Month: January 2025

John Daggett was born in Newark, New York, in May 1833. In 1852, at 19 years old, Daggett came to California.

His political life started early as a member of the California State Assembly in 1858. He became the Lieutenant Governor of California in 1882 and continued for quite some time between 1883 and 1887.

In addition to the politics, mining took Daggett seriously in California. In San Bernardino County, he was the holder of the Calico Mine, the most active site of silver mining, toward the turn of the 19th century.

Very close to his mines, several miles away, came a town named Daggett, and his importance could be measured as that person holding stakes in the site. He died on August 30, 1919, attaching a legacy associated with the mining and politics of California to his name.

Edward H. Harriman (1848–1909) was a powerful and influential figure in the railroad industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a pivotal role in shaping America’s transportation infrastructure and economy through his aggressive and visionary leadership. Here’s a quick overview:

Key Facts About Edward H. Harriman:

1. Railroad Tycoon: Harriman was known for his ability to turn struggling railroads into profitable ventures. He gained control of major railroads, including the Union Pacific Railroad and the Southern Pacific Railroad, creating one of the most extensive rail networks in the United States.
2. Visionary Reformer: Harriman didn’t just consolidate railroads; he modernized them. He invested heavily in improving infrastructure, laying stronger tracks, building more efficient locomotives, and standardizing operations to ensure reliability and profitability.
3. Business Tactics: He was a master of corporate strategy, using bold financial maneuvers to outcompete rivals. His tactics sometimes drew criticism for being ruthless, but they solidified his reputation as one of the great “railroad barons.”
4. Connection to Death Valley Scotty: Harriman’s name is linked to Death Valley Scotty because Scotty once claimed Harriman had invested in his mythical gold mine. There’s no evidence Harriman actually did, but Scotty frequently invoked Harriman’s name to bolster his credibility with other investors. It was part of Scotty’s knack for attaching himself to famous figures.
5. Legacy: Harriman’s influence extended beyond railroads. He was a philanthropist, supporting educational and scientific endeavors, including the famed Harriman Alaska Expedition in 1899, which was a major scientific and exploratory mission.

Edward H. Harriman’s legacy as a transformative force in the railroad industry lives on, and his association with larger-than-life figures like Death Valley Scotty adds a colorful footnote to his historical impact.