15 Rare & Old Photos of Los Angeles | Mega Series Part 2

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In 1848, at the end of the Mexican–American War, Los Angeles and the rest of California were purchased as part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, thereby becoming part of the United States. Los Angeles was incorporated as a municipality on April 4, 1850, five months before California achieved statehood. The city experienced rapid growth with the discovery of oil.

Los Angeles – Rare & Old Photos | Mega Series Part 2

1. A man in an ostrich drawn cart gets a traffic ticket near Pico and Harvard c.1920

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The photograph of a man in an ostrich-drawn cart getting a traffic ticket near Pico and Harvard in Los Angeles, taken in 1920, is a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and the unusual forms of transportation that were once used.

In the photograph, we can see the man in the ostrich-drawn cart stopped by a police officer, who is writing him a traffic ticket. The man appears to be dressed in traditional attire, and the ostriches themselves are adorned with ornate harnesses and feathers.

While it may seem unusual to us today, the use of ostrich-drawn carts was actually relatively common in the early 20th century, particularly in regions like Southern California where ostrich farming was popular. Ostriches were valued for their meat, eggs, and feathers, and were often used as a source of transportation as well.

The photograph offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of Los Angeles during this time period, and highlights the many ways in which the city has changed over the years. Today, ostrich-drawn carts are no longer a common sight on the streets of Los Angeles, but the photograph serves as a reminder of the city’s rich history and the many unique and fascinating stories that have played out on its streets over the years.

2. The Boyle Height Stars c.1925

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The photograph of the Boyle Heights Stars, taken around 1925, is a fascinating glimpse into the history of baseball in Los Angeles and the important role that the sport played in the city’s communities.

In the photograph, we can see the team posing together in their uniforms, with a crowd of onlookers gathered behind them. The players are dressed in traditional baseball attire, complete with caps, jerseys, and gloves, and many of them are holding bats.

Boyle Heights was a predominantly Latino community during this time period, and baseball was a popular sport among the residents. The Boyle Heights Stars were a semi-professional team that played against other teams from the area, and the games were a source of pride and entertainment for many in the community.

The photograph is a testament to the important role that baseball played in the lives of many Los Angeles residents during this time period, and highlights the ways in which the sport helped to bring people together and foster a sense of community spirit. Today, baseball remains a beloved sport in Los Angeles and continues to bring people from all walks of life together to celebrate their love of the game.

3. Cop on bikes at Broadway and 6th street c.1904

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The photograph of police officers on bikes at Broadway and 6th street in Los Angeles, taken around 1904, provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s early efforts to manage traffic and improve public safety.

In the photograph, we can see several police officers on bicycles, stationed at a busy intersection in downtown Los Angeles. The officers are dressed in traditional police uniforms, complete with helmets and badges, and they appear to be using hand signals to direct traffic and ensure the safe passage of pedestrians and vehicles.

During this time period, bicycles were a relatively new form of transportation, and were seen as an innovative way for police officers to patrol the city and manage traffic more effectively. Bikes allowed officers to move more quickly and easily through crowded streets, and helped them to interact more closely with the community.

The photograph is a testament to the early efforts of Los Angeles to manage traffic and improve public safety, and highlights the ways in which the city’s police force has evolved over the years. Today, the LAPD employs a wide range of modern technologies and techniques to keep the city safe, but the photograph serves as a reminder of the important role that bicycles and other forms of innovative technology have played in the city’s history.

4. An overview of Wilshire Blvd. near La Brea 1932

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The photograph of Wilshire Blvd. near La Brea in 1932 provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history during the height of the Great Depression.

In the photograph, we can see a wide, tree-lined boulevard that is relatively free of traffic. The buildings on either side of the street are predominantly low-rise structures, with a mix of commercial and residential buildings. The architecture is a mix of styles, ranging from Spanish Colonial to Art Deco, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the city.

During the Great Depression, Los Angeles, like many other cities across the country, was hit hard by economic hardship and high unemployment rates. However, the city was also experiencing a period of growth and development, with many new buildings and infrastructure projects underway.

Wilshire Blvd. was a major thoroughfare during this time period, and was home to many of the city’s most prominent businesses and institutions. The street was also an important site of cultural and social activity, with theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs lining its length.

Today, Wilshire Blvd. remains a vibrant and dynamic part of the city, and is home to a wide range of businesses, cultural institutions, and residential neighborhoods. The photograph provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history during a time of great change and transition, and serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the city’s residents in the face of adversity.

5. Los Angeles Riding Club horse show c.1927

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The photograph of the Los Angeles Riding Club horse show in 1927 captures a moment in the city’s history when horse riding and equestrian culture were an important part of the social and recreational fabric of the city.

In the photograph, we can see a large outdoor arena filled with riders and spectators, with the hills and mountains of the surrounding landscape visible in the background. The riders are dressed in traditional equestrian attire, with top hats, riding boots, and tailored jackets. The horses are also beautifully groomed and decorated, reflecting the pride and care that the riders took in their animals.

