| Notes |
- San Francisco Bulletin
February 1, 1881
A rumor which was current on the street at noon today, that John W. Dwinelle was drowned near Benecia on Friday of last week, is found to be true. He went on that day to visit relatives at Benecia, where he dined, and afterwards set out for home. He was seen to go on board the ferry steamer Solano, and was afterwards seen by the Captain on the Port Costa side. By some mischance he fell into the water, either from the boat or the wharf, and was drowned. Particulars of the accident have only just reached the city. His death at the time could not have been known by anyone. It was only after a prolonged abscence that an inquiry was made after him, when it was ascertained that a man had fallen overboard into the river, but his name and place of residence were unknown.
John W. Dwinelle was born at Cazenovia, N.Y., about the year 1816 and was about 64 years old. He graduated from Hamilton College, and studied law at Cazenovia and Syracuse. He practiced for a while in Rochester and Ann Arbor and came to this state in 1849, and returned to the east in 1853. After remaining a few years he returned and settled in San Francisco. He had a large practice, especially in land cases. He mastered the Spanish language, and was thoroughly acquainted with Spanish Land Titles and the history of Mexican Colonial times. Outside of his profession he was an omnivorous reader, looking into almost every subject of humam interest. The information he had at command was wonderful. His miscellaneous knowledge was often critical, but much of it was collected in out of the wat channels, and was curious and rare. He was a walking treasury of information, much of which he could bring to the practical illustration of any subject at a moments notice. He had rare conversational powers, and was in this respect, one of the most entertaining of men.
Mr. Dwinelle drew the original charter of the University, and as a member of the legislature was largely interested in getting the measure through that body.He served for some years of the board of Regents, and had previously filled the office of Mayor of Oakland. He married for the second time a few years ago, and resided in the city of Alameda, but more recemtly changed his residence to this city. The sudden demise of this notable citizen will be read with painful interest by the community in which he was so well known.
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San Francisco Bulletin
February 17, 1881
Martinez, Cal., February 17th. - The body of the late John W. Dwinelle was recovered this mornig at Porta Costa. A gang of stevedores at about 5 o'clock today, saw the body floating on its back near McNear's warehouse. The coroner has been sent for, and an inquest will be held.
Post Costa, February 17th - The Coroner's jury which was convened here have adjourned to take take further testimony. The body which is in a state of good preservation, was recognized as that of John W. Dwinelle. His watch had stopped at nine minutes past 6, which was about the time the ferry boat left the slip on the night he was missed. His watch chain, jewelry, and a few dollars, were found on his person. There were no marks of violence or anything to indicate that his death was other than accidental.
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San Francisco Bulletin
February 18, 1881
Dwinelle - At Port Costa, Contra Costa county, Jan 25 A.D.John W. Dwinelle, counselor at law, a native of Madison county New York age 64 years.
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1816 - 1881 (65 years)
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