Charles Layette Mecham's parents were:
Stephen Peabody Mecham, b. Mar. 12, 1797 in Franklin County, VT. and d. Feb. 27, 1869 in St. Lawrence County, NY. &
Dorothy Maria "Dolly Maria" Ransom, b. Aug. 26, 1801 in VT. and d. Jun. 22, 1852 in Pottawattamie County, IA.
On Mar. 20, 1852, Letitia Ann Yager and Charles Lafayette Mecham were married in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake county, UT.
Charles & Letitia Mecham's children were:
1. William Edwin Mecham, b. Dec. 22, 1853 in Springville, Utah County, UT. and d. Mar. 24, 1933 in San Bernardino County, CA. William marr. Huldah James.
2. George Franklin "Frank" Mecham, b. Jan. 19, 1855 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 18, 1938 in San Bernardino County, CA. Frank marr. Ellen Louisa Gilbert.
3. Charles LaFayette Mecham, Jr., b. Dec. 18, 1858 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, CA. and d. Jul. 30, 1926 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Charles marr. Eliza Ann Wixom.
4. Henry Denver Mecham, b. 1858 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. and d. in 1858 in San Bernardino, CA.
5. Alida Ann Mecham, b. 1861 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. and d. Mar. 21, 1863 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA.
6. Ransom "Rance" Marshall Mecham, b. Mar. 15, 1863 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 8, 1936 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Rance marr. Minnie May Reed.
7. Stephen Clarence Mecham, b. Apr. 29, 1865 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 17, 1922 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Stephen marr. Miss Lucy Preciado.
8. Isaac Augustus Mecham, b. Dec. 25, 1867 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 12, 1953 in Orange, Orange County, CA. Isaac marr. Delina Van Leuven and Clara Bell Garnsey.
In the 1870 U. S. census, 40 yr. old Lafayette Meecham (Mecham), a carpenter, b. in NY., was living in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
38 yr. old (inferred) wife, Latitia Meecham (Letitia Mecham), keeping house, b. in IN.
17 yr. old (inferred) son, William Meecham (Mecham), b. in UT.
15 yr. old (inferred) son, Franklin Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
13 yr. old (inferred) son, Charles Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
7 yr. old (inferred) son, Ransom Meecham (Mecham) b. in CA.
5 yr. old (inferred) son, Stephen Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
2 yr. old (inferred) son, Augustus Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
Lafayette's real estate was valued at $2,000 and his personal estate at $1,500.
In the 1880 U. S. census, 50 yr. old Lafyette (Lafayette) Mecham, Working on a farm, b. in IL., was living on G and Ninth Sts. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
49 yr. old wife, Lettcia (Letitia) Mecham, Keeping house, b. in IN.
23 yr. old unmarried son, Charles L. Mecham, a Well Borer, b. in CA.
16 yr. old son, Ransom M. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
15 yr. old son, Stephen C. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
12 yr. old son, Isaac A. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
Lafayette's parents were both b. in VT.
Letitia's parents were both b. in KY.
The Daily Courier (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 7-8
Sun., Sep. 14, 1890
Excerpt from: Pioneer Society
The San Bernardino Society of California Pioneers met yesterday afternoon at the City hall.
The committee on membership reported as eligible to membership Lafayette Mecham, William H. Fellows, and William McDonald, and on motion, the rules were suspended and the candidates admitted as follows:
Lafayette Mecham - Born in St. Lawrence county, New York, September 29, 1829; crossed the plains with ox team from Springfield, Ill, to Utah in 1850, and from Utah to San Bernardino, Cal., in October 1852.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 70 yr. old Lafayette Mecham, a Farmer, b. Sep. 1829 in NY., was living in a (mortgaged) home he owned at 531 Tenth St. in San Bernardino Ward 4, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
69 yr. old wife, Leticia Mecham, b. Apr. 1831 in IN.
Lafayette and Letitia had been married for 48 years.
Letitia was the mother of 8 children, only 6 still alive by this census.
