Biography - R. P. Nelson

R. P. Nelson, a Juneau businessman who developed the upper Starr Hill area. Nelson came to Juneau in 1887 and the following year engaged in the general merchandise business a member of the firm of Hammell & Nelson, which in 1889 became Nelson Brothers. In 1894 Nelson opened his own store on the waterfront and in October, 1896, was appointed Juneau postmaster. He held this office until August 1900, when he was succeeded by J.J.C. Barber. For many years Nelson operated a stationary store at the corner of Second and Seward streets. In 1908 he began the development of the upper Starr Hill are which became known as Nelson's Park and was annexed to the city in 1915. He also developed a system of springs on Mount Roberts as the Nelson Water Company. Nelson died at Los Angeles, California, where he had gone for his health, on December 25, 1928, at age 67.

Nelson Street - a residential street at the top of Starr Hill in the north-eastern part of Juneau. Named for R.P. Nelson.

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