"Moore, Thomas J. – male, race E, age 58 yrs 11 mo 1 da, b. Va., d. 13 Jul 1876, in Chico, Ca., lived in county for 23 years." Source: Earliest Death and Burial Records, in the Butte County Courthouse, published serially in the Paradise Genealogical Society's publication, The Goldmine, Vol 7, No. 4, pg 12.
"THOMAS JEFFERSON MOORE SR. Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr. was born August 12, 1817, in Wheeling, Virginia. He married Frances Matilda Vannoy on August 20, 1840 in North Carolina. Frances Matilda was born September 30, 1819 in North Carolina. [The author has the Vannoy family bible in his possession]. Their ten children were born in Missouri, Iowa, and California. About 1844, Thomas Sr. and family moved from Audrain County, MO to near Dubuque, IA. He farmed 320 acres of what was originally known as the Horton Farm, located about 4 miles north of Dubuque.
"In 1849, Thomas Sr. left his wife and 4 children at Dubuque and captained a wagon train of 60 wagons to California. His decision to journey to California was no doubt due to his parents settling there. They followed the Old Emigrant Trail. One night, near Chimney Rock, during a rain storm, the son of a Sioux Indian chief wandered into the wagon train camp. Thomas Sr. offered the Indian food and allowed him to spend the night in their camp. He then allowed the Indian to remain with them for several days in spite of objections from the wagon train members.
"Thomas Sr. arrived in Grass Valley, California on October 10, 1849. He spent some time mining there, as well as at Nevada City and Rabbit Creek (now known as La Porte). He built a log cabin near the cemetery in Nevada City. Later he went into a partnership with two other men and bought a hotel in Sacramento. The three partners sold the hotel in 1850. Proceeds from the sale included a draft for $9,000 drawn on the Iowa State Bank.
"When Thomas Sr. left California for the trip back to Dubuque, undoubtedly he had decided to return with his family. He sailed from California to Panama, across Panama by dugout canoe on the Chagres River and then by horseback to the Caribbean Ocean. The boat he travelled on up the Mississippi River stopped along the way to bury 14 men that had died of cholera. Upon his arrival at Dubuque (late Fall 1850), he found there was no account at the Iowa State Bank to cover the $9,000 draft. When he returned to Sacramento in 1852, he learned that the hotel had been sold and the rascals had disappeared.
"Thomas Sr. remained with his family on the Dubuque ranch, making plans to move to California as soon as practicable. The ranch had to be sold as well as other belongings. The birth of the Moore's fifth child, Thomas Jefferson Jr. on December 11, 1851, was also a consideration. It appears the family did not leave for California until after Thomas' initiation into the Julien Lodge #12 of the I.O.O.F. (Odd Fellows) on April 13, 1852.
"Frances Matilda (Vannoy) Moore had no idea of the hardships she and her family would have to face on the trip to California. Consequently it was difficult for her to decide just what household items to bring along on the trip. One item she refused to leave behind was her little wood-burning Franklin stove, which was actually a room heater. However, the top surface of the stove was flat, so that it could be used for cooking. Since Dutch overs and campfires were the usual means of preparing meals on the trail, some of the women on the wagon train scoffed at her, but later on they were glad she had brought it along. That same stove sat in a corner of the blacksmith shop on the Moore ranch near Chico for many years. Little was anyone aware that it was the first heating stove in Chico.
"After the sale of the Dubuque ranch Thomas Sr., his wife and their five children journeyed to Council Bluffs, Iowa where they joined a wagon train bound for California. There were 60 wagons in this train. Thomas Sr. was appointed Captain. Frances Matilda drove a little spring wagon; which in fact was a 'covered wagon' pulled by a team of horses. The Moore family were well out-fitted for the trek West. They were equipped with good teams and the best wagons to be had at the time. Many of the other members of the party were not so fortunate, but all held high hopes for the future.
"In due time they arrived at the Platte River, near Chimney Rock in Nebraska about 425 miles from Council Bluffs. Thomas Sr. had been ill with Mountain Fever since leaving Iowa. About 5,000 Sioux Indians were camped across the river. The Indians soon crossed the river and molested some of the children in the wagon train camp. According to Carrie Belle Robey (granddaughter of Thomas & Frances Matilda), one of the Moore's children was kidnapped; probably Martha called 'Mattie,' who would have been about 6 years old at the time. Thomas Sr., still confined to his sick-bed, sent word to the Sioux chief to meet with him. When the Chief arrived, he recognized Thomas as his benefactor of 1849, and fell to his knees and hugged him. After Thomas told the Chief about the molestations, the Chief drove the Indians back across the river and the girl was returned to her parents.