Horse riding and equestrian culture have a long history in Los Angeles, dating back to the city’s early days as a small frontier town. As the city grew and developed, so too did its equestrian community, with riding clubs and horse shows becoming an important part of the social calendar.

The Los Angeles Riding Club was one of the most prominent and prestigious organizations in the city during this time period, and its annual horse show was a major event that attracted riders and spectators from across the region.

6. Six women running in heels c.1927

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The photograph of six women running in heels, dated to 1927, is a fascinating glimpse into the fashion and social norms of the time.

During the 1920s, there was a significant shift in women’s fashion and lifestyle, as women increasingly embraced more practical and liberating clothing styles and attitudes. The flapper fashion trend, which was popular during this time, was characterized by short dresses, bobbed haircuts, and a more relaxed attitude towards social conventions.

The photograph captures this sense of freedom and vitality, as the six women can be seen confidently running in their high-heeled shoes. The image also highlights the physical challenges that women faced as they navigated this new era of fashion and social change.

At the same time, the photograph is also a reminder of the gendered expectations and limitations that women faced during this time period. Despite the progress made in fashion and lifestyle, women still faced significant barriers in areas such as education, employment, and political participation.

7. Interior view of the Malamute Saloon. c.1933

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The interior view of the Malamute Saloon, dated to 1933, provides a glimpse into the atmosphere of a typical saloon during the early 20th century.

The photograph shows a crowded and lively scene, with patrons drinking, smoking, and socializing in a dimly-lit space. The decor is rustic and utilitarian, with bare wood walls and simple furnishings.

The Malamute Saloon was located in downtown Los Angeles, which was a hub of activity during the 1930s. Prohibition had ended just a few years prior, and the city was experiencing a boom in nightlife and entertainment as a result.

Saloons like the Malamute were a popular destination for working-class men, who would gather to drink, play games, and escape from the stresses of everyday life. These establishments were also notorious for their rowdiness and occasional violence, which often spilled out onto the streets.

Despite their reputation, saloons played an important role in the social and cultural history of Los Angeles, providing a space for people to gather and interact during a time of great change and uncertainty.

8. A. Papeschi, cabinet maker, 542 New High c.1898

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The advertisement for A. Papeschi, cabinet maker, at 542 New High, provides a glimpse into the world of skilled craftsmanship in Los Angeles during the late 19th century.

At that time, Los Angeles was a rapidly growing city, and skilled tradesmen like cabinet makers were in high demand to build and furnish homes, businesses, and public spaces. A. Papeschi’s business offered custom-made furniture and cabinetry, tailored to the specific needs and tastes of his clients.

The advertisement also reflects the growing importance of advertising and marketing in the late 19th century, as businesses sought to stand out in a crowded marketplace. A. Papeschi’s ad features ornate typography, decorative flourishes, and a depiction of one of his finely crafted pieces, all designed to catch the eye of potential customers.

Overall, the advertisement for A. Papeschi’s cabinet making business provides a window into the craftsmanship and marketing practices of a bygone era in Los Angeles history.

9. Acrobatics on top of the Chamber of Commerce building in downtwon c.1920

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The photograph of acrobatics on top of the Chamber of Commerce building in downtown Los Angeles from around 1920 is an intriguing glimpse into the daring and adventurous spirit of the time.

During the early 20th century, Los Angeles was a rapidly growing city with a bustling downtown area filled with tall buildings. These skyscrapers were marvels of engineering and architecture, and their towering heights were a symbol of the city’s growth and prosperity.

The acrobatics captured in the photograph represent a playful and daring challenge to the authority and control represented by these towering buildings. The performers are defying gravity and the laws of physics as they balance and contort their bodies on the narrow ledges and rooftops high above the bustling streets below.

At the same time, the photograph also speaks to the sense of freedom and possibility that was so prevalent in Los Angeles during this period. The city was a place of opportunity and innovation, where individuals from all walks of life could come to reinvent themselves and pursue their dreams.

10. Fireman answering a call c.1933

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The photograph of a fireman answering a call from around 1933 provides a glimpse into the dangerous and heroic work of firefighters in early 20th century Los Angeles.

During this period, fires were a frequent occurrence in the city, due in part to the rapid growth and development of the urban landscape. Los Angeles was expanding rapidly, with new buildings and homes springing up all over the city. However, many of these buildings were constructed from highly combustible materials, such as wood and tar, and were often located in close proximity to one another.

As a result, firefighters had to be highly skilled and extremely brave in order to respond to the many fires that broke out in the city. They had to work quickly and efficiently to put out the flames before they could spread to nearby structures, risking their own lives in the process.

The photograph captures this sense of urgency and danger, with the fireman racing to answer the call and donning his gear as he prepares to face the flames. It also highlights the sense of community and mutual support that was so important in early 20th century Los Angeles, as neighbors and local businesses rallied together to support the brave men and women who risked their lives to keep the city safe.

11. The Lido Club Pool at the Ambassador Hotel that was located at 3400 Wilshire Blvd. The hotel was unfortunately demolished by the LAUSD in 2006 c.1937

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The Lido Club Pool at the Ambassador Hotel was a popular gathering place for the rich and famous during the 1930s. The Ambassador Hotel was located at 3400 Wilshire Blvd. and was a symbol of glamour and luxury in Los Angeles.

