Over 600 guests attended the 2024 Save the Graves Law & Order event. Four crimes were presented on two stages with performances repeated throughout the day.
Guests also enjoyed four different presentations by Save the Graves president, Mike Roberts. The featured talks covered the work of Save the Graves; a brief history of Placerville Union Cemetery; the transformation of Placerville Old City Cemetery; and Queen Victoria, the original influencer.
The Lowell Murder
Trial, Conviction, and Moral Conflict Ends at the Gallows. Recounted by District Attorney Marcus Percival Bennett and Sheriff James Madison Anderson.
Manzanita Hill
Bloody 1903 Folsom Prison Break Leads to Shootout. Recounted by John D. Spreckels, editor of the San Francisco Call and Sheriff Archibald Speer Bosquit.
The Newnham Murder
A Fatal Tale of Unrequited Love. Recounted by Jeremiah Vardeman Craine, murderer and Susan Mildred Newnham, victim.
The Bullion Bend Heist
Confederate Sympathizers Take Life of Young Deputy. Recounted by Charlie Watson, stagecoach driver and Deputy Sheriff Joseph Staples.
On a separate stage, Lulu Belle Cook described what it was like to be El Dorado County’s first female deputy sheriff.
James Madison Anderson
1827 – 1919
Gold Rush Surveyor and Dedicated Sheriff
Sheriff James Madison Anderson’s story is one of determination and dedication. Born on April 20, 1827, in Erie County, Pennsylvania, he was the seventh of twelve children. Trained as a surveyor, Anderson initially worked in Mississippi and Iowa before setting his sights on California. Drawn by the Gold Rush, he arrived in Placerville in 1853. Anderson’s career was diverse; he was elected County Tax Collector in 1859, County Surveyor in 1875, and U.S. Deputy Surveyor for El Dorado County. He was involved in various mining and mapping projects, including a significant 1872 survey of Placerville and a federal contract to survey Yosemite Valley in 1883. Anderson also owned a bookstore on Main Street and served as a fire insurance agent and underwriter.
In 1860, Anderson married El Dorado County pioneer Harriet “Hattie” Ann Mountjoy, and together they raised four children. Two of their daughters later married El Dorado County Superior Court Judges. His eldest daughter, Mollie, married Marcus P. Bennett, a prominent local figure who served as District Attorney and Superior Court Judge. His youngest daughter, Gertrude, married the beloved Superior Court Judge George H. Thompson. The Anderson family played a significant role in the community, with James Anderson remembered for his public service and contributions to the development of El Dorado County.
Anderson served as El Dorado County Sheriff from 1886 to 1890. During his tenure, he was deeply involved in the high-profile John Lowell murder case. Despite successfully convicting the accused—Henry Meyers, John Olsen, and William Drager—Anderson struggled with overseeing the executions of Olsen and Drager. His efforts to commute their sentences to life in prison were ultimately unsuccessful, leaving a lasting impact on him.
His descendants continue to share stories of his life, highlighting both his achievements and the emotional challenges he faced in his commitment to justice and public service.
Portrayed by Dan Trainor
Marcus Percival Bennett
1854 – 1925
Esteemed Denizen and Superior Court Justice
Born in Peabody, Massachusetts, in 1854, Marcus Percival Bennett made his mark in El Dorado County, California, after graduating from Harvard Law School. Arriving in Placerville, he quickly established himself as a legal expert and dedicated public servant. In 1889, Bennett and his wife Mollie, daughter of Sheriff James Madison Anderson, purchased the circa-1853 Colonel F. Bee home on Bee Street, transforming it into a mansion that now stands as the historic Bee-Bennett Home.
Elected District Attorney in 1886, Bennett prosecuted high-profile cases, including the notorious Lowell murder. His conviction of one of the accused and his tireless efforts to commute the death sentences of the others demonstrated both his prosecutorial prowess and his compassionate nature.
Beyond his legal career, Bennett served as Superior Court Judge from 1891 to 1904. Known for his fairness and dedication to justice, he also played a pivotal role in transforming the Lincoln Highway into a public road.