"The Chief had told Thomas that 1,200 warriors would meet the wagon train the next afternoon, and not to antagonize the Indians. Word was to be sent from tribe to tribe not to molest this train. Thomas counselled his drivers to do as the Chief said. A few, who might be called 'hot heads' would not listen to this good advice. The train was divided; the main group continued with Thomas, the lesser group went their way and to their doom. Every man, woman and child was killed, their wagons burned and their stock taken. It was never known who committed these crimes. Apparently the Chief's command was obeyed, as the Moore wagon train travelled safely to California without any further Indian molestations.
"Upon their arrival in California, the Moore's attempted to purchase a ranch, but the deal was never completed. Travelling on to Grass Valley, California, the arrived there on October 20, 1852. In Grass Valley, Thomas built a store; and a hotel called The Dubuque, which later burned down. Matilda took in washing; Thomas worked as a teamster and mined his claim. Flour and bacon were $1.00 a pound and eggs were $1.00 a dozen their first winter in Grass Valley. A daughter, Frances Matilda Moore was born there in 1854.
"The family moved to Galena Hill (which no longer exists). There a son, Harry Worthington Moore was born in 1856. Thomas built and operated a store and a hotel at Galena Hill. He also owned a mine with his brother, Edward. They bought their supplies in Marysville and Sacramento.
"On October 3, 1857, while still at Galena Hill, Thomas bought 320 acres of land on Mud Creek from his mother's sister and her husband, Joseph and Mary E. (Vannoy) Dikeman. The land was located in Butte County, north-west of Chico, part of it was a squatter's claim. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the patent on 160.57 acres of the purchase. The family moved to Chico soon after the purchase, arriving there on October 20. Their first meal was prepared by the cook on the Bidwell Ranch. Thomas had known John Bidwell in the East and had met with him again during his 1849 trip to California.
"Some of Bidwell's men helped Thomas build his house, gather a herd of cattle and get a start at this struggling outpost on the northern California frontier. A daughter, Julia was born on the 'Old Moore' ranch on January 17, 1858. The Moore's last child, Amelia Madeline was also born there on March 21, 1861.
"Thomas farmed the original 320 acres as well as 1700 acres under lease from John Bidwell. He employed many Indians to help his work his ranch. He raised hay and grain, and stocked the ranch with good cattle, swine and a few spirited race horses. These ventures were fairly successful. Thomas was a generous man, always ready to help anyone in distress. On December 5, 1863 Thomas was initiated into the Chico Masonic Lodge #111. He later joined the York Rite. Frances Matilda was not a member of the Eastern Star, however she was very active in the Presbyterian church.
"Thomas received an invitation to John Bidwell's marriage to Annie E. Kennedy, which took place in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 1868. Bidwell was a member of Congress at that time. It is not known if he attended the wedding, but it is thought not.
"Thomas Jefferson Moore died on July 13, 1876. His funeral was reported in a Chico paper; he was referred to as 'Uncle Tommy Moore' in the funeral notice. His funeral was a large one with Worshipful Master Robert E. Warren of Chico Lodge #111 conducting the Masonic portion of the ceremony. His head stone has the Keystone of the Royal Arch Degree of the York Rite carved thereon. He, his wife and some of their children are buried in the Moore family plot of the Masonic section of the Chico Cemetery.
"Frances Matild died in San Francisco on July 30, 1901 at the home of her eldest daughter, Margaret Eugenia (Moore) Laudin."
"The Story of Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr., His Ancestors and Descendants - Compiled by John Shirley Moore. This is the continuing story of the Moore Family in Butte County. Presented below is a copy of a letter to the editor of the Chico Enterprise Record, written by May Belle (Moore) Rice and printed October 23, 1973. Mrs. Rice was the granddaughter of Thomas J. Moore Sr., and sister of John Shirley Moore. A charter member of PGS (Paradise Genealogical Society), she was born Jul 2, 1880 and Feb 7, 1978.
"Pioneer Reports on Local History.
"Dear Editor,
"On Oct. 20, 1857, my paternal grandparents 'dropped line' on what was to be their home here for many years. They were Thomas J. Moore, who was born August 12, 1817 in Wheeling, West Virginia, and Frances Matilda Van Noy Moore, who was born Sept. 30, 1819 in North Carolina. There were six children in the covered wagon in which they made the trip westward -- and eventually three more children were added to the family.
"My father, Thomas J. Moore, had been born to them on Dec. 11, 1851. He was the fifth and last of the children to be born in the East. He was 17 when Annie K. Bidwell came to Chico as the bride of Gen. John Bidwell. The Bidwells and the Moores were always close friends. I can remember 'Uncle John,' as we were taught to call the General. I learned that when I was three years old. That was 90 years ago.
"Grandfather Moore passed away in 1876. He was critically injured in an accident caused by a runaway team, which started at the Bidwell flour mill and ended in front of the Jerome Moore home.
"Grandma Moore passed away in San Francisco on July 30, 1901, at the home of her oldest daughter, Mrs. M. K. Landin. With the death of my father on Jan 5, 1945, at the age of 94, that generation ended.
