History al Dente

Fittingly enough, a variety of spaghetti was on the menu when local historian and Noozhawk scribe Erin Graffy spoke to members of the Montecito Bank & Trust’s MClub about our Eden by the Beach’s rich Italian heritage, which started from the Piedmont region in the late 19th century.

The influx continued from the Veneto region in the following mid-century, all seeking new lives in the land of opportunity.

And with the pioneering families came specific industries that have distinguished Santa Barbara to this day.

The illustrated lecture featured a host of historic photos including the earlier Italian families such as the Jordanos, Parma, and Craviotto, and photos of the industries dominated by the immigrants – dairy, stone masonry, and fishing.

Among those paying rapt attention were Anne Luther, Hiroko Benko, Maria McCall, Dana Hansen, Peter and Gerd Jordano, Betty Fussell, Brendon Twigden, Rebecca Brand, and Juliette Castagnola.

Fascinating stuff…