Crawford, James Malcomb

James Malcomb Crawford, born in Bell County, Texas, on December 20, 1871, became one of the leading optometrists in California after locating in Fresno in 1905. He received his early education in Texas public schools and began studying optometry in 1898 at the South Bend College of Optics. After practicing in his home town of Temple, Texas, and completing post-graduate work at the Chicago Ophthalmic College and Hospital, he practiced in Denison, Texas, until his move west. His exceptional professional standing was recognized in 1911 when Governor Johnson appointed him secretary of the three-member State Board of Optometry.

In addition to his large optometry practice, Dr. Crawford contributed to local agricultural development by owning a large dairy ranch at Caruthers. His ranch featured a herd of pure-bred registered Holstein cattle, including the notable bull Segis Pontiac Count, along with fine blooded Duroc-Jersey hogs and white leghorn chickens. He was also highly active in fraternal organizations as a Thirtieth degree Mason in the Las Palmas Lodge of Fresno and a Past Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias. Married to Tennessee native Annie L. Dickey, he raised four children named Edwin D., Harriett, James M., Jr., and Ellen.