Please contact the contributing institution for more information regarding the copyright status of this object.
Description
Levi Goodrich, sporting a moustache and beard, with grey hair, wearing a black suit and bowtie, white shirt, cameo and chain in vest pocket. Exhibited in 1978 as part of "19th Century San Jose Portraits," with the following caption: Levi Goodrich was born in New York City but was orphaned at an early age and raised by relatives in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. There he learned the carpenter's trade and showed such ability that he soon went to New York City to study architecture. The Gold Rush attracted him to California in 1849, though instead of chancing his fortune in the mines, Goodrich sailed with a load of building materials of which he immediately realized a large profit. Eventually settling in San Jose, Goodrich left his mark on the city in the form of many fine buildings. His first structure, at Market and Santa Clara Streets, was built of adobe bricks which were made on a lot right across the street. His other accomplishments here include the Bank of San Jose, the Martin Block, the Knox Block, and several churches and schools. He also discovered the Goodrich Quarry on Almaden Road. The high quality sandstone found there was used in the construction of some of the Valley's most beautiful buildings, such as the Lick Observatory, San Jose Normal School, the old City Hall, Stanford University, and the University of the Pacific. A well-respected member of the community, Mr. Goodrich was elected to a term on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors in 1852. He retired from practice in 1886 and died the next year.
Type
image
Identifier
FD54C9B2-7FEB-407D-B54F-034506124821 1974-633
Subject
Limestone quarrying Architects (LCSH) Pioneers Gold rushes Carpenters Portrait paintings Nineteenth century (LCSH) Men Goodrich, Levi I
If you're wondering about permissions and what you can do with this item, a good starting point is the "rights information" on this page. See our terms of use for more tips.
Share your story
Has Calisphere helped you advance your research, complete a project, or find something meaningful? We'd love to hear about it; please send us a message.
