Stanford Libraries obtain collection on giant sequoias

Stanford News


March 9, 2017New collection at Stanford Libraries offers extensive materials on discovery, exhibitions of giant sequoia trees A new collection obtained by Stanford University Libraries offers an extensive look at the time of the discovery and exhibitions of California’s giant sequoia trees.





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By Alex Shashkevich

Stanford University Libraries has recently acquired a large collection of historical materials documenting the discovery and exhibitions of the giant sequoia trees between the 1850s and early 20th century.
The collection, which was assembled by Livermore-based hydrogeologist and independent scholar Gary D. Lowe, contains over 4,000 items gathered over more than 20 years. It includes printed materials, lithographs, photographs, manuscripts and artifacts made out of the giant sequoia’s wood.


Senior librarian Ben Stone, curator of the sequoia collection, with a souvenir cane made from a sequoia tree.Image credit: L.A. CiceroA book of engravings known as Vischer’s Views of California depicts the Mammoth Tree Grove.Image credit: L.A. CiceroA small box contains illustrations of the big trees and seeds that could be planted.Image credit: L.A. CiceroA hotel ledger with the signature of famed nature photographer Carleton Watkins is part of the sequoia collection.Image credit: L.A. CiceroA stereopticon viewer is available in Special Collections to enjoy the stereo views that are part of the collection.Image credit: L.A. Cicero

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Ben Stone, curator for American and British history and associate director of Special Collections at Stanford Libraries, said the acquired materials can contribute to teaching and research on American history, environmental and conservation studies, and climate change, as well as art history and many other subjects.
“This collection is as valuable as it is unique,” said Richard White, a professor of American history. “No scholar who is interested in how species become iconic and morph into natural treasures can afford to ignore it.”
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