The important role played by the W. B. Bourn family in the history of California is not generally well known. Usually, the family is heard of only in connection with “Filoli,” the Bourn mansion in San Mateo County, or the Bourn “Cottage” at the Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley. The Bourn family is introduced on guided tours at these sites as their builders and first occupants, and the Bourn family wealth is usually noted as having been derived from ownership of the famous Empire Gold Mine. There is little mention of any family roles in the political, financial, or social life of the time. This somewhat narrow interpretation of Bourn history has not gone unnoticed by visitors to these properties, and the question “Is there anything more available on the Bourns?” is frequently asked at the conclusion of a guided tour. To remedy this oversight, this book hopes to present a composite of biographical and anecdotal information on the Bourns and the related Chase, Starr, and Vincent families. The Bourn family was a strong force for good throughout California’s Golden Age. They left an enduring mark on San Francisco through their contributions to the economic, social, architectural, cultural, and religious life of the community. That same force for good continues into the present day.
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