Wristen, William David

William David Wristen, a native of Kentucky, was an influential California pioneer who crossed the plains with teams to establish himself as a large grain and stock farmer near Davis, Yolo County. In 1881, he relocated to Oleander in Fresno County to continue his agricultural pursuits while dispensing classic Southern hospitality at his home. He eventually retired to Los Angeles, where he lived until his death on March 5, 1901.

Alongside his wife, Virginia native Agnes Dew, William was an active member of the Methodist Church, South. The couple raised a large family, leaving behind surviving children including Mrs. O. B. Olufs, Josie Cook, Elizabeth Bentley, Anita Schmidt, and William Lee Wristen. Following her husband’s passing, Agnes resided in Los Angeles until her death on January 3, 1913, leaving a lasting legacy of early California pioneer life.