Margaret became the plural wife of her sister Agnes' husband, John/James Easton. It was the Mormon custom that no woman of age remain unmarried, and this was most likely preferable to having a husband chosen for her by the Mormon Church. From this child, one child was born: John Alexander Easton who later changed his last name to Henderson.
In the 1860 U.S. census, 4 yr. old John (Alexander) Henderson, b. in CA., was living in San Salvador Twp., (Post office: San Bernardino), San Bernardino, CA. with his
43 yr. old mother, Margaret Henderson, b. in Scotland18 yr. old son, David Henderson, b. in Scotland
16 yr. old half-sister, Jennett Henderson, b. in Scotland
13 yr. old half-sister, Mary Henderson, b. in Scotland
*Note: John was Margaret's son by her 2nd husband, John/James Easton when she was briefly a plural wife with her sister, Agnes.
In the Jun. 9, 1880 United States Federal Census, 24 yr. old John Henderson, b. in CA., was unmarried and working on the Elisha Mallory family farm at Bishops Creek, Inyo, CA.
The Evening Transcript (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Dec. 26, 1899
The police made their chief, John A. Henderson, a handsome Christmas present of a cravat pin, set with four small diamonds and one ruby. The force received a box of cigars as a present from L. D. Houghton.
Chief of Police John A. Henderson made a clever capture Sunday, when he arrested a man wanted in Riverside for robbing the sporting goods and firearms store of G. D. Allen and stationery store of A. L. Derby at Riverside. The man arrested had a watch on his person which the proprietor of one of the stores owned. Goods to the value of $50 were taken. The Riverside officers came over after their man yesterday.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 42 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. May 1858 in CA., was working for the City Police and living in a home (not a farm) he owned free and clear, at 806 Mt. Vernon in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
33 yr. old wife, Senia F. Henderson, b. Mar. 1867 in CA.
This was a first marriage for John and Senia. They had been marr. for 10 years, but they had never had any children.
John had not been unemployed in the previous year.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 2
Sun., May 9, 1909
JUST BECAUSE OF THE HOME FOLKS
“Just because my folks did not want me to go on the police force again,” was John A. Henderson’s reply to the flood of inquiries that met him when he came down town yesterday, seeking to find out why Mr. Henderson had declined appointment, as told of in yesterday’s SUN.
Mrs. Henderson is probably responsible for the systematic siege that was made to Mr. Henderson, for she lined up relatives far and near, to emphasize to him the disadvantages of the job, and the fact that the salary was not such as to be attractive to him, all of which Henderson well knows, for he has had years of experience as an officer.
Chief-to-be Shay takes the defection of Henderson somewhat to heart, for Henderson was on the force under him before, and he had depended on him as one of the extremely efficient men selected for police service. Shay tried to persuade Henderson not to retire, but was not able to offset the influence that persuaded him to give up the place.
In the in the 1910 United States Federal Census, 51 yr. old John A. Henderson, a City Policeman, b. in CA., was living in a home (not a farm) he owned, free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
42 yr. old wife, Senia Henderson, b. in CA.
John and Senia had been marr. for 20 years, but they had never had any children.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Senia's father was b. in MO.
The San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Jul. 30, 1918
HENDERSON TAKES SEAT
John A. Henderson, newly elected councilman from the fifth ward, took his place for the first time at the meeting of the city council last night and was given a welcome by Mayor J. W. Catick and the various members of the city administration. The vote was officially canvassed and, on motion of Councilman George Seager, seconded by Councilman Frank Giles, it was declared that henderson had been elected. Henderson filed a bond of $1,000, signed by C. J. Daly and Homer Curtis, and then took his seat and participated in the remainder of the business before the council.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 2, Col. 6
Mon., Mar. 24, 1919
CONGRATULATIONS SENT HENDERSON
The following telegram has been received by John A. Henderson from relatives in the north, formerly of this city, who are interested in the welfare of San Bernardino:
Portland, Ore., March 22, 1919.