The Lido Club Pool was one of the most famous attractions at the Ambassador Hotel. The pool was surrounded by palm trees, cabanas, and lounge chairs, and was a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. The pool was also the site of many high-profile events and parties, including fashion shows, beauty contests, and celebrity gatherings.

The Ambassador Hotel was a landmark in Los Angeles, and its demolition in 2006 was a controversial and emotional event for many residents of the city. Despite its historic significance, the hotel had fallen into disrepair and was deemed unsafe by the Los Angeles Unified School District, which owned the property. Efforts to preserve the hotel were unsuccessful, and it was eventually demolished to make way for a new school.

12. Hollywoodland _1920

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Hollywoodland was a housing development in the Hollywood Hills that was built in the 1920s as an upscale neighborhood for the rich and famous. The development was located on 320 acres of land and featured luxury homes, lush gardens, and stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline.

The Hollywoodland development was created by a group of investors led by Harry Chandler, the publisher of the Los Angeles Times. The investors saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing popularity of Hollywood and the film industry, and they envisioned Hollywoodland as a place where the rich and famous could live in luxury and privacy.

The centerpiece of the Hollywoodland development was a large sign that spelled out “Hollywoodland” in giant letters, which was installed on the side of a hill in 1923. The sign quickly became an iconic symbol of Hollywood, and it was visible from miles away.

Over the years, the Hollywoodland development has been home to many famous residents, including Humphrey Bogart, Bela Lugosi, and Bugsy Siegel. Today, the neighborhood is known simply as Hollywood, and the Hollywood sign remains a beloved and iconic landmark of Los Angeles.

13. The Hollywood Public Market was located at Hollywood and Wilcox c.1922

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The Hollywood Public Market was a bustling indoor market located at Hollywood and Wilcox in the heart of Hollywood in the early 1920s. The market was a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other goods.

The market was housed in a large, two-story building that featured a striking art deco design, with decorative tile work, ornate archways, and a prominent clock tower. Inside, the market was divided into different sections, with stalls and vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to fresh flowers and baked goods.

The Hollywood Public Market was not only a place to shop for food, but also a gathering place for the community. The market was a hub of activity, with people stopping to chat with friends and neighbors, grab a bite to eat, or listen to live music and entertainment.

Sadly, the Hollywood Public Market was short-lived, and it closed its doors in the mid-1920s. Today, the site of the market is occupied by a parking lot and a small strip mall, but the memory of the bustling indoor market lives on as a reminder of Hollywood’s rich history.

14. The Los Angeles County Courthouse

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The Los Angeles County Courthouse, located in downtown Los Angeles, was one of the city’s most important government buildings throughout the 20th century. The courthouse was designed by the renowned architect Albert C. Martin, Sr., and completed in 1958.

The courthouse was built to house the Los Angeles County Superior Court, which was responsible for handling a wide range of legal matters, including civil and criminal cases, probate, family law, and more. The courthouse featured 28 courtrooms, as well as offices for judges, clerks, and other court personnel.

In addition to its important role as a legal center, the Los Angeles County Courthouse was also a notable architectural landmark. The building’s sleek, modernist design featured a 20-story tower with a distinctive, curved facade, as well as a spacious plaza and landscaped gardens.

Over the years, the courthouse played host to a number of high-profile trials and legal proceedings, including the Charles Manson trial in 1970 and the trial of O.J. Simpson in 1995. However, by the early 21st century, the courthouse had become outdated and overcrowded, and plans were made to construct a new, state-of-the-art courthouse nearby.

In 2016, the Los Angeles County Superior Court moved to a new, $570 million courthouse located on Hill Street, and the old courthouse was closed and later demolished. While the Los Angeles County Courthouse may be gone, its legacy as a symbol of justice and democracy in the heart of Los Angeles will live on for generations to come.

15. West side of South Figueroa at 6th Street c.1890

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The west side of South Figueroa at 6th Street in Los Angeles around 1890 would have looked quite different from what it does today. At that time, the city was still growing and developing, with many buildings and streets still under construction. The area would likely have been bustling with people going about their daily business, whether it be shopping, going to work, or simply strolling down the street.

The architecture of the buildings would have reflected the styles of the time, with many Victorian-era structures still standing alongside newer buildings of the late 19th century. There would have been streetcars running down the middle of the street, and likely a variety of horse-drawn vehicles such as wagons and carriages, as well as bicycles and pedestrians.

Los Angeles in the 1920’s

Downtown Los Angeles 1940s

The Los Angeles coastal area was first settled by the Tongva and Chumash Native American tribes thousands of years ago. A Gabrielino settlement in the area was called iyáang? (written Yang-na by the Spanish), meaning “poison oak place

See Also:

15 Rare & Old Photos of Los Angeles | Mega Series Part 1
15 Rare & Old Photos of Las Vegas | Mega Series- Part 5
20 Rare & Old Photos of San Francisco | Mega Series Part 2
15 Rare & Old Photos of New York | Mega Series Part 1

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