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Casa Covarrubias: A Window into Santa Barbara's Past

Explore Santa Barbara's vibrant past at Casa Covarrubias, a beautifully preserved adobe offering a glimpse into the lives of early California's prominent families and pivotal historical moments.

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Casa Covarrubias, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Built in 1817, this adobe structure offers a glimpse into California's Spanish and Mexican periods. Originally constructed for Don Domingo Carrillo, a prominent figure in early Santa Barbara, the home later became associated with the Covarrubias family, who played significant roles in the region's political and social life. Today, Casa Covarrubias is part of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum complex, serving as a venue for events and a reminder of the city's vibrant heritage. Its well-preserved architecture and tranquil gardens evoke the atmosphere of early California, inviting visitors to step back in time and imagine life in a bygone era. A visit promises a unique insight into the lives of the families who shaped Santa Barbara.

A brief summary to Casa Covarrubias

  • 713 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, Lower State, California, 93101, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture.
  • Check the Santa Barbara Historical Museum's website for information on upcoming events and exhibitions related to Casa Covarrubias and early California history.
  • Explore the gardens surrounding Casa Covarrubias for a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the landscaping styles of early California.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Casa Covarrubias is located at 713 Santa Barbara Street, within easy walking distance of many downtown Santa Barbara attractions. From State Street, head east towards the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Continue past the Courthouse on Santa Barbara Street. Casa Covarrubias will be on your left, adjacent to the Santa Barbara Historical Museum. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and offers a pleasant stroll through the historic district.

  • Public Transport

    Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the downtown area. Several routes have stops within a few blocks of Casa Covarrubias. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the MTD Transit Center at 1020 Chapala Street, take any bus heading north on Santa Barbara Street and disembark near E De la Guerra Street. Walk north one block to the destination. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Santa Barbara. Request a ride to 713 Santa Barbara Street. The fare from the Amtrak station or the waterfront area typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 713 Santa Barbara Street. Limited parking is available behind the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, accessible from De la Guerra Street. Street parking may also be available, but it can be challenging to find during peak hours. Several public parking lots are located within walking distance, with hourly rates typically ranging from $2.50 to $3.00.

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Discover more about Casa Covarrubias

Casa Covarrubias, located on Santa Barbara Street, is more than just an old building; it's a portal to the past, offering a tangible connection to the early days of Santa Barbara. Constructed in 1817 by Don Domingo Carrillo, a respected figure in the community, the adobe was built using the labor of local Chumash Indians. Carrillo intended the home for his wife, Concepción Pico Carrillo, sister of Pío Pico, who would later become the last Mexican governor of California. The generous rooms and airy feeling, including the expansive 55-foot gran sala (parlor), provided the perfect venue for family events, community gatherings, and celebrations. The surrounding gardens, lush and colorful, were legendary in the otherwise sparse landscape. In 1838, Carrillo's daughter married José María Covarrubias, a Spanish native of France who became deeply involved in California politics. Covarrubias served as private secretary to Pío Pico, as well as alcalde (mayor) of Santa Barbara, county judge, delegate to the State Constitutional Convention, and State Assemblyman. The adobe subsequently became known as Casa Covarrubias, and for over a century, descendants of the Carrillo and Covarrubias families, many of whom were leaders in public affairs, occupied the house. The families who lived in Santa Barbara's Covarrubias Adobe were considered the royalty of "Old California". Their stories, intertwined with those of the city and the state, still resonate within its walls. The adobe witnessed pivotal moments in California history, including, according to some accounts, the last meeting place of the Mexican Congress before California came under United States rule. However, by the early 20th century, the Covarrubias family had moved on, and the building fell into disrepair. In 1909, there was even a plan to raze the adobe and replace it with a modern apartment building, alarming the Santa Barbara community. Fortunately, the adobe was saved, and in 1920, John Southworth, a historian and author, purchased the property and undertook efforts to preserve it. Southworth constructed a concrete wall around and underneath the adobe walls to protect them. In 1938, Los Adobes de los Rancheros, a non-profit organization, acquired the property. In 1940, the Rancheros undertook a massive reconstruction of the building, including buttressing the west and south walls. During World War II, the Covarrubias Adobe served as home to the British War Relief Society. It also housed the Chamber of Commerce, Old Spanish Days, and the office of the Santa Barbara National Horse and Flower Show at various times. Today, Casa Covarrubias is part of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum complex. The Santa Barbara Historical Museum was completed in 1964 and has emerged as an essential landmark for the preservation and celebration of Santa Barbara's regional history. The museum's stunning courtyards evoke the romance of early Spanish California. The museum features both permanent and changing exhibits that share Santa Barbara's colorful past from the Native American age to modern times. It also offers an extensive holdings of books, photographs, maps, and manuscripts. The library is a rich resource for the study of regional history. While the museum itself is housed in a steel-reinforced concrete and adobe structure built in 1965, the Casa Covarrubias and the adjacent Historic Adobe, which was moved to the site in 1924, are the original historic buildings. Casa Covarrubias is a California State Historical Landmark and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Santa Barbara City Landmark. Visitors can explore the Casa Covarrubias as part of their visit to the Santa Barbara Historical Museum. The museum's grounds are also available for rent for weddings, receptions, and other special events. The Casa Covarrubias itself can accommodate smaller gatherings of up to 75 guests. Visiting Casa Covarrubias offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of early California. The well-preserved adobe, the tranquil gardens, and the rich history of the families who lived there make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Santa Barbara's past.

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