Pier Day Opening Ceremonies

Crowds of visitors on and near the Santa Monica Municipal Pier for the opening day dedication ceremonies held on September 9, 1909. The United States Navy sent protected cruisers USS Albany (CL-23) and USS St. Louis (C-20), along with three torpedo boats, for the dedication ceremonies. They can be seen anchored in Santa Monica Bay. Photograph inscribed: "Pier Day at Santa Monica, CAL. Sept. 9, 1909, H. F. Rile, Photo." Photograph inscribed (handwritten): "Atlantic fleet visits S. M. 1909."