The History of Southport Landing
From Gold Rush Dreams to Southport Landing: The Remarkable Story of Charles H. Heney
While exploring Southport Landing's history through photographs and documents left by previous owners, we've uncovered a fascinating tale of entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and perseverance that began during California's Gold Rush era.
A Gold Rush Beginning
The story of our home begins with Charles H. Heney, who like many adventurous souls, arrived in California in 1849 during the height of gold fever. Taking the treacherous route through the Isthmus of Panama, Heney initially joined his brother George K. in the mines of Placerville. However, his true fortune would be found not in gold, but in the rich opportunities of Humboldt County.
Building a Life in Eureka
After a brief return to San Francisco, Heney settled in Humboldt County in 1855, returning the following year with his family. His early years in Eureka showed his versatility and business acumen:
Worked in William Carson's sawmill
Established a successful general merchandise store
Served as Eureka's postmaster for nine years, including during Lincoln's assassination
The Vision of Southport Landing
In 1876, Heney embarked on his most ambitious venture when he purchased the Southport ranch on Table Bluff. It was here that our home's story truly begins. Heney's vision for Southport was nothing short of revolutionary for its time.
The Innovative Railroad
Heney constructed an ingenious railroad system that showcased his creative problem-solving:
Stretched approximately five miles from Southport to McNulty Slough on Eel River
Featured unique wooden rails made of pepperwood, chosen for its durability
Powered by a specially arranged team of mules wearing spiked shoes
Connected the agricultural wealth of Eel River Valley with maritime shipping
The Warehouse and Wharf
At Southport, Heney established:
A deep-water warehouse on Heney Channel
A trestle extending to the channel
Facilities capable of accommodating any vessel navigating Humboldt Bay
The Dream and Its Demise
Heney envisioned Southport becoming for southern Humboldt Bay what the Arcata Wharf was to the north. For a time, it flourished:
Regular steamer service between San Francisco and Eureka
Busy seasonal trade moving crops to market
A vital link between inland farms and coastal shipping
However, nature had other plans. The winter of 1878 brought a devastating storm:
Record-high water levels
The railroad track was torn from its moorings
The entire infrastructure was thrown against Table Bluff
The dream of Southport as a commercial hub came to an abrupt end
Legacy Beyond Southport
Despite this setback, Heney's entrepreneurial spirit remained undiminished. He went on to build the Newburgh sawmill near Fortuna with E.J. Dodge and others, continuing in the lumber business until his death on October 24, 1885. A native of Deer Island, New Brunswick, he passed away in Eureka at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy that included his sons William L. and Archie H. Heney.
Southport Landing Today
Standing in our home today, we feel a deep connection to Heney's vision and perseverance. While the railroad's wooden rails have long since disappeared from the beach, the spirit of innovation and adaptation lives on. As the current stewards of Southport Landing, we're honored to continue its tradition of hospitality, though in a form Heney might never have imagined.
A Living History
Our Victorian home, which once overlooked Heney's ambitious maritime venture, has evolved from a commercial hub to a family residence, and now to a bed & breakfast. Each transformation reflects the changing times while preserving the essence of this historic property.
Are you a local historian or perhaps related to the Heney family? We'd love to hear your stories and see any historical photographs you might have of Southport Landing, the railroad, or the Heney family. Please reach out through our contact page or share in the comments below.