A philanthropist and community leader, Bennett and his wife established Marcus P. Bennett Jr. Park in memory of their son. His integrity, generosity, and dedication to El Dorado County earned him widespread respect and admiration. Retiring in his later years due to declining health, Bennett passed away in 1925, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated.
Portrayed by Sean Manwaring
John D. Spreckels
1853-1926
California Journalist, Developer & Railway Tycoon
John D. Spreckels, heir to the sugar fortune built by his father, Claus Spreckels, was a pivotal figure in transforming San Diego from a sleepy town into a major commercial hub. After making his mark in the sugar industry and shipping, Spreckels turned his attention to real estate, transportation, and media. His strategic investments in San Diego, including the iconic Hotel del Coronado and the modernization of the city’s infrastructure, were instrumental in its growth and led to Spreckels becoming the wealthiest man in San Diego.
Spreckels’ entrepreneurial spirit extended to the media industry as well. He owned the San Francisco Call newspaper and played a prominent role in covering the 1903 Folsom Prison break and the ensuing El Dorado County manhunt, which culminated in the Manzanita Hill standoff. His newspaper’s coverage of these high-profile events showcased his influence and interest in journalism.
A visionary developer, Spreckels founded the San Diego Electric Railway and the San Diego and Arizona Railway, revolutionizing transportation in the region. His philanthropic endeavors included supporting the Panama-California Exposition and the creation of Balboa Park’s iconic Spreckels Organ Pavilion. When he passed away in 1926, he left an enduring legacy as a “great Empire Builder” whose impact on San Diego is still evident today.
Portrayed by Joseph Tande
Archibald S. Bosquit
1851 – 1911
Prominent Civil Servant and Entrepreneur
Archibald S. Bosquit was born on August 7, 1851, in Manchester, Allegheny City, Pennsylvania. He was the son of John and Rosanna B. Bosquit, who moved to California in 1854 and settled in Virginiatown, Placer County. John Bosquit was a miner and state legislator who played a role in the early development of the Central Pacific Railroad. Archibald received his education at Gold Hill, Lincoln, and McClure Academy. He completed a telegraphy apprenticeship under S. W. Willis and later worked for the Sacramento and Placerville Railroad Company as a telegraph operator and bookkeeper in Shingle Springs. Bosquit also worked as an agent for Wells Fargo Express Company.
In 1873, Archibald married Sarah Catherine Gray, daughter of pioneer Allen T. Gray, and they had three sons: Dallas A., Edwin L., and Owen T. Bosquit. He engaged in farming and mining, owning the Houx and Sailor Jack quartz mines, two of the richest in El Dorado County. The family resided in Shingle Springs before moving to Placerville, where Bosquit became a prominent citizen and public servant.
Bosquit turned to public service in 1890 and held several key positions for the next sixteen years, including County Clerk, Auditor, Recorder, and Sheriff of El Dorado County. His service in these roles was marked by efficiency and dedication.
One of the most noteworthy events of his career as El Dorado County Sheriff occurred in 1903 when 13 inmates escaped from Folsom State Prison and fled east into El Dorado County. Bosquit, along with various posses and the National Guard, was tasked with trailing and capturing five of the escapees, which led to a standoff on Manzanita Hill, nine miles southwest of Placerville. Two guardsmen were killed in the exchange.
Bosquit also co-founded the Pierce, Bosquit Abstract Company, the precursor to the Intercounty Title Company in Placerville. A respected Democrat and member of various fraternal organizations, Bosquit’s contributions to El Dorado County left a lasting legacy.
Archibald S. Bosquit’s life was defined by his commitment to public service and his community. From his early days in telegraphy to his significant roles in local government, he exemplified dedication and integrity. His legacy continues to be remembered in Placerville and beyond.
