Background
Víctor Castro was the son of Francisco María Castro, a former soldier at the San Francisco Presidio, one-time alcalde of the Pueblo of San José, and grantee of Rancho San Pablo.
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Victor Castro
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Career
Víctor Castro was elected as a juez de campo (field judge) in 1840 which gave him authority over roundups and branding of cattle in the area. He was a renowned horseman and helped battle indigenous raiders who attacked other Mexican ranchos. He also warred with American immigrants who squatted on his land after the California Gold Rush.
Castro was a local leader in times of both peace and conflict.
He remained active as a community leader after the annexation of California and was elected a Contra Costa County supervisor in 1852. Castro Street, Castro Creek, the Castro Rocks, Castro Point, Castro Cove and Castro Ranch Road in Richmond are named after his family.
