Those familiar with the history of Eagle Lake are aware that Spalding Tract was named for John S. Spalding who first resided there in 1875. (It should be noted that it is also “spelled” with an “u” as in Spaulding. There are two different subdivisions on the same property).
In 1914, John Spalding announced his intention to subdivide “his” ranch on the west side of Eagle Lake. However, truth be known it was not actually his. The property in question belonged to his brother-in-law, Jules Hurlbut. At the age of 8, Jules came to Lassen County with his parents, Timothy Judd and Caroline, along with his sister, Mira Eleanor. At first the family located in Willow Creek Valley, where other family members resided, but would soon locate to Eagle Lake. In 1881, John Spalding married Mira E. Hurlbut.
In time, Jules homesteaded the property that is now Spalding Tract. During the 1880s, Albert Gallatin went on a buying spree acquiring the majority of private properties around the lake, including that of Spalding. Jules held firm, and would not sell to Gallatin. A confirmed bachelor, Jules spent most of his life at Eagle Lake. In 1937, he retired to Susanville and died there in 1941. He is buried in the Susanville Cemetery, there is no marker for his grave.
DId John spaulding (in the 1880’s) live in the small cabin or in the larger one which is just a foundation now?
Did John S Spalding (in the 1800’s) live in the small cabin still standing or in the larger one where the foundation is barely visible today?