The first roads in the Florida Keys…those that made up the original Overseas Highway (AKA State Rd 4A), were typically unpaved, dusty pathways like the one shown in this 1925 photo. The roadway in the Upper Keys was often referred to as “Old Bumpy” by the locals. Though the official highway did not open until 1928, roads on the islands dated back to 1908.
Sepulveda Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, California (1949) Sepulveda Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, waiting for ice to melt before driving over the hill into West Los Angeles. Observing the scene reveals cautious drivers, frosty roadways, and an unusual winter challenge for the region. The photograph preserves a rare weather event in a city better known for sunshine. For historians, this moment reflects the unpredictability of Los Angeles’ climate and the impact even small weather shifts could have on transportation. This image records a day when the city paused, waiting for the roads to clear.
Royce Hall at UCLA Covered in Snow, Los Angeles, California (1932) Royce Hall at UCLA blanketed in snow, a rare sight for Los Angeles. Observing the scene reveals the iconic Romanesque architecture dusted with white, transforming the campus into an unusual winter landscape. The photograph preserves a unique weather event that surprised residents across Southern California. For historians, this image represents both the unpredictability of the region’s climate and the enduring beauty of one of UCLA’s most famous buildings. Royce Hall remains a centerpiece of the university, symbolizing academic achievement and cultural identity. This snowy snapshot highlights an extraordinary day in campus history.
The Jalopy Journal
