John Parkinson was a British-born architect who became one of Los Angeles' most influential builders. Born in Scorton, Lancashire, England, he apprenticed with architect Jonas J. Bradshaw in Bolton before immigrating to North America at age 21. After working in various trades across Canada and the US, he established his first architectural practice in Seattle in 1889, where he became the Seattle Schools Architect and designed important buildings including the Interurban Building.