Collection Guide
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Allan Hancock Foundation archive
0257
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Table of contents
Description
The Allan Hancock Foundation Archive contains records of the Foundation set up at the University of Southern California by
G. Allan Hancock for the purpose of furthering oceanographic studies. These records also include those materials from the
library and museum that were associated with the Foundation, as well some personal mementos of Captain Hancock's and the Hancock
family. Also included are extensive records of the research ship Velero IV, as well as sound recordings, photographs and
films produced by and related to the Allan Hancock Pacific Expeditions of the Foundation (1925-1960). The expeditions explored
the eastern Pacific coast into South America, visiting the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Panama, and Baja California.
Background
George Allan Hancock was born on 26 July 1875, the heir to the Hancock family's extensive Los Angeles land holdings, including
Rancho La Brea. Hancock expanded the family fortunes through oil exploration on the Rancho beginning in 1901, and continued
to increase those fortunes for the next two decades. In 1920, he founded the California Bank. By the middle of the 1920's
he also had significant holdings in railroads and communications.
Extent
766 Linear Feet
406 boxes, 86 film boxes, 738 film reels
Restrictions
All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Manuscripts Librarian.
Permission for publication is given on behalf of Special Collections as the owner of the physical items and is not intended
to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained.
Availability
Advance notice required for access.