John Howell Sears facts for kids
John Howell Sears (1823–1907) was an important early settler in California. He helped start and grow two towns in San Mateo County: Searsville and La Honda. His work greatly shaped how these places developed.
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A Pioneer's Journey
John Howell Sears was born on February 3, 1823, in Sullivan County, New York. He lived in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, before heading west.
Arriving in California
On August 1, 1850, Sears arrived in San Francisco by ship. He came during the exciting time of the California Gold Rush. Like many others, he was a gold prospector, hoping to find his fortune. He traveled to various gold mines across Northern California before settling down.
Building Searsville
By 1854, Sears found himself in a lumber town. This town would later be named Searsville. He was there in the early days, even before the town was fully developed. Sears built his own hotel, called the Sears Hotel. It was located on Sand Hill Road, near the town's entrance. Because he also had a contract for the post office, he likely played a big part in the town being named after him.
Developing La Honda
As the lumber business in Searsville slowed down, Sears looked for new opportunities. In 1862, he bought 400 acres of land in the La Honda area. There, he built the famous Old Store at La Honda and another hotel nearby.
Moving the Town Center
Sears bought the Sausman Store in Old La Honda. This store used to be the main spot in town. John Sears was responsible for moving the center of La Honda to its current location. By 1880, Sears even hired a blacksmith for the town. This blacksmith shop later became Sears' grocery store. Today, it is a saloon called "Apple Jack's Inn."
Family and Legacy
John Sears was married to Nancy A. Mayhew (1829–1891). She passed away before him. Together, they had three children: William, Ida, and Anna. John Howell Sears died in 1907 at the age of 84 in La Honda. He passed away from pneumonia. He was buried with his family in Union Cemetery in Redwood City, California.
