F. Ralph Rambo Collection, 1883-1985

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Summary

Creators:
Rambo, F. Ralph Muirson Label Company
Abstract:
Extent:
10 boxes (approx. 10 linear feet)
Language:
Preferred citation:

F. Ralph Rambo Collection. History San Jose Research Library

Background

Scope and content:

The collection comprises scrapbooks and binders of original illustrations, cartoon drawings, manuscripts, photographic prints, and other ephemera created by Santa Clara Valley illustrator and author F. Ralph Rambo. Rambo was known for his work with Muirson Label Company in San Jose from 1916-1966 and later as an author and cartoonist of local history publications. One scrapbook is devoted to his work with Muirson Label Company, including details of the fruit label printing process. The scrapbooks also detail Rambo's work with the O'Connor Hospital '89ers, and letters from Santa Clara County school children. In addition to the Rambo-focused material, there is one photograph album documenting Rambo's wife Katherine Coker's family. Related material can be found in other collections at History San Jose, including the Leonard McKay Collection, and the Muirson Label Company collection.

Biographical / historical:

Francis Ralph Rambo was born in San Jose, California, on May 16, 1894. He worked as an illustrator, and later served as an art director at San Jose's Muirson Label Company circa 1914-1966. After retiring, he began writing books (many humorous) and map posters on the history of the Santa Clara Valley, illustrated with his original pen and ink cartoons. Rambo had a large local following, who often corresponded with him, and he collaborated with other individuals and groups interested in local history. Rambo's design was featured on the First Civil Settlement in California U.S. postage stamp in 1977. He died in Palo Alto, CA on May 19, 1990.

Acquisition information:
Donated to History San Jose in 2004 by Rambo's family.

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is open to the public for research by appointment. Contact History San Jose's Research Library for more information. Most of the scrapbooks have been scanned and can be viewed on the Internet Archive.

Terms of access:

A large portion of the collection was created for published material to which History San Jose does not hold copyright. Anyone wishing to use the collection for publication is advised to investigate copyright before publication.

Preferred citation:

F. Ralph Rambo Collection. History San Jose Research Library

Location of this collection:
1661 Senter Road
San Jose, CA 95112, US
Contact:
(408) 287-2290
research@historysanjose.org
Website