Hall, Mary Louise Brown (1860-1932)(3 of 4)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Anna “Annie” Alexis ferguson brown, Mary Louise Brown Hall, Aletha Hall O’brien Baker & Margaret Aletha O’Brien

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified



THE SITTERS:

Names: Anna “Annie” Alexis Ferguson Brown, Mary Louise Brown Hall, Aletha Hall O’Brien Baker, and Margaret Aletha O’Brien. Aletha Hall O’Brien Baker would have been known as Aletha Hall O’Brien at the time this portrait was taken.

Description: Aletha Hall O’Brien (Baker) (1883-1966) appears in the center of this pyramidal composition directly above her daughter, Margaret Aletha O’Brien (1908-1990). On the left is Anna “Annie” Alexis Ferguson Brown (1841-1920), the child’s maternal great-grandmother. On the right, is Mary Louis Brown Hall (1860-1932), the child’s maternal grandmother.

Biographical Note: Mary Louise, or Lulu as she was called, was the first of twelve children born to the early Petaluma pioneers, Daniel and Annie Brown.  She was born in Petaluma on March 5, 1860, and attended the Brick School and Petaluma High School.  Lulu graduated from high school in 1878 along with five other students including her future husband, Gilbert Hall.  Two years later on May 29, 1882, Lulu and Gil eloped to Marin County and were married there by a Justice of the Peace.  The next day the Brown parents arranged for them to be married in a Catholic ceremony in their home.  The Hall couple settled in Petaluma and for a few years resided in Santa Rosa while Gil was acting as Sonoma County Auditor and Recorder. From girlhood and throughout her adult years, Mary Louise was active in St. Vincent Church events.  At one time she was photographed driving a horse and buggy down Main Street with a friend while collecting donations for a Catholic fair.  The tintype still exists.

The marriage of the Hall couple lasted almost fifty years.  Gil died on January 24, 1932, and Mary Louise followed on August 25th of the same year.  Five daughters survived the Hall couple, Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy; one son died at birth.  Gilbert and Mary Louise lived at 325 Post Street in Petaluma and were buried together in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046382/mary_louise_hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall and Brown families.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: July 29, 1911, p.1; August 28, 1911, p. 5. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046382/mary-louise-hall.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  5 x 7 3/4

Medium: Gelatin or collodion photographic print

Description, front:

Description, back: Handwritten in script in pencil is : “Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown (left) 1841-1920”; “Mary Louise Brown Hall" (right) 1860-1932”; Aletha Hall O’Brien Baker (top) 1883-1966; and “Margaret O’Brien McSherry Fassoth Reed (BABY) 1908-1996”.

Date: 1910-1920

Condition:

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Mary Louise Brown (1860-1932)(4 of 4)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Mary Louise Brown Hall, Gilbert Pine Hall, and Kathleen Marie Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified

THE SITTERS:

Names: Mary Louise Brown Hall, Gilbert Pine Hall and Kathleen Marie Hall

Description: In this snapshot photograph Gilbert Pine Hall, his wife, Mary Louise Brown Hall, and their daughter, Kathleen Marie Hall, stand in front of the steps leading to the front door to their Petaluma home at 325 Post Street.

Biographical Note: Mary Louise, or Lulu as she was called, was the first of twelve children born to the early Petaluma pioneers, Daniel and Annie Brown.  She was born in Petaluma on March 5, 1860, and attended the Brick School and Petaluma High School.  Lulu graduated from high school in 1878 along with five other students including her future husband, Gilbert Hall.  Two years later on May 29, 1882, Lulu and Gil eloped to Marin County and were married there by a Justice of the Peace.  The next day the Brown parents arranged for them to be married in a Catholic ceremony in their home.  The Hall couple settled in Petaluma and for a few years resided in Santa Rosa while Gil was acting as Sonoma County Auditor and Recorder. From girlhood and throughout her adult years, Mary Louise was active in St. Vincent Church events.  At one time she was photographed driving a horse and buggy down Main Street with a friend while collecting donations for a Catholic fair.  The tintype still exists.

The marriage of the Hall couple lasted almost fifty years.  Gil died on January 24, 1932, and Mary Louise followed on August 25th of the same year.  Five daughters survived the Hall couple, Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy; one son died at birth.  Gilbert and Mary Louise lived at 325 Post Street in Petaluma and were buried together in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046382/mary_louise_hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall and Brown families.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: July 29, 1911, p.1; August 28, 1911, p. 5. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046382/mary-louise-hall.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: 

Medium: snapshot photograph on Velox paper

Description, front:

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil at the top of the card is: “Mary Louise Brown Hall (1860-1932)”, “Gilbert Pine Hall (1859-1932)”, “Kathleen Marie Hall (1890-1980)”, and “at 325 Post Street, Petaluma”. Below this, handwritten in blue ink is: “Mama-Papa-Kathleen”, and “(Petaluma home)”.

