Hamlin (Ralph) (1880-1974) Collection, 1894-1976

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Summary

Title:
Ralph Hamlin (1880-1974) Collection
Dates:
1894-1976
Creators:
Hamlin, Ralph
Abstract:
Extent:
13.28 linear feet
Language:
Preferred citation:

Ralph Hamlin (1880-1974) Collection. Seaver Center for Western History Research, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Background

Scope and content:

A collection of papers, personal and professional, belonging to Ralph Cunningham Hamlin (1880 - 1974), who was a pioneer Los Angeles automobile dealer and racing enthusiast. Also covers his early years racing on bicycle. Also taped interviews and 143 pages of interviews transcribed. ca. 1894-1976, undated. See also photo collection P-115 Ralph Hamlin Collection.

Biographical / historical:

Hamlin operated an automobile dealership by 1901 at 1806 So. Main Street, Los Angeles. His original Franklin dealership opened in 1905 at 1040 So. Flower Street. He also acquired a dealership in Hollywood at 5766 Hollywood Boulevard; he also had a Glendale branch selling Franklins under the "Ralph Hamlin" company name. By about 1926 he was also selling in San Diego.

About this collection guide

Collection Guide Author:
Finding aid created by Seaver Center for Western History Research, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County staff.
Date Prepared:
1894-1976
Date Encoded:
This finding aid was produced using Record Express for OAC5 on July 14, 2025, 2:54 p.m.

Access and use

Restrictions:

Research is by appointment only

Terms of access:

Permission to publish, quote or reproduce must be secured from the repository and the copyright holder

Preferred citation:

Ralph Hamlin (1880-1974) Collection. Seaver Center for Western History Research, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Location of this collection:
900 Exposition Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90007-4057, US
Contact:
(213) 763-3359
seavercenter@nhm.org
Website