Gold Rush Legacy

About the Book

Much has been written about the miners who responded to the discovery of Gold in California, yet little has been said of the church and community leaders who came along with them. The life of William Brier is a forgotten story of one pioneer and Presbyterian minister who came to California to change the newly emerging society. This biography begins with his neglected tombstone, and works backward to recreate his colorful and controversial life history. He founded over 27 churches, shaped the California school system, stood up for law and order, and protected the rights of Chinese workers.

About the Author

Dr. Greg Roth is the pastor of Centerville Presbyterian Church (in Fremont), the second California congregation founded by William Wallace Brier. Greg has a masters and doctorate from Fuller Seminary in Pasadena. He and his wife have been pastors at the Centerville church for the past ten years. He traveled extensively throughout California and Nevada to visit the cities where Brier worked during the gold rush era. Additional detail of author. Prior to working in northern California, the Roth’s served at Glendale Presbyterian Church in the Los Angeles basin. Dr. Roth has been active in community ministries, and in international relief and development. He is the president of the board of directors of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship.