The Calvin Wheat Collection:

An Inventory of his Records at the Houston Metropolitan Research Center, Houston Public Library

Biographical Note

Calvin Wheat was the premier photographer in Houston during the late 19th century and early 20th century. Mr. Wheat’s studios commercial studio was located at 415 Louisianna and his portrait studio was office number 2111 in the Esperson Building. He was successful in both undertakings.

Little has been documented about his personal life, however much can be noted from the man’s rich career which was lauded when he was recognized for his aerial photography of Houston in 1919. Reportedly in 1928 the photographs startled those unfamiliar with Houston and promoted the city to the outside world.

Mr. Wheat was widely well known for his commercial photography, which had identifiable characteristics particular to his work. His photographs appeared regularly in newspapers, magazines and broadsides. The contract merchandise varied from cosmetics, to flour, to racing automobiles and locomotives. Mr. Wheat could always be counted on creating a visually creative framework for advertising text that would catch the eye of the reader. Mr. Wheat’s local work brought him to the attention of the representatives of the Associated Press covering the 1928 National Democratic Convention held in Houston that year. Despite having their own photographers on location, Mr. Wheat was commissioned by the press to photograph the Convention.

In 1928 the Calvin Wheat Studios was estimated as having the second largest volume of business in Texas. Mr. Wheat employed 14 skilled workers and the two studios valued at over $25,000. Seven darkrooms with innovative equipment were allocated for film development.

Scope and Contents

The Calvin Wheat Collection contains photographic works from Mr. Wheat's personal collection. Many of these photographs are relevant to Houston history during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In addition to photographs, Mr. Wheat's personal records are part of the collection. The documents contained in the collection reflect Mr. Wheat's interest in photography and photographic equipment.

Restrictions

Access Restrictions

None.

Use Restrictions

Permission to publish or reproduce materials from the Calvin Wheat Collection must be obtained from the Houston Metropolitan Research Center or the appropriate copyright holder.

Administrative Information

Preferred Citation

The Calvin Wheat Collection. Houston Metropolitan Research Center, Houston Public Library.

Acquisition Information

Donated by: Richard A. Wheat. October 5, 1977.

Processing Information

Processed by: Charles Stephenson, July 2006.

Detailed Description