James E. Vance Jr. (1925–1999) was an American geographer known for his contributions in historical, urban and transportation geography.
His approach developed emphasized studies related to transportation and settlement relationships as well as evolution of city systems.
[2][3] James E. Vance Jr., fondly known as "Jay" to students, friends and family, was from Natick, Massachusetts.
They are survived by their daughter Tiffany, who also followed the footsteps of her parents by pursuing a career in marine geography.
[4] The North American Railroad: Its Origins, Evolution and Geography is Vance's account of why and where rail lines were built in the United States and Canada.