Jacob H. Neff

Jacob Hart Neff, California Lieutenant Governor.

Jacob H. Neff (October 18, 1830 – March 26, 1909) was an American politician. He served as the 22nd Lieutenant Governor of California from 1899 to 1903.

Personal information

Jacob H. Neff was born in Strasburg, Pennsylvania on October 18, 1830, his parents and he removed to Iowa. In 1849, they removed to California. He thereafter resided exclusively in the state, most of the time in Placer County, where he had large mining interests.^[1]

Early years

In his earlier years, Jacob H. Neff became engaged in the blacksmith trade. He had become overwhelmed with the gold fever, and he decided to head west when he was 19 years old. He worked as a miner until the year of 1863. While holding this job, he had accumulated enough money to join forces with Ben Taylor and the Coleman Brothers. Their idea was to utilize Bear River by building a toll road and bridge across it.^[1]

Career

Neff served in both branches of the Legislature and one term as Lieutenant Governor. For many years he was the president of the California Miners' Association. He also filled a term as State Prison Commissioner and at various times occupied other positions of public trust.^[1][2]

Death

Jacob H. Neff died in March 1909 at the age of 78.^[1]

References

1. Hagman, Nancy. "Hunting for History". Neff's goldhound start led to political career. Retrieved 16 August 2012.
2. Los Angeles Times, Mar. 27, 1909, "Jacob Neff Passes Away," p. 11