Description
This collection primarily comprises black-and-white photographs of early California (1857-1940s). J. Paul Getty collected
these images; they reflect his interest in Los Angeles and the coastal region of Santa Monica and Malibu, where he spent much
of his life. The bulk of the images trace the development of Los Angeles from a small pueblo to a bustling city and show the
Santa Monica coastline, canyons, and mountains prior to their development. The collection also contains several photographs
of waterfront communities to the north and south of Los Angeles, a few shots of California missions, and one of the Redwoods.
It also includes a small set of non-photographic postcards of California (1885).
Background
American oil tycoon and art collector Jean Paul Getty was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on December 15, 1892 to George Franklin
Getty (1855-1930) and Sarah Catherine McPherson Risher Getty. Around 1906 the Getty family moved to Los Angeles. Jean Paul,
called "Paul," attended a private military school before going on to the University of Southern California in Los Angeles
and the University of California, Berkeley. In 1911, Paul went to Oxford to study economics and political science, completing
his diploma in 1913. Afterwards he embarked on a year-long Grand Tour of Europe, which no doubt sparked his interest in art
and antiquities.
Restrictions
Contact
Library Rights and Reproductions.
Availability
These records are available for use by qualified researchers.