Honorable John A. Henderson, 805 Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino.
The undersigned jointly and severally felicitate the city of San Bernardino on the result of the mayoralty election and an absolutely clean administration is assured. We also congratulate Uncle John on his splendid personal triumph. Three cheers for John Henderson.
ISABELLE HERDMAN, WINIFRED YAEGER, RUTH HERDMAN, N. J. LEVINSON.
In the 1920 U. S. census, 62 yr. old John A. Henderson, Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, b. in CA., was living in a home he owned free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
59 yr. old wife, Acenia F. Henderson, b. in CA.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Acenia's father was b. in Mississippi and her mother in IL.
*Note: John was Mayor of San Bernardino from May 12, 1919 to May 2, 1921.
He was also San Bernardino Chief of Police and President of the Pioneer Society (1928-).
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 9, Col. 1
Tue., Mar. 22, 1921
HENDERSON WILL LEAD IN CAMP GROUND PLAN
Mayor John A. Henderson proposes to lead the way in the establishment of a camping ground on the Devil Canyon property which the Water Commission is to buy, by building the first table and dedicating it to his mother.
The pioneers and children of pioneers will take hold of the project, forecasts Mr. Henderson. He proposes to do honor to the memory of his mother, Margaret Henderson, who came down through Cajon Pass and passed by Devil Canyon in 1853.
The San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P.14, Col. 2 & 3
Fri., Dec. 7, 1928
Excerpts from: Doings of the Pioneers
The log cabin of the San Bernardino Pioneer society, in Pioneer park, was the scene of another happy reunion of life-long friends at the last meeting. President John A. Henderson occupied the chair.
Mrs. Jane Smithson approached the station of the president, and called attention to a beautifully wrapped bouquet of choice san Bernardino flowers on his desk, furnished by her daughters, Mrs. Effie Smithson and Mrs. Lena McGarvey, and presented on behalf of the Pioneers to President Henderson and his wife on the occasion of their thirty-ninth wedding anniversary. The remembrance was received by President Henderson with brief but eloquent words. Several of his life-long friends joined in this happy surprise and thanks were tendered to the sisters for their thoughtfulness in providing such a delightful occasion.
Masquerade Dance Enjoyed by Pioneers
In the evening the log cabin was crowded and standing room could hardly be found. A jollier lot of people never met in the cabin. The new gentlemen represented college professors, ministers, doctors, merchants, orange pickers, sheriff, policemen, Uncle Tom, American Legion officers and caballeros. The disguised women came in such makeup as handsome señoritas, Martha Washington, school teachers, farmers’ wives, Topsy, Cinderella, flapper, music teacher and the Goddess of Columbia.
During the evening Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were presented with another testimonial of high esteem from a crowd of friends on the occasion of their anniversary.
ThePioneer orchestra, (on piano, violins and guitar) and John Mapstead, caller, caught the spirit of the evening and thrilled the dancers with their old-time tunes. Refreshments were served.
In the in the 1930 United States Federal Census, 72 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. in CA., was retired and living
in a home (not a farm) he owned, valued at $3,000, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in Ward 5 of San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
63 yr. old wife, Asinia Henderson, b. in CA.
There was no radio in the home.
John was 32 yrs. old and Asenia was 22 when they married.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland and Asenia'a parents were both b. in MO.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 12, Col. 2
Thu., Feb. 17, 1938
John Henderson, Ex-Mayor, Is Ill
John A. Henderson, a former mayor of San Bernardino and one of the oldest native sons of the district, is ill at his home at 805 Mt. Vernon avenue.
Mr. Henderson has been in failing health for the past year.
The son of David Henderson, he was born in San Bernardino in 1857. In 1889 he was elected city marshal. He was councilman of the fifth ward from 1916 to 1918 and served as mayor from 1919 to 1921.
