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Dawson lime kiln photograph collection
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Title: Dawson lime kiln photograph collection
Dates: 19th century
Collection Number: Consult repository
Creator/Collector:
Dawson, David, 1957-
Extent: 1 box
Online items available
Repository:
Sonoma State University Library
Rohnert Park, California 94928
Abstract: Photographs of lime kiln ruins in northern and central California, documenting a critical 19th century industry producing
lime for the construction of cities in the area. The collection includes 16 photographs (16 X 20 in.) and text documents by
the photographer on the history, significance, and environmental impact of the region's lime kiln industry. The photographer
and donor, David Dawson, provides technical information about the photographic process used to prepare the prints.
Language of Material: English
Collection is open for research by appointment.
The library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claimants of literary
property.
Dawson lime kiln photograph collection. Sonoma State University Library
Biography/Administrative History
Photography is now “a long-awaited career” for Dawson, following service as an officer in the United States Navy and 28 years
in California state government, from which he retired in 1995. David has been taking photographs for about 45 years, but began
serious study of the medium through workshops and personal study in 1989.
The subject matter for David Dawson’s camera most often consists of old, fragile, and unusual historic structures in northern
California. He typically seeks out, studies, and documents buildings and other constructed works, about which little is generally
known. Working exclusively with a large format camera, using black and white film, David attempts to document clearly his
subject matter in a way that is historically useful, but esthetically pleasing as well.
Scope and Content of Collection
This collection contains materials organized in a total of one box, including 16 photographs (16 X 20 in.) : gelatin silver,
b&w. + 1 CD-ROM (4 3/4 in.), and related background material.
Photographs of lime kilns of Northern and Central California, documenting a critical 19th century industry producing lime
for the construction of cities in the area. The collection includes text by Dawson on the history, significance and environmental
impact of the region's lime kiln industry.
Accompanying text : a portfolio introduction, a list of print titles, historical information related to the photographs (6
p.), and technical information about the photographic process used to prepare the prints. Prints signed on back by photographer.
Lime kilns -- California -- Photographs.
Limekilns -- California -- Photographs.
Lime industry -- California.
California -- History.
Dawson, David, 1957-.
Nevada.
California.