Category Archives: Annie Kennedy Bidwell

A Valentine for Annie

Posted on February 13, 2015 by

To: Miss Annie Kennedy               February 14, 1866 A  Annie is a charming girl, an editress, a writer N  Nor could you find in all the world a better nor a brighter N  Now if fair Annie would be mine, take … Continue reading →

Posted in Annie Kennedy Bidwell | Leave a comment

Annie’s Diamond Ring, Part Four

Posted on February 6, 2015 by

During his Washington years John Bidwell felt like he was navigating a minefield of social missteps and blunders. In his letters he often refers to his fear of giving offense. He had spent the last 25 years on the Western … Continue reading →

Posted in Annie Kennedy Bidwell, diamonds, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Annie’s Diamond Ring, Part Three

Posted on February 1, 2015 by

John writes from Chico on June 18, 1867: And now another thing, the ring. I send it by this steamer. It may be a little too large for you. If so, have it made smaller. It will cost but little. … Continue reading →

Posted in Annie Kennedy Bidwell, diamonds | Leave a comment

That Diamond, or How Much Was $125 Worth in 1867?

Posted on January 29, 2015 by

John Bidwell was told by a New York jeweler that his diamond from Butte County, California was worth $125. What would that be in today’s money? According to the website Measuring Worth, A simple Purchasing Power Calculator would say the … Continue reading →

Posted in Annie Kennedy Bidwell, diamonds | Leave a comment

Annie’s Diamond Ring, Part Two

Posted on January 28, 2015 by

I am thinking seriously of going to Washington Saturday night and coming back Sunday night . . . It is doubtful. I wrote your father that perhaps I might do so. I hardly think I shall be able. A letter … Continue reading →

Posted in Annie Kennedy Bidwell, diamonds | Leave a comment

Annie’s Diamond Ring

Posted on January 27, 2015 by

At the end of March 1867 John Bidwell’s term in Congress was over and he was ready to return to California. He was anxious to get back to Rancho Chico to look after his business interests, but his love for … Continue reading →

Posted in Annie Kennedy Bidwell, diamonds | Leave a comment