Biographies
JAMES H. DONNELLY
The diversified enterprises engaging the
attention of Mr. Donnelly point to breadth of mind and largeness of vision as
among his leading attributes. When he was elected supervisor from the fourth
district in Sacramento county in November, 1904, and
re-elected in 1908, the people recognizing his high order of ability and
appreciating his acceptable service in former local offices, looked with
expectancy to a promising record on the county board. Nor have they
been disappointed in their hopes, for he has proved sagacious in council,
public-spirited in devotion to the county, loyal to its development,
progressive in plans, and prompt in action. Worthily filling the office of
supervisor, in so doing he has made an enviable reputation for himself and at
the same time promoted the permanent welfare of the county.
That he can claim Sacramento as his native
county is a source of pride to Mr. Donnelly, who was born at Folsom November
21, 1868, and is a son of Henry and Kate Donnelly. From six to thirteen years
of age he attended school at Folsom, but the necessity of earning a livelihood
cut short his schooldays and induced him to work in the stables of the Natoma Vineyard Company, where he remained about eighteen
months. Later he took charge of a livery stable owned by his mother and at the
same time he became interested in mining, but afterward he gave up these
occupations to engage in fruit raising. The year 1904
found him a newcomer in Sacramento, where he organized the firm of Wright &
Donnelly and established the general livery and boarding business known as the
Wilson's Stables that has built up an extensive trade in the city.
The constant activities of business
pursuits and the duties of supervisor do not preclude Mr. Donnelly from further
interests, for we find in addition that he holds office as president of the
Folsom Investment Company that built the Hotel Bismarck in Sacramento. In
politics he has given stanch allegiance to the Republican party
and has aided local affairs with his time and influence. For sixteen years he
served as deputy assessor and constable at Folsom and his faithful service
there laid the foundation for the larger services as a member of the board of
supervisors. While living at Folsom he was married to Miss Susie Woodward in
April of 1894. They are the parents of four children, namely: Eleanor, Gladys,
Susie M., and James H. Jr., all of whom are being given the best educational
advantages afforded by the excellent schools of Sacramento. The fraternal
connections of Mr. Donnelly bring him into active membership with the Eagles,
Elks, Woodmen of the World and the Native Sons of the
Golden West.
Transcribed by Sally Kaleta.
Source: Willis,
William L., History of Sacramento County,
California, Pages 1017-1018.
Historic Record Company,
© 2006 Sally Kaleta.