John Scarlett

John Scarlett, one of the old settlers and prominent ranchers of the Santa Clara Valley, is a native of the "Emerald Isle," born in County Fermanagh, June 18, 1825. His parents, Richard and Elizabeth Scarlett, were natives of Ireland, lived on a farm, and were members of the Episcopal Church. John was educated in his native country, and came to the United States in 1852. He engaged in the wool and cotton dyeing business five years. He came to California in 1867, and had charge of an engine in a San Francisco sugar refinery. Mr. Scarlett remembers Mr. Spreckles when he started a little business there at that time. After three years spent in San Francisco, he moved to Alameda County, built a hotel and conducted it from 1861 to 1870, after which he rented it. There was a deal of travel on the roads at that time and the hotel business was very profitable one. Mr. Scarlett next engaged in sheep-raising, keeping from 4,000 to 5,000 sheep. This also proved a profitable business and he continued it four years before coming to his present locality. While in this business he lived in a tent both winter and summer. When he came to this county he brought 2,700 sheep, three men and a cook. The journey was made by land, and their diet was principally biscuits and bacon, though they sometimes got an antelope, and they slept on the ground at night. Mr. Scarlett bought an interest in a grant and when it was divided his share was 700 acres, which he has farmed since that time. When he made the purchase, his neighbors, Mr. McGrath and Mr. Leonard, were both here. The land was bought of Mr. William Rice. Mr. Scarlett does general farming and raises horses, cattle and hogs, his principal crop being barley and corn. He has several splendid fields, perfectly level and in a high state of cultivation. From the highway, which passes through Mr. Scarlett's ranch, the traveler is at once impressed with the pleasing appearance of this attractive home. The house, an elegant one, is shaded and surrounded by ornamental trees and flowers, and the whole premises indicate that the inmates are people of taste and refinement. Mr. Scarlett says that the improvements of the grounds may be attributed to his wife, as he gives his time and attention to his stock and ranch.

    Mr. Scarlett wedded Miss Annie Lester, a native of Australia, and daughter of Lawrence Lester. Their union has been blessed with five children, four of whom are living and all at home with their parents. Their names are lizy, John, Sally and Annie.

    In his political views Mr. Scarlett is a Republican.

Back to Biographies Page