On Jan. 18, 1902, Charles' wife, Letitia (Yager) Mecham died at the age of 70 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA.
Weekly Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 7, Col. 1-2
Fri., Jul. 4, 1902
GRASSHOPPERS HERE AT LAST
The grasshoppers which have been devastating certain districts in the valleys to the north, and along the coast, have at last made their appearance nearer home, and while not yet spread over the country in a way to cause great alarm, have done no small damage along the foothills north of the city, where orchards and vineyards have suffered severely.
From Devil canyon west along the foot-hill ranches, the scourge is at its worst, in the vicinity of the Lafayette Mecham ranch and at the Chubb ranch, in the vicinity of Irvington, and from there to the westward,
Both fruit trees and vines are denuded of foliage by them, although a peculiarity already noted is, that the Mission grape vines escape almost entirely, while the muscat grape vines will be shorn of every leaf, leaving the fruit exposed to the glare of the sun, which speedily withers it.
One peach orchard in the vicinity was also attacked Friday, leaving only the seed hanging to the stem.
People were in the city from the Mecham ranch yesterday and they paint the situation in rather gloomy colors, it being feared that both peaches, apricots and grapes in that belt of ranches will be utterly ruined by the pests. They are described as in all stages of development from very small ones to the full grown hoppers, and that they are to be found in veritable swarms.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 4 and P. 8, Col. 2
Fri., Jul. 24, 1914
PIONEER OF THIS VALLEY SUMMONED
Lafayette Mecham Called By Death; Prominent In Early Days
Lafayette Mecham, many years a resident of San Bernardino, died early this morning at the home of his son, W. E. Mechan, 1098 B street. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon.
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war.
Steven Mecham, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838, and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852.
Early in 1853, Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles, and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles, where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles, which he did by stage, making the trip daily. Previously the mail had been delivered weekly.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitia Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. Mecham, G. F. Mecham, C. L. Mecham, R. M. Mecham, S. C. Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except Isaac, who lives in Santa Ana.
The funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon, at 3 o'clock, from the McDonald undertaking parlors. The Pioneers will have charge of the services, Rev. Roadhouse officiating. The interment will be at the City cemetery.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 8, Col. 4-5
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
Funeral Services For Pioneer Citizen
Funeral services for Lafayette Mecham who died yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, occurred this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company, Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church officiating. Interment was in the Pioneer cemetery.
The Pioneers' society of San Bernardino attended the services in a body, the decedent being an honored pioneer of this section. In the valley of his chosen home, he was laid to rest at the age of 85 years.
San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 5, Col. 3
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
FUNERAL TODAY OF LAFAYETTE MECHAM
Pioneer to Be laid to Rest This Afternoon, 3 O'clock; Services at McDonald's.
The funeral of Lafayette Mecham, pioneer resident of the valley, who died early yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company and interment will be in the Pioneer cemetery. Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church will have charge of the services.
The San Bernardino Society of Pioneers will attend the funeral in a body.
Recently the deceased won a litigation of a quarter of a century's standing over valuable ranch holdings in Cajon pass, securing a new survey from the government which restored to him acres that were the basis of dispute for years. He wrote a personal letter to the white house and this resulted in the granting of a new survey.
Biographical
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war. His father, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838 and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852. Early in 1853 Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying the first mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles by stage coach.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Six children
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitta (Letitia) Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. (William Edwin) Mecham, G. F. (George Franklin) Mecham, C. L. (Charles Lafayette) Mecham, R. M. (Ransom Marshall) Mecham, S. C. (Stephen Clarence) Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except the latter, who lives in Santa Ana.
Stephen Peabody Mecham, b. Mar. 12, 1797 in Franklin County, VT. and d. Feb. 27, 1869 in St. Lawrence County, NY. &
Dorothy Maria "Dolly Maria" Ransom, b. Aug. 26, 1801 in VT. and d. Jun. 22, 1852 in Pottawattamie County, IA.
