George Treat facts for kids

George Treat (1819–1907) was an important person during the California Gold Rush era. He was a pioneer in the Mission District of San Francisco. Treat was a businessman and an abolitionist, meaning he worked to end slavery. He was also part of the first Committee of Vigilance in San Francisco. George Treat loved horse racing and helped build the Pioneer Race Course. He also played a role in creating the San Francisco-San Jose Railway by selling land for it. His actions greatly shaped how the Mission District grew and became a city area.

His Early Life

George Treat was born in Frankfort, Maine, on April 16, 1819. His parents were Joshua and Sarah Treat. He left Maine when he was young. In 1835, he moved to New Orleans and lived there until 1847.

In 1847, George and his brother, John Treat, joined the United States Army. They went to Mexico shortly before the Mexican–American War ended. On April 19, 1857, George Treat married Clarinda Littlefield. They had five children: May Benton, Clara Littlefield, Sara Batchelder, Rosa, and Frank Livingston Treat.

Moving to San Francisco

After leaving the army, George Treat came to California. He arrived in San Francisco on August 10, 1849. The brothers settled in a quiet part of the Mission Valley. This area is now known as the Mission District. They grew food to sell in the city markets.

Land and Development

In the 1850s, George Treat gained a lot of land in the Mission District. This land was south of 24th Street. He also acquired the western part of the Potrero District. This land had been owned by Californios and Mexican families. These families had owned the land since 1834. Treat's actions helped open up these areas for new homes and businesses.

Business and Hobbies

George Treat became well-known in San Francisco's business world. He had mining businesses in Nevada and Mexico. He was also famous for his love of horses. He bred race horses for his tracks around San Francisco. A popular song of the time, "I Wish I Were a Bee," even mentioned his famous race horse, Katie Pease.

Treat was also the first person to bring Angora goats to California. These goats are known for their soft wool.

His Legacy

The home built by George and his brother, John Treat, was originally on Capp Street in 1861. This wooden building was later moved. Its current address is 1266 Hampshire Street.

Treat Avenue in San Francisco is named after George Treat. This street is located in the area where his family's homestead, called the Treat Tract, used to be. George Treat passed away in San Francisco in May 1907.