Alexander Forbes (explorer) facts for kids

Alexander Forbes (1778–1862) was a Scottish merchant, explorer, and writer from the 1800s. He wrote a very important book called California: A History of Upper and Lower California. This book, published in 1839, was probably the first full story of California written in the English language. Alexander was also the brother of a famous doctor, Sir John Forbes.

Who Was Alexander Forbes?

His Early Life and Work

Alexander Forbes grew up in Scotland, in areas called Banffshire and Aberdeenshire. Later, he moved to Tepic, Mexico. There, he worked as a merchant, buying and selling goods. He also served as the British consul in Mexico. A consul is like a representative for their country in another land.

Writing About California

Forbes wrote his famous book about California while he was living in Mexico. What's amazing is that he wrote it without ever visiting California himself! He gathered information from people who lived there, like the Franciscan Padres (religious leaders) and a rancher named Abel Stearns.

California in the 1800s

When Forbes wrote his book, California was a part of Mexico. His book described Mexican California in great detail. It talked about the farms, the land, and how people lived. Forbes even suggested that the United Kingdom should take control of California. He thought Mexico might give California to the UK to settle its debts.

The Great Quicksilver Mines

A Big Business Deal

In 1846, Alexander Forbes joined with Eustace Barron and James Alexander Forbes (who was not related to him). Their company, Barron, Forbes & Co., bought the New Almaden quicksilver (mercury) mines. These mines turned out to be very valuable and made a lot of money.

The Mine's Legal Battle

However, owning the mine became complicated. Other people, like José de los Reyes Berryessa, also claimed the land where the mine was located. Even the United States government said the mine was on public land. This led to a very long and complex legal case.

The case, called United States v. Andres Castillero, went all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States. In 1862, the court finally decided who owned which parts of the land. Forbes's company then bought the rights from the other claimants. In 1864, they sold the entire mine operation to the Quicksilver Mining Company.

Later Years

In 1848, Forbes moved to London to live with his brother, Sir John Forbes. They both retired to Whitchurch-on-Thames in 1859. Alexander Forbes passed away in 1862 at the age of 84.