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### Renowned American Photographer Harry Crosby Passes Away at Age 98
Renowned American researcher, writer, and photographer Harry W. Crosby passed away in San Diego on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the age of 98. Crosby was born in Seattle, Washington, in 1926, and his family relocated to La Jolla, California, in 1935.
Crosby is acclaimed for his photographic book “Tijuana 1964: A Photographic and Historic View”, in which he captures the daily life of Tijuana during the 1960s. The book offers a glimpse into the city’s life, from its people and streets to cemeteries, buildings, and street vendors. It includes texts by Paul Ganster, David Piñera Ramírez, and Antonio Padilla Corona and was co-edited by Ganster and Crosby himself. This work was published by San Diego State University Press, Institute for Regional Studies of the Californias, and the Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) in 2000.
During a 2015 presentation of his book at CECUT, Crosby shared insights into the origins of his photographs, stating, “When the editor of California Review asked me to cover Tijuana, I saw it as a great opportunity because at that time, I had only seen a few photos of the city—mostly bullfights, horse races, and nightclubs, but not the real city.”
Crosby recounted how he spent eleven days in Tijuana, from dawn until late at night, capturing every aspect he could find: people, cemeteries, locations of various social strata, new and old buildings. His relentless pursuit documented a broad spectrum of the city’s life.
Harry Crosby’s legacy extends beyond this iconic work. He authored several other photograph-centric books such as “The King’s Highway in Baja California,” “Antigua California: Mission and Colony on the Peninsular Frontier, 1697-1768,” “Gateway to Alta California: The Expedition to San Diego, 1769,” “The Cave Paintings of Baja California: Discovering the Great Murals of an Unknown People,” “Last of the Californios,” and “Californio Portraits.” He also penned the novel “Portrait of Paloma.”
In 2016, the Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) honored Crosby under the direction of Pedro Ochoa Palacio, recognizing his significant contributions to documenting and preserving the cultural heritage of Baja California.
Harry Crosby’s work continues to be celebrated for its historical and artistic significance. He leaves behind a rich legacy that will inspire future generations.
Rest in Peace, Harry Crosby.
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### Latest Developments and Related News:
#### Celebrating Crosby’s Photographic Legacy
In light of Harry Crosby’s passing, the photographic community and historical societies are reflecting on his vast contributions. Many are revisiting his works, particularly “Tijuana 1964,” for its profound impact on preserving the visual history of the Baja California region.
#### Exhibition Planned to Honor Crosby
An exhibition is being planned at CECUT to commemorate Harry Crosby’s work and influence in the fields of photography and historical documentation. The exhibition will feature some of his most iconic images and will include lectures and discussions about his methodologies and the historical contexts of his work.
#### Rediscovering “Tijuana 1964”
Several cultural organizations have started initiatives to bring “Tijuana 1964” to a broader audience. Digital archives, virtual galleries, and interactive online displays are being developed to make this seminal work accessible to new generations.
#### Tribute from the Photography World
Photographers and historians across the globe are paying tribute to Harry Crosby on social media, sharing stories and photographs inspired by his work. Many credit Crosby’s commitment to capturing the essence of everyday life as a profound influence on their artistic journeys.
For more updates, visit TJGringo.com.
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