On Mar. 20, 1852, Letitia Ann Yager and Charles Lafayette Mecham were married in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake county, UT.
Charles & Letitia Mecham's children were:
1. William Edwin Mecham, b. Dec. 22, 1853 in Springville, Utah County, UT. and d. Mar. 24, 1933 in San Bernardino County, CA. William marr. Huldah James.
2. George Franklin "Frank" Mecham, b. Jan. 19, 1855 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 18, 1938 in San Bernardino County, CA. Frank marr. Ellen Louisa Gilbert.
3. Charles LaFayette Mecham, Jr., b. Dec. 18, 1858 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, CA. and d. Jul. 30, 1926 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Charles marr. Eliza Ann Wixom.
4. Henry Denver Mecham, b. 1858 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. and d. in 1858 in San Bernardino, CA.
5. Alida Ann Mecham, b. 1861 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. and d. Mar. 21, 1863 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA.
6. Ransom "Rance" Marshall Mecham, b. Mar. 15, 1863 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 8, 1936 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Rance marr. Minnie May Reed.
7. Stephen Clarence Mecham, b. Apr. 29, 1865 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 17, 1922 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Stephen marr. Miss Lucy Preciado.
8. Isaac Augustus Mecham, b. Dec. 25, 1867 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 12, 1953 in Orange, Orange County, CA. Isaac marr. Delina Van Leuven and Clara Bell Garnsey.
In the 1870 U. S. census, 40 yr. old Lafayette Meecham (Mecham), a carpenter, b. in NY., was living in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
38 yr. old (inferred) wife, Latitia Meecham (Letitia Mecham), keeping house, b. in IN.
17 yr. old (inferred) son, William Meecham (Mecham), b. in UT.
15 yr. old (inferred) son, Franklin Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
13 yr. old (inferred) son, Charles Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
7 yr. old (inferred) son, Ransom Meecham (Mecham) b. in CA.
5 yr. old (inferred) son, Stephen Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
2 yr. old (inferred) son, Augustus Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
Lafayette's real estate was valued at $2,000 and his personal estate at $1,500.
In the 1880 U. S. census, 50 yr. old Lafyette (Lafayette) Mecham, Working on a farm, b. in IL., was living on G and Ninth Sts. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
49 yr. old wife, Lettcia (Letitia) Mecham, Keeping house, b. in IN.
23 yr. old unmarried son, Charles L. Mecham, a Well Borer, b. in CA.
16 yr. old son, Ransom M. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
15 yr. old son, Stephen C. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
12 yr. old son, Isaac A. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
Lafayette's parents were both b. in VT.
Letitia's parents were both b. in KY.
The Daily Courier (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 7-8
Sun., Sep. 14, 1890
Excerpt from: Pioneer Society
The San Bernardino Society of California Pioneers met yesterday afternoon at the City hall.
The committee on membership reported as eligible to membership Lafayette Mecham, William H. Fellows, and William McDonald, and on motion, the rules were suspended and the candidates admitted as follows:
Lafayette Mecham - Born in St. Lawrence county, New York, September 29, 1829; crossed the plains with ox team from Springfield, Ill, to Utah in 1850, and from Utah to San Bernardino, Cal., in October 1852.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 70 yr. old Lafayette Mecham, a Farmer, b. Sep. 1829 in NY., was living in a (mortgaged) home he owned at 531 Tenth St. in San Bernardino Ward 4, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
69 yr. old wife, Leticia Mecham, b. Apr. 1831 in IN.
Lafayette and Letitia had been married for 48 years.
Letitia was the mother of 8 children, only 6 still alive by this census.
On Jan. 18, 1902, Charles' wife, Letitia (Yager) Mecham died at the age of 70 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA.
Weekly Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 7, Col. 1-2
Fri., Jul. 4, 1902
GRASSHOPPERS HERE AT LAST
The grasshoppers which have been devastating certain districts in the valleys to the north, and along the coast, have at last made their appearance nearer home, and while not yet spread over the country in a way to cause great alarm, have done no small damage along the foothills north of the city, where orchards and vineyards have suffered severely.