"The old Moore home passed into other hands in later years -- and now 116 years have passed since my grandparents arrived in Chico in October 1857."
Mrs. May Belle Rice
Chico, Calif.
"THOMAS JEFFERSON MOORE SR. Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr. was born August 12, 1817, in Wheeling, Virginia. He married Frances Matilda Vannoy on August 20, 1840 in North Carolina. Frances Matilda was born September 30, 1819 in North Carolina. [The author has the Vannoy family bible in his possession]. Their ten children were born in Missouri, Iowa, and California. About 1844, Thomas Sr. and family moved from Audrain County, MO to near Dubuque, IA. He farmed 320 acres of what was originally known as the Horton Farm, located about 4 miles north of Dubuque.
"In 1849, Thomas Sr. left his wife and 4 children at Dubuque and captained a wagon train of 60 wagons to California. His decision to journey to California was no doubt due to his parents settling there. They followed the Old Emigrant Trail. One night, near Chimney Rock, during a rain storm, the son of a Sioux Indian chief wandered into the wagon train camp. Thomas Sr. offered the Indian food and allowed him to spend the night in their camp. He then allowed the Indian to remain with them for several days in spite of objections from the wagon train members.
"Thomas Sr. arrived in Grass Valley, California on October 10, 1849. He spent some time mining there, as well as at Nevada City and Rabbit Creek (now known as La Porte). He built a log cabin near the cemetery in Nevada City. Later he went into a partnership with two other men and bought a hotel in Sacramento. The three partners sold the hotel in 1850. Proceeds from the sale included a draft for $9,000 drawn on the Iowa State Bank.
"When Thomas Sr. left California for the trip back to Dubuque, undoubtedly he had decided to return with his family. He sailed from California to Panama, across Panama by dugout canoe on the Chagres River and then by horseback to the Caribbean Ocean. The boat he travelled on up the Mississippi River stopped along the way to bury 14 men that had died of cholera. Upon his arrival at Dubuque (late Fall 1850), he found there was no account at the Iowa State Bank to cover the $9,000 draft. When he returned to Sacramento in 1852, he learned that the hotel had been sold and the rascals had disappeared.
"Thomas Sr. remained with his family on the Dubuque ranch, making plans to move to California as soon as practicable. The ranch had to be sold as well as other belongings. The birth of the Moore's fifth child, Thomas Jefferson Jr. on December 11, 1851, was also a consideration. It appears the family did not leave for California until after Thomas' initiation into the Julien Lodge #12 of the I.O.O.F. (Odd Fellows) on April 13, 1852.
"Frances Matilda (Vannoy) Moore had no idea of the hardships she and her family would have to face on the trip to California. Consequently it was difficult for her to decide just what household items to bring along on the trip. One item she refused to leave behind was her little wood-burning Franklin stove, which was actually a room heater. However, the top surface of the stove was flat, so that it could be used for cooking. Since Dutch overs and campfires were the usual means of preparing meals on the trail, some of the women on the wagon train scoffed at her, but later on they were glad she had brought it along. That same stove sat in a corner of the blacksmith shop on the Moore ranch near Chico for many years. Little was anyone aware that it was the first heating stove in Chico.
"After the sale of the Dubuque ranch Thomas Sr., his wife and their five children journeyed to Council Bluffs, Iowa where they joined a wagon train bound for California. There were 60 wagons in this train. Thomas Sr. was appointed Captain. Frances Matilda drove a little spring wagon; which in fact was a 'covered wagon' pulled by a team of horses. The Moore family were well out-fitted for the trek West. They were equipped with good teams and the best wagons to be had at the time. Many of the other members of the party were not so fortunate, but all held high hopes for the future.
"In due time they arrived at the Platte River, near Chimney Rock in Nebraska about 425 miles from Council Bluffs. Thomas Sr. had been ill with Mountain Fever since leaving Iowa. About 5,000 Sioux Indians were camped across the river. The Indians soon crossed the river and molested some of the children in the wagon train camp. According to Carrie Belle Robey (granddaughter of Thomas & Frances Matilda), one of the Moore's children was kidnapped; probably Martha called 'Mattie,' who would have been about 6 years old at the time. Thomas Sr., still confined to his sick-bed, sent word to the Sioux chief to meet with him. When the Chief arrived, he recognized Thomas as his benefactor of 1849, and fell to his knees and hugged him. After Thomas told the Chief about the molestations, the Chief drove the Indians back across the river and the girl was returned to her parents.
"The Chief had told Thomas that 1,200 warriors would meet the wagon train the next afternoon, and not to antagonize the Indians. Word was to be sent from tribe to tribe not to molest this train. Thomas counselled his drivers to do as the Chief said. A few, who might be called 'hot heads' would not listen to this good advice. The train was divided; the main group continued with Thomas, the lesser group went their way and to their doom. Every man, woman and child was killed, their wagons burned and their stock taken. It was never known who committed these crimes. Apparently the Chief's command was obeyed, as the Moore wagon train travelled safely to California without any further Indian molestations.
