As stated in previous blog post, I came across some transparent Hy-Klas Stockton Process Sleeves with 116 or 616 format negatives. Today we’ll look at the negatives and associated prints from the 1938-1939 timeframe.
We remember from the first blog posts in this series that Joel had two rolls of 35mm negative film. The negative film in these sleeves however are a much larger 116 or 616 format, or 2.5″ x 4.5″ precisely.
The above image is very recognizable Altamont pass. The arch is still there, although it now has 4 lanes going eastbound, rather than the 2+2 configuration in 1938. The rear of the printed image states “45 miles MPH”. Joel is in the passenger seat and the question is, who’s driving the car ? His aunt Amy Pahl ?
We have this other image printed around the same time from what I believe to be the same car. A 1939 LaSalle with Amy and Clara Pahl next to the car.
The next few images give us an idea of where this trip could have been to.
Both of the above image were part of the batch of prints dated Nov 29, 1938
Next image in Santa Cruz is one of Butch, the family Scottie. I have both the negative and the print from Joel. Date is Feb 28, 1939
Next chronological image was taken in Stockton, March 1939, based on the scribble on the back of the printed photograph. It is not clear what the subject is, the actual print of this negative only shows the black silhouette outline of the image below.
On April 15, Joel is back in Santa Cruz with this image of a bridge, the positive print was in the sleeve with the negative.
The last two coast side images come from negatives in the same sleeve.
I believe the above two arches are located in the State Beach of Santa Cruz, and only the right arch is left anno 2022. There were three arches around 1890 and the outermost one collapsed in 1905, while the left arch collapsed in or around 2006. This is based on the available online photography, and it is only a matter of time before the other arch disappears also. On a positive note, new arches are being formed as we speak.
We know from later photography that the Pahl family prefers Santa Cruz as their leisure destination city.
Joel is 17 to 18 years old in above image. It is not clear who the photographer was. Amy Pahl was an artist and definitely capable to taking images, but let’s keep in mind that Joel’s older half brother, Thomas Lawrence Dardis Jr., was also an avid and passionate photographer and probably introduced Joel to photography.
Last two images are undated, but since Butch is in them, presumably 1938-1939
Joel loved dogs and made them a frequent subject, It is definitely fun to see these unexpected early Joel Pahl Dardis images !
Cheers !
Finding Joel Pahl Dardis 