Background
James H. (Colonel) Wells was born in 1864 in England, United Kingdom. He was brought to the U. S. in childhood by his parents who subsequently settled in New York.
James H. (Colonel) Wells was born in 1864 in England, United Kingdom. He was brought to the U. S. in childhood by his parents who subsequently settled in New York.
After an early education Mr. Wells studied Civil Engineering and Architecture at Lehigh University.
During the late 1880's obtained a position as draftsman in Clinton & Russell’s New York office. Within a few years he was given charge of the planning and erection of the firm’s large commercial buildings. Mr. Wells practiced architecture after the turn of the century as a member of the firm of Clinton & Russell, and following the decease of both the original partners, continued work under the firm name.
During the twenties designed a number of buildings under his own name, also served as Advisory Architect on the Elks Memorial Building in Chicago.