Chicago Architectural Photo Company

Organized ca. 1885 to serve the demand for architectural photography in the post-fire boom (after the great Chicago fire); firm survived in its original form until 1973 when the principals retired due to failing health; commonly known as CAPC. Some negatives were destroyed by CAPC as being superfluous or were damaged in the course of various moves over the years. A systematic purge began in the 1950s to reduce stock space. Many theatre negatives were destroyed during this time as they were considered to have low demand. When the company closed, portions of the vast negatives library were sold. The Theatre Historical Society purchased the remaining theatre negatives.

From the description of CAPC collection, ca. 1885-1973. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 75272135