Driving past Pico Boulevard and Stearns Drive in 1942, Los Angeles, California


Something that I've always enjoyed doing is identifying the exact locations of old photos, especially of Los Angeles. Sometimes it's impossible, sometimes it's not easy, and sometimes it's ridiculously easy. This was an easy one - the street signs are clearly visible.


I found this photo on the Duke University website which is dedicated to advertising. The reason that this photo was taken, and the reason that it was archived by a University is because of the billboard. And that's fine, but for me, what interests me most is that it's a slice of life of Los Angeles in the 1940s.



I've been looking at this old photo for a long time, and comparing it to Google Street View, and am wondering if any of those old buildings are still there, especially the Two Harry's Club? If you know, please let me know.



I'm trying to read what it says there: Two Harrys Club, Hammond Electric [Organ?], Old [song?] and Specials? Anyway, you can see the word Cocktails over the door, and also Cafe. There's a Major Cleaning Service next door, and it looks like they deliver.


I see the Red & White Poultry Egg Farm - from farm to you - fresh daily, next to the Seaside gas station. And dang, I like those classic street lights! Looks like there's a place back there where you can get keys.




If you're a car wizard, and can id these cars, please do. I'm dating the photo as 1942 based on the license of that car from Ohio, on the right.


Let's see, there's Ed James Used Cars, and I can see a sign for Liquor. Those hills are still there, of course, although not quite as visible. Thank you for visiting Los Angeles in 1942 with me!



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