Visit to Santa Barbara Courthouse for Friday Evening Rendezvous
Compliments of Robert Mislang, our Program Chair Extraordinaire, and the Santa Barbara Courthouse Legacy Foundation, our Club had the opportunity to learn more about a significant architectural and historical feature in our city of Santa Barbara. Joining us were a number of Rotaractors and friends; we totaled over twenty visitors to the courthouse this last Friday evening.
Starting off in the foyer with wine and cheese appetizers, our able leaders and docents, Loretta Redd from the Santa Barbara Courthouse Legacy Foundation, and Rodney Baker, Director of Projects for the Santa Barbara Courthouse Docent Council, discussed the history, architecture, uses, and things not generally known about this prominent piece of Santa Barbara. Can you spell "asymmetrical" and why it matters in discussions regarding the Courthouse?
Wandering upstairs to the County Supervisors Chambers (aka "The Mural Room") we learned why there is a large dead bolt on the outside of the Chamber doors, how long and what it cost to paint the murals originally, how long and what it is estimated to cost to re-finish the murals today, which movie actors have a role in the murals, and that the room is available for events and weddings.
We then wandered upstairs to the Clock Room and learned about an amazing effort to re-furbish the old Seth Thomas Clock that runs the tower clock and chimes at the Courthouse. The things you learn about clocks, hammers, bells, and the history of time all in one fabulous room. Those on the tour learned several secrets of the tower... don't miss our next trip!
Finally, we made it to the roof terrace for a spectacular view of the City of Santa Barbara at night. Fortunately for all of us, we had a warm evening and a good time.
Thank you to Robert for leading this "Family of Rotary" off-site, and compliments to the Santa Barbara Court House Legacy Foundation for a tour well done.
For more information see: http://www.courthouselegacyfoundation.org/