(1922) edited by John Brown Jr. for San Bernardino County (and James Boyd for Riverside County), is a two-volume regional history published by the Lewis Publishing Company. This work provides detailed biographical sketches, historical overviews, and profiles of early settlers, professionals, politicians, and businesspeople from the Inland Empire region of Southern California.
Key Details:
- Full Title: History of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties: With Selected Biography of Actors and Witnesses of the Period of Growth and Achievement
- Publication Date: 1922
- Publisher: Lewis Publishing Company
- Editors:
- John Brown, Jr. – responsible for San Bernardino County sections
- James Boyd – responsible for Riverside County sections
Contents:
- Volume I: Covers the general history of the two counties, including early exploration, mission influence, settlement, economic development (ranching, mining, agriculture), and infrastructure like railroads and irrigation.
- Volume II: Devoted largely to biographical sketches of notable individuals—pioneers, community leaders, business owners, and public officials.
Notable Features:
- It contains firsthand accounts and detailed family histories, many of which are not found elsewhere.
- The editors relied on interviews and submissions from local families and civic leaders, making it a valuable source for genealogical and regional research.
- The book reflects early 20th-century values and perspectives, often idealizing the pioneer spirit and the “civilizing” of the region.