Description
The Photographs Related to the San Francisco Graft Trial collection contains 15 photographic prints taken mostly in 1907-1908.
The collection features many of the important individuals involved in the San Francisco graft trials of 1907 and 1908. The
trials occurred during a period of governmental reform following the earthquake and fire of 1906 and the subsequent rebuilding
of the city. In the trials, Mayor Eugene E. Schmitz, political boss Abe Ruef--who helped bring Schmitz to power--and other
individuals were charged with bribery, acceptance of bribes, extortion, and other acts of corruption. Responsible for the
original exposés of the corruption were assistant district attorney Frances J. Heney, San Francisco Bulletin editor Fremont Older, progressive reformer Rudolph Spreckels, and former San Francisco mayor James D. Phelan. After being
wounded by a gunshot while acting as prosecuting attorney, Heney was replaced by Hiram Johnson. Schmitz and Ruef were both
convicted, though a higher court would overturn the Schmitz decision and Ruef would be pardoned after serving less than five
years at San Quentin
Extent
15 photographic prints, 21 x 36 cm. or smaller.
11 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
Collection is available for use.