The Valley of Heart's Delight
Surnames: Goodrich,
contributed by jchavnar
The Pioneer, published San Jose, California, Saturday, February 7, 1882
LEVI GOODRICH
Born in New York City, January 1, 1822. The
subject of this narrative is in his sixtieth year. In his youthful days
he acquired the trade of carpenter and builder in Massachusetts but
after went to New York and entered upon the study of architecture, in
the office of R.G. Hatfield; he following this profession - which was
also that of his father - in that city until he left for California. On
March 8, 1849, Mr. Goodrich sailed from New York in the ship Loochoo,
via Cape Horn, and cast anchor in the Bay of San Francisco, September
16th of the same year. No sooner had he arrived than his acquirements
were called into requisition; indeed, he had not left the vessel when
he drew the plans and specifications for a three-story wooden building,
that was put up at what is now the corner of Kearny and Washington
streets, where the old Hall of Records stands, tents being torn down to
make way for it. November 30, 1849, he came to San Jose, Santa Clara
county, in a small sailing craft, to Alviso, a voyage occupying three
days and two nights, thence on foot to San Jose. He was soon at work,
however, and early in 1850 erected the adobe building which stood on
the ground now occupied by the store of O'Banion & Kent, opposite
the Auzerais House, the clay for the adobe being taken from the lot on
which stands the hotel, while, ever since, he has been in business
there. Among his principal architectural achievements in San Jose have
been the Court House and jail, the Presbyterian church, three public
school houses, the Bank of San Jose, the State Normal School, and the
Knox and Martin's Blocks. Mr. Goodrich is also the architect of the
Court Houses and jails of Monterey and San Diego counties. He has twice
visited Europe for the purpose of pleasure, while, in his labors, he is
seconded by his only son, E.B. Goodrich, his principal assistant.
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