"Upon their arrival in California, the Moore's attempted to purchase a ranch, but the deal was never completed. Travelling on to Grass Valley, California, the arrived there on October 20, 1852. In Grass Valley, Thomas built a store; and a hotel called The Dubuque, which later burned down. Matilda took in washing; Thomas worked as a teamster and mined his claim. Flour and bacon were $1.00 a pound and eggs were $1.00 a dozen their first winter in Grass Valley. A daughter, Frances Matilda Moore was born there in 1854.
"The family moved to Galena Hill (which no longer exists). There a son, Harry Worthington Moore was born in 1856. Thomas built and operated a store and a hotel at Galena Hill. He also owned a mine with his brother, Edward. They bought their supplies in Marysville and Sacramento.
"On October 3, 1857, while still at Galena Hill, Thomas bought 320 acres of land on Mud Creek from his mother's sister and her husband, Joseph and Mary E. (Vannoy) Dikeman. The land was located in Butte County, north-west of Chico, part of it was a squatter's claim. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the patent on 160.57 acres of the purchase. The family moved to Chico soon after the purchase, arriving there on October 20. Their first meal was prepared by the cook on the Bidwell Ranch. Thomas had known John Bidwell in the East and had met with him again during his 1849 trip to California.
"Some of Bidwell's men helped Thomas build his house, gather a herd of cattle and get a start at this struggling outpost on the northern California frontier. A daughter, Julia was born on the 'Old Moore' ranch on January 17, 1858. The Moore's last child, Amelia Madeline was also born there on March 21, 1861.
"Thomas farmed the original 320 acres as well as 1700 acres under lease from John Bidwell. He employed many Indians to help his work his ranch. He raised hay and grain, and stocked the ranch with good cattle, swine and a few spirited race horses. These ventures were fairly successful. Thomas was a generous man, always ready to help anyone in distress. On December 5, 1863 Thomas was initiated into the Chico Masonic Lodge #111. He later joined the York Rite. Frances Matilda was not a member of the Eastern Star, however she was very active in the Presbyterian church.
"Thomas received an invitation to John Bidwell's marriage to Annie E. Kennedy, which took place in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 1868. Bidwell was a member of Congress at that time. It is not known if he attended the wedding, but it is thought not.
"Thomas Jefferson Moore died on July 13, 1876. His funeral was reported in a Chico paper; he was referred to as 'Uncle Tommy Moore' in the funeral notice. His funeral was a large one with Worshipful Master Robert E. Warren of Chico Lodge #111 conducting the Masonic portion of the ceremony. His head stone has the Keystone of the Royal Arch Degree of the York Rite carved thereon. He, his wife and some of their children are buried in the Moore family plot of the Masonic section of the Chico Cemetery.
"Frances Matild died in San Francisco on July 30, 1901 at the home of her eldest daughter, Margaret Eugenia (Moore) Laudin."
"The Story of Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr., His Ancestors and Descendants - Compiled by John Shirley Moore. This is the continuing story of the Moore Family in Butte County. Presented below is a copy of a letter to the editor of the Chico Enterprise Record, written by May Belle (Moore) Rice and printed October 23, 1973. Mrs. Rice was the granddaughter of Thomas J. Moore Sr., and sister of John Shirley Moore. A charter member of PGS (Paradise Genealogical Society), she was born Jul 2, 1880 and Feb 7, 1978.
"Pioneer Reports on Local History.
"Dear Editor,
"On Oct. 20, 1857, my paternal grandparents 'dropped line' on what was to be their home here for many years. They were Thomas J. Moore, who was born August 12, 1817 in Wheeling, West Virginia, and Frances Matilda Van Noy Moore, who was born Sept. 30, 1819 in North Carolina. There were six children in the covered wagon in which they made the trip westward -- and eventually three more children were added to the family.
"My father, Thomas J. Moore, had been born to them on Dec. 11, 1851. He was the fifth and last of the children to be born in the East. He was 17 when Annie K. Bidwell came to Chico as the bride of Gen. John Bidwell. The Bidwells and the Moores were always close friends. I can remember 'Uncle John,' as we were taught to call the General. I learned that when I was three years old. That was 90 years ago.
"Grandfather Moore passed away in 1876. He was critically injured in an accident caused by a runaway team, which started at the Bidwell flour mill and ended in front of the Jerome Moore home.
"Grandma Moore passed away in San Francisco on July 30, 1901, at the home of her oldest daughter, Mrs. M. K. Landin. With the death of my father on Jan 5, 1945, at the age of 94, that generation ended.
"The old Moore home passed into other hands in later years -- and now 116 years have passed since my grandparents arrived in Chico in October 1857."
Mrs. May Belle Rice
Chico, Calif.
