South of Market Boys (San Francisco) – Group of Personal and Organizational Material, 1920s–1930s

Group comprising a black bowler hat with interior leather sweatband stamped “Dixon’s, 767 Market St., S.F.,” a printed booklet titled Constitution and By-Laws of the South of Market Boys, Inc. (organized September 30, 1924; adopted May 14, 1925), an accompanying South of Market Boys application card, and an antique tintype photograph depicting members wearing similar hats.

The material relates to the South of Market Boys (SOM Boys), a San Francisco organization formed by men who grew up in the South of Market district prior to the 1906 earthquake. The group functioned as a fraternal and civic association, organizing social events, charitable activities, and large public gatherings while maintaining a network that included both working-class members and civic figures. The organization had known ties to the lower class Irish in the South market area, how many call it the lower east side area of San Francisco. Anecdotes online about the “South of Market Boys” include a “local street gang,” “a fraternal drinking club,” and also “a club of San Francisco old timers.” The group reached its peak in popularity in depression era San Francisco.

Notable members referenced in contemporary accounts include James “Sunny Jim” Rolph, longtime mayor of San Francisco; Frank Merriam, governor of California; baseball Hall of Famer Lefty O’Doul; and actor David Warfield, among others active in municipal government, business, and the arts.

The bowler hat, bearing a San Francisco retailer’s mark on the sweatband, corresponds with attire visible in the tintype photograph, which shows several men posed in period dress. The constitution booklet documents the organization’s formal structure and early governance.

Dimensions: the dimensions of the tin type are 3 3/8“ x 2 1/2.” The measurements of the constitution and bylaws are 5.5” x 3.75”

This lot may be picked up free of charge from our facilities in Sacramento, CA. Processing and shipping within the Continental US $55.00. All FedEx packages are sent with Direct Signature Required and insured at full replacement value for a fee of 1.5% of the purchase price, unless buyer accepts complete liability in writing. Discounts given on combined lot shipping.

Hat has fraying to the liner on its two widest edges. 10 type has some small loss to lower right corner. The constitution and bylaws book is in good condition. The south of market boys membership committee application card is in very good to fine condition.