Joseph Goldsborough Bruff

Background

Bruff, Joseph Goldsborough was born on October 2, 1804 in Washington, District of Columbia, United States. Son of Thomas and Mary (Oliver) Bruff.

Education

Entered United States Military Academy, 1820, forced to resign after fighting duel, 1822.

Career

Served with United States Navy, 3 years. Draftsman in Washington, 1827-1849. Organized and led Washington City Company expedition to California via South. Pass of Rocky Mountains, 1849, brought party safely through treacherous Lassen Trail.

Kept copious, illustrated journal of westtrn travels, recording daily events, personalities, local topography, geology, zoology and anthropology (public as Gold Rush, edited by Read and Gaines, 1949).

Draftsman United States Treasury Department, Washington, 1853-1878.

Achievements

• Joseph Goldsborough Bruff has been listed as a noteworthy draftsman, diarist by Marquis Who's Who.

Membership

Member California Mining Association (president), Oldest Inhabitants’ Association, Washington Monument Society. Mason (charter member Federal lodge).

Connections

Father:

Thomas Bruff

Mother:

Mary (Oliver) Bruff