The William G. Micke Collection consists of personal and business papers, books, and photographs related to the career of Lodi grape grower and entrepreneur William G. Micke (1874-1961) and his wife, Julia Harrison Micke (1877-1952). Also included are a variety of papers related to his will and probate, as well as to legal challenges levied against Micke's estate after his death.

A native of Missouri, William G. Micke was born on April 25, 1874. At the age of twenty-one, he moved to Nebraska, and two years later to California, where he settled in Florin, Sacramento County. In 1902, Micke moved again, this time to Lodi, where he purchased in partnership with John Merrill a fifty-six-acre parcel that had once been a race track for horses. Micke eventually bought out the interest of his partner, acquired additional land, and became a successful shipper of grapes and other fruit under the Race Track brand name. Micke and his wife, Julia Harrison Micke, the daughter of former Stockton, California, mayor Bruce Harrison, were well-known local philanthropists. Thanks to them, San Joaquin County acquired Micke Grove Golf Links and Micke Grove Regional Park, the latter of which features the Julia Harrison Micke Memorial Building, Micke Grove Zoo, and a swimming pool that since Micke's death has been filled in.

8.3 linear feet

The library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claimants of literary property.

Collection is open for research by appointment.