Architect George Paris Thompson was born in Mebane, North Carolina on Feb 2, 1850. To date the history of his early life and educational background are unknown. Reportedly by age 19 he left his family home in North Carolina, however his specific whereabouts are unknown. By 1880, census records indicate that Thompson (then age 30) was living in Walla Walla, where he practiced as a carpenter. Like many builders of the day, Thompson began to advertise himself as an architect, first appearing as such in the 1883 city directory. He initially partnered with H.I. Joslin for a short year and then returned to an independent practice. Designs by Thompson are limited to the 3rd story addition to the Dacres Hotel (1903), and the Jesse Drumheller House (1904), although he surely had a hand in building and/or designing numerous structures in the city during his 20+ year residency in the community.
In Walla Walla he married Ms. Abbie R. Cope on April 5, 1883. Together they had three children, two girls and a boy. The family remained in Walla Walla until 1909 and most likely moved to California to be closer to Abbie’s family. Eventually Thompson and his family settled in Escondido, California. Immediately upon his arrival he joined with M.B. Hawkins in the Escondidy Building & Construction Company, but the partnership only lasted a year. He then formed a partnership with builder Clarence J. Hinman, but that also lasted a year. According to newspaper accounts, in 1910 Thompson re-entered into partnership with the both of them forming the Escondido Building & Construction Company. Known projects by Thompson in California are limited to the Union Bank; the Escondido Episcopal Church; and a house for Dr. Sniff.
Thompson died in Los Angeles, California on June 25, 1928 at the age of 73.
By Michael Houser, State Architectural Historian - June 2020
