Alexander Grogan, was a key landholder in early Pasadena history, purchasing a significant "Grogan Tract" in the north area (near modern Villa Street and Lake Avenue) from the Rancho San Pasqual holdings. This area, along with others like the Monk Tract, was later subdivided for residential development in the late 19th century.
James Craig was Grogan's agent and had a large tract of his own. Craig represented Grogan in attempting to subdivide and sell both of their ranches in chunks. Grogan lived and maintained his office in San Francisco and Craig was his partner, living and selling from his ranch in what was then Eastern Pasadena.
The Cranks and Brigdens both purchased part of Craig's tract and lived below the Allens, having purchased and built their homes in the decade preceding the Allens' arrival, - Allen didn't tour the ranch until late 1878
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