From Devil canyon west along the foot-hill ranches, the scourge is at its worst, in the vicinity of the Lafayette Mecham ranch and at the Chubb ranch, in the vicinity of Irvington, and from there to the westward,
Both fruit trees and vines are denuded of foliage by them, although a peculiarity already noted is, that the Mission grape vines escape almost entirely, while the muscat grape vines will be shorn of every leaf, leaving the fruit exposed to the glare of the sun, which speedily withers it.
One peach orchard in the vicinity was also attacked Friday, leaving only the seed hanging to the stem.
People were in the city from the Mecham ranch yesterday and they paint the situation in rather gloomy colors, it being feared that both peaches, apricots and grapes in that belt of ranches will be utterly ruined by the pests. They are described as in all stages of development from very small ones to the full grown hoppers, and that they are to be found in veritable swarms.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 4 and P. 8, Col. 2
Fri., Jul. 24, 1914
PIONEER OF THIS VALLEY SUMMONED
Lafayette Mecham Called By Death; Prominent In Early Days
Lafayette Mecham, many years a resident of San Bernardino, died early this morning at the home of his son, W. E. Mechan, 1098 B street. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon.
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war.
Steven Mecham, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838, and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852.
Early in 1853, Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles, and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles, where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles, which he did by stage, making the trip daily. Previously the mail had been delivered weekly.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitia Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. Mecham, G. F. Mecham, C. L. Mecham, R. M. Mecham, S. C. Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except Isaac, who lives in Santa Ana.
The funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon, at 3 o'clock, from the McDonald undertaking parlors. The Pioneers will have charge of the services, Rev. Roadhouse officiating. The interment will be at the City cemetery.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 8, Col. 4-5
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
Funeral Services For Pioneer Citizen
Funeral services for Lafayette Mecham who died yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, occurred this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company, Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church officiating. Interment was in the Pioneer cemetery.
The Pioneers' society of San Bernardino attended the services in a body, the decedent being an honored pioneer of this section. In the valley of his chosen home, he was laid to rest at the age of 85 years.
San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 5, Col. 3
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
FUNERAL TODAY OF LAFAYETTE MECHAM
Pioneer to Be laid to Rest This Afternoon, 3 O'clock; Services at McDonald's.
The funeral of Lafayette Mecham, pioneer resident of the valley, who died early yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company and interment will be in the Pioneer cemetery. Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church will have charge of the services.
The San Bernardino Society of Pioneers will attend the funeral in a body.
Recently the deceased won a litigation of a quarter of a century's standing over valuable ranch holdings in Cajon pass, securing a new survey from the government which restored to him acres that were the basis of dispute for years. He wrote a personal letter to the white house and this resulted in the granting of a new survey.
Biographical
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war. His father, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838 and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852. Early in 1853 Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying the first mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles by stage coach.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Six children
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitta (Letitia) Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. (William Edwin) Mecham, G. F. (George Franklin) Mecham, C. L. (Charles Lafayette) Mecham, R. M. (Ransom Marshall) Mecham, S. C. (Stephen Clarence) Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except the latter, who lives in Santa Ana.
Charles Layette Mecham's parents were:
Stephen Peabody Mecham, b. Mar. 12, 1797 in Franklin County, VT. and d. Feb. 27, 1869 in St. Lawrence County, NY. &
Dorothy Maria "Dolly Maria" Ransom, b. Aug. 26, 1801 in VT. and d. Jun. 22, 1852 in Pottawattamie County, IA.
On Mar. 20, 1852, Letitia Ann Yager and Charles Lafayette Mecham were married in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake county, UT.
Charles & Letitia Mecham's children were:
1. William Edwin Mecham, b. Dec. 22, 1853 in Springville, Utah County, UT. and d. Mar. 24, 1933 in San Bernardino County, CA. William marr. Huldah James.
