Frederick H. Eley, Orange County's first architect, began his practice in Santa Ana in 1911. Over the next 26 years, Eley designed well over 125 buildings throughout the county. Eley's projects included churches, schools, homes, and civic and business buildings. The architectural designs of Mr. Eley remain in many Orange County cities today, and the styles are just as varied as the purposes intended by his clients. Eley's work represents a legacy of Orange County's early years and the evolving role of architecture as a profession.

Author Rob Richardson became interested in the work of Frederick Eley while still in high school. This 39-page, mini-book is the result of his years of research on a pioneering architect. Many photos of Eley's work are included, as are photos of a young and an elder Eley.