George C. Briggs was one of the famous firm of Briggs Brothers, who were the pioneers of fruit culture in California. Every one has heard of the wonderful - wonderful for that time - peach orchard near Marysville, and of the varieties of California peaches which bear his name. Of late years he gave his chief attention to the growing of grapes for raisins, and had at the time of his death no less than 1,200 acres in grapes, and was preparing to plant 6,000 more. His death occurred the last week in January, in the 61st year of his age. Those who know how much fruit culture in all new countries depends on the results of early experiments; how much has to be lost in early trials, and the planter to suffer by heart-burning disappointments before success is assured, will have cause to feel deep regret for the loss of such a man as this. Monuments have been erected to commemorate the services of men who have deserved far less of their country than Mr. Briggs.