Faces of the Past on Display at Sherman Library & Gardens

Visitors to in Corona del Mar can look into the faces of the past at an exhibit showing images of American Indians who lived in Southern California in the early 20th Century.

A series of photogravures—from a photographic process using copper plates—by Edward Curtis are on display. Between 1907 and 1930, Curtis recorded American Indian cultures through images and narratives in the 20-volume The North American Indian. The Sherman Foundation Research Library has the volume that covers Southern California.

“The images are quite nice as portraits. They have such interesting faces. Curtis was very capable of pulling out individuals through their faces. They have a lot of personality,” said William Hendricks, director of the foundation.

Foundation Librarian Jill Thrasher, along with volunteer Eileen Cohen put the exhibit together.

"They definitely are a representation of the people," Thrasher said of the images. "What many Southern California people don't realize is that there were these Indians living here for many, many centuries. [The photogravures] are a great part of history."

"Look at that one lady," she said, pointing to a portrait of an old woman. "I just love looking at her because she just looks like she could tell you, 'This is what you need to do in life.' She has so much wisdom in her face."

Cohen said she is pleased with how the exhibit turned out.

"They're fabulous faces and lovely pictures all around," she said. "We also have pieces of basketry. An employee and a volunteer brought in baskets from their own homes and personal collections. It was generous of them to lend these items to the library."

The library is open 9:00 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Admission is $3.00 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 12-16. Children under 12 are free. The Sherman Foundation Research Library is located at 2647 East Pacific Coast Highway in Corona del Mar.