In the heart of Jenner, California, a quiet legacy flows with the current of the Russian River—the story of Steven Smith Jr., a respected elder of Pomo and Miwuk heritage who lived a life rooted in tradition, resilience, and deep connection to the land.
A Native American Legacy in Sonoma County
Born into a lineage stretching back centuries, Steven was a descendant of the Pomo and Miwuk tribes—two of Northern California's most prominent Native American communities. His grandfather, Jim Anton, was among the first Native fishermen to craft boats and harvest the rich coastal waters where the Russian River meets the Pacific.
Displacement, illness, and colonization threatened their way of life, but the Anton family endured. Their story is central to the Native American history of Sonoma County, and their resilience continues to inspire today.
Growing Up Along the Russian River
Steven’s childhood was shaped by life on the river. Raised in Jenner, he helped row his sisters across the water, tended the garden, cared for livestock, and rowed himself to school each day. His deep relationship with nature and family responsibility started early—reflecting values still honored in Pomo culture.
At just seven years old, Steven witnessed the 1906 San Francisco earthquake from the sand dunes in Jenner, watching the land split apart before his eyes. Yet even amid natural disaster, the newly built lumber town of Jenner survived without burning—a metaphor for the community’s enduring strength.
Guided by Strong Women of the Pomo Tribe
Steven was profoundly influenced by his grandmother, Mary Pete, a woman known for her strength, wisdom, and connection to Pomo oral history. Her memories reached back to the arrival of Russian and Spanish settlers in Sonoma County. She walked with Steven to catch the train that would take him to a Native boarding school in Pennsylvania, ensuring his education and future.
A Life of Contribution and Cultural Pride
Returning from school, Steven brought his education back to Sonoma County. By age 20, he helped launch a small logging operation in Cazadero, supported his family through grape farming in Dry Creek Valley, and later worked in shipyards in Vallejo. During the Great Depression, his family supported other local families—proving that generosity and strength ran deep in his roots.
Though life was not always easy, Steven and his wife Lucy raised eight children and built a legacy that continues to grow through future generations. Their family proudly carries on their Native American heritage in Northern California.
Why Steven Smith Jr.'s Story Matters Today
Steven Smith Jr.’s life is more than a historical tale—it’s a powerful reminder of the enduring presence and contributions of Indigenous people in Sonoma County. His journey reflects the challenges faced by Native communities, but also their strength, adaptability, and commitment to family, land, and legacy.
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