"Moore, Thomas J. – male, race E, age 58 yrs 11 mo 1 da, b. Va., d. 13 Jul 1876, in Chico, Ca., lived in county for 23 years." Source: Earliest Death and Burial Records, in the Butte County Courthouse, published serially in the Paradise Genealogical Society's publication, The Goldmine, Vol 7, No. 4, pg 12.
"THOMAS JEFFERSON MOORE SR. Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr. was born August 12, 1817, in Wheeling, Virginia. He married Frances Matilda Vannoy on August 20, 1840 in North Carolina. Frances Matilda was born September 30, 1819 in North Carolina. [The author has the Vannoy family bible in his possession]. Their ten children were born in Missouri, Iowa, and California. About 1844, Thomas Sr. and family moved from Audrain County, MO to near Dubuque, IA. He farmed 320 acres of what was originally known as the Horton Farm, located about 4 miles north of Dubuque.
"In 1849, Thomas Sr. left his wife and 4 children at Dubuque and captained a wagon train of 60 wagons to California. His decision to journey to California was no doubt due to his parents settling there. They followed the Old Emigrant Trail. One night, near Chimney Rock, during a rain storm, the son of a Sioux Indian chief wandered into the wagon train camp. Thomas Sr. offered the Indian food and allowed him to spend the night in their camp. He then allowed the Indian to remain with them for several days in spite of objections from the wagon train members.
"Thomas Sr. arrived in Grass Valley, California on October 10, 1849. He spent some time mining there, as well as at Nevada City and Rabbit Creek (now known as La Porte). He built a log cabin near the cemetery in Nevada City. Later he went into a partnership with two other men and bought a hotel in Sacramento. The three partners sold the hotel in 1850. Proceeds from the sale included a draft for $9,000 drawn on the Iowa State Bank.
"When Thomas Sr. left California for the trip back to Dubuque, undoubtedly he had decided to return with his family. He sailed from California to Panama, across Panama by dugout canoe on the Chagres River and then by horseback to the Caribbean Ocean. The boat he travelled on up the Mississippi River stopped along the way to bury 14 men that had died of cholera. Upon his arrival at Dubuque (late Fall 1850), he found there was no account at the Iowa State Bank to cover the $9,000 draft. When he returned to Sacramento in 1852, he learned that the hotel had been sold and the rascals had disappeared.
"Thomas Sr. remained with his family on the Dubuque ranch, making plans to move to California as soon as practicable. The ranch had to be sold as well as other belongings. The birth of the Moore's fifth child, Thomas Jefferson Jr. on December 11, 1851, was also a consideration. It appears the family did not leave for California until after Thomas' initiation into the Julien Lodge #12 of the I.O.O.F. (Odd Fellows) on April 13, 1852.
"Frances Matilda (Vannoy) Moore had no idea of the hardships she and her family would have to face on the trip to California. Consequently it was difficult for her to decide just what household items to bring along on the trip. One item she refused to leave behind was her little wood-burning Franklin stove, which was actually a room heater. However, the top surface of the stove was flat, so that it could be used for cooking. Since Dutch overs and campfires were the usual means of preparing meals on the trail, some of the women on the wagon train scoffed at her, but later on they were glad she had brought it along. That same stove sat in a corner of the blacksmith shop on the Moore ranch near Chico for many years. Little was anyone aware that it was the first heating stove in Chico.
"After the sale of the Dubuque ranch Thomas Sr., his wife and their five children journeyed to Council Bluffs, Iowa where they joined a wagon train bound for California. There were 60 wagons in this train. Thomas Sr. was appointed Captain. Frances Matilda drove a little spring wagon; which in fact was a 'covered wagon' pulled by a team of horses. The Moore family were well out-fitted for the trek West. They were equipped with good teams and the best wagons to be had at the time. Many of the other members of the party were not so fortunate, but all held high hopes for the future.
"In due time they arrived at the Platte River, near Chimney Rock in Nebraska about 425 miles from Council Bluffs. Thomas Sr. had been ill with Mountain Fever since leaving Iowa. About 5,000 Sioux Indians were camped across the river. The Indians soon crossed the river and molested some of the children in the wagon train camp. According to Carrie Belle Robey (granddaughter of Thomas & Frances Matilda), one of the Moore's children was kidnapped; probably Martha called 'Mattie,' who would have been about 6 years old at the time. Thomas Sr., still confined to his sick-bed, sent word to the Sioux chief to meet with him. When the Chief arrived, he recognized Thomas as his benefactor of 1849, and fell to his knees and hugged him. After Thomas told the Chief about the molestations, the Chief drove the Indians back across the river and the girl was returned to her parents.
