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This cover from Jonathan Club’s magazine in the 1930s highlights its rich history and evolving identity. The magazine made its debut in 1916 but no copies before the 1930s have been recovered. Over the years, the publication underwent several name changes, including The Jonathonian and The Jonathan, before settling on its current title, Jonathan. Each name reflects the enduring spirit and tradition of the Club across decades.
2
Buster Keaton, a comedic genius of the silent film era and Jonathan Club member, captivated audiences with his deadpan expression and daring physical stunts. Known as "The Great Stone Face," Keaton’s innovative filmmaking and impeccable timing made him a pioneer in slapstick comedy, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
3
Jonathan Club, established in 1895, made its home at 132 South Spring Street in Los Angeles from 1896 to 1905, marking a significant period in the club's history. This elegant building, characterized by its Victorian architectureThe club's location in the heart of downtown positioned it as a center for cultural and social activities during a time of rapid growth and development in Los Angeles, setting the stage for the club's evolution into a prestigious institution that continues to thrive today.
4
Tom Mix, an American cowboy, actor, and early Western film star, became one of Hollywood's first action heroes. Born in 1880, Mix starred in nearly 300 silent films, known for his daring stunts, horsemanship, and rugged charm. With his white Stetson, flashy costumes, and horse Tony, he became an iconic figure in Western cinema. As a Jonathan Club member, Mix's influence on the Western genre continued to shape American film long after his career ended.
5
Tom Mix, an American cowboy, actor, and early Western film star, became one of Hollywood's first action heroes. Born in 1880, Mix starred in nearly 300 silent films, known for his daring stunts, horsemanship, and rugged charm. With his white Stetson, flashy costumes, and horse Tony, he became an iconic figure in Western cinema. As a Jonathan Club member, Mix's influence on the Western genre continued to shape American film long after his career ended.
6
Henry Stanley, the famed British-American explorer and journalist, gained worldwide recognition for his daring expeditions into Africa in the late 19th century. Best known for his search for the missing missionary David Livingstone, Stanley’s bold explorations helped map uncharted regions, though his methods also sparked controversy, reflecting the complex legacy of European exploration in Africa.
7
Norman Rockwell's painting The Three Umpires (Game Called Because of Rain, Tough Call) from 1949 is a classic example of his storytelling prowess and attention to detail. Set against a baseball field during a light rain, the scene features three umpires deliberating on whether to continue or call off the game. This piece reflects Rockwell’s talent for portraying everyday moments with warmth, charm, and an underlying narrative that resonates across generations.
8
The Union Pacific Railroad Platte Valley Route sign symbolizes a key transportation route through Nebraska, essential to the transcontinental railroad. Serving as a main corridor for westward expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the sign featured bold typography and a distinctive color scheme, recognizable to travelers and railway workers. It marked not only a vital rail line but also the pioneering spirit and economic ambition that fueled railroad development across the American frontier.
9
Griffith J. Griffith, Jonathan Club member, was a Welsh-American industrialist and philanthropist known for his transformative contributions to Los Angeles, most notably Griffith Park. Born in 1850, Griffith made his fortune in mining and real estate, eventually donating over 3,000 acres of land in 1896 to the city, which became Griffith Park—a sprawling urban oasis in Los Angeles. He also provided funding for projects like the Griffith Observatory and the Greek Theatre, leaving behind landmarks that remain iconic to this day.
10
The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is responsible for gathering and analyzing national security information globally. During the Cold War, the Jonathan Club became a popular gathering spot for members of the U.S. intelligence community and military leaders, facilitating networking and key discussions. Notably, former CIA directors and operatives, including John A. McCone, a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, has been a member of the club.
11
This piece, part of a 1965 series of local landmark drawings by celebrated artist and Jonathan Club Resident Member Peter Alexander, captures the essence of Southern California's iconic heritage. Alexander's work reflects a deep appreciation for the region's architectural and cultural significance, immortalizing its landmarks with his distinctive artistic style.
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The 1938 menu of the Wine and Food Society of Southern California at the Jonathan Club was a lavish showcase of fine dining and a complete culinary experience that celebrated the sophistication and passion for gastronomy of the society's members.
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The Sikorsky S-29, developed in the early 1920s by aviation pioneer Igor Sikorsky, was a pioneering biplane that played a significant role in American aviation history. Designed as a commercial aircraft, the S-29 featured an innovative three-engine configuration that enhanced reliability and performance. The S-29 was the largest aircraft in the United States at the time, and was owned and flown by Roscoe Turner.
14
The 1924 Geo A. Bray Co. map of the proposed "Mesmer City" offers a fascinating glimpse into an ambitious vision for west Los Angeles, bounded by Sepulveda, Lincoln, Centinela, and Washington. This planned community, though it never came to fruition, reflects the early 20th-century optimism and growth mindset that characterized the region during this era.
