Nol Sullivan, who was the nephew of American politician James D. Phelan, returned to San Francisco in 1925 to take care of his father and lived there for many years eventually developing an excellent relationship with his household staff.
He was the nephew of James D. Phelan who was a banker and politician serving as mayor of San Francisco and Senator. Following serious problems with his father's health, in 1925 Sullivan returned to San Francisco to take care of him in the family home on 2323 Hyde Street. He lived in the house for many years, frequently entertaining friends from the world of art and literature. He developed an excellent relationship with his household staff, most of whom were African Americans. 
