This collection showcases the photographs of Alvan Robert Burton (1925-2009), a well-respected Black photographer, community advocate, youth mentor, and Air Force veteran. After serving in World War II, Burton opened a photography studio in the Central Avenue neighborhood of Los Angeles, where he documented the lives of those in his community, particularly the students of Thomas Jefferson High School. This expansive collection includes photographs and negatives from throughout Burton's career, as well as his personal family photographs.

Alvan Robert Burton (1925-2009) was born in Louisiana and relocated with his family to Los Angeles in 1939. After serving in World War II, Burton became a professional photographer, operating his own studio in Los Angeles, where he documented the lives of the students of Thomas Jefferson High School, as well as the Central Avenue Business Association, local churches, society events, and civic organizations. Throughout his career, he mentored a number of young men and women, and played an instrumental role in increasing newspaper exposure for Black high school athletes. After retiring from photography, he became involved in the Los Angeles Unified School District, serving as an activist and advisor for the Interscholastic Athletics Association and the Parent Collaborative. He also maintained an active role in the Jefferson High School Alumni Association, as well as a number of community organizations, serving the neighborhood where he grew up and lived.

4 Linear Feet

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