Cutler Salmon

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Cutler Salmon was born in New York on August 25, 1809. He began his progression to the West in 1825, with stays in Kentucky, Louisiana, and Wisconsin. In 1828 while living in Wisconsin, he fought in the Black Hawk War, serving as a captain. On October 19, 1829, he married Janet (Jane) Reynolds. Four boys and six girls resulted from this union.

In the latter part of 1853, Cutler came to San Joaquin County and purchased 700 acres of land for $3,000. The "farm", as he called it, and the residence are still in existence on French Camp Road at the end of North Union Road. On the farm he raised cattle, wheat. alfalfa, and many varieties of vegetables. The site is still called "Dutch Point" and at one time was used by travelers as a stopping point on their way to the gold mines in the Sierra. The first well in California producing gas for domestic purposes was discovered at this location.

Evelyn Prouty Thompson, in her book about Manteca writes, "Cutler Salmon and his descendants have done much to make this area a better place for us all to live.” Cutler Salmon died on January 24, 1893, at the age of 83. His wife died in 1899, just before reaching the age of 86. Two of their children married children of Joshua Cowell.

Cutler Salmon was an adventurous man, who had a vision, courage, and leadership. He was a true pioneer of the Manteca area.