Description
Letters and documents of California businessman Robert Symington Baker.
Background
Robert Symington Baker (1825-1894) came to California in 1849 from his birthplace in Rhode Island. Arriving in San Diego,
he went next to San Francisco, then settled in Los Angeles. He was prominently associated with Edward F. Beale in the local
petroleum and wool industries and also engaged in mining, banking, and real estate. Baker married Arcadia Bandini de Stearns
(widow of Abel Stearns) in 1874 and later built the Baker Block in downtown Los Angeles. He owned Ranchos San Vicente and
Santa Monica and, with John Percival Jones, founded the city of Santa Monica.
Extent
5.83 Linear Feet
(5 boxes)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material,
nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and
obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader
Services.