General John C. Fremont, 1813-1893. A noted military man, explorer, topographer, senator & businessman, Fremont was also a miner. He settled in Mariposa County living just ourside Bear Valley.

He operated the Josephine, Pine Tree & Princeton Mines and other claims. In 1858 he returned from his travels to operate his mines and found many had been "jumped." In taking them back a feud developed with several groups, one being the "Hornitas League" which tried to seize one of his mines. After that incident a fort was built to defend "only" access to the mines.

Afterwards his battles were in the courtroom.

Dedicated by Matuca Chapter 1849
E Clampus Vitus
May 29, 1994 (5999)
Credo Quia Absurdum