Description
This file contains the hard bound, and hand written in ink journal of George H. Baker. This diary, Vol. 4, holds his memories
from March to August of 1848 prior to his arrival in California. The journal is in good condition with the spine intact and
the hand writing is clear and legible throughout.
Background
GH Baker joined the Gold Rush to California, arriving at San Francisco in May, 1849. His sketch Port of San Francisco, 1849"
was lithographed and published in the NY Tribune in August, 1849. From 1852 to 1862 Baker worked in Sacramento running several
merchandising businesses; he also edited and published two periodicals, continued to sketch (mostly mining scenes), and made
a series of woodcuts of California views. He drew and published a large and detailed lithograph of Sacramento as it looked
in 1857 (his account book listing subscribers and advertising costs is housed at the Soc. of Cal. Pioneers). He moved back
permanently to SF in 1862, establishing a lithography and publishing firm. He specialized in broadsides, advertising cards,
views of buildings, stock certificates,and maps. He did produce several letter sheets.