A death notice which appeared in Tuesday's San Diego Union told of the death of one of Escondido's pioneer citizens and a man who did much for the advancement of the Escondido valley, Franklin Pierce Willard.

Mr. Willard was a former Escondido attorney. He moved from this valley about 20 years ago and made his home in Imperial Valley for several years. There he was a defeated candidate for superior judge. Several years ago he moved to La Mesa.

Mr. Willard was known as a fighter for Escondido valley. He was instrumental to a large degree in obtaining a settlement and retirement of the Escondido water bonds. This was a great step in Escondido history and caused a celebration at which the bonds were burned in a bonfire.

The deceased was also responsible for this union district. The building and land had been deeded to the Methodist church, but was not used for several years as a Methodist institution. Through the aggressiveness of Mr. Willard a settlement was made by which the land and buildings were obtained for the high school district.

While residing in Escondido, Mr. Willard was active in K. of P. and Odd Fellow activities.

Mr. Willard lived in Escondido 10 to 13 years. He first had an office. in what is now Young's Music Store. When Dr. E. B. Buell constructed a small building at the corner of Grand avenue and Kalmia street, where the Jack and Ethyl service station is now located, Mr. Willard obtained an office room there.

Following is the notice from the San Diego Union:
WILLARD — In this city, January 10, 1931, Franklin Pierce Willard, beloved husband of Mrs. Emma Willard of La Mesa, father of A. J. Willard of Fallon, Nev., and Mrs. F. J. Carmody. Indio, Calif.; aged 76 years. Friends are invited to attend services at 2 p. m. Tuesday, January 13, from the chapel of Bonham Brothers' mortuary, 4th and Elm streets. Creation.

Courtesy of:
Contributor, Dalton Everett Kelso (50571751)

bl