Thomas H. Johnstone
THOMAS H. JOHNSTONE. There are few names more prominently associated
with the commercial development of Modoc County than that of Mr.
Johnstone, who is at the head of various important enterprises in the
county and especially has been interested in movements for the
commercial growth of Cedarville, his home town. The general store of
which he is manager and principal owner and which forms one of the
largest concerns of its kind in Surprise Valley was incorporated in
April 1905, under the laws of California, with a capital stock of
$40,000, business being conducted under the name of the T.H. Johnstone
Company. In March of 1905, Mr. Johnstone became the president of the
newly organized Surprise Valley State Bank, capitalized at $25,000, and
this responsible position he now fills, in addition to conducting his
important mercantile enterprise and acting as a notary public and agent
for a number of fire insurance companies. Another important undertaking
which owes its origin
to himself and other men equally public-spirited is the Surprise Valley
Electric Light and Power Company, which was organized for the purpose of
furnishing light and power to the people of the valley, and was
incorporated in May 1905, with a capital stock of $25,000. Not only by
the investment of money in shares of stock has Mr. Johnstone aided the
development of this company, but he has been especially helpful through
his services as treasurer and vice-president, which positions he has
filled since the organization of the company.
Of Canadian birth, Mr. Johnstone was born in Ontario,
February 7, 1850, and grew to manhood upon the home farm. After the
death of his father he conducted the farm for one year in the interests
of his mother and then went to the regions east of Hudson Bay, where he
was employed in the lumber business. During the Fenian raid in Canada
in 1870 he enlisted as a private in the Ottawa Artillery, and later was
promoted to be sergeant, serving as such until the troubles were ended.
In recognition of his bravery and gallant services Queen Victoria some
years later presented him with a medal, which he now cherishes as one
of is most valued possessions.
On coming to the States in 1876, Mr. Johnstone became
interested in mining near Virginia City, Nev., but soon removed to
California and for one year was employed in herding sheep in Modoc
County. Next he rented a farm in what is known as the Cottonwood
district of Surprise Valley. On coming to Cedarville he secured a
position as bookkeeper with M.D. Haynes & Co., and two years later, on
the dissolution of this firm, he was chosen business manager for
Cressler & Bonner in the same town. Remaining with that firm for three
years when a consolidation was effected for their interests with Kistler
Brothers, he was admitted as a member of the firm of Kistler, Johnstone
& Co. Three years later, when that partnership was dissolved, he
bought out a small store owned by L. Waldenberg & Co. With this as a
nucleus he has built up a large trade that extends in every direction
from Cedarville, throughout the surrounding country, and he also ,
since May 1904, has operated
similar store at Eagleville. His attractive home in Cedarville is
presided over the lady whom he married June 26, 1878 and who was Miss
Anna M. Mills, a native of Canada; they are the parents of two
daughters, Cassie M. and Jennie D. The family are identified with the
Episcopal denomination, and are contributors to the religious and
philanthropic movements. Active in local politics as a leader of the
Republic party in Cedarville and vicinity, Mr. Johnstone, though
declining official honors for himself, has given his staunch support to
friends during their candidacy for official positions and has been a
contributor to the upbuilding of the party in the county. Fraternally
he is a member and past master of Surprise Valley Lodge No. 235. F.&
A.M., having been made a Mason in Canada in 1875.
Guinn, J.M. History of the State of California and Biographical Records
of the Sierras. Chicago: Chapman Publishing Company, 1906 at page
665-666
This Web page is sponsored on behalf of the California portion of The
USGenWeb Project by Richard S. Wilson. Although believed to be correct as
presented, if you note any corrections, changes, additions, or find that any
links provided on this page are not functioning properly please contact the
County Coordinator for prompt attention to the matter.
Last updated July 8, 2006