On Mar. 28, 1938, John Alexander Henderson died in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 6, Col. 6 & 7
Fri., Apr. 1, 1938
A TRIBUTE
John A. Henderson’s passing leaves a great vacancy in the lives of his vast number of friends. “None knew him but to love him” has been repeated over and over countless times since he was called to his last rest Monday morning. When, after 82 years, from birth to death, spent in one community, such a man is taken away from us, we cannot but grieve deeply over our loss. At the same time, we are aware that to have known him and to have felt the influence of his strong personality have been a great privilege. To have had his friendship, to have been warmed by his strong handclasp, to have been cheered by his sweet smile and his low voice are precious memories to be cherished always.
Of few could it so truthfully be said:
“His life was gentle; and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say to all the world, ‘this was a man’,”
Among these elements were a steadfast observance of the principles of loyalty, justice and truth, a deep sympathy for those in trouble or sorrow, a clear appreciation of the strength and accomplishments of others and a charitable understanding of their weaknesses and failures, a tolerance for the opinions of others, coupled with an unwavering adherence to his own convictions. Life to him was something to be lived fully but simply, earnestly and joyfully. A keen sense of humor smoothed the way for him and his friends over what might at times have been a rough and dreary road. This stayed with him to the end. Almost his last conscious breath was spent on a pleasantry meant to cheer his listener.
Whether herding cows as a boy on the Cucamonga plains, teaming with heavy loads up and down the steep mountain roads, heading the police force, serving as president of the Pioneer society or sitting in the mayor’s chair as head of the government of his beloved San Bernardino, John Henderson knew but one purpose, to do the job, and but one way to do it, the straightforward, open, honest way. To quote the remark of a friend of his, “If anybody in San Bernardino ever had all the qualities of good citizenship, John Henderson had them.”
The same charm, gentleness and sweetness, only intensified, were in his home life. No more loyal devotion ever existed between husband and wife than existed between John and Asenia Henderson. The sole thought of each seemed to be for the comfort and happiness of the other. For 49 years they journeyed together, hand in hand and heart in heart, along the pathway of married life, each loving and completely content with the other.
A FRIEND.
BIOGRAPHY FOR JOHN ALEXANDER HENDERSON
John Alexander Henderson started his working life in the saw mills of the San Bernardino Mountains, but his most prominent role was that of 7th mayor of San Bernardino from 1919 to 1921.
Henderson's mother, Margaret, came to San Bernardino from Scotland in 1856, a year before John Alexander was born. He was the youngest of her ten children and the only child fathered by her sister's husband, John/James Easton. She briefly became a plural wife after the death of her husband, David Henderson, near St. Louis, Missouri.
Mr. Easton and his wife, Agnes, moved on to Oregon and Margaret left the Mormon Church, staying behind in San Bernardino with her children. She resumed using the name of Henderson and John eventually adopted the Henderson name.
Henderson attended public schools in San Bernardino and worked on his mother's cattle ranch beginning at age 9. He helped his mom for about eight years. He then got a job in a saw mill owned by the Tyler brothers in the San Bernardino Mountains. Henderson worked there for about a year before moving on to a saw mill owned by Van Slack and Summers where he stayed for several years. His pay came in lumber, not money. The only belongings he had were a six-shooter and a watch.
Henderson was promoted to head sawyer after starting there wheeling sawdust. He already was beginning to display a talent for hard work.
After several years, Henderson decided he needed a change and moved to Santa Maria on California's Central Coast to work for his uncle, William Laird Adam, who owned a general store there. But Hendersons didn't like to stay indoors, so after a while, his uncle gave him a job driving a mule team. He also worked on a ranch.
Henderson must have been a restless sort because in 1878, a year after heading to Santa Maria, he moved back to San Bernardino to work for his former employer, Van Slack and Summers. Henderson drove a team for them until 1880. Then, he wound up in Bishop Creek, working at a 320-acre farm owned by a man named Mallory.
The ranch featured grain, cattle, hogs and chickens that were being sold to miners around Bellville. After only a month on the job, Henderson was made foreman and began hauling grain to Bellville. The grain sold for five cents a pound. Henderson also took out hogs, chicken and cattle.
