
1
Founded in 1920, the
Los Angeles Steamship Company connected Los Angeles to Hawaii, offering luxury and efficiency across the Pacific. With ships like
SS City of Honolulu and
SS City of Los Angeles, it was a pioneer in West Coast maritime travel. The company, founded by members
General Moses Sherman,
Senator Frank P. Flint,
Joseph Sartori, and
Harry Chandler boosted tourism and commerce between the mainland and Hawaii, becoming a symbol of Los Angeles’ growing role in Pacific trade and leisure.
2
Jonathan Club member
Secundo Guasti established one of the world’s largest vineyards, spanning more than 5,000 acres. He brought families from Italy to cultivate the land and built not only a vast winery but an entire town—aptly named Guasti.
3
General A.W. Barrett, Jonathan Club member, is seen holding his record-breaking tuna caught on rod and reel off the Catalina Coast in 1900. A distinguished military leader, Barrett played a pivotal role in shaping the U.S. Army's modernization efforts during the 20th century.
4
An 1887 tract map of the subdivision of the
Rancho San Jose de Buenos Ayres offers a glimpse into Southern California’s growth during a period of rapid development. This detailed map highlights land boundaries and plots within the rancho, reflecting the shift toward settlement and farming. It serves as both a historical record of land ownership and a snapshot of California's expansion, illustrating the region's transformation into a more organized community.
5
A photograph of people signing the bill for the
1932 Olympic Games captures a historic moment in Los Angeles's journey to becoming a major player in the world of sports. This image showcases officials and dignitaries, including Jonathan Club member
William May Garland. This signing symbolizes the city’s ambition and resilience, marking a turning point that would elevate Los Angeles's status on the international stage.
6
Moses Sherman, member, was a key figure in the development of Phoenix and Los Angeles. He founded the Valley Bank and electrified trolley systems in both cities. He connected Phoenix’s Railway to the Santa Fe Railway and worked to consolidate and electrify Los Angeles's local trolleys. Sherman also made large land acquisitions, including Tejon Ranch, Porter Ranch, and substantial land in Mexico. Additionally, he was a trustee of USC and Pomona College and co-founded the Los Angeles Steamship Company.
7
A photograph of the sale on Jonathan Club member
J.B. Lankershim's property marks a key moment in the development of the San Fernando Valley. It captures the shift from large ranching operations to subdivided plots for settlers, contributing to the region’s agricultural and urban expansion. This sale reflects the broader economic changes of early 20th-century Southern California and Lankershim's influence on shaping the Valley and Los Angeles.
8
An 1894 drawing by
Aubrey Beardsley captures the elegance and intricacy of the Art Nouveau style. Known for its sensuality, theatricality, and macabre elements, Beardsley's work pushed boundaries, reflecting the cultural shifts of the late 19th century. This piece showcases his unique approach, blending beauty with decadence and leaving a lasting impact on illustration and design.
9
A photograph of
Perino’s Restaurant captures the glamour of mid-20th century Los Angeles. Known for its upscale Italian cuisine and luxurious ambiance, Perino’s was a favorite of Hollywood stars and socialites, serving as a cultural hub. The restaurant’s elegant décor and innovative menu helped shape LA’s dining scene, leaving a lasting legacy in the city’s history.
10
A photograph of
John D. Spreckels, Jonathan Club member, captures a visionary entrepreneur whose impact shaped Southern California’s growth. As a businessman, he transformed industries like sugar and transportation, notably through the
Spreckels Sugar Company and
San Diego Electric Railway. His investments, including the
Hotel del Coronado, helped establish San Diego as a major tourist destination, earning him the title "Father of San Diego" and leaving a lasting legacy in the region’s history.