This month marks a significant milestone in Los Angeles’ history regarding air quality, commemorating an event from 80 years ago when an unexpected wave of toxic air blanketed the region on July 8, 1943.
Today, we commonly refer to that phenomena as smog, symbolizing yet another typical day for L.A. residents.
The origins and implications of smog have been documented extensively, particularly through the work of pioneering scientists at Caltech during the 1950s who identified cars as the primary culprits behind the noxious fumes.
One of the most alarming days for air quality occurred on September 13, 1955, coinciding with an oppressive heatwave and unique weather conditions that held pollutants close to the surface.
During this era, local air quality authorities contemplated drastic measures, including shutting down oil refineries and imposing driving restrictions as reported by the Los Angeles Times the day following this impactful day.
In the wake of this environmental crisis, Hollywood actor Carleton Young embarked on a unique venture in 1957, aiming to bottle and sell the infamous L.A. air, branded as “Genuine Los Angeles Smog.’
Whether intended as a tongue-in-cheek endeavor, a piece of social commentary, or a straightforward money-making scheme, these cans have since become notable collectibles highly sought after by enthusiasts and historians alike.
David Clark, who operates the Etsy shop Golden State Decor, expressed his admiration for the collectible, stating, “This is my favorite California collectible because it’s got City Hall … and then you’ve got the beach, and then you’ve got really, really cool images of airplanes. You’ve got Olvera Street.”
In his online store, Clark is currently offering vintage cans of air that evoke the city’s rich history, even with a notable price tag.
Reflecting on the contents of the cans, Clark humorously remarked, “It’s probably toxic. I mean, look [at] what it says: ‘Hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, organic oxides, aldehydes, and formaldehydes.’ That’s a party in a can.”
Clark, who lives in South Pasadena and works in real estate, established his Etsy shop in 2018, initially focusing on various valuable finds from antique shops, thrift stores, and swap meets.
After a few years, he shifted his focus exclusively to items manufactured in California, primarily from the early 1900s through the 1960s.
His personal connection to Los Angeles is evident as he elaborated, “I’ve been fascinated by the history of Los Angeles — all its ups, all its downs and everything in between.”
Among his collection is a hotel key from the famous Hotel June, known for housing Bob Dylan while he penned the legendary album “Blood on the Tracks” during the 1970s, highlighting the sentimental value and storied past of each object he sells.
Clark has acquired multiple cans of Genuine Los Angeles Smog over the years, managing to sell some and restock others.
He emphasizes that the tokens of smog he sells are intended for individuals with an appreciation for their gritty and historical significance.
Moreover, a portion of the sales from Clark’s shop is directed to the California Conservation Corps, a workforce development initiative for youth created by Governor Jerry Brown in the 1970s.
He concluded with a reflection on the multifaceted history behind such collectibles, stating, “You have one of the most unique experiences of California at your fingertips.
It’s a time capsule of intelligence, of fun, of an era that seems to be repeating again, because our air quality isn’t too good.”
image source from：laist