Portrayed by Daniel Blair
Jeremiah V. Craine
1816 – 1855
Philandering Schoolteacher and Infatuated Spiritualist
Jeremiah Vardeman Craine was 20 years old when he married Mariah Bentley in 1836. The couple had a home and four children in Kentucky where Craine had worked as a farmer and then owned a store. Craine headed west during the rush for riches, landing northeast of Diamond Springs in the gold camp known as Ringgold in 1849. Despite being married, Craine became obsessed with 16-year-old Susan Newnham, the daughter of a local boarding house proprietor. Craine had been offered room and board in exchange for teaching the Newnham children in the evenings after he finished his day of gold mining The ill-fated infatuation led to both their deaths in the year 1855.
The Newnham family opposed the relationship, which appears to have further fueled Craine’s seemingly one-sided obsession with the young girl. An adherent of spiritualism, Craine was convinced that if Susan wouldn’t have him in this life, he could force the relationship in the next.
Craine shot her at close range after she spurned his advances. Despite her severe injuries, she lingered for five days. A mob gathered, but Sheriff David E. Buell intervened, taking Craine into custody. A trial followed in Coloma, resulting in a conviction. Craine went to the gallows in Coloma, convinced that he and Susan would soon be united for eternity.
Jeremiah Craine and Mickey Free, a sociopathic serial murderer, were hanged together in 1855. Craine met his fate with apparent calmness, delivering a 45-minute speech and singing a song before his execution. Free snacked on peanuts and danced a jig but broke down when it was his turn to face the noose. The double hanging drew a large crowd. Both men are buried outside the Pioneer Cemetery in Coloma. Sheriff Buell later gained prominence as a U.S. Marshal and served in the California State Assembly.
Portrayed by Mark Hallbourg
Susan M. Newnham
1837 – 1855
Promising Young Woman
Susan Mildred Newnham was born around 1837 in Clark County, Kentucky, to Benjamin Brady Newnham and Elizabeth (Payne) Newnham. The Newnham family moved from Pike County, Illinois, to Ringgold near Placerville and Diamond Springs, in 1852. Though family stories suggest her name was Vashti, most news stories refer to her as Susan.
Susan grew up with her parents, older sister Sarah, and three brothers. Tragedy struck on August 15, 1855, when her instructor, Jeremiah V. Craine, murdered her. Craine, who taught the Newnham children, showed particular interest in Susan, frequently complimenting her. His affection grew into declarations of love, despite his wife and children in Kentucky.
Craine tried to convince Susan that they could be together forever, even proposing an eternal spiritual bond. When Susan began to refuse his advances, after learning he was married, he violently attacked the 18-year-old girl. On that fateful day, he asked her to marry him. When she refused, he pulled a knife and a gun, declaring they would be together in death. Initially, Susan managed to flee, but Craine shot her multiple times as she ran into the house. Susan’s mother tried to defend her but was threatened by Craine.
Neighbor Mr. Stainer arrived to find Susan collapsed in the doorway with Craine cradling Susan’s head. Despite Craine’s claim of intending to kill himself, he fled. Five days later, Susan succumbed to her injuries. The men of Ringgold captured Craine, who was tried, found guilty, and hanged for his crime on October 26, 1855.
Susan’s final resting place is unknown. It’s likely she’s buried in Ringgold but some believe she rests in an unmarked grave near the Yeadon family in El Dorado. Her story, marked by Craine’s twisted love, remains a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of mid-19th century California.
Portrayed by Madison Adeline Blair
Charles “Charlie” A. Watson
1827 – 1891
Beloved El Dorado County Pioneer
Charles “Charlie” Watson, an influential figure in the early history of El Dorado County, was born in New York in 1827. Longtime Pioneer Stage Line driver Charlie Watson was known as one of the most popular and careful drivers on the Folsom to Carson City route. He became a familiar and well-liked face throughout the region.
Stagecoach driver was just one of many hats Watson wore in the early days of El Dorado County. Watson was a multifaceted entrepreneur and community member. In 1865, he and his wife Delia acquired the Strawberry Valley House, a prominent stop along the Carson-Placerville Road directly under Lover’s Leap. Watson also owned nine miles of carefully maintained toll road in the vicinity. With Watson’s subsequent appointment as a county constable under legendary Sheriff James Hume, the couple solidified their standing as influential figures in the area. For many years Strawberry Station was the end of the line for wheeled vehicles in winter months. During the inaugural Pony Express run, snow was so deep that the rider required a string of mules to get from Strawberry over Echo Pass. Strawberry Station’s legacy would continue through the couple’s daughter, Olive, and her husband, William Martin.
