The papers primarily consist of correspondence generated during Monahan's years as mayor of San Jose, 1912-1914.

Thomas Monahan, born in San Jose on July 4th, 1866, was the second of five children. He began his formal education at the Hester School in San Jose. After one year, he transferred to the University of Santa Clara. At the age of 16, he began to explore potential careers. In the following years, he apprenticed as a blacksmith, and worked as a mail carrier, as well as chief jailer. In 1909, he began a career as an embalmer and undertaker, while continuing to work as a mail carrier. This same year, he married Josephine Moriarty, a native of Ohio. They had four children.

1.5 Linear feet

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The papers are open to the public for research by appointment.