William K. James
Arizona, The Youngest State, 1913, pg 491

William K. James, well known in insurance cicles and also by 
reason of his extensive operations in real estate, now 
handling acerage property in Phoenix, has along these 
lines become a factor in the gradual growth and development 
of this city, where by the consensus of public opinion he is 
accorded rank as a leading citizen.  He was born in 
Jeffersonville, Indiana May 11, 1861, a son of William 
and Sarah (Mabury) James.  The father was a merchant and 
was active as a local political leader as well as in 
business circles.

A public school education fitted William K. James for 
the more onerous duties of life which have since come 
to him.  He was but eight years of age when he was left 
an orphan and when a youth of sixteen he made his way 
westward to California, securing employment in the 
Commercial bank at Los Angeles.  He there remained for 
several years, after which he went to Fresno, California 
and became cashier of the Fresno County Bank which was 
changed to the First National Bank during his connection.  
He remained with that institution for four years and his 
broad experience well qualified him for further 
responsibilities.  At the end of that time he removed 
to Santa Ana, California, where he became cashier of 
the Commercial bank continuing there for three years.  
On the expiration of that period he removed to Nogales, 
Arizona and was cashier and manager of the International 
Bank until June 1892.  He came to Phoenix on the 28th of 
February 1893, to establish a savings bank capitalized by 
Los Angeles parties.  The bank was duly opened but on 
account of the widespread panic of that year was closed 
out--its business being terminated, however without loss 
to depositors or stockholders.  Mr. James then turned his 
attention to the mortgage, loan and insurance business 
and throughout the period of his residence in Phoenix has 
figured in its financial circles.  He afterward extended 
the scope of his activities by establishing a real estate 
department, since which time he has handled considerable 
property.  He has subdivided a quarter section into 
acreage tracts, the entire place being known as the 
Ranchitos Bonitos.  Mr. James and his family are well 
known in the best social circles in Phoenix.

USGenWeb Project NOTICE: 
In keeping with our policy of providing free information on 
the internet, data may be used by non-commercial entities, as
long as this message remains on all copied material. These 
electronic pages may not be reproduced in any format for
profit, nor for commercial presentation by any other organization. 

Persons or organizations desiring to use this material for 
purposes other than as stated above, must obtain express written
permission from the author, or the submitter and from the 
listed USGenWeb Project archivist.