2. George Franklin "Frank" Mecham, b. Jan. 19, 1855 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 18, 1938 in San Bernardino County, CA. Frank marr. Ellen Louisa Gilbert.
3. Charles LaFayette Mecham, Jr., b. Dec. 18, 1858 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, CA. and d. Jul. 30, 1926 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Charles marr. Eliza Ann Wixom.
4. Henry Denver Mecham, b. 1858 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. and d. in 1858 in San Bernardino, CA.
5. Alida Ann Mecham, b. 1861 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. and d. Mar. 21, 1863 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA.
6. Ransom "Rance" Marshall Mecham, b. Mar. 15, 1863 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 8, 1936 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Rance marr. Minnie May Reed.
7. Stephen Clarence Mecham, b. Apr. 29, 1865 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 17, 1922 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Stephen marr. Miss Lucy Preciado.
8. Isaac Augustus Mecham, b. Dec. 25, 1867 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 12, 1953 in Orange, Orange County, CA. Isaac marr. Delina Van Leuven and Clara Bell Garnsey.
In the 1870 U. S. census, 40 yr. old Lafayette Meecham (Mecham), a carpenter, b. in NY., was living in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
38 yr. old (inferred) wife, Latitia Meecham (Letitia Mecham), keeping house, b. in IN.
17 yr. old (inferred) son, William Meecham (Mecham), b. in UT.
15 yr. old (inferred) son, Franklin Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
13 yr. old (inferred) son, Charles Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
7 yr. old (inferred) son, Ransom Meecham (Mecham) b. in CA.
5 yr. old (inferred) son, Stephen Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
2 yr. old (inferred) son, Augustus Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
Lafayette's real estate was valued at $2,000 and his personal estate at $1,500.
In the 1880 U. S. census, 50 yr. old Lafyette (Lafayette) Mecham, Working on a farm, b. in IL., was living on G and Ninth Sts. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
49 yr. old wife, Lettcia (Letitia) Mecham, Keeping house, b. in IN.
23 yr. old unmarried son, Charles L. Mecham, a Well Borer, b. in CA.
16 yr. old son, Ransom M. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
15 yr. old son, Stephen C. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
12 yr. old son, Isaac A. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
Lafayette's parents were both b. in VT.
Letitia's parents were both b. in KY.
The Daily Courier (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 7-8
Sun., Sep. 14, 1890
Excerpt from: Pioneer Society
The San Bernardino Society of California Pioneers met yesterday afternoon at the City hall.
The committee on membership reported as eligible to membership Lafayette Mecham, William H. Fellows, and William McDonald, and on motion, the rules were suspended and the candidates admitted as follows:
Lafayette Mecham - Born in St. Lawrence county, New York, September 29, 1829; crossed the plains with ox team from Springfield, Ill, to Utah in 1850, and from Utah to San Bernardino, Cal., in October 1852.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 70 yr. old Lafayette Mecham, a Farmer, b. Sep. 1829 in NY., was living in a (mortgaged) home he owned at 531 Tenth St. in San Bernardino Ward 4, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
69 yr. old wife, Leticia Mecham, b. Apr. 1831 in IN.
Lafayette and Letitia had been married for 48 years.
Letitia was the mother of 8 children, only 6 still alive by this census.
On Jan. 18, 1902, Charles' wife, Letitia (Yager) Mecham died at the age of 70 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA.
Weekly Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 7, Col. 1-2
Fri., Jul. 4, 1902
GRASSHOPPERS HERE AT LAST
The grasshoppers which have been devastating certain districts in the valleys to the north, and along the coast, have at last made their appearance nearer home, and while not yet spread over the country in a way to cause great alarm, have done no small damage along the foothills north of the city, where orchards and vineyards have suffered severely.
From Devil canyon west along the foot-hill ranches, the scourge is at its worst, in the vicinity of the Lafayette Mecham ranch and at the Chubb ranch, in the vicinity of Irvington, and from there to the westward,
Both fruit trees and vines are denuded of foliage by them, although a peculiarity already noted is, that the Mission grape vines escape almost entirely, while the muscat grape vines will be shorn of every leaf, leaving the fruit exposed to the glare of the sun, which speedily withers it.
