Library News Archives » Library Hosts Joan Irvine Smith Book Signing Event

On December 22, 2001, the Library presented authors Joan Irvine Smith, Jean Stern, and James Irvine Swinden in a discussion and book signing to celebrate the publication of their new book "California: This Golden Land of Promise." Over 180 guests, including Chancellor and Professor Cicerone, packed the Social Science Lecture hall for an informal dialogue between the authors about the process of writing the book and their mutual interest in California history. A reception and book signing was held in the Langson Library immediately after. "California: This Golden Land of Promise" presents the state's early and often-tumultuous history, from the first appearance of Native Americans up to 14,000 years ago through the period that followed California's entry into statehood in 1850. California's rich and colorful past comes to life in a fascinating narrative illustrated by close to 500 works of art and historical photographs. Evocative images and engaging stories guide the reader through California's important developments: its exploration and colonization by the Spanish, the founding of its missions, and its Rancho and Gold Rush eras.

Mrs. Smith was the highlight of the evening as she shared her lifelong passion for history, and her feelings about the importance of documenting California's history. Smith is the great-granddaughter of James Irvine I, founder of the Irvine Ranch, and co-founder of The Irvine Museum, of which she is now the President of the Board of Trustees. She is also a long-time friend to and major supporter of this University. Co-author Jean Stern is a noted art historian and recognized authority on California Impressionism, and the Executive Director of The Irvine Museum. James Irvine Swinden, Mrs. Smith's eldest son, wrote the timeline for the book. He currently serves as Vice President of The Irvine Museum, where he has played an integral role in the development and organization of all of the Museum's traveling exhibitions.

The event highlighted the library's collection of rare and unique materials documenting the history of California in general, and Orange County in particular. Guests were invited to view three exhibits, which provided a glimpse of the riches of these materials, all of which are housed in the Library's Department of Special Collections and Archives. The principal exhibit: Are We There Yet? Vacationing in California, 1870-1940, examines the history of tourism in California and the ways in which transportation, resort lodgings, and the interests of travelers evolved during the first 70 years of vacation travel in our Golden State. A small exhibit titled Picturing California: An Orange County Photograph Album, featured five beautiful 19th-century portraits of members of prominent Orange County families, including names such as Yorba and Sepulveda which played central roles in the history of both our county and the entire state. Both of these exhibits are now available for viewing in the Langson Library Exhibits Gallery through April.

In addition, an informal exhibit of Orange County materials was prepared to honor the authors. It featured portraits, letters, books, and other items relating to four generations of Joan Irvine Smith's grandparents, beginning with her great-great-grandfather Harvey Rice. Also included were materials from the library's collection of Rice Family Papers, focusing on the James Rice family of Tustin in the late 19th century.

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