Those who frequently travel Highway 139 through Willow Creek Valley, just north of Susanville will easily recognize this landmark. Since the photograph was taken, the roof has collapsed. There was a time, that seasoned residents may recall there were two structures there.
In 1869, Adam Jakobs settled there. In 1898, he sold to Fall River Mills rancher, Frederick Knoch for $2,500. Knoch moved there with his wife, Helena, and their two youngest daughters, Mary and Lillie. According to family lore, Mary had a romantic interest with one of the McArthurs and her parents objected, hence the move. Mary eventually married, Willow Creek Valley, neighbor Edward Murrer. Next Lillie married Susanville rancher John “Fritz” Brockman. In 1902, with both daughters married, Knoch sold the place, and returned to Fall River Mills.
In the 1920s, Jessie Collier was the last person to reside there, and the buildings since abandoned, with only one standing.