Courthouse Viewing

In the early morning of June 1925, a 6.8 earthquake destroyed most of Santa Barbara. But up from the ashes, new structures were built, this time in a cohesive architectural style called Spanish Colonial Revival. One of the most recognized examples of this character is the Santa Barbara Courthouse, which its designer Charles Willard Moore deemed “the grandest Spanish Colonial Revival structure ever built.” Today, folks can enjoy the beauty of the Courthouse, which is a California Historical Landmark, from the gardens to the mural room to the clock tower. Docent-led tours occur daily at 2 p.m. and on Monday-Wednesday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. Tours of the gardens and for youth groups are available by appointment. The Seth Thomas Tower Clock and Clock Gallery are open every Wednesday and Saturday, 1-2 p.m., and by appointment. For more information, call 962-6464.