W. C. Lean & Jung Collection, 1909-1980

Printable guide [HTML]

Online content

Creators:: Lean, W. C. Jung, William H. Jung, William F. W. C. Lean & Jung Jewelers
Abstract:
Extent:: 10 linear feet
Language:
Preferred citation:: W. C. Lean & Jung Collection. History San Jose Research Library

Scope and content:: Small collection of financial and customer records from W. C. Lean & Jung Jewelers, comprising watch and clock repair records, customer account books, yearly financial reconciliations, and silverware manufacturer sales catalogs.
Biographical / historical:: W. C. Lean was established as the H. Morton Jewelry Company in 1888, purchased by Lean circa 1904, and operating at 99 South First Street in the W. J. Wilcox building. W. C. Lean worked for jewelers in San Francisco before coming to San Jose and purchasing Morton's business. Morton's apprentice, William H. Jung, stayed on to help run the business, soon becoming a partner. The two bought the Wilcox Block in 1920. Jung's son Bill took over the business with his wife Ruth after his father's death in 1939. With the deterioration of downtown San Jose in the 1970s, the business steadily lost its clientele and closed its doors in 1984. Built in 1867, the E. J. Wilcox building was left empty after 1999, purchased in 2002 by the San Jose Redevelopment Agency, and re-sold in 2007 to developers to be renovated.
Acquisition information:: Materials were found in the original Wilcox Block building occupied by W. C. Lean when it was being remodeled, and donated to History San Jose by the developer.

Restrictions:: Collection is open to the public for research by appointment.
Terms of access:: Please consult the Curator of Research Library & Archives for information on publication and reproduction.

Preferred citation:: W. C. Lean & Jung Collection. History San Jose Research Library

Location of this collection:: History San Jose Research Library

1661 Senter Road

San Jose, CA 95112, US