"The Chief had told Thomas that 1,200 warriors would meet the wagon train the next afternoon, and not to antagonize the Indians. Word was to be sent from tribe to tribe not to molest this train. Thomas counselled his drivers to do as the Chief said. A few, who might be called 'hot heads' would not listen to this good advice. The train was divided; the main group continued with Thomas, the lesser group went their way and to their doom. Every man, woman and child was killed, their wagons burned and their stock taken. It was never known who committed these crimes. Apparently the Chief's command was obeyed, as the Moore wagon train travelled safely to California without any further Indian molestations.
"Upon their arrival in California, the Moore's attempted to purchase a ranch, but the deal was never completed. Travelling on to Grass Valley, California, the arrived there on October 20, 1852. In Grass Valley, Thomas built a store; and a hotel called The Dubuque, which later burned down. Matilda took in washing; Thomas worked as a teamster and mined his claim. Flour and bacon were $1.00 a pound and eggs were $1.00 a dozen their first winter in Grass Valley. A daughter, Frances Matilda Moore was born there in 1854.
"The family moved to Galena Hill (which no longer exists). There a son, Harry Worthington Moore was born in 1856. Thomas built and operated a store and a hotel at Galena Hill. He also owned a mine with his brother, Edward. They bought their supplies in Marysville and Sacramento.
"On October 3, 1857, while still at Galena Hill, Thomas bought 320 acres of land on Mud Creek from his mother's sister and her husband, Joseph and Mary E. (Vannoy) Dikeman. The land was located in Butte County, north-west of Chico, part of it was a squatter's claim. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the patent on 160.57 acres of the purchase. The family moved to Chico soon after the purchase, arriving there on October 20. Their first meal was prepared by the cook on the Bidwell Ranch. Thomas had known John Bidwell in the East and had met with him again during his 1849 trip to California.
"Some of Bidwell's men helped Thomas build his house, gather a herd of cattle and get a start at this struggling outpost on the northern California frontier. A daughter, Julia was born on the 'Old Moore' ranch on January 17, 1858. The Moore's last child, Amelia Madeline was also born there on March 21, 1861.
"Thomas farmed the original 320 acres as well as 1700 acres under lease from John Bidwell. He employed many Indians to help his work his ranch. He raised hay and grain, and stocked the ranch with good cattle, swine and a few spirited race horses. These ventures were fairly successful. Thomas was a generous man, always ready to help anyone in distress. On December 5, 1863 Thomas was initiated into the Chico Masonic Lodge #111. He later joined the York Rite. Frances Matilda was not a member of the Eastern Star, however she was very active in the Presbyterian church.
"Thomas received an invitation to John Bidwell's marriage to Annie E. Kennedy, which took place in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 1868. Bidwell was a member of Congress at that time. It is not known if he attended the wedding, but it is thought not.
"Thomas Jefferson Moore died on July 13, 1876. His funeral was reported in a Chico paper; he was referred to as 'Uncle Tommy Moore' in the funeral notice. His funeral was a large one with Worshipful Master Robert E. Warren of Chico Lodge #111 conducting the Masonic portion of the ceremony. His head stone has the Keystone of the Royal Arch Degree of the York Rite carved thereon. He, his wife and some of their children are buried in the Moore family plot of the Masonic section of the Chico Cemetery.
"Frances Matild died in San Francisco on July 30, 1901 at the home of her eldest daughter, Margaret Eugenia (Moore) Laudin."
"The Story of Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr., His Ancestors and Descendants - Compiled by John Shirley Moore. This is the continuing story of the Moore Family in Butte County. Presented below is a copy of a letter to the editor of the Chico Enterprise Record, written by May Belle (Moore) Rice and printed October 23, 1973. Mrs. Rice was the granddaughter of Thomas J. Moore Sr., and sister of John Shirley Moore. A charter member of PGS (Paradise Genealogical Society), she was born Jul 2, 1880 and Feb 7, 1978.
"Pioneer Reports on Local History.
"Dear Editor,
"On Oct. 20, 1857, my paternal grandparents 'dropped line' on what was to be their home here for many years. They were Thomas J. Moore, who was born August 12, 1817 in Wheeling, West Virginia, and Frances Matilda Van Noy Moore, who was born Sept. 30, 1819 in North Carolina. There were six children in the covered wagon in which they made the trip westward -- and eventually three more children were added to the family.
"My father, Thomas J. Moore, had been born to them on Dec. 11, 1851. He was the fifth and last of the children to be born in the East. He was 17 when Annie K. Bidwell came to Chico as the bride of Gen. John Bidwell. The Bidwells and the Moores were always close friends. I can remember 'Uncle John,' as we were taught to call the General. I learned that when I was three years old. That was 90 years ago.
"Grandfather Moore passed away in 1876. He was critically injured in an accident caused by a runaway team, which started at the Bidwell flour mill and ended in front of the Jerome Moore home.
"Grandma Moore passed away in San Francisco on July 30, 1901, at the home of her oldest daughter, Mrs. M. K. Landin. With the death of my father on Jan 5, 1945, at the age of 94, that generation ended.
