Description
Small selection of personal papers of Hon. James R. Welch (1860-1931) of Santa Clara County, primarily documenting his involvement
in the planning and implementation of Skyline Boulevard and Bayshore Highway.
Background
Born in Illinois, Welch came to San Jose in 1882 to attend the University of the Pacific. He served as city attorney of San
Jose between 1894-1897, and was elected to the California State Superior Court in 1904 where he remained until his sudden
death in 1931. He was also on the board of the California Prune and Apricot Growers Association as the owner of an active
fruit ranch. He is remembered for his campaign for Skyline Boulevard to run along the summit ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains
Restrictions
Contact History San Jose's Research Library for information on publication and reproduction.
Availability
Open to the public for research by appointment.