Watson’s life was marked by adventure and involvement in the region’s development. He is perhaps best known for his role in the infamous Bullion Bend Robbery, which resulted in El Dorado County’s first line-of-duty law enforcement death. Watson was driving the second of two stagecoaches traveling west that were held up two miles east of Fresh Pond by a group of Confederate sympathizers on the night of June 30, 1864. The robbers famously issued Watson a receipt from the Confederate States Army. After the robbery, Watson joined the posse assembled by Sheriff William Rogers to apprehend the perpetrators.
In later years, Watson became partially paralyzed and died after a long illness at the age of 64.
Portrayed by Pat Hudak
Joseph M. Staples
1826 – 1864
A Tragic Hero
Born in Ireland around 1826, Joseph M. Staples hailed from a country steeped in political and economic turmoil. He came of age during the Irish Famine, an event that devastated the island. Like so many before him, rumors of gold led him west in search of a new beginning.
Staples eventually found himself in El Dorado County, where he became a respected member of the community. At the time of his death, he was a resident of Coloma and a member of the Placerville Neptune Engine Company No. 2 of Placerville.
His tragic fate was sealed on July 1, 1864, when he was killed in the line of duty while pursuing the perpetrators of the notorious Bullion Bend robbery. His instructions were to keep “eyes on” and wait for reinforcements. Staples was in no mood for waiting. He confronted the gang and announced, “You are my prisoners, surrender.” Staples lay dead within moments. His selfless, some would say reckless, act in defense of law and order solidified his place in local history.
Staples was remembered as an “estimable citizen, an excellent officer, and a warm friend.” His bravery, intelligence, and courteous demeanor earned him the admiration of his peers. The outpouring of grief at his funeral underscored the profound impact he had made on the community. Though his life was cut short, his legacy as the first El Dorado County peace officer to die in the line of duty remains.
Portrayed by Jack Devan
Lulu Belle Cook
1887 – 1976
Lulu Belle Cook, a lifelong resident of El Dorado County, was a woman of character and grit. Born in Georgetown on March 11, 1887, she carved a unique path in a male-dominated world. Most notably, Cook served as a deputy sheriff, a pioneering role for women in law enforcement. Her tenure in this position was marked by a distinctive blend of authority and compassion. During her tenure, Cook assisted in many arrests and was in charge of all female prisoners.
Known for her no-nonsense approach, she was not afraid to use unconventional methods to maintain order. Placerville locals often recounted tales of her placing unruly children in jail (with parental permission) as a form of swift discipline, a practice that, while unconventional by today’s standards, reflected Lulu’s stern approach to addressing what she considered juvenile delinquency.
Beyond her law enforcement career, Cook was a multifaceted individual. She was a member of the Shakespeare Club, reflecting a cultivated intellect and appreciation for the arts. However, her reputation extended far beyond these cultural pursuits. Her larger-than-life personality and direct demeanor became legendary in town. Stories of her guarding the brambles in her yard with a broom against berry-picking children added to her colorful persona.
Cook’s life was inextricably linked to the history of El Dorado County. As the daughter of Sheriff Gilbert Cook, she grew up in a law enforcement household. Her father’s dedication to his office, followed by his tragic death in 1912, undoubtedly shaped her perspective on life and public service. Following in her father’s footsteps, Lulu became a deputy sheriff, a role that allowed her to continue his legacy of serving the community. Her contributions to El Dorado County, both as a law enforcement officer and as a colorful local figure, have secured her place in the county’s history. Research suggests that upon her death, Lulu never received a marker to memorialize her contributions. Today, Save the Graves is campaigning to raise funds to erect a tombstone befitting of El Dorado County’s first female law enforcement officer.
Portrayed by Jan Le Pouvoir