Remembering the Late Los Gatos Artist Janet Tobin

Janet Tobin, a noted Los Gatos artist and illustrator, was known for her pen-and-ink and water color images of children.

All three of the Tobin sisters shaved a few years off their real ages when the Census taker came around.

As they got older, more years were removed.

In the 1930 Federal Census, Helen claimed to be 54, but she was 61. Mary claimed to be 50, but she was 54. Janet claimed to be 47, but she was 51.

In art reference works, Janet's year of birth is usually listed anywhere from 1880 to 1883. However, information for the 1880 Census of Redwood Township (Los Gatos and surrounding area), collected June 19, 1880, indicates that Janet was already one year old.

Source: Hooked on Los Gatos, the Library and Museum History Project
Charles Bergtold Collection