One peach orchard in the vicinity was also attacked Friday, leaving only the seed hanging to the stem.
People were in the city from the Mecham ranch yesterday and they paint the situation in rather gloomy colors, it being feared that both peaches, apricots and grapes in that belt of ranches will be utterly ruined by the pests. They are described as in all stages of development from very small ones to the full grown hoppers, and that they are to be found in veritable swarms.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 4 and P. 8, Col. 2
Fri., Jul. 24, 1914
PIONEER OF THIS VALLEY SUMMONED
Lafayette Mecham Called By Death; Prominent In Early Days
Lafayette Mecham, many years a resident of San Bernardino, died early this morning at the home of his son, W. E. Mechan, 1098 B street. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon.
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war.
Steven Mecham, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838, and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852.
Early in 1853, Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles, and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles, where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles, which he did by stage, making the trip daily. Previously the mail had been delivered weekly.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitia Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. Mecham, G. F. Mecham, C. L. Mecham, R. M. Mecham, S. C. Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except Isaac, who lives in Santa Ana.
The funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon, at 3 o'clock, from the McDonald undertaking parlors. The Pioneers will have charge of the services, Rev. Roadhouse officiating. The interment will be at the City cemetery.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 8, Col. 4-5
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
Funeral Services For Pioneer Citizen
Funeral services for Lafayette Mecham who died yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, occurred this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company, Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church officiating. Interment was in the Pioneer cemetery.
The Pioneers' society of San Bernardino attended the services in a body, the decedent being an honored pioneer of this section. In the valley of his chosen home, he was laid to rest at the age of 85 years.
San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 5, Col. 3
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
FUNERAL TODAY OF LAFAYETTE MECHAM
Pioneer to Be laid to Rest This Afternoon, 3 O'clock; Services at McDonald's.
The funeral of Lafayette Mecham, pioneer resident of the valley, who died early yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company and interment will be in the Pioneer cemetery. Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church will have charge of the services.
The San Bernardino Society of Pioneers will attend the funeral in a body.
Recently the deceased won a litigation of a quarter of a century's standing over valuable ranch holdings in Cajon pass, securing a new survey from the government which restored to him acres that were the basis of dispute for years. He wrote a personal letter to the white house and this resulted in the granting of a new survey.
Biographical
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war. His father, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838 and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852. Early in 1853 Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying the first mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles by stage coach.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Six children
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitta (Letitia) Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. (William Edwin) Mecham, G. F. (George Franklin) Mecham, C. L. (Charles Lafayette) Mecham, R. M. (Ransom Marshall) Mecham, S. C. (Stephen Clarence) Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except the latter, who lives in Santa Ana.
Stephen Peabody Mecham, b. Mar. 12, 1797 in Franklin County, VT. and d. Feb. 27, 1869 in St. Lawrence County, NY. &
Dorothy Maria "Dolly Maria" Ransom, b. Aug. 26, 1801 in VT. and d. Jun. 22, 1852 in Pottawattamie County, IA.
On Mar. 20, 1852, Letitia Ann Yager and Charles Lafayette Mecham were married in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake county, UT.
Charles & Letitia Mecham's children were:
1. William Edwin Mecham, b. Dec. 22, 1853 in Springville, Utah County, UT. and d. Mar. 24, 1933 in San Bernardino County, CA. William marr. Huldah James.
2. George Franklin "Frank" Mecham, b. Jan. 19, 1855 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 18, 1938 in San Bernardino County, CA. Frank marr. Ellen Louisa Gilbert.
3. Charles LaFayette Mecham, Jr., b. Dec. 18, 1858 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, CA. and d. Jul. 30, 1926 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Charles marr. Eliza Ann Wixom.
4. Henry Denver Mecham, b. 1858 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. and d. in 1858 in San Bernardino, CA.