Date: unidentified

Condition: This photograph’s right corner has been clipped and it is missing a section of its left edge white border. It retains several strips of tape remnant.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Kathleen Marie (1890-1980)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Mary Louise Brown Hall, Gilbert Pine Hall, and Kathleen Marie Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified

THE SITTERS:

Names: Mary Louise Brown Hall, Gilbert Pine Hall, and Kathleen Marie Hall

Description: In this snapshot photograph, Gilbert Pine Hall, his wife, Mary Louise Brown Hall, and their daughter, Kathleen Marie Hall, stand in front of the steps leading to the front door to their Petaluma home at 325 Post Street.

Biographical Note: Kathleen Marie Hall was born in Petaluma on October 11, 1890, the fourth child of Gilbert Pine Hall and Mary Louise Brown Hall. Kathleen began elementary school at B Street School, then attended St. Vincent School through eighth grade, and graduated from Petaluma High School.  Throughout all her school years she very actively participated in many school plays and other events: singing, playing the piano and violin, dancing, acting, and riding on floats in parades.  In her twenties Kathleen moved to San Francisco and attended State Normal School and began her career as an elementary school teacher.  She studied and played music throughout her lifetime and once composed sheet music entitled “Treasure Island” which was published and sold at local stores.  In San Francisco she dated a young man for several years until he was killed during World War I.  She remained single and supported herself as a teacher until her retirement.  Kathleen Hall died on August 10, 1980, at the age of 89 and was buried in Petaluma Calvary Cemetery next to her parents.

*This biographical note was written by Kathleen Marie Hall’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42345147/kathleen-marie-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall and Brown families.

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: 

Medium: snapshot photograph on Velox paper

Description, front:

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil at the top of the card is: “Mary Louise Brown Hall (1860-1932)”, “Gilbert Pine Hall (1859-1932)”, “Kathleen Marie Hall (1890-1980)”, and “at 325 Post Street, Petaluma”. Below this, handwritten in blue ink is: “Mama-Papa-Kathleen”, and “(Petaluma home)”.

Date: unidentified

Condition: This photograph’s right corner has been clipped and it is missing a section of its left edge white border. It retains several strips of tape remnant.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Gilbert Pine (1859-1932) (6 of 6)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Gilbert Pine Hall, Kathleen Marie Hall & Mary Louise Brown Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified

THE SITTERS:

Names: Mary Louise Brown Hall, Gilbert Pine Hall and Kathleen Marie Hall

Description: In this snapshot photograph Gilbert Pine Hall, his wife, Mary Louise Brown Hall, and their daughter, Kathleen Marie Hall, stand in front of the steps leading to the front door to their Petaluma home at 325 Post Street.

Biographical Note: Gilbert Pine Hall was born on April 20, 1859, in Manchester, Missouri, the thirteenth and youngest child of Sarah Gibbons Thomas and Dr. James Henry Hall.  When he was about 11, his family moved to Petaluma, California.  Gil continued his education and graduated in 1878 from Petaluma High School in a class of six students, including Mary Louise Brown, aka Lulu Brown.  Over the next few years, Gil worked in a variety of positions.  In April 1880, he was teaching school in the San Antonio district, and two years later, he and former classmate Lulu were married by the Marin County Justice of the Peace.  The Brown parents soon arranged for Father Cleary of St. Vincent’s parish to repeat the ceremony for the couple, and the Petaluma Courier announced that “Cupid’s darts are flying fast.”

Gil Hall joined the National Guard in 1882, was appointed Postmaster of Petaluma in 1886, and in 1890 was voted in as County Auditor and Recorder.  In 1894, he was admitted to the California Bar and began practicing law in Sonoma County. Gil’s name appeared frequently in Petaluma newspapers throughout his life and many times years after his death.  He was described as eloquent, controversial, golden-tongued, unpredictable, fiery, and many more colorful terms.  Bill Soberanes, a Petaluma Argus-Courier columnist for many years, wrote frequently about Gil Hall’s courtroom tactics.  One story tells about Gil’s defense of a client charged with selling illegal whiskey during prohibition.  The evidence was in a bottle displayed in the courtroom.  Gil picked up the bottle and drank the contents.  “That’s not whiskey!” he exclaimed and won the case.  The evidence was gone.  

