Davison Property: History of the Davison Ranch, Evaluation of National Register Eligibility

Van Kirk, Susie

Archival and library research, field work and interviews were conducted during February and March of 1992. Information on land ownership was obtained through deed records in the Humboldt County Recorder's Office, Courthouse, Eureka, California. The buildings on the Davison property were inventoried, measured, and photographed by Susie Van Kirk and Ann King Smith on 5 and 17 March 1992. Interviews were conducted with Marian Davison Legerwood, Eureka, on 24 February 1992; Alma Davison, Prairie Creek, on 5 and 17 March 1992; and Maurice Davison, San Jose, by phone on 12 March 1992. Vital statistics records in the Recorder's Office provided some information about members of the Davison family. Additional historical information about the family, dairy ranching, and the area's environmental and social setting was researched by reading the Arcata Union newspaper from 1886 through 1925 and review of other newspaper and library references. A report prepared by Park Archaeologist Ann King Smith entitled, 'A Cultural Resources Study of the Davison Property', was reviewed. Jan Wooley of the State Office of Historic Preservation made recommendations regarding preparation of the Historic Resources Inventory form, DPR 523 (Rev. 6/90).