Fernbridge

Ed does have a short appearance in "Saving the Queen," a documentary produced by the Ferndale Museum about Fernbridge. The film can be bought here, if one scrolls down near the bottom. It doesn't contain what Ed is currently collecting, but is an excellent watch nonetheless. Here is a piece written by Ed for the 100th year anniversary of the bridge back in 2011.

Research

A sepia-toned photograph of two men standing in front of a carriage. The photo is focused on the man in the middle, wearing a button-down, jacket, and hat. This is assumed to be James Wilson.

Ed was considering his father's role on Fernbridge. Having assumed he was a general worker due to his lack of greater education, he recieved a shock when reading an article by the Ferndale Museum on the anniversary of the bridge's completion and found a picture of his father. James Wilson, Superintendent of Construction. Needless to say, that left him with several questions about his father's life.

The questions ultimately culminated in this post written by Peter Giacomini. (The post appears to be archived as of 2024, we are attempting to find a version of it for completion's sake.)

BONUS: Ed's Website Curator's Research:

In looking for James Willison, I was able to find a few newspaper articles about the same event in 1903. (Thanks, University databases.)

First, the complimentary article:

TROUBLE COMING FOR THE "COURTHOUSE GANG": The Law-Abiding Citizens of Contra Costa Are Tired of The Hoodlum Antics

Next, the other side of the perspective for the sake of unbiased historical recounting:

GROWING INDIGNATION OVER BRUTAL AFFAIR AT MARTINEZ: PRESS AND PEOPLE ROUSED BY ASSAULT ON REPORTER

Lastly, a satisfactory conclusion for Mr. Willison:

WILLISON GETS HIS MONEY BACK: PHILANTHROPIC CONTRACTOR WINS A REPUTATION AT LITTLE COST TO HIMSELF

A few notes:

The writing styles were delightful, and the drama a very enjoyable evening.
As for the research element, further will be taken towards 1909. In the meantime, however, there is definitely some detail on Mr. Willison out there. Until we find proof on a name change from Willison to Wilson, it shall simply have to remain a theory.

-"-

Back to Homepage.