In 1869, for some strange unknown reason, a stray Cornishman, Robert Miles Smith settled on 160 acres which is now a part of the Fleming Wildlife Unit, in the Honey Lake Valley. In many cases, usually immigrants locate where fellow countrymen have settled. This, of course, was especially true of the Swiss Italians of Honey Lake and Sierra Valleys. In Smith’s case, the only other person from Cornwall, was Mary Bass of Elysian Valley. In 1870, his aged mother, Mary, brother John P.M. Smith and sister Jane joined him.
Robert died unexpectedly in 1873, and his brother took over the property. In the meantime, Jane married Honey Laker, William Martin Tanner, my great grandparents. In 1891, John P.M. Smith sold his 160 acres to L.W. Brubeck for $2,500 and returned to Polgooth, Cornwall, England with his mother.
So, sometimes people settled wherever with no particular reason.
Hi
Are you able to confirm if the photo is of John Perry Mitchell Smith or his brother Robert Miles Smith please. Both from Cornwall, England.
Thank you
Yes, that is him. My grandfather, his nephew, John Perry Tanner, was named for him. John P.M. Smith’s son, Orrin, who I met in Mevagissey had the same photograph. There was another brother, who remained in the UK and at the time of Robert’s death he was residing at Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Thank you Tim for your response. John Perry Mitchell Smith was my 2nd Grt Grand Uncle on my Dad’s side. I’m a Smith too. It was a great surprise and treat when my sister found this article and photo if him. It’s amazing where a family tree can take you. Thanks again. Kind regards Pauline