Cyrus Alexander facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cyrus Alexander
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| Born | March 15, 1805 |
| Died | December 27, 1872 (aged 67) Rancho Sotoyome, Sonoma County, California, United States
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| Occupation | Landowner |
| Known for | Early settlement of Sonoma County, California |
Cyrus Alexander (1805–1872) was an important early settler in Sonoma County, California. He helped develop the area during a time of big changes.
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Who Was Cyrus Alexander?
Cyrus Alexander was born in Pennsylvania in 1805. His family soon moved to Illinois. When he was older, in 1831, Cyrus worked as a fur trapper in the Rocky Mountains.
In 1833, he traveled all the way to San Diego, California. There, he started working for a man named Henry D. Fitch, who was a captain. Cyrus also became a Mexican citizen around this time. This was important because California was part of Mexico back then.
Finding a New Home
In 1840, Captain Fitch needed a good place for a cattle ranch. He sent Cyrus Alexander to explore and find the perfect spot. Cyrus traveled north and discovered the beautiful Russian River Valley.
From 1841 to 1845, Cyrus managed a large piece of land called Rancho Sotoyome for Captain Fitch. They had an agreement: after four years, Cyrus would receive his own large section of land and some of the ranch animals.
Starting a Family
In 1844, Cyrus Alexander married Rufina Lucero. She was born in 1830. Rufina's sister was married to another rancher named William Gordon.
In 1845, a man named Moses Carson took over managing Rancho Sotoyome. Moses was the brother of the famous explorer Kit Carson. This meant Cyrus was free to settle on his own land.
Building a Life in Alexander Valley
Cyrus chose his land on the east side of the Russian River. This area is now known as Alexander Valley, named after him! He started building a special type of house called an adobe dwelling. Adobe houses are made from sun-dried earth bricks.
In 1853, Cyrus tried to officially claim his two square leagues of land. This land was part of the original grant Captain Fitch received in 1841. However, his claim was turned down by the Public Land Commission.
Later Life and Legacy
Cyrus Alexander passed away on his ranch in Alexander Valley on December 27, 1872. He was 67 years old. His wife, Rufina, lived many more years and died on the same ranch on March 18, 1908.
Cyrus Alexander is remembered for being one of the first people to settle and develop the Sonoma County area. His name lives on in the beautiful Alexander Valley.
