Judge Peter J. Shields Home

Longtime Poverty Ridge resident, Judge Peter H. Shields, was born on a ranch along the American River in modern day Rancho Cordova. Shields’ father had purchased the ranch with gold nuggets that he’d personally excavated during the early days of the Gold Rush. Judge Shields led a long life of public service, serving as the private secretary to Governor James H. Budd, secretary of the State Agricultural Society, and a law partner to Hiram W. Johnson. At the age of thirty-eight, he was elected to the superior bench in Sacramento and served longer in that capacity than any other superior judge in state history. Having been raised on a ranch, Shields had a deep love for all things agricultural. For many years, he won gold medals at the State Fair for the livestock that he raised on his ranch. As one of the founders of the University of California at Davis, he maintained a life-long interest in the school and in youth. In honor of Judge Shields, the main library at UC Davis as well as the street running along its north side were named for him.

In 1915, the contracting firm of Murcell and Haley constructed the Prairie School style homes located at 2009 23rd Street and 2015 23rd Street, and forming a court between the pair. In 1917, 2009 23rd Street was purchased by Sacramento Superior Court Judge Peter J. Shields and his wife, Carolee. The couple lived in the home for most of their lives. Judge Shields passed away at the property after his 100th birthday!

Featured images (in order of appearace): 1) California Superior Court Justice, Peter J. Shields, 2) The Peter and Carolee Shields residence located at 2009 23rd Street.