Views of San Quentin Prison and Events, ca. 1925-1935

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Summary

Creators:
Mooney, Thomas J.
Extent:
No. of photographs: 355 photographic prints, all measuring 10 x 14.5 cm.; collected in album measuring 28.5 x 38.5 cm. 355 digital objects
Language:
Collection materials are in English

Background

Scope and content:

The Views of San Quentin Prison and Events album contains 355 photographic prints taken circa 1925-1935. The album features views and scenes of the the prison grounds, interiors of many of the structures, and various recreational acitivities. Besides general grounds views, the album contains views of the large garden; scenes from the prisoners' yards; several guard stations; and exterior views of the cell blocks, officer residences, guard quarters, and the dairy and ranch. Interior views feature prisoners' cells, factories, shops, dining halls and guard quarters. Prisoner activities pictured in the album include entertainment events--featuring musicians, dancers, clowns, and female impersonators among the performers--and athletics. Also pictured in the album are views of the surrounding Marin County vicinty and scenes of the San Quentin Prison Quarry.

The album may have been compiled, if not photographed, by Tom Mooney, though this is not verified. The diversity of subjects pictured in the album suggest that the photographer had great access to many areas of the prison, while the caption information suggests a strong familiarity with everyday prison life.

Photographs of womens' cell blocks indicate that at least some of the photographs were taken prior to 1927, the last year women were housed at the prison.

Acquisition information:
The Views of San Quentin Prison and Events album was transferred from the Thomas J. Mooney Papers, 1906-1942, BANC MSS C-B 410.
Rules or conventions:
Finding Aid prepared using Describing Archives: a Content Standard

Access and use

Location of this collection:
University of California, Berkeley, The Bancroft Library
Berkeley, CA 94720-6000, US
Contact:
510-642-6481
bancref-library@berkeley.edu
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