Bob Rush, prominent Salida attorney, had a large collection of framed photographs that adorned his office. He graciously donated his collection to the Salida Library.
A photo taken after the January 2, 1886 fire that devastated downtown Salida. Fire destroyed nine of Peter Mulvany's buildings on 1st and G Streets, along with all of the contents. Mulvany quickly rebuilt a new grocery store and warehouses.
Bob Rush Collection.
Peter Mulvany presumably among the ruins of the Big Fire, Jan. 2, 1888. Peter Mulvany’s hotel burned to the ground, and fire took out buildings a half a block in every direction. This photo is looking towards the west. The Hot Springs Livery (visible back left) was based at 2nd and G Streets.
Bob Rush Collection.
The 40 & 8 Band passing by the First National Bank on F Street.
The titles and symbols of the Forty & Eight reflect its First World War origins. Americans were transported to the battle front on French trains within boxcars stenciled with a “40/8”, denoting its capacity to hold either forty men or eight horses. This uncomfortable mode of transportation was familiar to all who fought in the trenches; a common small misery among American soldiers who thereafter found “40/8” a lighthearted symbol of the deeper service, sacrifice and unspoken horrors of war that bind all who have borne the battle.
The Forty & Eight was founded in 1920 by American veterans returning from France. Originally an arm of The American Legion, the Forty & Eight became an independent and separately incorporated veteran's organization in 1960. Membership is by invitation of honorably discharged veterans and honorably serving members of the United States Armed Forces.
Bob Rush Collection.
The Argys Bros. Garage was located at 211-223 E. 1st St. The building is the current location of Spirit Mountain Antler & Log Design. The Rainbow Hotel (formerly the St. Clair and the Denton) is in the background at the corner of 1st and E.
Bob Rush Collection.