Sarah Kidder widow of John Kidder, faced skepticism about her capability to lead the Narrow Gauge Railroad following her husband’s demise. However, determined to prove her competence, she accepted the challenge. Despite doubts, stockholders elected Sarah as John’s successor less than a month after his passing, making her one of the few, if not the only woman, to hold such a position and title, as reported in the September 20, 1901, edition of the Oakdale Leader.
Although Sarah inherited sole ownership of the railroad, her appointment as its manager was not guaranteed. Prior to her husband’s death, Sarah had diligently familiarized herself with the company’s operations over more than a year, earning her the right to assume the role. Described as a woman uninterested in merely sampling traditionally male duties and responsibilities, Sarah’s marriage to John in 1874 hadn’t prepared her for the eventual role she would play in the railroad industry.
At the age of fifty-nine, Sarah took on the presidency of the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad. Previously, her focus had been on maintaining their lavish home in Grass Valley, California, where she indulged her passion for gardening and entertained guests with charm and grace. Although childless, Sarah and John had adopted a niece named Beatrice, with whom Sarah enjoyed spending time when not occupied with household affairs.
Having been immersed in the railroad business for so long, Sarah recognized the importance of surrounding herself with knowledgeable individuals. She appointed Charles P. Loughridge, her husband’s trusted associate, as the general manager, along with three other experienced executives. From the outset, Sarah asserted her commitment to running the railroad efficiently and ethically, reassuring stockholders and the board of directors of her capabilities.
Sarah’s tenure began amidst challenges for the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad, notably competition from the expanding interests of the Northern Electric Railway. Concerns arose about losing both passenger and freight business to the rival company. Nevada County Traction, backing the Northern Electric Railway, sought to establish dominance by introducing electric train services in Grass Valley and Nevada City, ultimately aiming to acquire land and lay track in the region.
Despite offers from Nevada County Traction to purchase her railroad, Sarah remained resolute in her refusal. In 1905, when investors revisited the idea, Sarah quoted a price she believed unattainable, effectively halting negotiations. Her steadfastness demonstrated her commitment to maintaining control of the Narrow Gauge Railroad against mounting pressure from competitors.