YUBA COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Edward Downer, born 1869 in Browns Valley probably at the Browns Valley Hotel his mother Mary Anne operated at the time, spent his childhood traveling with his father, James around the gold diggings of the Yuba County foothills.  As a teenager Edward attended a high school in Nevada County. With occupations in adulthood ranging from postmaster, telegrapher, real estate investor, and

newspaper founder he found his true calling as a banker.   In 1905 he organized the Bank of Pinole and in 1907 founded the Mechanics Bank of Richmond.  He served as president of both banks until his death in 1938. Edward’s involvement in philanthropic and civic activities was vast and varied ranging from Richmond Lodge of Elks, and Athenian Nile Club of Oakland to Pinole Lodge of Masons and Knights Templar of Oakland. He was Mayor of Oakland and a Director of Berkeley Country Club and Richmond Chamber of Commerce at the time of his death. Currently the Edward M. Downer Elementary School of San Pablo continues to honor his legacy. The book, History of Contra Costa County edited by Frederick Hulaniski describes Edward M. Downer as a “substantial and reliable upbuilder of Contra Costa County.”  Little known and largely forgotten in Yuba County, Edward made a major impact on the business world of California in the 1920’s and 30’s. He is buried in Mountain View Cemetery far from the towering oaks and golden fields of his childhood.  

The Yuba County Historic Resources Commission highlights historic places and people who helped shape Yuba County. The Commission meets the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Yuba Sutter Arts building 624 E Street in Marysville. Anyone interested in Yuba County history is invited. Roberta D’Arcy at 530-743-8742.