Maclean, Dabirma (Birma) Still

DABIRMA (BIRMA) STILL MACLEAN (b. 1875 San Luis Obispo, California d. 1968 La Panza, California; active in Petaluma 1904 – 1920) Maclean was among the most prominent female photographers in California. She began her work as a photographer in her native county of San Luis Obispo and in 1904 she married and moved to Petaluma. There she continued her work with a special interest in public buildings and local scenes. In Petaluma she also produced real-photo postcards and portraits for local residents.

Unfortunately, the PHL&M owns no portraits by this important, early photographer.

Bibliography: Dellard, Bill, “First Lady of Photography,” http://www.pasorobles-usa.com/PioneerPages/firstlady.htm; Charrier, Emily, “Famed Photographer Dabirma Still Maclean and Early Petaluma Farms,” Petaluma Argus-Courier, March 7, 2019;