This collection consists of the personal, family, and business papers of San Diego, California, rancher, businessman, and politician Cave Johnson Couts (1821-1874) and his son Cave Johnson Couts, Jr. (1856-1943). There is material concerning land and development in San Diego County and in greater Southern California, as well as significant amount of materials related to Native Americans in San Diego County.

Cave J. Couts (1821-1874) was born near Springfield, Tennessee, in November 1821. He was recommended by Rep. James K. Polk to the United States Military Academy, which he attended from 1838 to 1843. For four years, Couts served at posts in Louisiana and what is now Oklahoma, during which time he rose from second lieutenant of Riflemen to first lieutenant of First Dragoons.Cave J. Couts (1856-1943), fourth child of Cave J. Couts (1821-1874), was born at Rancho Guajome in San Diego County, California, in 1856. He received his schooling at St. Vincent's Academy in Los Angeles and at Stewart College in Clarksville, Tennessee (now Southwestern Presbyterian University).

Approximately 16,000 pieces in 92 boxes; 171 volumes; 250 maps; and 1 roll

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