Gil and Mary Louise were the parents of five daughters: Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy.  An unnamed son died at birth in 1888.  The family lived in Petaluma for all but a few years while Gil was county recorder in Santa Rosa. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years.  Gil and Mary Louise both died in 1932.   Gil died on January 24 and Mary Louise seven months later on August 25. Their graves are side-by-side in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046069/gilbert-pine-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3; Sept 29, 1899, p. 1; November 2, 1927, p. 8; November 8, 1927, p. 7; January 25, 1932, p. 3; March 10, 1932, p. 5. Petaluma Courier: May 29, 1878, p. 3; August 13, 1890, p.4. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: August 28, 1911, p. 5; December 9, 1896, p. 2; March 8, 1897, p. 2; July 31, 1897, p. 1; November 2, 1897, p.1; July 12, 1911, p.2. Petaluma Weekly Argus: May 31, 1878, p. 3; April 2, 1880, p. 3; July 23, 1889, p. 3; June 2, 1882, p. 3; October 13, 1882, p. 3. Gilbert Pine Hall was referenced numerous times after his death in articles written by Bill Soberanes. The most extensive references include: Petaluma Argus-Courier: May 13, 1966, p.9; April 26, 1967, p. 11; September 14, 1979, p.11.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: 

Medium: snapshot photograph on Velox paper

Description, front:

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil at the top of the card is: “Mary Louise Brown Hall (1860-1932)”, “Gilbert Pine Hall (1859-1932)”, “Kathleen Marie Hall (1890-1980)”, and “at 325 Post Street, Petaluma”. Below this, handwritten in blue ink is: “Mama-Papa-Kathleen”, and “(Petaluma home)”.

Date: unidentified

Condition: This photograph’s right corner has been clipped and it is missing a section of its left edge white border. It retains several strips of tape remnant.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Gilbert Pine (1859-1932) (5 of 6)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Gilbert Pine Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified



THE SITTER:

Name: Gilbert Pine Hall

Description: In this head-and-shoulders portrait, Gilbert Pine Hall looks out at the viewer with a calm and kind gaze. He is attired in a tweed jacket and matching bowtie. Unfortunately, the objects on and under his lapels are unidentifiable. Hall’s hair has been cut short and parted just off center.

Biographical Note: Gilbert Pine Hall was born on April 20, 1859, in Manchester, Missouri, the thirteenth and youngest child of Sarah Gibbons Thomas and Dr. James Henry Hall.  When he was about 11, his family moved to Petaluma, California.  Gil continued his education and graduated in 1878 from Petaluma High School in a class of six students, including Mary Louise Brown, aka Lulu Brown.  Over the next few years, Gil worked in a variety of positions.  In April 1880, he was teaching school in the San Antonio district, and two years later, he and former classmate Lulu were married by the Marin County Justice of the Peace.  The Brown parents soon arranged for Father Cleary of St. Vincent’s parish to repeat the ceremony for the couple, and the Petaluma Courier announced that “Cupid’s darts are flying fast.”

Gil Hall joined the National Guard in 1882, was appointed Postmaster of Petaluma in 1886, and in 1890 was voted in as County Auditor and Recorder.  In 1894, he was admitted to the California Bar and began practicing law in Sonoma County. Gil’s name appeared frequently in Petaluma newspapers throughout his life and many times years after his death.  He was described as eloquent, controversial, golden-tongued, unpredictable, fiery, and many more colorful terms.  Bill Soberanes, a Petaluma Argus-Courier columnist for many years, wrote frequently about Gil Hall’s courtroom tactics.  One story tells about Gil’s defense of a client charged with selling illegal whiskey during prohibition.  The evidence was in a bottle displayed in the courtroom.  Gil picked up the bottle and drank the contents.  “That’s not whiskey!” he exclaimed and won the case.  The evidence was gone.  

Gil and Mary Louise were the parents of five daughters: Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy.  An unnamed son died at birth in 1888.  The family lived in Petaluma for all but a few years while Gil was county recorder in Santa Rosa. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years.  Gil and Mary Louise both died in 1932.   Gil died on January 24 and Mary Louise seven months later on August 25. Their graves are side-by-side in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046069/gilbert-pine-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3; Sept 29, 1899, p. 1; November 2, 1927, p. 8; November 8, 1927, p. 7; January 25, 1932, p. 3; March 10, 1932, p. 5. Petaluma Courier: May 29, 1878, p. 3; August 13, 1890, p.4. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: August 28, 1911, p. 5; December 9, 1896, p. 2; March 8, 1897, p. 2; July 31, 1897, p. 1; November 2, 1897, p.1; July 12, 1911, p.2. Petaluma Weekly Argus: May 31, 1878, p. 3; April 2, 1880, p. 3; July 23, 1889, p. 3; June 2, 1882, p. 3; October 13, 1882, p. 3. Gilbert Pine Hall was referenced numerous times after his death in articles written by Bill Soberanes. The most extensive references include: Petaluma Argus-Courier: May 13, 1966, p.9; April 26, 1967, p. 11; September 14, 1979, p.11.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  71/2” X 9 1/2”

Medium: gelatin or collodion photographic print

Description, front:

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil on the top edge is: “Gilbert Pine Hall (1859-1932)”.

