Established in memory of the Beswick Family, the Cora W. Nixon Endowment Fund is a bequest made to the Foundation in 2002. The endowment fund principal of $297,721 represents one-third of the Beswick inheritance and Cora Nixon’s estate. It is invested by the Foundation in perpetuity, with the annual interest proceeds donated to the Foundation’s Lights for Life campaign.

Cora Nutson was born in 1907 in Seiad Valley, California to parents unable to care for her properly. Although the early details aren’t fully clear, it is known that Cora and her brother Charley lived with a grandmother and then-at the ages of five and 3, respectively-became the wards of their uncle and aunt, Richard and Margaret Beswick of Ashland.

One of Ashland’s early orchardist families, the Beswicks and their two grown daughers, Lottie and Sarah, were dearly loved by Cora and her brother. A lifelong bond was soon firmly established.

Young Cora briefly attended Briscoe Elementary, then returned to Northern California. As an adult, she graduated from Chico State University, taught elementary school prior to marrying Merle Nixon in 1939 and was widowed twelve years later. The couple had no children.

At age 65, according to a pre-arranged plan, Cora returned to Ashland to assume the care of her now-elderly cousin Lottie and brother Charley. The three cousins were very close and lived together for many years in the distinctive pink stucco house that still stands at the corner of Siskiyou and Hillview.

The Beswick’s land included numerous acres of fruit trees in the southern part of Ashland. However, since neither Lottie nor Sarah had children, the Beswick holdings were eventually passed on to Charley and Cora.

Eventually, most of the property was sold-although some was simply given away as a gift to a friend-and developed into the subdivisions near Beswick Way, Harmony Lane and Hilview Drive.

Cora took great pride in all things Beswick, and it is likely her decision to establish an endowment fund through the Foundation was influenced by Lottie Beswick’s preferences. Cora passed away in the spring of 2002.

In establishing the endowment fund, Cora insisted that recognition remain with the Beswicks for their many kindnesses and lifelong friendship. As a reflection of her affection and gratitude, Cora asked that the following statement be made each year when proceeds from the fund are distributed:

“From Cora Nixon and Charley Nutson, in loving memory of the Beswick Family: Richard, Margaret, Lottie and Sarah Beswick.”

A touching tribute to a kind family who made a lasting impression on the life of a little girl and her brother.