Accession Number

983.757

Description

One cast, cut, and engraved commemorative brass skeleton key with an attached stamped medallion at its top. The medallion is the seal of City of Oakland, California which has one oak tree at its centre. It is bordered a pierced quatrefoil. The key's mid-section is flattened and is engraved "JAMES AUDAIN". The bottom of the key's front is engraved, "January 15 1965". The top of the key's back is engraved: "PRESENTED BY MAYOR JOHN C. HOULIHAN MAYOR". The bottom of the key's back has the maker's name engraved: "WEST COAST JEWELLRY CO. OAKLAND CALIF."

Narrative

This commemorative Key to the City of Oakland was given to James Guy Payne Audain by the Mayor of the City of Oakland on January 15, 1965. Mr. Audain had just published his book, Alex Dunsmuir's Dilemma, which features a photograph of Dunsmuir House on the cover. The City was opening Dunsmuir House as a conference center, and Mr. Audain was asked to be a guest of honor at the opening ceremony. 

History of Use

This key was presented to James Guy Payne Audain at Oakland California's Dunsmuir House by that city's mayor, John C. Houlihan, on January 15, 1965. He used it until his death in 1970 when it was donated to Craigdarroch by his widow, Isobel Audain, on the recommendation of his son, Michael James Audain. 

Date

January 15 1965

Dimensions

21 x 3 x 7 x 0.5 cm

Material

Metal, brass

Technique

Cast; Engraved; Stamped

Inscription

Engraved on the front shaft: James Audain
Engraved on the reverse: Presented by John C. Houlihan Mayor

Country of Origin

United States of America