In 1882, Henderson returned once again to San Bernardino. He got a job with his first employer, the Tyler brothers, and worked as a lumberman for two years. Then, Henderson decided to go into business himself.
He bought a mule team and began hauling freight into the mountains and lumber on the return trips. He did this for seven years until he was elected city marshal of San Bernardino in 1889.
This started Henderson's journey to the mayor's seat. Henderson was also elected ex officio tax collector and held that office, as well as being city marshal, until 1901. But he lost his bid for re-election, so he worked in the Police Department for four years and as a special officer with the Santa Fe Railway for seven years.
The same year he was elected city marshal, he married Asenia Ferrel Wilson, but he had to resign from the railroad job when she became ill.
Henderson, though, couldn't stay away from political office. He was later elected councilman from the 5th Ward and mayor in 1919. He served for two years. He died in 1938.
Courtesy of Chloe, Find A Grave Contributor #47159257.
Margaret Ada (Adam) Henderson, b. Aug. 12, 1816 in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 12, 1900 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. &
(her 2nd husband) James Easton.
Margaret's first husband, David Henderson died in 1849, leaving her with seven children (John's half brothers & sisters):
1) William McDonald Henderson, b. Nov. 17, 1833/34 in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Sep. 11, 1904 in Long Beach, Los Angeles county, CA. (William marr. Mary M. Winn)
2) Isabel/la Henderson Henderson, b. Mar. 10, 1835 in South lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Aug. 4, 1890 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. Isabella marr. William Nish.
3) Margaret Victoria Henderson, b. Jul. 26, 1837 in Glasgow, Scotland and d. Sep. 6, 1921 in San Bernardino County, CA. She marr. Charles J. Mogeau and after his death, Henry C. Yager.
4) David Glen Henderson, b. Mar. 28, 1842 in New Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Jul. 19, 1926 in Fontana, San Bernardino county, CA. He marr. Matilda Caroline Hawker.
5) Jeannette Adam Henderson, b. Jun. 7, 1844 in Calder, Old Monkland, North Lanarkshire, Scotland and d. Dec. 8, 1936 in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. She marr. Thomas 'Tom' B. Walkinshaw, and later, William Brown Roberds of Corona, CA.
6) Mary Adam Henderson, b. May 27/31, 1848 in Scotland and d. May 24, 1904 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA. She marr. William Roberts Levick and then Thomas H. 'Tom' Ashcroft of Corona, CA.
7. Charles Henderson, who died as an infant.
After Margaret (Adam) Henderson's first husband, David Henderson died in St. Louis, MO. of a heat stroke (or cholera), Margaret became the plural wife of her sister Agnes' husband, John/James Easton. It was the Mormon custom that no woman of age remain unmarried, and this was most likely preferable to having a husband chosen for her by the Mormon Church. From this child, one child was born: John Alexander Easton who later changed his last name to Henderson.
In the 1860 U.S. census, 4 yr. old John (Alexander) Henderson, b. in CA., was living in San Salvador Twp., (Post office: San Bernardino), San Bernardino, CA. with his
43 yr. old mother, Margaret Henderson, b. in Scotland18 yr. old son, David Henderson, b. in Scotland
16 yr. old half-sister, Jennett Henderson, b. in Scotland
13 yr. old half-sister, Mary Henderson, b. in Scotland
*Note: John was Margaret's son by her 2nd husband, John/James Easton when she was briefly a plural wife with her sister, Agnes.
In the Jun. 9, 1880 United States Federal Census, 24 yr. old John Henderson, b. in CA., was unmarried and working on the Elisha Mallory family farm at Bishops Creek, Inyo, CA.
The Evening Transcript (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Dec. 26, 1899
The police made their chief, John A. Henderson, a handsome Christmas present of a cravat pin, set with four small diamonds and one ruby. The force received a box of cigars as a present from L. D. Houghton.
