Photographed in 1901 and then again in 2001, Downtown Los Angeles presents a captivating visual story of a city transformed over a century. These images offer a unique glimpse into LA’s remarkable evolution, capturing its growth from a modest, sparsely developed area to a sprawling urban metropolis.

The 1901 photograph reveals a simpler time, with low-rise buildings, unpaved roads, and a sense of open space characteristic of a burgeoning city at the turn of the century. By contrast, the 2001 image showcases towering skyscrapers, a dense skyline, and a vibrant urban environment—symbols of Los Angeles’ rise as a global cultural and economic hub.

Together, these photographs illustrate more than just architectural progress; they reflect a century of societal, technological, and cultural change, marking Los Angeles as a dynamic, ever-evolving city.