Leonard W. Buck facts for kids

Leonard W. Buck (born 1834, died 1895) was an important American businessman, rancher, and politician. He lived during a time of big changes in the United States.

Early Life and Military Service

Leonard W. Buck was born on July 8, 1834, in Truxton, New York. He went to school at the Courtland Academy in Homer, New York.

During the American Civil War, he served as a Lieutenant. He was part of the Union Army from 1862 to 1863.

Career as a Businessman and Rancher

After the Civil War, Buck worked as a salesman. He sold hardware goods in Clinton, Iowa, from 1865 to 1873.

In 1874, Buck moved to California. He started a ranch in Vacaville, California. He also owned another ranch in Lodi, California. On his ranches, he grew a lot of fruit, especially peaches. He also helped lead the Bank of Vacaville, serving on its board of directors.

Political Role

Leonard W. Buck also became involved in politics. He served as a senator in the California State Senate. This meant he helped make laws for the state of California.

Family and Community Life

Buck married Anna M. Bellows in 1856. They had five children together. They had two sons, Frank H. Buck and Fred M. Buck. They also had three daughters: Mrs. J. B. Corey, Emma L. Buck, and Anna M. Buck. From 1887, the family lived in Oakland, California. Their home was at 929 Adeline Street.

Buck was also a member of the Freemasons. This is a social and charitable organization. He was the leader of the Vacaville lodge of Freemasons in 1884.

Death

Leonard W. Buck was in an accident on June 3, 1895. He was hit by a horse and buggy. This happened in San Francisco, California, at the corner of Castro Street and 12th Street. He passed away the very next day at his home in Oakland.

He was buried at the Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland. When he died, he was estimated to be worth about US$300,000.