Jacob Nash Victor (April 2, 1838 – October 3, 1907) played a crucial role in the construction of the Southern California rail system. He was especially involved with the California Southern Railroad. He was born in Sandusky, Ohio, to early Ohio settlers Henry G. and Gertrude Nash Victor.

Despite his physical disabilities that made it impossible for him to be actively involved in the Civil War, Victor was actively involved in the military railroads, having served under General McPherson and behind General Sherman in Georgia. Post-war, his career blossomed with the railroad company, taking him from Kansas City onward through Texas, all the way to New York before he finally came to and settled in California in 1881.

Victor's association with the California Southern Railroad began as general freight agent. Very soon he was made superintendent of the line, in time to direct its extension from Colton to Barstow, then known as Waterman. His work during this time was important—there were several logistical and competitive challenges the railroad had to face as well. The California Southern Railroad was a controlled line of the AT and SF, and it was aiming to establish through traffic from San Diego to the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad directly, trying to compete with the Southern Pacific Railroad, which dominated the local scene.
One of the most significant projects under Victor's supervision was the construction of the line through the Cajon Pass. This rugged terrain posed immense engineering challenges, but Victor, working closely with Fred T. Perris, the chief engineer, identified and implemented the most feasible route. Their work facilitated the completion of this critical segment, which remains one of the busiest rail freight corridors in the United States today.

The construction was not without setbacks. In 1884, devastating floods destroyed approximately 30 miles of track. Victor led the effort to rebuild the damaged sections and continue the line's expansion. By 1885, the railway was extended through Cajon Pass, connecting with the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad at Waterman. His expertise in engineering also contributed to the design of a bridge across the Mojave River, a structure whose granite abutment is still in use, standing as a testament to his enduring legacy.

Victor's work with the California Southern Railroad ceased in 1887-88 when the line was consolidated with the AT&SF system under C. W. Smith's management. However, his contributions to the region extended beyond railroads. Elected to the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, Victor served as president of the board for three years. During this time, he oversaw critical infrastructure projects, including the construction of several bridges such as the South Riverside crossing, the Fourth Street bridge in San Bernardino, and a high-span bridge across the Mojave River near Victor and Daggett.

In recognition of his transformative impact on the region, the area around the Mojave River crossing, initially known as Huntington, was renamed Victorville in his honor. This gesture acknowledged Victor's pivotal role in advancing transportation and economic development in the region.

Victor married Elizabeth Bivrlew of Syracuse, New York, and they had three children: Hugo, who worked as a cashier for the Santa Fe Railway in San Diego; Royal, a Columbia Law School student; and Leonora, who remained at home. The family was active in the Congregational Church, where Mrs. Victor was a member.

Jacob Nash Victor's life was a testament to innovation, resilience, and dedication. His work not only advanced California's railway systems but also laid the foundation for the region's growth and prosperity. Today, his legacy endures through the infrastructure he helped build and the town that bears his name.