This collection primarily comprises black-and-white photographs of early California (1857-1940s). J. Paul Getty collected these images; they reflect his interest in Los Angeles and the coastal region of Santa Monica and Malibu, where he spent much of his life. The bulk of the images trace the development of Los Angeles from a small pueblo to a bustling city and show the Santa Monica coastline, canyons, and mountains prior to their development. The collection also contains several photographs of waterfront communities to the north and south of Los Angeles, a few shots of California missions, and one of the Redwoods. It also includes a small set of non-photographic postcards of California (1885).

American oil tycoon and art collector Jean Paul Getty was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on December 15, 1892 to George Franklin Getty (1855-1930) and Sarah Catherine McPherson Risher Getty. Around 1906 the Getty family moved to Los Angeles. Jean Paul, called "Paul," attended a private military school before going on to the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and the University of California, Berkeley. In 1911, Paul went to Oxford to study economics and political science, completing his diploma in 1913. Afterwards he embarked on a year-long Grand Tour of Europe, which no doubt sparked his interest in art and antiquities.

0.6 linear feet

Publication Rights Many of the photographs in this collection bear copyright and other stamps reflecting ownership on the verso. All requests for permission to publish photographs must be submitted in writing to Library Rights and Reproductions. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the Getty 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.