Santa Barbara Historical Museum

Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures that have shaped this beautiful region. From the native Chumash people to the Spanish settlers, Mexican influences, and the influx of Yankees and Chinese immigrants, the museum brings history to life with its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and textiles dating back to the 15th century.

The Story of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum

The seeds of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum were sown in October 1932, when a voluntary association was formed to foster research and study of the city and county's history. This association, the Santa Barbara Historical Society, aimed to collect, preserve, and exhibit materials related to the area's rich past. Initially, the Society was housed in the tower room of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, where it began to collect and catalogue artifacts and documents.

In the early years, the Society's activities were relatively modest. However, in 1942, the introduction of membership classes and dues led to a significant increase in membership and the acquisition of materials for the collection. By 1943, the Society had become a California non-profit corporation, and its activities and collections continued to grow. In 1947, the Society published its first book, China Trade Days in California, based on the papers of Alpheus Thompson, an early prosperous Santa Barbara merchant.

Finding a Permanent Home

The search for a permanent home for the Society began in earnest in the 1950s. In 1954, the Society negotiated with the Franciscans at the Santa Barbara Mission for use of a portion of the mission cloister for office and exhibition space. The first exhibit was held in the new quarters in May of that year, and the Society remained housed in the Old Mission for the next eleven years.

In 1955, the Society published the first issue of its journal, Noticias, which has been devoted to the study of the Santa Barbara region ever since. In 1959, the Society acquired the Judge Charles Fernald Mansion, a fourteen-room home built by one of Santa Barbara's most prominent citizens of the late 19th century. After a massive restoration project, the Fernald House opened to the public as a historic home museum in 1962.

The Museum Building

The dream of a permanent home for the Society was realized on February 28, 1965, with the dedication of the museum building at 136 East De la Guerra Street. The museum, a 25,000-square-foot adobe structure, was built on a parcel of land granted to the Society by Santa Barbara County under a 99-year lease. The building fund campaign, launched in 1961, made this dream a reality. In 1964, the Society also acquired two adjacent adobes, the 1817 Covarrubias Adobe and the Historic Adobe, circa 1836, which are used for lectures and as office space for the Docent Council and the Rancheros Visitadores.

Notable Developments

In 1967, the Gledhill Library was dedicated in honor of W. Edwin Gledhill and his wife Andriette, who served for many years as executive director and curator, respectively. The library houses an extensive collection of historical documents and photographs, providing a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts.

The 1980s saw the initiation of an oral history program, which has logged over 500 interviews to date. The museum also focused on professional development, increasing staff and departmental specialization. A Long Range Plan, adopted in 1985 and reviewed annually, laid the foundation for future advancements.

Modern Enhancements

In 2000, the museum began a multi-year redesign of its grounds and an upgrade of the museum building. This included a $3.5 million installation of a state-of-the-art air filtration and climate control system and a complete redesign of the exhibit galleries. The core gallery installation, The Story of Santa Barbara, opened to the public, showcasing over four and a half centuries of the region's history.

In 2003, the museum launched The Gift of History Capital Campaign, focusing on expanding the museum's physical plant. In March 2007, Phase I of the collection vaults redesign and renovation began, aligning with the highest standards of collections preservation and management. In 2017, the museum further expanded with the addition of the Edward Borein Gallery, which features the works of the renowned Western artist.

Visiting the Santa Barbara Historical Museum

A visit to the Santa Barbara Historical Museum is a must for anyone interested in the rich and diverse history of this beautiful region. The museum's exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who have called Santa Barbara home over the centuries. From the Chumash, who lived here long before European settlers arrived, to the Spanish and Mexican periods, and the influence of Yankees and Chinese immigrants, the museum tells the story of Santa Barbara in a way that is both educational and engaging.

Whether you're a history buff, a casual tourist, or a local resident, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum offers something for everyone. With its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and textiles, and its beautifully designed exhibit spaces, the museum provides a unique and immersive experience that brings the past to life. So, come and explore the rich history of Santa Barbara at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum – you won't be disappointed!