Swigart, Edward Cooper

Edward Cooper Swigart was born near Tehachapi, Kern County, California, on August 18, 1878. He relocated to Academy at six years of age, where he attended local schools until he was thirteen before working in farming, mining, and stock-raising. In 1902, he entered public service after being elected constable of the Tenth Judicial District for two terms, later establishing a general merchandise business at Letcher in 1907 while serving as assistant postmaster.

In 1913, Edward purchased ten acres at Academy, where he moved his store, built a blacksmith shop and garage, and became the postmaster. On September 6, 1899, he married Fresno native Fannie L. Kirch, and together they raised two daughters, Ella May and Gloria Lucile. Beyond his commercial enterprises and agricultural land holdings, he served as deputy county clerk, clerk of the Dry Creek school board, and chairman for local Liberty Bond drives.