The Last of the Californios: The Pico Family, 1775-1894

The name “Pico” is known to many Californians, especially in Southern California.

There are streets, canyons, buildings and sites with that name; but most do not know about the persons behind these names. The story about Pio Pico and his large extended family reflects the stories of most leading Californios (Mexicans born in California), who successfully fought for independence from Spain, autonomy from Mexico, and grants of huge ranchos. Pio Pico was both a representative of these pioneers,...