Originally from Chicago, Irving Salomon served in World War I and then became an industrialist in Chicago and Indiana. His Royal Metal Manufacturing Company invented and produced the first metal folding chair. In Indiana, he was the founder and benefactor of PACT Farm, providing a learning, working and living environment for disadvantaged boys. During World War II, he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, but was known as Colonel Salomon. After the war he and his wife, Cecile came to San Diego with their daughter Abbe. Cecile was a classical pianist who composed Jewish liturgical music. The Salomons were important philanthropists, providing funds for many and diverse projects. Salomon was very involved in San Diego Boys’ Club and funded numerous projects for children and young adults. He received a knighthood from the Pope for his work with Catholic charities. Very involved with politics on a national level, he called Eleanor Roosevelt and Dwight Eisenhower his friends. In 1953 President Eisenhower appointed him to a position at the United Nations. The Salomons entertained many notables, both political and theatrical at their Lilac Ranch in Valley Center, California. In the 1960s Salomon founded the local chapter of the American Jewish Committee. Salomon was also an author and world traveler. Salomon's daughter, attorney Abbe Wolfsheimer Stutz, was a former San Diego City Council member, law professor and deputy city attorney.