JAMES P. JONES

Sacramento County

Biographies

JAMES P. JONES

JAMES P. JONES.--Public affairs occupy the attention and profit by the well-directed efforts of James P. Jones, the efficient constable of Center Township, whom for more than two decades Fair Oaks has numbered among its useful and desirable citizens. He was born on one of the Norfolk Isles, in the St. Lawrence River, on July 23, 1875. His parents, Horace O. and Elvira (Soule) Jones, were also born in that locality, being natives of Grand Isle. The father devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, and he and his wife celebrated their golden wedding on the farm where they established their home immediately after their marriage. Five children were born to them, of whom James P. Jones is the youngest. His brother and two sisters preceded him to California. The former, F. S. Jones, is now living in Piedmont; while his sisters, Mrs. Stephen E. Keefer and Mrs. F. A. Story, are both residents of Berkeley.

James P. Jones received a common-school education. When sixteen years of age he became a wage-earner, securing a position as clerk in a general store. Subsequently he followed the occupation of farming for a time, and in 1900 he responded to the call of the West, locating in Fair Oaks soon afterward. Recognition of his worth and ability on the part of his fellow-citizens led to his selection for public office, and he is now serving as constable of Center Township, which covers the entire territory of District No. 3, with a population of 6,000. He is prompt, fearless, and efficient in the discharge of the responsible duties which devolve upon him, and his course has won the approval of all law-abiding citizens. During his leisure he busies himself with farm work, for idleness and indolence are utterly foreign to his nature.

In 1907 Mr. Jones married Miss Maude Kale, a daughter of T. J. Kale, who was one of the pioneer orchardists of Fair Oaks, but now resides in Sacramento. Two children have been born of this union, Mildred S., and Howard O. Mrs. Jones is prominent in the social life of Fair Oaks, and is a member of the Thursday Club. Mr. Jones takes an active part in the affairs of the Fair Oaks Civic Club. He has always been loyal to every trust reposed in him, and puts forth every possible effort for the upbuilding and advancement of his community, county and state.

Transcribed by: Jeanne Sturgis Taylor.

Source: Reed, G. Walter, History of Sacramento County, California With Biographical Sketches, Pages 944-945. Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, CA. 1923.