Celestino T. Alfafara (1897-1990) is possibly best known for the Alfafara v. Fross case arguing against the denial of his right to own property in California because of his Filipino heritage. The case went to the California Supreme Court where he won the case and the right for Filipinos to own property in California. The collection is significant for its photographs depicting Filipino culture in California and San Francisco.

Celestino T. Alfafara (1897-1990) was born in the Philippines and immigrated to the United States in 1929. He is possibly best known for his challenge to the California Alien Land Law in the Alfafara v. Fross case. Mr. Alfafara had entered a contract to purchase a $65 parcel of land in San Mateo County but was denied the purchase based on the argument his Filipino heritage combined with the Alien Land Act prohibited him from owning property in California. The case went to the California Supreme Court where he won the right for Filipino's to own property in California.

1 carton, 2 pamphlet boxes, 1 shoe box, 2 flat boxes. (4 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.