Chief of Police John A. Henderson made a clever capture Sunday, when he arrested a man wanted in Riverside for robbing the sporting goods and firearms store of G. D. Allen and stationery store of A. L. Derby at Riverside. The man arrested had a watch on his person which the proprietor of one of the stores owned. Goods to the value of $50 were taken. The Riverside officers came over after their man yesterday.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 42 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. May 1858 in CA., was working for the City Police and living in a home (not a farm) he owned free and clear, at 806 Mt. Vernon in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
33 yr. old wife, Senia F. Henderson, b. Mar. 1867 in CA.
This was a first marriage for John and Senia. They had been marr. for 10 years, but they had never had any children.
John had not been unemployed in the previous year.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 2
Sun., May 9, 1909
JUST BECAUSE OF THE HOME FOLKS
“Just because my folks did not want me to go on the police force again,” was John A. Henderson’s reply to the flood of inquiries that met him when he came down town yesterday, seeking to find out why Mr. Henderson had declined appointment, as told of in yesterday’s SUN.
Mrs. Henderson is probably responsible for the systematic siege that was made to Mr. Henderson, for she lined up relatives far and near, to emphasize to him the disadvantages of the job, and the fact that the salary was not such as to be attractive to him, all of which Henderson well knows, for he has had years of experience as an officer.
Chief-to-be Shay takes the defection of Henderson somewhat to heart, for Henderson was on the force under him before, and he had depended on him as one of the extremely efficient men selected for police service. Shay tried to persuade Henderson not to retire, but was not able to offset the influence that persuaded him to give up the place.
In the in the 1910 United States Federal Census, 51 yr. old John A. Henderson, a City Policeman, b. in CA., was living in a home (not a farm) he owned, free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino Ward 5, San Bernardino, CA. with his
42 yr. old wife, Senia Henderson, b. in CA.
John and Senia had been marr. for 20 years, but they had never had any children.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Senia's father was b. in MO.
The San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 3, Col. 3
Tue., Jul. 30, 1918
HENDERSON TAKES SEAT
John A. Henderson, newly elected councilman from the fifth ward, took his place for the first time at the meeting of the city council last night and was given a welcome by Mayor J. W. Catick and the various members of the city administration. The vote was officially canvassed and, on motion of Councilman George Seager, seconded by Councilman Frank Giles, it was declared that henderson had been elected. Henderson filed a bond of $1,000, signed by C. J. Daly and Homer Curtis, and then took his seat and participated in the remainder of the business before the council.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 2, Col. 6
Mon., Mar. 24, 1919
CONGRATULATIONS SENT HENDERSON
The following telegram has been received by John A. Henderson from relatives in the north, formerly of this city, who are interested in the welfare of San Bernardino:
Portland, Ore., March 22, 1919.
Honorable John A. Henderson, 805 Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino.
The undersigned jointly and severally felicitate the city of San Bernardino on the result of the mayoralty election and an absolutely clean administration is assured. We also congratulate Uncle John on his splendid personal triumph. Three cheers for John Henderson.
ISABELLE HERDMAN, WINIFRED YAEGER, RUTH HERDMAN, N. J. LEVINSON.
In the 1920 U. S. census, 62 yr. old John A. Henderson, Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, b. in CA., was living in a home he owned free and clear, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
59 yr. old wife, Acenia F. Henderson, b. in CA.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland. Acenia's father was b. in Mississippi and her mother in IL.
*Note: John was Mayor of San Bernardino from May 12, 1919 to May 2, 1921.
He was also San Bernardino Chief of Police and President of the Pioneer Society (1928-).
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 9, Col. 1
Tue., Mar. 22, 1921
HENDERSON WILL LEAD IN CAMP GROUND PLAN
Mayor John A. Henderson proposes to lead the way in the establishment of a camping ground on the Devil Canyon property which the Water Commission is to buy, by building the first table and dedicating it to his mother.
