Joseph Burns was born in South Carolina on September 13, 1830, and eventually moved to Illinois before embarking on a challenging journey to California in 1853. As part of a large party traveling with ox teams, he helped freight merchandise across the plains and arrived in California after six months. He initially attempted mining before turning to the more stable work of stock ranching and freighting supplies. He became a pioneer in the local agricultural industry, notably setting out the first orange and peach trees in the region and building part of the Gold Ditch to support early irrigation. Through these industrious efforts, he expanded his land holdings to 1,150 acres and established a reputation as a progressive and loyal pioneer.

In 1862, he married Mary A. Lewis, and their union produced six children named Ella A., William, Agnes J., Florence M., Pearl, and Archibald J. As a dedicated advocate for education, he donated land and funds for the local school and served as a trustee for nearly forty years in the Hazelton school district. He was also a committed Republican and helped organize the Fresno Republican newspaper to foster community growth. After years of successful ranching, he moved his family to Sanger to provide better educational opportunities for his children. He remained an active and respected member of the community until his death on December 13, 1918.