William Sturgis Hinckley facts for kids

William Sturgis Hinckley (1806-1846) was an important leader in early California. He served as the 9th Alcalde of San Francisco. Back then, San Francisco was known as Yerba Buena. An Alcalde was like a mayor and judge all rolled into one.

Early Life and Adventures

William Sturgis Hinckley was born in Hingham, Massachusetts, a town in the United States. He was the nephew of a well-known merchant from Boston named William F. Sturgis.

In the 1830s, William had an exciting job. He was the owner and captain of ships. These ships sailed between California and the Hawaiian Islands. They were part of a busy trade, carrying goods like animal hides.

Life in Yerba Buena

After his first wife passed away in 1840, William decided to make Yerba Buena his permanent home. In 1842, he became a citizen of Mexico. This was important because California was part of Mexico at that time. He also married Susana Martínez, the daughter of Ygnacio Martínez.

William became good friends with Juan Bautista Alvarado. Alvarado was a key figure in California politics. William supported Alvarado in his efforts to become the governor of Alta California.

Leading Yerba Buena

In 1844, William Sturgis Hinckley was elected as the Alcalde of Yerba Buena. This meant he was in charge of the town. During his time as Alcalde, he made an important decision. He ordered the building of a bridge.

This bridge crossed a small creek. The creek connected San Francisco Bay to a saltwater lagoon. Today, this area is where Montgomery and Jackson Streets meet. Before the bridge, people had to walk through muddy areas or jump over the creek. The bridge made travel much easier for everyone. It was seen as a big improvement for the town.

William's term as Alcalde ended on January 1, 1846. He passed away in June of that same year.