Spring 2026 Lecture Series

Register for this event here. (Suggested donation $20). 

Being keenly aware of Santa Barbara’s built environment, especially the unique expression of each structure, is like unraveling a mysterious treasure hunt or jigsaw puzzle.  Santa Barbara’s story is in large part told by uncovering the fascinating details of each structure and home that forms the city’s neighborhoods and overall character. Knowing your home’s history can even help attract prospective buyers and make your house stand out.

From reviewing old phonebooks, maps and building permits, to exploring genealogy websites, local historian, Betsy Green, will share “tips and tricks” for becoming your own house detective. 

“There’s more and more information available online all the time – it’s a great time to be a home history hunter!” says Betsy.  

Audience members are invited to bring questions about their home for Betsy to tackle in real time. Betsy will also share links to websites with useful information. 

Betsy J. Green is a writer, local history aficionado, and author of the Great House Detective column for the Santa Barbara Independent.