Available for Inter-Museum Loan
170 Years of Harbor History is a selection of 25 photographs of Santa Barbara’s harbor and waterfront from the 1890s to the present. Organized by the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, this exhibition of archival photos depicts some of the most important moments in the creation of the city’s vibrant waterfront—from the establishment of the breakwater to the subsequent formation of Leadbetter Beach and today’s harbor business district.
Keystone events such as the oil spill of 1969 and the 100-year storm of 1983 are interspersed with snapshots of daily life, views of what visitors and residents would have seen decades ago during a typical day at the harbor. Today, Santa Barbara’s harbor remains one of the few still in operation in California, and it hasn’t lost its charm. Recreation abounds in sailing, kayaking, and leisurely strolls along the breakwater. Historic vessels still fish the local waters, rich with marine life, and some captains still sell their fresh catch directly to the public at the popular fisherman’s market on Saturday mornings.
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM), which is located in the Waterfront Center Building (formerly the Naval Reserve Building) opened its doors to the public in July 2000, with the unique mission to interpret the rich and diverse maritime history of the Santa Barbara Channel. SBMM is an interactive museum - a place where the public can experience maritime culture without leaving the harbor.
Founded by a group of fishermen, divers, and sailors, the SBMM provides hands-on learning opportunities for all ages, delving into Santa Barbara’s robust maritime history while highlighting the important role the Santa Barbara Channel plays in our culture and community.
From the engaging exhibitions, visitors leave with a love for and better understanding of the Santa Barbara Channel – its abundant marine life, the multiple recreational activities it provides, and the people making a living on its waters.
Learn more about bringing this exhibition to your community.
170 Years of Harbor History Brochure
For more details and availability, please contact Curator Emily Falke by calling (805) 456-8745 or emailing efalke@sbmm.org.