The Library's Garden Level (Lower Level) is currently closed due to storm flooding. More about garden-level closure. (Posted on: 03/08/2024 03:24pm)
Historical accounts of the pueblo at Los Angeles first began to surface in the 1870s. Yet, aside from iterating the widely accepted facts related to Spanish exploration and the founding of the pueblo, early writers largely neglected the Spanish colonial period in Los Angeles history. These works were primarily regional histories created by boosters in an effort to glorify the city’s residents and promote...
When presented with the idea of 19th century whaling, most people think of Moby-Dick, Ishmael, and Ahab; or perhaps a hand-thrown harpoon or scrimshaw. Others see full rigging and square sails; ships, barques, and schooners; whaleboats manned by rowers and a harpooner; or the less romantic side of whaling...
Many believe that the modern Spiritualist Movement can trace its beginnings to a series of supernatural events which occurred near Rochester, New York in 1848. As legend has it, John Fox and his family moved into their Hydesville farmhouse in December 1947. Over the next few months the family was repeatedly frightened by unexplainable rapping, tapping, and other strange sounds...
Archeological discoveries have suggested that the art of tattooing may have been practiced as early as the Stone Age. Twenty-five years ago in the Otztal Alps, located between Austria and Italy, physical evidence of tattooing was discovered on Otzi, the ice man. In addition to his shoes, clothing, and a quiver...
he Navajo is currently one of the largest Native American tribes in the United States, located primarily in Arizona and New Mexico. Archeological evidence suggests that the Navajo migrated from Alaska and Canada into what is now the American Southwest circa 1400. The original treaty with the United States...
Many people enjoy fishing as a relaxing and tranquil recreational activity. Everyone who likes to fish has their own special ways of doing things with particular equipment and tools. Special Collections and Archives has several books that highlight fishing as a hobby and...
Johannes Gutenberg chose the Bible to be the first book he would print on his new printing press in the 15th century. As such, the Bible is the first mass-produced book in the world. Before the invention of the printing press, bibles and other books were written and illustrated by hand. It could take several years ....
This summer is an exciting time in Special Collections and Archives. Last year, we began a two phase renovation project and much to our delight, Phase I has been completed! Special Collections and Archives now has a new, environmentally controlled and secure closed stacks area for our rare books, artifacts, and archival collections, as well as a new Reading Room that...
Mother's Day has its roots in early Egyptian festivals which honored the goddess Isis, known as Mother of the Pharaohs. Other ancient cultures also honored mother figures, worshipping and celebrating mother goddesses like Cybele and Rhea, among others. With the spread of Christianity across Europe and England in the sixteenth century, celebrations of motherhood became focused ....
This year, the National Park Service celebrates its 100th birthday! The National Park Service (NPS) is a government agency that preserves breathtaking natural spaces and historical sites across the country. The NPS manages these parks and welcomes the public to enjoy and appreciate...
