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A Sketch of the Causes, Operations and Results of the San Francisco Vigilance Committee of 1856   By: (1804-1879)

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In "A Sketch of the Causes, Operations and Results of the San Francisco Vigilance Committee of 1856," Stephen Palfrey Webb provides a detailed account of a crucial and often overlooked period in San Francisco's history. Released decades after the actual events took place, this book stands as an invaluable reference for any historian or enthusiast interested in understanding the city's tumultuous social and political landscape during the mid-19th century.

Webb promptly frames the book by setting the historical context, painstakingly laying out the various factors that led to the emergence of the San Francisco Vigilance Committee. By meticulously examining the demographic changes, boomtown ethos, institutional failures, and widespread lawlessness, the author vividly illustrates how a sense of civic duty and self-preservation drove ordinary citizens to take matters into their own hands.

The book excels in its depiction of the committee's operations, its inner workings, and the moral dilemmas it faced. Webb does a commendable job of capturing the dynamics of this ad hoc organization, from the recruitment of its members to the implementation of swift and often controversial justice. He presents a comprehensive analysis of the committee's decision-making process, balancing the desire for efficient justice against the potential for abuse of power.

One of the book's highlights is Webb's attention to detail. His extensive research is evident as he delves into the specific cases that were tried by the committee, providing a plethora of evidence, testimony, and outcomes. This meticulousness allows readers to form a complete picture of both the crimes committed and the fairness or lack thereof in the committee's trial procedures. Additionally, he takes care to explore the contrasting perspectives on the committee's actions, shedding light on the diverse opinions within and outside San Francisco at the time.

While the book primarily focuses on the operations of the vigilance committee and the resultant impact on the city, it does touch upon the broader repercussions. Webb briefly discusses the implications for law enforcement, the legal system, and the political landscape, acknowledging the divisive nature of the committee's actions and the consequences that rippled throughout society.

Despite its merits, there are a few aspects that could have been further developed. Webb's analysis of the underlying causes and societal factors that led to the committee's formation could have been expanded upon, offering deeper insights into the collective mindset of the residents of San Francisco. In addition, the author occasionally jumps between events chronologically, which could confuse readers unfamiliar with the timeline of these events.

Overall, "A Sketch of the Causes, Operations and Results of the San Francisco Vigilance Committee of 1856" is a captivating and informative historical account. Webb's attention to detail, meticulous research, and balanced portrayal of the committee's actions make this book an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this critical moment in San Francisco's past.

First Page:

A SKETCH OF THE CAUSES, OPERATIONS AND RESULTS OF THE SAN FRANCISCO VIGILANCE COMMITTEE IN 1856

By Stephen Palfrey Webb

1874

Stephen Palfrey Webb was born in Salem on March 20, 1804, the son of Capt. Stephen and Sarah (Putnam) Webb. He was graduated from Harvard in 1824, and studied law with Hon. John Glen King, after which he was admitted to the Essex Bar. He practiced law in Salem, served as Representative and Senator in the Massachusetts Legislature, and was elected Mayor of Salem in 1842, serving three years. He was Treasurer of the Essex Railroad Company in the late forties.

About 1853, he went to San Francisco, where he resided several years, serving as Mayor of that city in 1854 and 1855. It was during this time that he witnessed the riotous mobs following the Gold Rush of 1849, and upon his return Salem made notes for a lecture, which he delivered in Salem; and later, with many additions, prepared this sketch, probably about 1874. He was again elected Mayor of Salem, 1860 1862, and City Clerk, 1863 1870. He died in Salem on September 29, 1879. On May 26, 1834, he married Hannah H. B. Robinson of Salem.

There have been several accounts of the activities of the Vigilance Committee, but this is firsthand information from one who was on the ground at the time, and for this reason it is considered a valuable contribution to the history of those troublous days... Continue reading book >>




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