David G. Janes enjoys the unique distinction of being the only man now occupying a dominant position in the business life of Racine, of whose father it may be said with equal truth that he was an important factor in the actual founding of the city eighty years ago.
Mr. Janes was born in Racine, April 2, 1852, and has lived here all of his life, getting his education in the public schools of the city. He is married and has three daughters and two sons, one of whom, Arthur R., is associated in business with him.
Mr. Janes is a real estate and insurance man by inheritance, by training and by experience, and he has probably handled more large “deals” in his line than any other man in the history of the city. The firm of which he is the head is almost as old as the city itself, having been established by his father in the real pioneer days.
Aside from real estate and insurance Mr. Janes is vice president of the First National Bank and an official in numerous manufacturing institutions to which he gives personal attention. He is also trustee for many estates, and director on the boards of semi-public institutions, the satisfactory performance of the duties of which require ability and high character.
Mr. Janes has not desired public office but has served the city as member of the school board in 1876-81 and in 1895-7 as mayor.