5. Alida Ann Mecham, b. 1861 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA. and d. Mar. 21, 1863 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles county, CA.
6. Ransom "Rance" Marshall Mecham, b. Mar. 15, 1863 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 8, 1936 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Rance marr. Minnie May Reed.
7. Stephen Clarence Mecham, b. Apr. 29, 1865 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Jun. 17, 1922 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. Stephen marr. Miss Lucy Preciado.
8. Isaac Augustus Mecham, b. Dec. 25, 1867 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA. and d. Apr. 12, 1953 in Orange, Orange County, CA. Isaac marr. Delina Van Leuven and Clara Bell Garnsey.
In the 1870 U. S. census, 40 yr. old Lafayette Meecham (Mecham), a carpenter, b. in NY., was living in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
38 yr. old (inferred) wife, Latitia Meecham (Letitia Mecham), keeping house, b. in IN.
17 yr. old (inferred) son, William Meecham (Mecham), b. in UT.
15 yr. old (inferred) son, Franklin Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
13 yr. old (inferred) son, Charles Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
7 yr. old (inferred) son, Ransom Meecham (Mecham) b. in CA.
5 yr. old (inferred) son, Stephen Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
2 yr. old (inferred) son, Augustus Meecham (Mecham), b. in CA.
Lafayette's real estate was valued at $2,000 and his personal estate at $1,500.
In the 1880 U. S. census, 50 yr. old Lafyette (Lafayette) Mecham, Working on a farm, b. in IL., was living on G and Ninth Sts. in San Bernardino, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
49 yr. old wife, Lettcia (Letitia) Mecham, Keeping house, b. in IN.
23 yr. old unmarried son, Charles L. Mecham, a Well Borer, b. in CA.
16 yr. old son, Ransom M. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
15 yr. old son, Stephen C. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
12 yr. old son, Isaac A. Mecham, attending school, b. in CA.
Lafayette's parents were both b. in VT.
Letitia's parents were both b. in KY.
The Daily Courier (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 7-8
Sun., Sep. 14, 1890
Excerpt from: Pioneer Society
The San Bernardino Society of California Pioneers met yesterday afternoon at the City hall.
The committee on membership reported as eligible to membership Lafayette Mecham, William H. Fellows, and William McDonald, and on motion, the rules were suspended and the candidates admitted as follows:
Lafayette Mecham - Born in St. Lawrence county, New York, September 29, 1829; crossed the plains with ox team from Springfield, Ill, to Utah in 1850, and from Utah to San Bernardino, Cal., in October 1852.
In the 1900 U. S. census, 70 yr. old Lafayette Mecham, a Farmer, b. Sep. 1829 in NY., was living in a (mortgaged) home he owned at 531 Tenth St. in San Bernardino Ward 4, San Bernardino county, CA. with his
69 yr. old wife, Leticia Mecham, b. Apr. 1831 in IN.
Lafayette and Letitia had been married for 48 years.
Letitia was the mother of 8 children, only 6 still alive by this census.
On Jan. 18, 1902, Charles' wife, Letitia (Yager) Mecham died at the age of 70 in San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, CA.
Weekly Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 7, Col. 1-2
Fri., Jul. 4, 1902
GRASSHOPPERS HERE AT LAST
The grasshoppers which have been devastating certain districts in the valleys to the north, and along the coast, have at last made their appearance nearer home, and while not yet spread over the country in a way to cause great alarm, have done no small damage along the foothills north of the city, where orchards and vineyards have suffered severely.
From Devil canyon west along the foot-hill ranches, the scourge is at its worst, in the vicinity of the Lafayette Mecham ranch and at the Chubb ranch, in the vicinity of Irvington, and from there to the westward,
Both fruit trees and vines are denuded of foliage by them, although a peculiarity already noted is, that the Mission grape vines escape almost entirely, while the muscat grape vines will be shorn of every leaf, leaving the fruit exposed to the glare of the sun, which speedily withers it.