Date: 1920-1932

Condition: There are numerous dark spots on the front of this portrait and both the top and bottom edges of the back side have remnants of tape.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Gilbert Pine (1859-1932) (4 of 6)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Gilbert Pine Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified

THE SITTER:

Name: Gilbert Pine Hall

Description: In this head-and-shoulders portrait, Gilbert Pine Hall looks up and to his left with an air of calm certainty. He is formally attired in a dark jacket, white shirt, and white bow tie. His hair is cut short and parted just off center.

Biographical Note: Gilbert Pine Hall was born on April 20, 1859, in Manchester, Missouri, the thirteenth and youngest child of Sarah Gibbons Thomas and Dr. James Henry Hall.  When he was about 11, his family moved to Petaluma, California.  Gil continued his education and graduated in 1878 from Petaluma High School in a class of six students, including Mary Louise Brown, aka Lulu Brown.  Over the next few years, Gil worked in a variety of positions.  In April 1880, he was teaching school in the San Antonio district, and two years later, he and former classmate Lulu were married by the Marin County Justice of the Peace.  The Brown parents soon arranged for Father Cleary of St. Vincent’s parish to repeat the ceremony for the couple, and the Petaluma Courier announced that “Cupid’s darts are flying fast.”

Gil Hall joined the National Guard in 1882, was appointed Postmaster of Petaluma in 1886, and in 1890 was voted in as County Auditor and Recorder.  In 1894, he was admitted to the California Bar and began practicing law in Sonoma County. Gil’s name appeared frequently in Petaluma newspapers throughout his life and many times years after his death.  He was described as eloquent, controversial, golden-tongued, unpredictable, fiery, and many more colorful terms.  Bill Soberanes, a Petaluma Argus-Courier columnist for many years, wrote frequently about Gil Hall’s courtroom tactics.  One story tells about Gil’s defense of a client charged with selling illegal whiskey during prohibition.  The evidence was in a bottle displayed in the courtroom.  Gil picked up the bottle and drank the contents.  “That’s not whiskey!” he exclaimed and won the case.  The evidence was gone.  

Gil and Mary Louise were the parents of five daughters: Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy.  An unnamed son died at birth in 1888.  The family lived in Petaluma for all but a few years while Gil was county recorder in Santa Rosa. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years.  Gil and Mary Louise both died in 1932.   Gil died on January 24 and Mary Louise seven months later on August 25. Their graves are side-by-side in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046069/gilbert-pine-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3; Sept 29, 1899, p. 1; November 2, 1927, p. 8; November 8, 1927, p. 7; January 25, 1932, p. 3; March 10, 1932, p. 5. Petaluma Courier: May 29, 1878, p. 3; August 13, 1890, p.4. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: August 28, 1911, p. 5; December 9, 1896, p. 2; March 8, 1897, p. 2; July 31, 1897, p. 1; November 2, 1897, p.1; July 12, 1911, p.2. Petaluma Weekly Argus: May 31, 1878, p. 3; April 2, 1880, p. 3; July 23, 1889, p. 3; June 2, 1882, p. 3; October 13, 1882, p. 3. Gilbert Pine Hall was referenced numerous times after his death in articles written by Bill Soberanes. The most extensive references include: Petaluma Argus-Courier: May 13, 1966, p.9; April 26, 1967, p. 11; September 14, 1979, p.11.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  5 1/2” x 7 1/2”

Medium: matte collodion photographic print on paperboard

Description, front:

Description, back: This portrait was scanned within its frame. On the back of the frame is handwritten in pencil: “Gilbert Pine Hall”, “Our darling Father”, “May he be at peace and at Rest”, “With Our Heavenly Father”. Below this inscription is the framer’s label.

