Helen Elliott Bandini

Born in Indianapolis in June 1854, Helen Elliott Bandini moved to California in 1874 after her father, Dr. Thomas B. Elliott, became involved with the Indiana Colony that helped found Pasadena. She was educated in public schools and later became active in civic and artistic life in Southern California while also writing for newspapers and magazines.

In 1883, she married Arturo Bandini, a member of a well-known Californio family. Bandini became especially known for writing about California history, and she published two books, including History of California in 1908. Though written for younger readers, the book was noted for blending clear historical facts with a strong sense of story.

She died in Pasadena on June 10, 1911. Remembered as a writer with a strong interest in the state’s early history, she helped present California’s past in a form that was readable, engaging, and welcoming to new generations of readers.