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 Santa Barbara author and historian Neal Graffy will be presenting “Opening the Door to Santa Barbara: John Peck Stearns and his Wharf.” Graffy will share the story of John Peck Stearns, the creation of Stearns Wharf, and the important role both played in Santa Barbara’s development. 

On Monday, September 16, 1872, when the first ship tied up at John Peck Stearns’ new wharf at the foot of State Street. Prior to this date, ships had to pause a mile or more off shore while cargo and
passengers were transferred to small boats and rowed ashore and back. It was a time-consuming, expensive and miserable experience. But no more! Stearns had built more than a wharf; this was the door that would open Santa Barbara to the world.

The SBMM Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Marie L Morrisroe.

Missed our last Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series? Watch our previous lectures.