J. Ross (James Ross) Clark (1850-1927) was the leading figure behind the San Pedro, Los Angeles and Salt Lake Railroad which, in 1902, connected Salt Lake City and Los Angeles. Clark also had a deep interest in California corporations in Los Angeles, and was a member and supporter of multiple charitable and civic organizations. Some organizations he was a part of included the Masons, the Jonathan Club, the California Club, the Midwick and the Los Angeles Country Club, and the Sierra Madre Club.