Riggins, Emmett

Emmett Riggins, born in Missouri on January 10, 1862, was a highly accomplished building contractor who left a lasting architectural impact on Fresno, California. He was the son of George W. Riggins and Ann Dean, both of whom are now deceased. After completing his local public schooling, he satisfied his ambition for learning by attending the State University at Columbia. He was later apprenticed to the coach-building trade and spent several years working as a journeyman before moving West in 1886.

By 1888, Emmett relocated to the promising village of Fresno and immediately engaged in local building projects. He worked independently, in a brief partnership with a Mr. Rehan, and alongside E. A. Palmer to construct prominent local landmarks. His notable building credits include the Hughes Block, the Braly Building, the Chance Building, the Kutner Building, the Fulton Hotel, and the Cory Building. He also successfully remodeled the First National Bank, contracted for the six-story concrete Mason Block, and designed many of the most ornate private residences across Central California.