Forster vs. Pico: The Struggle for the Rancho Santa Margarita

During 1873, a jury trial in San Diego determined if Pio Pico, the final Mexican governor of California, was a victim of fraud by his brother-in-law, John Forster. Pico claimed ownership of the Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores land grant, which is now occupied by Camp Pendleton. The trial offers a fascinating glimpse into California's transition era and Americanization, with an in-depth analysis of the evidence and the underlying circumstances and motives of the struggle between Forster and Pico.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2022
Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press

During 1873, a highly significant jury trial unfolded in San Diego, with the purpose of determining whether Pio Pico, the final Mexican governor of California, had been the victim of a fraudulent scheme orchestrated by his brother-in-law, John Forster. Pico asserted his claim to the vast Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores land grant, situated approximately 208 square miles north of San Diego on the California coastline, which is currently occupied by Camp Pendleton. This legal battle, in which Pico fought to retain the grant against formidable legal challenges from John Forster and others, offers a captivating glimpse into California's transitional era and the process of Americanization. The introductory chapters provide a comprehensive overview of early California history, highlighting the pivotal roles played by the Pico family and John Forster. Drawing upon meticulous research, encompassing a vast array of records, letters, and photographs that have never been published before, the book delves into the intimate lives and quirks of some of California's most remarkable historical figures with unprecedented depth.

Following a thorough account of the trial proceedings, a comprehensive analysis of the evidence is presented, demonstrating that the controversial verdict should have been different. The underlying circumstances and motivations behind the conflict between Forster and Pico are thoroughly explained, shedding light on the complex dynamics that shaped California's history during this period.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780806190976