Description
The Franciscan Missions of California album contains 35 albumen prints taken by Carleton E. Watkins circa 1876-1882. Watkins
probably began photographing the missions while returning from a trip to Southern California in 1876, during which he also
photographed scenes along the newly constructed Southern Pacific Railroad line. The album is believed to be the earliest general
photographic collection produced of the California Missions, and includes photographs of most of the missions found in the
state.
Background
Carleton E. Watkins was born in Oneonta, Oswego county, New York, on November 11, 1829. He was the youngest of five children
of a Scottish innkeeper. During his youth he became acquainted with Collis P. Huntington, who frequented his father's hotel.
Soon after the discovery of gold, both young men went to California, where Huntington later became one of the Big Four who
built the Central Pacific Railroad.
Extent
1 album of 35 albumen photographic prints; images measure 8 1/2 x 12 in., mounted to 13 1/4 x 18 1/4 in.
35 digital objects
Restrictions
Materials in this collection may be protected by the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.C.). In addition, the reproduction
of some materials may be restricted by terms of University of California gift or purchase agreements, donor restrictions,
privacy and publicity rights, licensing and trademarks. Transmission or reproduction of materials protected by copyright beyond
that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of the copyright owners. Works not in the public domain cannot be
commercially exploited without permission of the copyright owner. Responsibility for any use rests exclusively with the user.
Availability
Original prints are restricted and may not be viewed unless permission is granted by the Curator of Pictorial Collections.
Viewing prints are available under the call number: BANC PIC 1972.008 --PIC.