The coming of the freeways

Photographer Richard C. Miller, now 97, moved to Sherman Oaks when most San Fernando Valley streets were still unpaved.

He documented the expansion of "America's suburb" and, from 1948 to 1953, the coming of L.A. "awe-inspiring" freeway system, which Miller compared to the cathedrals of Europe. He was also one of the first to photograph sweater girl Norma Jean Baker, later known as Marilyn Monroe.

Hollywood Freeway under construction in the Cahuenga Pass.

An exhibit of Miller's work entitled "Richard C. Miller: Over the Long Run" just opened at Craig Krull Gallery at Bergamot Station.

Canoga Park circa 1950.

A story in last Friday's edition of the L.A. Daily News offers an online gallery of the photographer's work. Miller's own website is here.