"The old Moore home passed into other hands in later years -- and now 116 years have passed since my grandparents arrived in Chico in October 1857."
Mrs. May Belle Rice
Chico, Calif.
"THOMAS JEFFERSON MOORE SR. Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr. was born August 12, 1817, in Wheeling, Virginia. He married Frances Matilda Vannoy on August 20, 1840 in North Carolina. Frances Matilda was born September 30, 1819 in North Carolina. [The author has the Vannoy family bible in his possession]. Their ten children were born in Missouri, Iowa, and California. About 1844, Thomas Sr. and family moved from Audrain County, MO to near Dubuque, IA. He farmed 320 acres of what was originally known as the Horton Farm, located about 4 miles north of Dubuque.
"In 1849, Thomas Sr. left his wife and 4 children at Dubuque and captained a wagon train of 60 wagons to California. His decision to journey to California was no doubt due to his parents settling there. They followed the Old Emigrant Trail. One night, near Chimney Rock, during a rain storm, the son of a Sioux Indian chief wandered into the wagon train camp. Thomas Sr. offered the Indian food and allowed him to spend the night in their camp. He then allowed the Indian to remain with them for several days in spite of objections from the wagon train members.
"Thomas Sr. arrived in Grass Valley, California on October 10, 1849. He spent some time mining there, as well as at Nevada City and Rabbit Creek (now known as La Porte). He built a log cabin near the cemetery in Nevada City. Later he went into a partnership with two other men and bought a hotel in Sacramento. The three partners sold the hotel in 1850. Proceeds from the sale included a draft for $9,000 drawn on the Iowa State Bank.
"When Thomas Sr. left California for the trip back to Dubuque, undoubtedly he had decided to return with his family. He sailed from California to Panama, across Panama by dugout canoe on the Chagres River and then by horseback to the Caribbean Ocean. The boat he travelled on up the Mississippi River stopped along the way to bury 14 men that had died of cholera. Upon his arrival at Dubuque (late Fall 1850), he found there was no account at the Iowa State Bank to cover the $9,000 draft. When he returned to Sacramento in 1852, he learned that the hotel had been sold and the rascals had disappeared.
"Thomas Sr. remained with his family on the Dubuque ranch, making plans to move to California as soon as practicable. The ranch had to be sold as well as other belongings. The birth of the Moore's fifth child, Thomas Jefferson Jr. on December 11, 1851, was also a consideration. It appears the family did not leave for California until after Thomas' initiation into the Julien Lodge #12 of the I.O.O.F. (Odd Fellows) on April 13, 1852.
"Frances Matilda (Vannoy) Moore had no idea of the hardships she and her family would have to face on the trip to California. Consequently it was difficult for her to decide just what household items to bring along on the trip. One item she refused to leave behind was her little wood-burning Franklin stove, which was actually a room heater. However, the top surface of the stove was flat, so that it could be used for cooking. Since Dutch overs and campfires were the usual means of preparing meals on the trail, some of the women on the wagon train scoffed at her, but later on they were glad she had brought it along. That same stove sat in a corner of the blacksmith shop on the Moore ranch near Chico for many years. Little was anyone aware that it was the first heating stove in Chico.
"After the sale of the Dubuque ranch Thomas Sr., his wife and their five children journeyed to Council Bluffs, Iowa where they joined a wagon train bound for California. There were 60 wagons in this train. Thomas Sr. was appointed Captain. Frances Matilda drove a little spring wagon; which in fact was a 'covered wagon' pulled by a team of horses. The Moore family were well out-fitted for the trek West. They were equipped with good teams and the best wagons to be had at the time. Many of the other members of the party were not so fortunate, but all held high hopes for the future.
"In due time they arrived at the Platte River, near Chimney Rock in Nebraska about 425 miles from Council Bluffs. Thomas Sr. had been ill with Mountain Fever since leaving Iowa. About 5,000 Sioux Indians were camped across the river. The Indians soon crossed the river and molested some of the children in the wagon train camp. According to Carrie Belle Robey (granddaughter of Thomas & Frances Matilda), one of the Moore's children was kidnapped; probably Martha called 'Mattie,' who would have been about 6 years old at the time. Thomas Sr., still confined to his sick-bed, sent word to the Sioux chief to meet with him. When the Chief arrived, he recognized Thomas as his benefactor of 1849, and fell to his knees and hugged him. After Thomas told the Chief about the molestations, the Chief drove the Indians back across the river and the girl was returned to her parents.
"The Chief had told Thomas that 1,200 warriors would meet the wagon train the next afternoon, and not to antagonize the Indians. Word was to be sent from tribe to tribe not to molest this train. Thomas counselled his drivers to do as the Chief said. A few, who might be called 'hot heads' would not listen to this good advice. The train was divided; the main group continued with Thomas, the lesser group went their way and to their doom. Every man, woman and child was killed, their wagons burned and their stock taken. It was never known who committed these crimes. Apparently the Chief's command was obeyed, as the Moore wagon train travelled safely to California without any further Indian molestations.
