California Picture Book

“California is a land apart from all others – like no other and distinctively itself.”

The introduction by John Steven McGroarty continues, “It[California] hangs upon the walls of the world like a flame of jeweled tapestry, a sky of turquoise over it, warm with the glow of the sun by day, and soft and tender with moon and stars by night. It is of all lands the fairest and most blest, beloved of all mankind and adored by those who are to its manner born.”

The following pages are dedicated to supporting such claims, and largely succeed. Images of California’s natural beauty, from Pacific coast beaches to the ranges of the Sierra Nevada, various historic sites, urban centers and recreational playgrounds are accompanied by floral text praising the quality of life, economic opportunities and abundant leisure. The state’s robust transportation network is also highlighted.

A large centerfold map by Charles Owens shows the routes of the Santa Fe railroad; ‘the only line under one management “all the way” Chicago to California – thus insuring uniform excellence of service.” The image extends to include the Grand Canyon in Arizona and emphasizes topography pictorially, the hallmark style of Owens.

The brochure was printed in Chicago in April of 1931 by Rand McNally on behalf of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway Company.