Date: 1890-1910

Condition:

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Gilbert Pine (1859-1932) (3 of 6)

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John Quincy Reed’s Portrait Photograph of Gilbert Pine Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

JOHN QUINCY REED was born in 1841 in Abington, Massachusetts and died in 1902 in Petaluma. He worked as a photographer in Petaluma for over 25 years, moving his studio within the community to several different locations. He arrived into Petaluma from Stockton in 1870 and continued to work as a photographer in Petaluma until at least 1898. Many of his portraits of Petaluma’s citizens are of exceptionally fine quality. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Gilbert Pine Hall

Description: Gilbert Pine Hall sits in a studio chair and leans casually to his right while resting his elbow on what appears to be a sheepskin rug. While resting his left hand in his lap, he gazes up to his right. He is dressed in a double breasted jacket, white shirt, and white bow tie. On his left lapel is a large unidentifiable object. He is clean shaven, and his hair is parted off center, oiled and combed to the back of his head.

Biographical Note: Gilbert Pine Hall was born on April 20, 1859, in Manchester, Missouri, the thirteenth and youngest child of Sarah Gibbons Thomas and Dr. James Henry Hall.  When he was about 11, his family moved to Petaluma, California.  Gil continued his education and graduated in 1878 from Petaluma High School in a class of six students, including Mary Louise Brown, aka Lulu Brown.  Over the next few years, Gil worked in a variety of positions.  In April 1880, he was teaching school in the San Antonio district, and two years later, he and former classmate Lulu were married by the Marin County Justice of the Peace.  The Brown parents soon arranged for Father Cleary of St. Vincent’s parish to repeat the ceremony for the couple, and the Petaluma Courier announced that “Cupid’s darts are flying fast.”

Gil Hall joined the National Guard in 1882, was appointed Postmaster of Petaluma in 1886, and in 1890 was voted in as County Auditor and Recorder.  In 1894, he was admitted to the California Bar and began practicing law in Sonoma County. Gil’s name appeared frequently in Petaluma newspapers throughout his life and many times years after his death.  He was described as eloquent, controversial, golden-tongued, unpredictable, fiery, and many more colorful terms.  Bill Soberanes, a Petaluma Argus-Courier columnist for many years, wrote frequently about Gil Hall’s courtroom tactics.  One story tells about Gil’s defense of a client charged with selling illegal whiskey during prohibition.  The evidence was in a bottle displayed in the courtroom.  Gil picked up the bottle and drank the contents.  “That’s not whiskey!” he exclaimed and won the case.  The evidence was gone.  

 Gil and Mary Louise were the parents of five daughters: Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy.  An unnamed son died at birth in 1888.  The family lived in Petaluma for all but a few years while Gil was county recorder in Santa Rosa. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years.  Gil and Mary Louise both died in 1932.   Gil died on January 24 and Mary Louise seven months later on August 25. Their graves are side-by-side in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046069/gilbert-pine-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3; Sept 29, 1899, p. 1; November 2, 1927, p. 8; November 8, 1927, p. 7; January 25, 1932, p. 3; March 10, 1932, p. 5. Petaluma Courier: May 29, 1878, p. 3; August 13, 1890, p.4. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: August 28, 1911, p. 5; December 9, 1896, p. 2; March 8, 1897, p. 2; July 31, 1897, p. 1; November 2, 1897, p.1; July 12, 1911, p.2. Petaluma Weekly Argus: May 31, 1878, p. 3; April 2, 1880, p. 3; July 23, 1889, p. 3; June 2, 1882, p. 3; October 13, 1882, p. 3. Gilbert Pine Hall was referenced numerous times after his death in articles written by Bill Soberanes. The most extensive references include: Petaluma Argus-Courier: May 13, 1966, p.9; April 26, 1967, p. 11; September 14, 1979, p.11.

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: gelatin or collodion photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: In the background of this portrait on the right is a length of dark drapery. On the left is what appears to be a sheepskin rug upon which the sitter rests his right elbow. The photographer’s imprint appears along the bottom edge of the card in blue ink.

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil along the right edge is: “Gilbert Pine Hall - Lawyer”, “(1859-1932)”, and “Mamas father”.

Date: 1890s

Condition: This cabinet card is slightly soiled throughout.

Owner:  From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Gilbert Pine (1859-1932) (2 of 6)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Gilbert Pine Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified


THE SITTER:

Name: Gilbert Pine Hall

Description: In this full-length portrait, Gilbert Pine Hall stands in an assured, relaxed pose. He rests his right elbow on a fabric -draped studio prop, places his left hand in his vest, and crosses his right leg over his left resting its weight on his toes. He is attired in a frock coat with matching pants. His hair has been carefully parted off-center, oiled and combed.