The pioneers and children of pioneers will take hold of the project, forecasts Mr. Henderson. He proposes to do honor to the memory of his mother, Margaret Henderson, who came down through Cajon Pass and passed by Devil Canyon in 1853.
The San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P.14, Col. 2 & 3
Fri., Dec. 7, 1928
Excerpts from: Doings of the Pioneers
The log cabin of the San Bernardino Pioneer society, in Pioneer park, was the scene of another happy reunion of life-long friends at the last meeting. President John A. Henderson occupied the chair.
Mrs. Jane Smithson approached the station of the president, and called attention to a beautifully wrapped bouquet of choice san Bernardino flowers on his desk, furnished by her daughters, Mrs. Effie Smithson and Mrs. Lena McGarvey, and presented on behalf of the Pioneers to President Henderson and his wife on the occasion of their thirty-ninth wedding anniversary. The remembrance was received by President Henderson with brief but eloquent words. Several of his life-long friends joined in this happy surprise and thanks were tendered to the sisters for their thoughtfulness in providing such a delightful occasion.
Masquerade Dance Enjoyed by Pioneers
In the evening the log cabin was crowded and standing room could hardly be found. A jollier lot of people never met in the cabin. The new gentlemen represented college professors, ministers, doctors, merchants, orange pickers, sheriff, policemen, Uncle Tom, American Legion officers and caballeros. The disguised women came in such makeup as handsome señoritas, Martha Washington, school teachers, farmers’ wives, Topsy, Cinderella, flapper, music teacher and the Goddess of Columbia.
During the evening Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were presented with another testimonial of high esteem from a crowd of friends on the occasion of their anniversary.
ThePioneer orchestra, (on piano, violins and guitar) and John Mapstead, caller, caught the spirit of the evening and thrilled the dancers with their old-time tunes. Refreshments were served.
In the in the 1930 United States Federal Census, 72 yr. old John A. Henderson, b. in CA., was retired and living
in a home (not a farm) he owned, valued at $3,000, at 805 Mt. Vernon St. in Ward 5 of San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. with his
63 yr. old wife, Asinia Henderson, b. in CA.
There was no radio in the home.
John was 32 yrs. old and Asenia was 22 when they married.
John's parents were both b. in Scotland and Asenia'a parents were both b. in MO.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 12, Col. 2
Thu., Feb. 17, 1938
John Henderson, Ex-Mayor, Is Ill
John A. Henderson, a former mayor of San Bernardino and one of the oldest native sons of the district, is ill at his home at 805 Mt. Vernon avenue.
Mr. Henderson has been in failing health for the past year.
The son of David Henderson, he was born in San Bernardino in 1857. In 1889 he was elected city marshal. He was councilman of the fifth ward from 1916 to 1918 and served as mayor from 1919 to 1921.
On Mar. 28, 1938, John Alexander Henderson died in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA.
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 6, Col. 6 & 7
Fri., Apr. 1, 1938
A TRIBUTE
John A. Henderson’s passing leaves a great vacancy in the lives of his vast number of friends. “None knew him but to love him” has been repeated over and over countless times since he was called to his last rest Monday morning. When, after 82 years, from birth to death, spent in one community, such a man is taken away from us, we cannot but grieve deeply over our loss. At the same time, we are aware that to have known him and to have felt the influence of his strong personality have been a great privilege. To have had his friendship, to have been warmed by his strong handclasp, to have been cheered by his sweet smile and his low voice are precious memories to be cherished always.
Of few could it so truthfully be said:
“His life was gentle; and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say to all the world, ‘this was a man’,”
Among these elements were a steadfast observance of the principles of loyalty, justice and truth, a deep sympathy for those in trouble or sorrow, a clear appreciation of the strength and accomplishments of others and a charitable understanding of their weaknesses and failures, a tolerance for the opinions of others, coupled with an unwavering adherence to his own convictions. Life to him was something to be lived fully but simply, earnestly and joyfully. A keen sense of humor smoothed the way for him and his friends over what might at times have been a rough and dreary road. This stayed with him to the end. Almost his last conscious breath was spent on a pleasantry meant to cheer his listener.
