Charles F. Plathe Tombstone

Charles Plathe (b. 1870, d. 1906) was originally a resident of Santa Cruz, but moved at some point to Oakland. He was there in April 1906 when a spectacularly destructive earthquake (7.8-8.3 estimated magnitude) hit San Francisco and its surrounding area. In addition to the destruction of buildings caused by the earthquake itself, there were huge fires, and water line ruptures. Many were taking water from the sewer lines, which led to concerns about disease (e.g., cholera). Martial law was enforced. Some hooligans attempted to rob the U.S. mint and were shot dead in the process. Charles Plathe and his wife were indicated as being "seen and found to be all right" by the Santa Cruz Sentinel dated 21 April 1906. Mr. Plathe's tombstone suggests that he was involved in timber work in some way. He may also have worked in printing at some point. His father-in-law went to visit him in mid-December 1906 and it was reported by the Sentinel that Mr. Plathe was ill with a stomach malady that might prove fatal.