Bergon, Prosper J.

Prosper J. Bergon, born in Riverside on April 2, 1888, is a native Californian who achieved substantial success as a rancher. The eldest of seven children born to French immigrants Frank Bergon and Mary Noussitou, he spent his childhood working on his family grain and livestock farms in Southern California. After completing his education in Palms, he became a partner in his father agricultural operations on the Brea Ranch in Hollywood. In 1912, he relocated to Fresno County to independently expand his agricultural pursuits. His early life reflects the experiences of first generation Californians who built upon their family farming traditions to develop the state rural economy.

In Fresno County, Prosper leased an 860 acre property in the Dakota Colony, where he successfully managed diverse operations including wheat cultivation, alfalfa production, and dairying. Beyond his ranching achievements, he contributed to his community by serving as the clerk of the board of trustees for the Sunset school district from its inception. His personal life was marked by his marriage to Anna Castahaude in Los Angeles, with whom he had two sons, Frank and Albert. As a member of the Foresters of America and a dedicated local official, his life demonstrates the significant impact of civic minded agriculturalists on the growth of early California communities.