Whether herding cows as a boy on the Cucamonga plains, teaming with heavy loads up and down the steep mountain roads, heading the police force, serving as president of the Pioneer society or sitting in the mayor’s chair as head of the government of his beloved San Bernardino, John Henderson knew but one purpose, to do the job, and but one way to do it, the straightforward, open, honest way. To quote the remark of a friend of his, “If anybody in San Bernardino ever had all the qualities of good citizenship, John Henderson had them.”
The same charm, gentleness and sweetness, only intensified, were in his home life. No more loyal devotion ever existed between husband and wife than existed between John and Asenia Henderson. The sole thought of each seemed to be for the comfort and happiness of the other. For 49 years they journeyed together, hand in hand and heart in heart, along the pathway of married life, each loving and completely content with the other.
A FRIEND.
BIOGRAPHY FOR JOHN ALEXANDER HENDERSON
John Alexander Henderson started his working life in the saw mills of the San Bernardino Mountains, but his most prominent role was that of 7th mayor of San Bernardino from 1919 to 1921.
Henderson's mother, Margaret, came to San Bernardino from Scotland in 1856, a year before John Alexander was born. He was the youngest of her ten children and the only child fathered by her sister's husband, John/James Easton. She briefly became a plural wife after the death of her husband, David Henderson, near St. Louis, Missouri.
Mr. Easton and his wife, Agnes, moved on to Oregon and Margaret left the Mormon Church, staying behind in San Bernardino with her children. She resumed using the name of Henderson and John eventually adopted the Henderson name.
Henderson attended public schools in San Bernardino and worked on his mother's cattle ranch beginning at age 9. He helped his mom for about eight years. He then got a job in a saw mill owned by the Tyler brothers in the San Bernardino Mountains. Henderson worked there for about a year before moving on to a saw mill owned by Van Slack and Summers where he stayed for several years. His pay came in lumber, not money. The only belongings he had were a six-shooter and a watch.
Henderson was promoted to head sawyer after starting there wheeling sawdust. He already was beginning to display a talent for hard work.
After several years, Henderson decided he needed a change and moved to Santa Maria on California's Central Coast to work for his uncle, William Laird Adam, who owned a general store there. But Hendersons didn't like to stay indoors, so after a while, his uncle gave him a job driving a mule team. He also worked on a ranch.
Henderson must have been a restless sort because in 1878, a year after heading to Santa Maria, he moved back to San Bernardino to work for his former employer, Van Slack and Summers. Henderson drove a team for them until 1880. Then, he wound up in Bishop Creek, working at a 320-acre farm owned by a man named Mallory.
The ranch featured grain, cattle, hogs and chickens that were being sold to miners around Bellville. After only a month on the job, Henderson was made foreman and began hauling grain to Bellville. The grain sold for five cents a pound. Henderson also took out hogs, chicken and cattle.
In 1882, Henderson returned once again to San Bernardino. He got a job with his first employer, the Tyler brothers, and worked as a lumberman for two years. Then, Henderson decided to go into business himself.
He bought a mule team and began hauling freight into the mountains and lumber on the return trips. He did this for seven years until he was elected city marshal of San Bernardino in 1889.
This started Henderson's journey to the mayor's seat. Henderson was also elected ex officio tax collector and held that office, as well as being city marshal, until 1901. But he lost his bid for re-election, so he worked in the Police Department for four years and as a special officer with the Santa Fe Railway for seven years.
The same year he was elected city marshal, he married Asenia Ferrel Wilson, but he had to resign from the railroad job when she became ill.
Henderson, though, couldn't stay away from political office. He was later elected councilman from the 5th Ward and mayor in 1919. He served for two years. He died in 1938.
Courtesy of Chloe, Find A Grave Contributor #47159257.
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