William S. Tevis Jr.

William “Willie” S. Tevis, born in 1891, was a colorful character who played polo for over sixty years and reached a respectable 6 goal handicap. Dubbed the “Iron Man of California,” he was revered for being an active proponent in keeping the sport alive in California during its difficult rebuilding years. Tevis had enduring influence with polo clubs in northern California, most notably the San Francisco Polo Club and in southern California he was founder of the Eldorado Polo Club, listed as its first delegate in 1957.

Highly regarded for his superb skills as a horseman, he was asked to help launch the famous 100 mile endurance ride that became known as the “Tevis Cup,” named for his grandfather, and is still competed for today. Willie Tevis served in both World Wars and died in 1977.