David W. Alexander
David W. Alexander was an Irish immigrant who came to America in 1832 at the age of
20. He eventually established a successful freight and forwarding business in Los
Angeles.
Later, he became associated with General Banning in a transportation business.
Prior to California attaining statehood, the Mexican government appointed him
Collector of Customs for the Port of San Pedro. When the Americans took over, he
continued in that position for the United States government.
Alexander was elected first president of the first Common Council of the City of Los
Angeles in 1851. He was a charter member of the volunteer police force, known as the
“Rangers,” consisting of about 100 men. Then, in 1855, the citizens of the county
elected him sheriff.
The duties of the office did not seem to appeal to Alexander, and after only a few
months he resigned the office and returned to private business.
David W. Alexander was an Irish immigrant who came to America in 1832 at the age of
20. He eventually established a successful freight and forwarding business in Los
Angeles.
Later, he became associated with General Banning in a transportation business.
Prior to California attaining statehood, the Mexican government appointed him
Collector of Customs for the Port of San Pedro. When the Americans took over, he
continued in that position for the United States government.
Alexander was elected first president of the first Common Council of the City of Los
Angeles in 1851. He was a charter member of the volunteer police force, known as the
“Rangers,” consisting of about 100 men. Then, in 1855, the citizens of the county
elected him sheriff.
The duties of the office did not seem to appeal to Alexander, and after only a few
months he resigned the office and returned to private business.
Example of the official letterhead used
by Sheriff Alexander.
Signed by him and General Banning.
by Sheriff Alexander.
Signed by him and General Banning.