One subscriber inquired about the traits of the original argonauts who settled California. Back in the early 1970s, I worked with Eleanor Vandeburgh at the William H. Pratt Memorial Museum in Susanville. Eleanor commented that the weak in mind never contemplated to endure the hardship to travel west; those who were weak physically died along the way and only those of a strong mind and physical traits survived. It is an interesting concept. Eleanor, however, left out another factor.
A large percentage of those who made the journey were not only seeking a new life, but to leave behind a sketchy past. In their new surroundings, many with a questionable background became the sterling leaders in their newfound home.
Take the case of Uncle Jake McKissick. He first settled in Long Valley in 1859, and over the next few decades became one of the wealthiest and largest landowners of Lassen and Washoe Counties. In 1898, the elderly gentleman made a trip back to his former Iowa home. It was not the best reunion. While renewing old friendships, there were others who recognized him, too. When McKissick fled west, he was running from the law, on a first degree murder charge. On his visit, he was arrested, stood trial and finally exonerated. However, the whole experience took a toll on him, and he died little over a year later.