The collection contains research materials and draft manuscripts for Holdredge's books on Mary Ellen Pleasant, Thomas and Teresa Bell, Lola Montez, Isaiah W. Lees, and Lillie Hitchcock Coit. It also includes some correspondence about her research and speaking engagements, as well as photographs and some realia.

Helen Douglas O'Donnell Holdredge is the author of several books on noteworthy and notorious San Franciscans. She was born in Duluth, Minnesota, on September 17, 1898, the daughter of Patrick J. and Martha Archer (Simpson) O'Donnell. Helen was a student at the University of Oregon, 1923-1926; and was a member of Theta Sigma Phi. She trained as an opera singer and debuted in concert in 1919. She performed with various opera companies through 1924. She was also active in theater in Laguna Beach and Sacramento.

12.0 boxes (6.0 cubic feet)

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.

The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center hours, with photographs available during Photo Desk hours. Collections that are stored offsite should be requested 48 hours in advance. Please call the San Francisco History Center for hours and information at 415-557-4567.