Courtesy of the California State Library
Amelia Irwin
1875–1880
Significant Facts
Born: October 11, 1843 in Ellenville, New York
Died: October 20, 1905 in Berkeley, California
Married: William Irwin on December 21, 1865 in Yreka, California
Maiden Name: Cassidy
Family
Father: Edward Cassidy
Mother: Elizabeth Warren
Husband: William Irwin
Children: Emma
Find out more about the time period and interests of Amelia Irwin
Biography
It is unknown when Amelia Elizabeth Cassidy moved from New York to California. She met William Irwin while living in Fort Jones with her mother and step-father. Amelia and William were married on December 21, 1865 in Yreka. They moved to Sacramento in 1869 when William was elected to the Senate. Upon becoming Governor in 1875, William and Amelia threw one of the most elaborate and expensive inaugural balls ever held in California. As First Lady, Amelia hosted a tea in the State Capitol Senate Chamber for Mrs. Grant on October 22, 1879, during President Grant’s visit to the State. Amelia Irwin died on October 20, 1905. She is buried at the Cypress Lawn Cemetery in Colma, California.
Bibliography
Books and Articles
- Cook and LaDue, The First Ladies of California, Xlibris Corporation, 2007
