Visit the Free Whaley Family Archives Online

A tintype of Thomas Whaley, c. 1870s. Courtesy SOHO collection

In celebration of American Archives Month in October, SOHO is happy to announce that 21 rolls of microfilmed Whaley Family/SOHO Collection archives are now accessible to all on SOHO’s website (SOHOsandiego.org), free of charge. These rolls contain the personal letters, journals, notebooks, photos, and recipes of Thomas and Anna Whaley and their family, as well as ledgers, invoices, handbills, theater programs, and other ephemera—over 13,000 fascinating and illuminating items in all!

San Diego pioneer Thomas Whaley was a merchant and civic leader, whose home in Old Town was a hub of social activity in the late 19th century. The Whaley archives help tell the story of San Diego in the 1800s through the lives of this industrious entrepreneur and his accomplished family, who witnessed and helped shape their city and culture.

We think you’ll agree this treasure-trove is invaluable as well as entertaining for historians, students, authors, and anyone interested in trailblazing family histories. Check out the archives.

SOHO is seeking funds to sponsor more archival digitization. If you can help support this important project, please make a contribution using our secure donation form. Thank you!

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