Matthias/Mathias Gray?

Question

I'm trying to find out some information on an ancestor of mine named Matthias (also spelled Mathias) Gray (also known to have the middle name king) . There is a family story that (if) he didnt come over on an actual ship, he sailed here from England. (Supposably the greater manchester area) I also know that the date of his birth has been narrowed to between 1825/8-1835. Most likely 1828ish, because of other records.

The thing is, I dont know what to look for. If a person was to sail his own ship into San Francisco, would he have to do anything special? Would anything be recorded? Where do i look?

Also, if anyone knows anything about him, it'd be awesome if you could direct me to it. (I do know bout his music dealings however)

Answer 1

There are a couple of M. GRAYS that arrive in SF in 1850 and 1851, but it seems to be info. in a book w/ no further details.  So, this wouldn't take you to another stage of discovery on the arrival front.

BINGO!!!

I did find information on "Mathias GRAY" for 1865 and 1866. He seems to have been living in San Mateo, California (near SF) and is on a recently downloaded IRS Tax List on ancestry.com

In 1865 his property is at: 1032 Clay and 611 Clay( in 1866 the second address is 613 clay). 2 items are mentioned 'watch' and 'piano'.  (you did mention that you know about his 'music dealings')  It looks like he paid a $2 tax on the piano and $1 on the watch!

In 1866, his locations are listed as: 1032 Clay and 613 Clay...Also, there seems to have been some sort of tax penalty.  Hmmm, maybe he didn't pay his tax on time? (grin) Total tax appears to be $65.50.

I found him on the 1880 U.S. Census - he is listed as a music publisher and lives in SF.  Although he is born in England, his wife was born in NY and seems to be much younger.  He must be doing fairly well.  There are 2 cooks in his household - both born in China.

Mathias Gray 51  

Susan H. Gray 35  

King Gray 5  

Chu Heong.   35  

Fung Hea.   23  



Notice that his son is named "King", so, this is definitely your man.  If you would like me to send you the attachments, please email me privately.