M. Theodore Kearney, who died in 1906, was considered the strong man of the raisin industry, and one of the largest producers of raisins in California. His origins are obscure, although it is known that he lived in Boston from 1865 to 1867, and in San Francisco after Jan. 1, 1870. He was known as a real estate broker and was a partner of W.C. Chapman, a speculator in Fresno County lands. In 1877 he was agent for the Bank of California in the sale of the Easterby rancho in Fresno, and in 1880 purchased N.K Masten's share therein -- probably Kearney's start in the ranching and vineyard business. He acquired the Fruit Vale estate also, and later a controlling interest in the Fresno Vineyard Company. He played an important role in the California Raisin Growers Association and maintained important social connections in San Francisco. The Kearney Fruit Vale ranch was an estate of 5400 acres, including alfalfa, vineyards, citrus trees, packing facilities, and a large house. The University of California administered the estate from 1906 to 1948.
From the description of Kearney Ranch records, [ca. 1888-1948]. (University of California, Berkeley). WorldCat record id: 122592094
