John Downey was California's seventh governor and along with Arnold Schwarzenneger, the only foreign-born governors of the State. Downey became a successful businessman.  The city of Downey in Southern California is his namesake.  Downey cofounded the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Los Angeles.  This check image shows his signature as president of the bank.  Downey also helped organize the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Public Library.  This John Downey autograph image is a splendid memento.