Charles Pearson, a Class of 1917 graduate, served as class president while at Anaheim High and was a scholar and athlete. A graduate of Occidental College, he built his business, Anaheim Truck and Transfer Company, into the county’s largest trucking company at the time.
He became a prominent figure in Anaheim’s political and civic life and served on the Anaheim City Council for 25 years and was the mayor of Anaheim from 1940 to 1959. He started his public service as one of the members of the first Planning Commission in the 1920s.
As mayor, he oversaw significant developments in the city’s infrastructure, public services, and community programs. His leadership was marked by a focus on growth, public safety, and community engagement, making him a respected figure in the city’s history, and he is remembered for his role in helping bringing Disneyland to Anaheim. He was also active in the development of the Metropolitan Water District.
Known as Charlie or “Mr. Anaheim” for his years of service to Anaheim and as a citizen who embraced his city. Anaheim’s City Park was renamed Pearson Park to honor him.
He married Sarah Fay in 1934. Sarah’s family came to Anaheim in 1892, and her grandfather, W.J. Fay, was president of the Anaheim Union Water Company. Sarah graduated from USC with a D.D.S. degree and practiced orthodontia, managed the 40-acre Fay Ranch, and was active in many community organizations. Their son, Charles James “Jim” Pearson is from Class of 1954 and is living in Northern California.
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