JERROLD WHITNEY & CLAYTON PINKERTON

Lifelong partners Jerrold Whitney and Clayton Pinkerton were active and dedicated citizens of Amador City.  In 1983, they purchased the building which now houses the Whitney Museum. A merchant and an artist, respectively, the two transformed the space into a combination home, business, and art studio.

Both very successful entrepreneurs, Jerrold’s shop, “The Emporium of Eclecticism” was located in the front of the building, while the back of the building housed Clayton’s art studio. Clayton had a long artistic career with many phases, but it’s the work of the 80’s and early 90’s that seems to capture his true artistic style. “The work he produced during this period signaled a stronger connection to a unique artistic voice.” The growth and development of this primal imagery with rich colors and complex layering, continued to touch on his ever present contemplation of life and death, with sardonic wit and a sense of humor.

Sadly, each succumbed to A.I.D.S. -- Jerrold in 1992, and Clayton shortly after in 1993, a true sign of the times for gay men, even in rural Amador County. In his will, Clayton left the building to the city of Amador City with the stipulation that it always be used as a museum, thus creating the Amador Whitney Museum (named in memory of his partner, Jerrold Whitney). Clayton also left a collection of his paintings to the museum, that are still sold to support the operational costs. 

Progressive thought has always been at the forefront of Amador City, as evidenced by these outstanding LGBTQIA+ community members. We honor Jerrold & Clayton for their contribution to the culture of our city.