Los Angeles's La Brea Tar Pits and Hancock Park

Images of America: California

by Cathy McNassor

Ever since the first popular article on the Rancho La Brea Tar Pits was published in Sunset magazine in 1908, this amazing Ice Age fossil site has captivated the imaginations of countless people from all over the world. This "death trap of the ages" and its population of saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and other extinct animals, now displayed in the stunning George C. Page Museum, continues to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles. George Allan Hancock donated the 26-acre site to the County of Los Angeles in 1924 to preserve this scientific treasure trove for research and the enjoyment of future generations.

128 pages, Paperback

First published November 28, 2011

Reviews

[John Peel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The "Images of America" series is a fascinating collection, and this edition is better than most. Nicely written and well-illustrated with antique photos, it shows how the La Brea Tar Pits moved from a curiosity in the outskirts to one of Los Angeles premier tourist attractions. Well worth reading.

[Andrew · Rating 2 out of 5]

This Images of America book was picked up at the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits by me about a year ago. It's a nice keepsake and quickly covers the history of the tar pits, the area and the museum/park that was built there. It's no substitute for visiting in person though - which I highly recommend, especially if you are into prehistoric fossils.

[Donnell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite informative, including the info that the nice man who brightens the Page Museum plaza with his music has been at it since the Museum opened--in 1977!