Most of the pre-1900 photos I’ve seen of downtown Los Angeles show a bustling metropolis, crowded with pedestrians, streets cars, horses, carts, and the odd dog. But this tranquil scene is quite different. We’re looking west along Requena St (later Market St) toward N. Main St, circa 1890. In this one narrow shot we can see the U.S. Hotel (left), Amestoy Block (right), and the tower of the newly built County Courthouse in the background. But my favorite part is the large sign that reads: “Los Angeles Tonsorial Parlor – Baths.” I wonder how much they charged for a bath and a haircut.