Intricate basketry, plank canoes, and the use of shell bead money contributed to the great success of the Chumash Tribe. A large group of independent villages were spread over the coast of California near today’s Santa Barbara. A population of 18,000 Natives, occupying the seacoast and Channel Islands, were greeted by the first Spanish explorers during the mid 1500s. At the time Spanish missions were involved with Native Christianization and agriculture education. Ranching and farming for coastal residents became the main occupation for the next 100 years.
   Often described as the American Riviera, San Barbara’s mild climate hasn’t escaped a steady flow of tourists. Squeezed between the cliffs of the Santa Ynez Mountains and beach, Santa Barbara is recognized for its Spanish style architecture, downtown beaches, and its busy harbor. The 150 year old Stearns Wharf is dotted with charter boats, restaurants, bait and tackle shops, and a refurbished Sea Center. The Santa Barbara Harbor, seen here loaded with pleasure boats, is the key to the city’s prosperity. The busy port is still leads to plentiful fishing grounds, and important trade routes. The foothills remain a rich fertile farmland, and with further development, the town has blossomed into a well rounded community.

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