Reed, James Frazier, 1800-1874

James Reed and his family came to California as members of the Donner Party in 1846. He was a miner, later settled in San Jose.

From the description of James Frazier Reed Collection, 1843-1851. (California State Library). WorldCat record id: 58855231

Born in Ireland, settled in Illinois and owned a cabinet making business in what is now known as Riverton, Ill. Member of the Reed-Donner party who survived and became a successful businessman in California.

From the description of Loan application report, Sept. 23, 1836. (Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library). WorldCat record id: 53969481

Born in Ireland, settled in Illinois and had a cabinet making business in what is now Riverton, Ill. until 1846 when he joined the Donner party to travel west. Survived and became a successful businessman in California.

From the description of Papers, 1846. (Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library). WorldCat record id: 53969482

James Frazier Reed and his family departed Springfield, Illinois, for California in 1846, as members of the Donner Party.

From the description of Promissory note : Springfield, Ill., 1843 Nov 20. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 81699405

From the description of Promissory note : Springfield, Ill., 1843 Nov 20. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 702150327

Biography

James Frazier Reed was born in Ireland, November 14, 1800. He lived in Virginia and Illinois before comeing to California. He and Abraham Lincoln were privates in the same company in the Black Hawk War. He, with his wife, four children and mother, came to California as members of the Donner Party in 1846. He was a miner and later settled in San Jose, working to make San Jose the capitol of the state, and contributing land for that purpose. He died in San Jose, July 24, 1874.

From the guide to the James Frazier Reed Papers, 1843-1851, (California State Library)