Sons In
Retirementwww.sirinc.org
|
Amador County Branch 96 - Jackson, California |
|
OXEN’S TALE #12 John Sutter and Obtaining Land Part #5 By Frank Tortorich
In the summer of 1839 when Sutter arrived in Monterey with these letters of introduction, he was welcomed and was given permission to settle at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers. However, there were requirements to Sutter staying in California. He was required to get control over the pesky Indians in this area; to develop the land; to populate the area by bringing in people to settle and one year to prove himself. After this period, Sutter would be granted eleven square leagues of land, about 49,000 acres. He would, however, have to become a citizen of Mexico, which required that he become a Catholic. In order for Sutter to get started building his agricultural empire, he would need seed, horses, cattle, and tools. He went to the neighboring ranchos, using his letters of introduction and charm, was able to acquire the necessary items, all on credit. He traveled over most of the northern territory of California, including the Russian outpost of Fort Ross. Here he met the head of the Russian trapping enterprises and made agreements to supply them with wheat in exchange for items that Sutter needed. Next time - Sutter builds his fort. |
|
Website Last Modified: August 29, 2008 Information to contact the Webmaster is on the "Contact" Page.
|