Biographical Note: Gilbert Pine Hall was born on April 20, 1859, in Manchester, Missouri, the thirteenth and youngest child of Sarah Gibbons Thomas and Dr. James Henry Hall.  When he was about 11, his family moved to Petaluma, California.  Gil continued his education and graduated in 1878 from Petaluma High School in a class of six students, including Mary Louise Brown, aka Lulu Brown.  Over the next few years, Gil worked in a variety of positions.  In April 1880, he was teaching school in the San Antonio district, and two years later, he and former classmate Lulu were married by the Marin County Justice of the Peace.  The Brown parents soon arranged for Father Cleary of St. Vincent’s parish to repeat the ceremony for the couple, and the Petaluma Courier announced that “Cupid’s darts are flying fast.”

 Gil Hall joined the National Guard in 1882, was appointed Postmaster of Petaluma in 1886, and in 1890 was voted in as County Auditor and Recorder.  In 1894, he was admitted to the California Bar and began practicing law in Sonoma County. Gil’s name appeared frequently in Petaluma newspapers throughout his life and many times years after his death.  He was described as eloquent, controversial, golden-tongued, unpredictable, fiery, and many more colorful terms.  Bill Soberanes, a Petaluma Argus-Courier columnist for many years, wrote frequently about Gil Hall’s courtroom tactics.  One story tells about Gil’s defense of a client charged with selling illegal whiskey during prohibition.  The evidence was in a bottle displayed in the courtroom.  Gil picked up the bottle and drank the contents.  “That’s not whiskey!” he exclaimed and won the case.  The evidence was gone.  

 Gil and Mary Louise were the parents of five daughters: Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy.  An unnamed son died at birth in 1888.  The family lived in Petaluma for all but a few years while Gil was county recorder in Santa Rosa. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years.  Gil and Mary Louise both died in 1932.   Gil died on January 24 and Mary Louise seven months later on August 25. Their graves are side-by-side in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046069/gilbert-pine-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3; Sept 29, 1899, p. 1; November 2, 1927, p. 8; November 8, 1927, p. 7; January 25, 1932, p. 3; March 10, 1932, p. 5. Petaluma Courier: May 29, 1878, p. 3; August 13, 1890, p.4. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: August 28, 1911, p. 5; December 9, 1896, p. 2; March 8, 1897, p. 2; July 31, 1897, p. 1; November 2, 1897, p.1; July 12, 1911, p.2. Petaluma Weekly Argus: May 31, 1878, p. 3; April 2, 1880, p. 3; July 23, 1889, p. 3; June 2, 1882, p. 3; October 13, 1882, p. 3. Gilbert Pine Hall was referenced numerous times after his death in articles written by Bill Soberanes. The most extensive references include: Petaluma Argus-Courier: May 13, 1966, p.9; April 26, 1967, p. 11; September 14, 1979, p.11.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This full-standing portrait is framed within a rectangle with a shallow top arch. The backdrop depicts architectural features typical of a grand, classical interior space.

Description, back: Handwritten in blue ink script is: “Gilbert Pine Hall”, “(1859-1932)”, “Papa in his youth-”, and “K. M. Hall”.

Date: 1875-1880

Condition: This carte de visite is soiled and the bottom of the back side shows water damage.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Gilbert Pine (1859-1932) (1 of 6)

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Unidentified Photographer, Portrait Photograph of Gilbert Pine Hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified

THE SITTER:

Name: Gilbert Pine Hall

Description: In this cased portrait, Gilbert Pine Hall, although a toddler, assumes a calm demeanor. He sits on the top of a studio prop that is covered with an embroidered cloth. With both hands, he holds an adult-sized straw hat. His dark hair has been side-parted and cut to one length just below the top of his ears. He is dressed in a dark jacket which fastens at the top and is trimmed in a plaid fabric. He also wears checkered pants and a white shirt.

Biographical Note: Gilbert Pine Hall was born on April 20, 1859, in Manchester, Missouri, the thirteenth and youngest child of Sarah Gibbons Thomas and Dr. James Henry Hall.  When he was about 11, his family moved to Petaluma, California.  Gil continued his education and graduated in 1878 from Petaluma High School in a class of six students, including Mary Louise Brown, aka Lulu Brown.  Over the next few years, Gil worked in a variety of positions.  In April 1880, he was teaching school in the San Antonio district, and two years later, he and former classmate Lulu were married by the Marin County Justice of the Peace.  The Brown parents soon arranged for Father Cleary of St. Vincent’s parish to repeat the ceremony for the couple, and the Petaluma Courier announced that “Cupid’s darts are flying fast.”