"Upon their arrival in California, the Moore's attempted to purchase a ranch, but the deal was never completed. Travelling on to Grass Valley, California, the arrived there on October 20, 1852. In Grass Valley, Thomas built a store; and a hotel called The Dubuque, which later burned down. Matilda took in washing; Thomas worked as a teamster and mined his claim. Flour and bacon were $1.00 a pound and eggs were $1.00 a dozen their first winter in Grass Valley. A daughter, Frances Matilda Moore was born there in 1854.
"The family moved to Galena Hill (which no longer exists). There a son, Harry Worthington Moore was born in 1856. Thomas built and operated a store and a hotel at Galena Hill. He also owned a mine with his brother, Edward. They bought their supplies in Marysville and Sacramento.
"On October 3, 1857, while still at Galena Hill, Thomas bought 320 acres of land on Mud Creek from his mother's sister and her husband, Joseph and Mary E. (Vannoy) Dikeman. The land was located in Butte County, north-west of Chico, part of it was a squatter's claim. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the patent on 160.57 acres of the purchase. The family moved to Chico soon after the purchase, arriving there on October 20. Their first meal was prepared by the cook on the Bidwell Ranch. Thomas had known John Bidwell in the East and had met with him again during his 1849 trip to California.
"Some of Bidwell's men helped Thomas build his house, gather a herd of cattle and get a start at this struggling outpost on the northern California frontier. A daughter, Julia was born on the 'Old Moore' ranch on January 17, 1858. The Moore's last child, Amelia Madeline was also born there on March 21, 1861.
"Thomas farmed the original 320 acres as well as 1700 acres under lease from John Bidwell. He employed many Indians to help his work his ranch. He raised hay and grain, and stocked the ranch with good cattle, swine and a few spirited race horses. These ventures were fairly successful. Thomas was a generous man, always ready to help anyone in distress. On December 5, 1863 Thomas was initiated into the Chico Masonic Lodge #111. He later joined the York Rite. Frances Matilda was not a member of the Eastern Star, however she was very active in the Presbyterian church.
"Thomas received an invitation to John Bidwell's marriage to Annie E. Kennedy, which took place in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 1868. Bidwell was a member of Congress at that time. It is not known if he attended the wedding, but it is thought not.
"Thomas Jefferson Moore died on July 13, 1876. His funeral was reported in a Chico paper; he was referred to as 'Uncle Tommy Moore' in the funeral notice. His funeral was a large one with Worshipful Master Robert E. Warren of Chico Lodge #111 conducting the Masonic portion of the ceremony. His head stone has the Keystone of the Royal Arch Degree of the York Rite carved thereon. He, his wife and some of their children are buried in the Moore family plot of the Masonic section of the Chico Cemetery.
"Frances Matild died in San Francisco on July 30, 1901 at the home of her eldest daughter, Margaret Eugenia (Moore) Laudin."
"The Story of Thomas Jefferson Moore Sr., His Ancestors and Descendants - Compiled by John Shirley Moore. This is the continuing story of the Moore Family in Butte County. Presented below is a copy of a letter to the editor of the Chico Enterprise Record, written by May Belle (Moore) Rice and printed October 23, 1973. Mrs. Rice was the granddaughter of Thomas J. Moore Sr., and sister of John Shirley Moore. A charter member of PGS (Paradise Genealogical Society), she was born Jul 2, 1880 and Feb 7, 1978.
"Pioneer Reports on Local History.
"Dear Editor,
"On Oct. 20, 1857, my paternal grandparents 'dropped line' on what was to be their home here for many years. They were Thomas J. Moore, who was born August 12, 1817 in Wheeling, West Virginia, and Frances Matilda Van Noy Moore, who was born Sept. 30, 1819 in North Carolina. There were six children in the covered wagon in which they made the trip westward -- and eventually three more children were added to the family.
"My father, Thomas J. Moore, had been born to them on Dec. 11, 1851. He was the fifth and last of the children to be born in the East. He was 17 when Annie K. Bidwell came to Chico as the bride of Gen. John Bidwell. The Bidwells and the Moores were always close friends. I can remember 'Uncle John,' as we were taught to call the General. I learned that when I was three years old. That was 90 years ago.
"Grandfather Moore passed away in 1876. He was critically injured in an accident caused by a runaway team, which started at the Bidwell flour mill and ended in front of the Jerome Moore home.
"Grandma Moore passed away in San Francisco on July 30, 1901, at the home of her oldest daughter, Mrs. M. K. Landin. With the death of my father on Jan 5, 1945, at the age of 94, that generation ended.
"The old Moore home passed into other hands in later years -- and now 116 years have passed since my grandparents arrived in Chico in October 1857."
Mrs. May Belle Rice
Chico, Calif.
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