John Borchard

John Borchard is a native of Hanover, Germany, born October 8, 1838. Both his mother and father were Germans and both are still living, at the ages of eighty and seventy-seven years, respectively. Mr. Borchard contemplates returning to his native land to visit them during the present summer, 1890. The subject of this sketch is another illustration of the way the thrifty sons of Germany succeed when they come to the United States. He came to his present location in 1871, and purchased 400 acres of land, on which he is now raising barley, beans, and corn. He owns 4,000 acres on the Conejo, where he is raising cattle and hogs, keeping an average of 400 head of grade Durham cattle, and from 400 to 500 head of hogs. He also owns property in Texas, 6,000 acres of land, which he rents to four men. On his Conejo ranch, Mr. Borchard is building a brick house. This ranch is divided into six or seven pastures, and each is supplied with plenty of spring water and fenced with wire. fencing.

    Mr. Borchard was married in Germany in 1865, to Miss Elizabeth Chothelm, a native of that country. They have three daughters, all born at their present home in Ventura County, California: Mary, Ann, and Theresa. The family are consistent members of the Catholic Church.

    Notwithstanding that Mr. Borchard is a rich gentleman, he calls himself an old Dutchman, and works as hard as ever he did, the thrift and economy acquired in the fatherland still staying by him in California. During the nineteen years he has lived on this coast, he has seen many remarkable changes, and has given a helping hand to many a German friend.

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