One peach orchard in the vicinity was also attacked Friday, leaving only the seed hanging to the stem.
People were in the city from the Mecham ranch yesterday and they paint the situation in rather gloomy colors, it being feared that both peaches, apricots and grapes in that belt of ranches will be utterly ruined by the pests. They are described as in all stages of development from very small ones to the full grown hoppers, and that they are to be found in veritable swarms.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 1, Col. 4 and P. 8, Col. 2
Fri., Jul. 24, 1914
PIONEER OF THIS VALLEY SUMMONED
Lafayette Mecham Called By Death; Prominent In Early Days
Lafayette Mecham, many years a resident of San Bernardino, died early this morning at the home of his son, W. E. Mechan, 1098 B street. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon.
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war.
Steven Mecham, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838, and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852.
Early in 1853, Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles, and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles, where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles, which he did by stage, making the trip daily. Previously the mail had been delivered weekly.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitia Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. Mecham, G. F. Mecham, C. L. Mecham, R. M. Mecham, S. C. Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except Isaac, who lives in Santa Ana.
The funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon, at 3 o'clock, from the McDonald undertaking parlors. The Pioneers will have charge of the services, Rev. Roadhouse officiating. The interment will be at the City cemetery.
San Bernardino News (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 8, Col. 4-5
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
Funeral Services For Pioneer Citizen
Funeral services for Lafayette Mecham who died yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, occurred this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company, Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church officiating. Interment was in the Pioneer cemetery.
The Pioneers' society of San Bernardino attended the services in a body, the decedent being an honored pioneer of this section. In the valley of his chosen home, he was laid to rest at the age of 85 years.
San Bernardino Daily Sun (San Bernardino, CA.), P. 5, Col. 3
Sat., Jul. 25, 1914
FUNERAL TODAY OF LAFAYETTE MECHAM
Pioneer to Be laid to Rest This Afternoon, 3 O'clock; Services at McDonald's.
The funeral of Lafayette Mecham, pioneer resident of the valley, who died early yesterday at the home of his son, W. E. Mecham at 1098 B street, will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the parlors of the J. D. McDonald company and interment will be in the Pioneer cemetery. Rev. A. F. Roadhouse of the First Christian church will have charge of the services.
The San Bernardino Society of Pioneers will attend the funeral in a body.
Recently the deceased won a litigation of a quarter of a century's standing over valuable ranch holdings in Cajon pass, securing a new survey from the government which restored to him acres that were the basis of dispute for years. He wrote a personal letter to the white house and this resulted in the granting of a new survey.
Biographical
Lafayette Mecham was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, New York, September 20, 1829. He was the son of Steven and Dolly Ransom Mecham, both descendants of families that settled in the Champlain valley, Vermont, before the revolutionary war. His father, a hunter and trapper in the Adirondack mountains, moved to Illinois in 1838 and settled at Springfield, where the family was well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln.
In 1849 Lafayette Mecham started for California, via the North Platte and, after wintering in Utah, came by the southern route to San Bernardino, arriving in 1852. Early in 1853 Mr. Mecham went to San Francisco, later returning to Los Angeles and from there went to Salt Lake. In 1854 he returned to Los Angeles where he purchased land that is now in the center of that city.
In 1863, Mr. Mecham again came to San Bernardino, where he has since resided. He took a government contract that year for carrying the first mail between San Bernardino and Los Angeles by stage coach.
This same year Mr. Mecham brought the first pepper trees to San Bernardino. One of these trees is now standing in front of the Fourth street school house.
Six children
Mr. Mecham married Miss Letitta (Letitia) Yager, March 20, 1852. He leaves five children, W. E. (William Edwin) Mecham, G. F. (George Franklin) Mecham, C. L. (Charles Lafayette) Mecham, R. M. (Ransom Marshall) Mecham, S. C. (Stephen Clarence) Mecham and Isaac Mecham, all of whom reside in this city with their families except the latter, who lives in Santa Ana.
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