Casa De La Guerra

Description

Casa de la Guerra is one of the most important remnants of Santa Barbara's Spanish-Mexican heritage, along with El Presidio de Santa Bárbara (1782) and Mission Santa Barbara (1786). It has been at the heart of Santa Barbara's history since its construction (1819-1827) by the fifth Presidio comandante, José de la Guerra. Among Santa Barbara's wealthiest and most influential citizens, the Spanish-born Don José stood out as the patriarchal figure to whom the entire community looked for protection and assistance. The Casa de la Guerra, or casa grande, was the social, political, and cultural center of the pueblo of Santa Barbara. That legacy survived with the political activity of de la Guerra's son Pablo during the early years of California's statehood. Don Pablo served as a state senator and as lieutenant governor of the state. Prior to statehood he was a local judge. Descendants of the family remain prominent in Santa Barbara County and in other areas of California.

Location