Who Are The Jensens?

Jens Christian Jensen (1840-1922) was the second son of  Nahmen Jensen. He traveled from Europe to join his brother, Erich, in California in 1864. Together, the two set out to build the Jensen Ranch. Their 1867 partnership procured them several hundred acres in what is now the Palomares Hills, east of Castro Valley. They paid off the mortgage on the farm by 1871.

Jens became a member of the school boards, both of Palomares, and of the Union High School District #3, serving from 1883-1911. Jens' financial contributions essentially made the first Hayward high school possible, by guaranteeing school finances. He was also the founding trustee, representing the Palomares School District.

Emilie (Heinsen) Jensen was the sister of Christiane (Heinsen) Jensen, who was married to Jens' brother, Erich. Emilie raised 10 children in the traditional German customs.