Say, Lyle H.

Lyle H. Say, born on December 7, 1893, was a popular citizen of Fresno County whose family history was closely interwoven with the progress of Selma. The son of William Henry Say and grandson of James H. Say, he grew up on his father ranch and experienced a unique childhood adventure when he traveled to the Klondike at six years old. His father was engaged in mining there alongside other California men, and Lyle spent fourteen months in the region before returning home. He subsequently completed his education at the Selma grammar and high schools, graduating in 1913, before studying briefly at the Agricultural School of the University of California at Davis. In January 1914, he began his agricultural career by taking charge of one of his father farms.

His ranching pursuits were temporarily interrupted when he enlisted in the Naval Reserve on August 15, 1917, following the call for volunteers. He served at San Pedro on the lighthouse tender Sequoia, trained at the Mare Island mechanical school for machinists, and entered the regular submarine service in August 1918 before his release in early 1919. Professionally, he managed his own fine 160 acre vineyard and apricot ranch southwest of Selma while also overseeing his father extensive interests. Married to Ethel M. Stoker on June 3, 1914, he and his wife actively participated in war activities and bond purchases. He was also highly involved in fraternal organizations, serving as a past noble grand in the Odd Fellows, senior warden in the Selma Encampment, and past president and treasurer of the Selma Parlor of the Native Sons of the Golden West.