The Earthquake that Built a City – 100 yrs later
**Events may have been canceled or postponed. Please contact the venue to confirm the event.
Date & Time
Sun, Jun 29 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Address (map)
33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Venue (website)
Lobero Theatre
The Earthquake That Built a City
Sunday, June 29, 2025 | 7:00 PM | Lobero Theatre
On the morning of June 29, 1925, a powerful earthquake struck Santa Barbara—flattening buildings and forever altering the city’s trajectory. One hundred years later, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Santa Barbara presents The Earthquake That Built a City, a special 90-minute symposium exploring how disaster gave rise to vision, resilience, and a distinctive architectural identity.
Moderated by renowned architect and historian Robert L. Ooley, FAIA, this compelling evening brings together leading voices to reflect on the cultural, architectural, and civic transformations that followed the quake. Historian Neal Graffy recounts the day the city shook. Architect Anthony Grumbine, AIA, traces the rise of Spanish Colonial Revival style from the rubble. Engineers Sage M. Shingle, PE, or Garrett W. Mills, PE, discuss innovations in seismic safety. Urbanist Drew Wensley explores how planning can guide communities from recovery to renewal.
Through vivid storytelling and expert insight, the symposium offers a powerful lens on how Santa Barbara’s built environment—and spirit—was shaped by catastrophe and vision. A post-event reception with light refreshments will follow.
Open to the public. Ideal for residents, architects, students, planners, and anyone who loves Santa Barbara.
Join us for an unforgettable night of history, reflection, and community connection.
