Catalog Archive
Auction 199, Lot 197

Rare Pictorial Map of Pasadena

"A Sky View of Pasadena's Busy Business Center - Hang This Up for Future Reference "

Subject: Pasadena, California

Period: 1921 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Printed Color

Size:
35.4 x 20.7 inches
89.9 x 52.6 cm
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This rare bird's-eye view shows the layout and architecture of Pasadena's business district as it existed more than a century ago. A ring in red overprinting highlights the Keller Bros. Studebaker Distributors complex on Raymond Ave., a variation not seen in the only previous example of this map we have found on the market. Among the businesses identified by bold block printing are Vroman's Book Store (the oldest and largest independent bookstore in California, which still exists today), the Pasadena Star-News Building, Ives & Warren Co. Morticians, Wilson Music Co., Pasadena Photoplay, and various banks, churches, furniture stores, motor companies, and more. Businesses are listed in a table at right. In the distance are Pacific Electric Mt. Lowe Railway and Altadena Country Club Park. A bi-plane soars above the scene. Drawn by Frank E. Brown, who also produced views of Long Beach and Avalon Bay.

References:

Condition: C+

Issued folding with numerous fold separations, the majority of which have been closed on verso with archival tape. A 6" tear at right has also been closed on verso with archival tape. There are two small holes in the image at top left and top right, with small areas of image loss in the clouds above Pasadena. The map still presents well and If not for the holes, this example would be graded a B+.

Estimate: $275 - $350

Sold for: $210

Closed on 9/11/2024

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