Julian A. Chavez facts for kids

Julian Antonio Chavez (born January 7, 1808 – died July 25, 1879) was an important person in early Los Angeles, California. He was a rancher (someone who owns and manages a large farm for raising animals) and a landowner (someone who owns a lot of land). He was also an elected official, meaning people voted for him to serve in government.

Chavez served many times on the Los Angeles Common Council, which was like the city council we have today. He also served on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. A famous area known as Chavez Ravine was once part of his land.

Julian Chavez's Early Life

Where Julian Chavez Came From

Julian Antonio Chavez was born in a place called Abiquiú, New Mexico. His birthday was January 7, 1808. His parents were Francisco Chavez and Francesca Rosa Verlarde.

He probably moved to Los Angeles in the early 1830s. He might have traveled with groups of people who trapped animals for their fur. In 1836, a city count listed him as a "laborer," meaning he worked with his hands.

How Chavez Acquired Land

Around the time he arrived, Julian Chavez started to get land. Back then, you could ask the local government, called the ayuntamiento, for permission to own empty land.

In 1844, he was given about 83 acres of land. This land was about 1½ miles north of downtown Los Angeles. It became known as Chavez Canyon. Today, this area is called Chavez Ravine. It is now the home of Dodger Stadium, where the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team plays.

Julian Chavez's Public Service

His Political Career

Julian Chavez's first job in government was in 1838. He became an assistant mayor, called suplente alcalde, in Los Angeles.

He also worked as a "judge of waters." This role helped settle arguments about who could use water. Later, he was a "judge of the plains." This job involved solving problems, mostly about water and cattle, as part of the Court of Sessions.

In 1873, he served his last term on the Los Angeles Common Council. He worked with other important people like Prudent Beaudry and William H. Workman.

Serving on the Board of Supervisors

In June 1852, Chavez was chosen to be on the first Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. This group helps manage the county. Other members included Jefferson Hunt and Manuel Requena. He also served on the board in 1858 and 1861.

Julian Chavez's Family and Later Life

His Family and Death

Julian Chavez was a widower, meaning his first wife had passed away. He married again on November 4, 1865. His new wife was Maria Luisa Machado. She was 22 years younger than him.

Maria Luisa came from a well-known family of ranchers in Los Angeles. Her father was Ygnacio Machado.

Julian Chavez died on July 25, 1879. He passed away from a heart attack.