Gil Hall joined the National Guard in 1882, was appointed Postmaster of Petaluma in 1886, and in 1890 was voted in as County Auditor and Recorder.  In 1894, he was admitted to the California Bar and began practicing law in Sonoma County. Gil’s name appeared frequently in Petaluma newspapers throughout his life and many times years after his death.  He was described as eloquent, controversial, golden-tongued, unpredictable, fiery, and many more colorful terms.  Bill Soberanes, a Petaluma Argus-Courier columnist for many years, wrote frequently about Gil Hall’s courtroom tactics.  One story tells about Gil’s defense of a client charged with selling illegal whiskey during prohibition.  The evidence was in a bottle displayed in the courtroom.  Gil picked up the bottle and drank the contents.  “That’s not whiskey!” he exclaimed and won the case.  The evidence was gone.  

Gil and Mary Louise were the parents of five daughters: Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy.  An unnamed son died at birth in 1888.  The family lived in Petaluma for all but a few years while Gil was county recorder in Santa Rosa. Their marriage lasted just short of 50 years.  Gil and Mary Louise both died in 1932.  Gil died on January 24 and Mary Louise seven months later on August 25. Their graves are side-by-side in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046069/gilbert-pine-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Hall family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3; Sept 29, 1899, p. 1; November 2, 1927, p. 8; November 8, 1927, p. 7; January 25, 1932, p. 3; March 10, 1932, p. 5. Petaluma Courier: May 29, 1878, p. 3; August 13, 1890, p.4. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: August 28, 1911, p. 5; December 9, 1896, p. 2; March 8, 1897, p. 2; July 31, 1897, p. 1; November 2, 1897, p.1; July 12, 1911, p.2. Petaluma Weekly Argus: May 31, 1878, p. 3; April 2, 1880, p. 3; July 23, 1889, p. 3; June 2, 1882, p. 3; October 13, 1882, p. 3. Gilbert Pine Hall was referenced numerous times after his death in articles written by Bill Soberanes. The most extensive references include: Petaluma Argus-Courier: May 13, 1966, p.9; April 26, 1967, p. 11; September 14, 1979, p.11.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  sixth plate ambrotype, 2 3/4” x 3 1/4”

Medium: ambrotype

Case description: This portrait’s thermoplastic case, which is also called a Union case, is decorated with 34 stars indicating a date between 1861, when Kansas became the 34th state of the union, and 1863 then West Virginia became the 35th. This case has a floral brass mat and a floral/egg motif preserver which is the brass foil frame around the edge of the brass mat.

Date: 1861 or 1862

Condition: It appears that the case, brass mat, motif preserver, and the ambrotype are all original to each other.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Mary Louise Brown (1860-1932)(1 of 4)

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Unidentified Photographer, Two ambrotype Portraits of Daniel Brown and his daughter Mary Louise or Annie Alexis


THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

Photographer: unidentified. It is possible one of two Petaluma photographers created these ambrotypes: Giles Pease Kellogg or Edward Payson Butler. Kellogg, the first photographer to work in Petaluma, began offering ambrotypes by May 1856, and Butler, who took over Kellogg’s studio on January 10, 1862, continued to create ambrotypes in Petaluma until April 1863. These dates coincide with the years in which Daniel and Annie Brown were raising their young daughters in Petaluma. Daniel Brown married Annie Alexis Ferguson on May 18, 1858, and their first two children, both girls, were born in Petaluma, Mary Louise on March 5, 1860 and Annie Alexis on August 21, 1861.



THE SITTERS:

Name: Daniel Brown and his daughter Mary Louise Brown (Mary Louise Brown Hall) and/or Annie Alexis Brown

Description: In both ambrotypes, Daniel Brown is portrayed with one of his two toddler daughters. The young father is dressed in his business suit replete with matching vest, pocket watch, neck tie, and straight, high-collared white shirt. He sports a full goatee or chin beard, but no mustache. In the portrait on the left, his daughter has been positioned on a restraining device, the end of which can be seen to the right of her face, and tilted towards her father so that their heads touch. Although this is an endearing pose, she wears a petulant scowl. In the portrait on the right, his daughter sits happily on his lap, his hand supporting her at the waist. In both portraits, the toddler wears white socks, black shoes, and a waisted, drop-shouldered dress which is adorned with wide strips of ribbon at the top of the sleeves.

The two portraits may not have been taken at the same time: there are distinct differences in the details of Daniel’s beard and hair; it appears his bow ties are not the same; and he may not be wearing a vest in the right portrait. If the portraits were taken at different sittings, it is possible that Mary Louise is portrayed in one and Annie Alexis in the other.

