Wonacott’s photographic career takes us on a journey through Mendocino County. With his camera he documented the evolution of the logging industry, explored the beauty of the countryside, and recorded the development of roads, bridges and businesses. 

His slogan, “Wonacott the Photographer in Your Town,” is a declaration of his marketing strategy. In his early career, he traversed the rough and rugged roads of the county to secure customers in every possible location. He would go as far as Eureka, offering his services at lumber camps and small towns along the way. He often developed and printed pictures on site in his portable darkroom.

The images preserved at the museum capture everything from spectacular scenery and events, to the mundane details of everyday life and business. In its entirety the collection provides a visual, historic record of early life in Mendocino County. The photographs in this exhibit are a small sample of work primarily generated during Wonacott’s occupation of his Laurel Street studio in Fort Bragg.

View More Mendocino County Museum  Digital Exhibits & Collection Spotlights at:

https://www.mendocinocounty.org/government/cultural-services-agency/museum/engage/digital-exhibits-collection-spotlights