Julia Childs was born Julia Carolyn McWilliams on Thursday the 15th of August 1912 in Pasadena, California to parents John McWilliams Jr and Julia Carolyn (Caro) Weston. Her father was a land manager and graduate from Princeton University and her mother was a paper company heiress. Julia was the oldest of three children, she had a brother John McWilliams III, and a younger sister Dorothy Cousins.

In 1912, Pasadena, California was a charming and burgeoning city known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural attractions, and emerging community. Pasadena's natural beauty was one of its main attractions.

The city was nestled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and was known for its stunning views, mild climate, and lush gardens. The Rose Bowl, which would become an iconic venue, was constructed ten years later in 1922. Pasadena was characterized by a mix of architectural styles.