Original Tile Setter’s Mark Found in Courthouse Fountain

As crews worked to remove the tile water feature at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, Spirit of the Ocean Fountain project, a bronze in-set was discovered. It is believed by the Fountain Project Team to be the signature mark of the original tile setter of 1928. This 1 inch square bronze “tile” will be reset in the new replicated tile in the same location. Project researchers and historians will set out to determine, if possible, who the tile setter was that set his mark on his completed work of 1928.

The Santa Barbara Courthouse Legacy Foundation is leading the effort to replace the failing Spirit of the Ocean Fountain with completion of the project scheduled for June 30, 2011. For more information on the Legacy Foundation, please visit www.sbclf.org.