Biographical Note: Mary Louise, or Lulu as she was called, was the first of twelve children born to the early Petaluma pioneers, Daniel and Annie Brown.  She was born in Petaluma on March 5, 1860, and attended the Brick School and Petaluma High School.  Lulu graduated from high school in 1878 along with five other students including her future husband, Gilbert Hall.  Two years later on May 29, 1882, Lulu and Gil eloped to Marin County and were married there by a Justice of the Peace.  The next day the Brown parents arranged for them to be married in a Catholic ceremony in their home.  The Hall couple settled in Petaluma and for a few years resided in Santa Rosa while Gil was acting as Sonoma County Auditor and Recorder. From girlhood and throughout her adult years, Mary Louise was active in St. Vincent Church events.  At one time she was photographed driving a horse and buggy down Main Street with a friend while collecting donations for a Catholic fair.  The tintype still exists.

The marriage of the Hall couple lasted almost fifty years.  Gil died on January 24, 1932, and Mary Louise followed on August 25th of the same year.  Five daughters survived the Hall couple, Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy; one son died at birth.  Gilbert and Mary Louise lived at 325 Post Street in Petaluma and were buried together in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046382/mary-louise-hall Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Brown and Hall families.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obituary); August 27, 1932, p. 3. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: July 29, 1911, p.1; August 28, 1911, p. 5.



THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  According to the owner of the original, both images, as measured outside of their frames, are approximately, 2 3/4” by by 2 1/2”.

Medium: Ambrotype

Description, front: The two ambrotypes are contained in a single brown floral design Union case with brass hinges.

Description, back:

Date: between 1861 and 1863

Condition: Both ambrotypes are in good condition. The Union case has a broken/missing piece from the lower left corner of the front half.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Hall, Mary Louise Brown (1860-1932)(2 of 4)

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Harry Fowler ROBERTS’ Portrait Photograph of mary louise brown hall

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

HARRY FOWLER ROBERTS was born in 1869 in Mankato, Minnesota, and died in February 1907 in Colfax, California, at age 38. As early as 1892 he opened a photographic studio on Petaluma’s Main Street across from the American Hotel. The exact date Roberts closed his studio in Petaluma has not been determined; however, it may have been as late as 1895. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Mary Louise Brown Hall

Description: In this portrait, Mary Louise Brown Hall strikes an elegant standing pose dressed in her Sunday best. Fashionably corseted, she wears a white Basque waistline dress printed with widely spaced sprigs of flowers, and her hem, cuffs, and neckline are embellished with a wide ruffle. She wears a Victorian picture hat with chin strap, a short brim, and a crown containing both dark and light embellishments. She holds the end of a parasol trimmed in dark lace in her right hand.

Biographical Note: Mary Louise, or Lulu as she was called, was the first of twelve children born to the early Petaluma Pioneers, Daniel and Annie Brown.  She was born in Petaluma on March 5, 1860, and attended the Brick School and Petaluma High School.  Lulu graduated from high school in 1878 along with five other students including her future husband, Gilbert Hall.  Two years later on May 29, 1882, Lulu and Gil eloped to Marin County and were married there by a Justice of the Peace.  The next day the Brown parents arranged for them to be married in a Catholic ceremony in their home.  The Hall couple settled in Petaluma and for a few years resided in Santa Rosa while Gil was acting as Sonoma County Auditor and Recorder. From girlhood and throughout her adult years, Mary Louise was active in St. Vincent Church events.  At one time she was photographed driving a horse and buggy down Main Street with a friend while collecting donations for a Catholic fair.  The tintype still exists.

The marriage of the Hall couple lasted almost fifty years.  Gil died on January 24, 1932, and Mary Louise followed on August 25th of the same year.  Five daughters survived the Hall couple, Aletha, Evelyn, Kathleen, Geraldine, and Dorothy; one son died at birth.  Gilbert and Mary Louise lived at 325 Post Street in Petaluma and were buried together in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

*This biographical note was written by Annie Alexis Ferguson Brown’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42046382/mary-louise-hall. Search this archive and the Sonoma County Library photograph archive for additional portraits of the Brown family.

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier: August 25, 1932, p. 3 (obit); August 27, 1932, p. 3. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: July 29, 1911, p.1; August 28, 1911, p. 5.

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: gelatin or collodion photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: The background of this standing portrait is elaborate. On the left is a roughly stuccoed, light-colored wall, and on the right is a backdrop depicting a deep-perspective, grand, architectural interior. On the floor is an oriental carpet and a fur rug.

Description, back: The back side of this cabinet card is blank or contains only an accession number.

Date: 1892-1895

Condition: This cabinet card is in good condition.

Owner:  From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.