Who Was Grandpa Doc?

Join local author Patricia Caird to hear the remarkable story of one of our city's most fascinating citizens, Dr. William J. Mellinger:
Who Was Grandpa Doc? William J. Mellinger, 1886-1948:
A Man Who Knew No Limits
As the archivist of her family records, as Patricia Caird enlisted historian Neal Graffy to be her guide as she realized that this story, originally meant for her family, had morphed into something much bigger. She describes her research and inspiring decision to publish the book one of the "best experiences of her life."
William J. Mellinger knew he needed to leave the Indiana farm of his birth and difficult childhood. In 1906, with only a 7th grade education, he left for Toronto, Canada, attended veterinary school, and set out to live life on his own terms. In time, he was practicing medicine in Santa Barbara, California, taking every available opportunity to add to the history of the city he loved.

After a short teaching career and 26 years of sales for her family’s wholesale nursery, Patricia Caird became the archivist of the rich family history records of her maternal grandparents. She soon discovered there was a story to tell. Plus it was the perfect opportunity to fulfill her dream of writing a book. Originally meant for her family, it morphed into something much bigger. She presently lives in Santa Barbara, California.

Host or Publisher Santa Barbara Historical Museum