Who Are The Jensens?

Erich Rickert Jensen (1838-1919) was the oldest son of Nahmen Jensen on the island of Fohr, located in the North Sea, near the borders of Germany and Denmark.

Erich worked on his father's farm until he was 22 years old. About 1860, however, he came to the conclusion that he had no future on the island due to economic conditions, and a political and military confrontation between Germany and Denmark.

As a result, Erich set out around Cape Horn, arriving in California in June of 1860. He was joined by his brother, Jens, in 1864. The two formed the Jensen Brothers Partnership in 1867, and purchased 450 acres of farmland in Southern Alameda County.

Erich served as an Alameda County Supervisor for several years in the 1880's and Overseer of Public Roads for 20 years.

Christiane Emilie (Heinsen) Jensen was the oldest daughter of Christian Georg Heinsen, a teacher on the island of  Fohr.   

Christiane was one of the letter writers who created the Jensen Papers in the beginning stages. She was also a (19th century!) photographic hobbyist, who contributed to the rich visual heritage of the family archives.