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William B. Ide (1796-1852) http://tinyurl.com/WBIde

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Glory their Reward

From "Bear Flag Proclamation," 1846.

Reader: Wm Leslie Howard

When California was still a part of Mexico, there lived here a number of expatriate Americans who were impatient for a change of rule.

The Bear Flag Revolt preceded the United States occupation of California as part of the Mexican American War. Backed by the dashing officer Captain Fremont, twenty-four Americans proclaimed California a republic, hoisted a new flag over Sonoma featuring a red stripe, a star, and a grizzly bear. William Ide, president of the new republic, offered an especially lofty—some way "windy"—proclamation of independence. Here is its conclusion.

First bear flag, photographer unknown, 1890. Larger.

. . . . He further declares that he relies upon the rectitude of our intentions; the favor of Heaven and the bravery of those who are bound to, and associated with him, by the principle of self-preservation; by the love of truth; and by the hatred of tyranny—for his hopes of success.

He further declares that he believes that a Government to be prosperous and happifying in its tendency must originate with its people who are friendly to its existence. That its Citizens, are its Guardians, its officers are its Servants, and its Glory their reward.

Signed William B. Ide

Head Quarters Sonoma June 15th 1846

After the Bear Flag Revolt, William B. Ide worked in various fields, including mining and surveying.