William Leidesdorff

Biography

William Leidesdorff, a merchant who made his home near Mission San Francisco de Asís, became one of the earliest and most respected civic leaders in San Francisco, building a trading house that welcomed sailors, settlers, and indigenous neighbors alike.

He used his wealth to support charities, served informally as vice consul for his countrymen, and sought to bind together a fledgling town by cultivating friendship, commerce, and shared responsibility.