Nathan Coombs facts for kids

Nathan Coombs (born in 1826 – died December 26, 1877) was an important early settler in California. He is known for being the person who founded the city of Napa, California.

Who Was Nathan Coombs?

Nathan Coombs was a pioneer who helped shape early California. He traveled across the country to settle in the West. His journey led him to become a key figure in the history of Napa Valley.

Early Life and Moving West

Nathan Coombs was born in Massachusetts in 1826. When he was about 16 years old, he began a big adventure. In 1842, he traveled overland to Oregon. The very next year, in 1843, he moved to California.

When he first arrived in California, Coombs worked for different people. He worked for Steven Smith in Bodega Bay. Then, he worked for William Gordon in Yolo County. In 1845, Nathan Coombs married William Gordon's daughter, Maria Isabel Gordon.

Settling in Napa Valley

In 1845, Coombs came to the beautiful Napa Valley. He bought a small piece of land there. This land was part of a larger area called Rancho Tulucay. It was located on the east side of the Napa River.

In 1846, Nathan Coombs took part in the Bear Flag Revolt. This was a short rebellion by American settlers against Mexican rule in California. It helped California become part of the United States.

A year later, in 1847, Coombs bought more land. He purchased a 325-acre farm from Salvador Vallejo. This farm was about one and a half miles northwest of where Napa is today. Nathan Coombs lived on this farm until he passed away.

Founding the City of Napa

Nathan Coombs made a very important purchase in 1847. He bought 80 acres of land from Nicholas Higuera. This land was part of Rancho Entre Napa. On this land, in 1848, Nathan Coombs planned and established the city of Napa. He is recognized as its founder.

In 1851, Coombs and William Gordon bought another large area of land. They purchased Rancho Chimiles from the Berreyesa family.

A Public Servant

Nathan Coombs also served in the government. He was a member of the California State Assembly. This is like being a representative in the state's law-making body. He served two terms: from 1855 to 1856, and again from 1860 to 1861.

Nathan Coombs died in Napa on December 26, 1877.

His Lasting Legacy

Nathan Coombs left a lasting mark on California. A place called Coombsville is named after him. This shows how important he was to the area.

His son, Frank Coombs, also became a well-known figure. Frank Coombs later served as a United States Representative for California. This means he represented California in the national government.