Lecture by Cheri Rae: Pearl Chase, The Woman Who Helped Shape SB, Part 1

Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 6:00 pm

Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara Gallery, 229 E. Victoria Street

The author of A String of Pearls: Pearl Chase of Santa Barbara will join us for two special presentations that will offer insights about how this iconic figure helped shape the City of Santa Barbara before and after the 1925 Earthquake.

Part I: From her upbringing in Boston to her experiences in the San Francisco Earthquake to the establishment of the Community Arts Association. Within the CAA, a Plans and Planting Committee was created which campaigned to increase public awareness and appreciation for architectural quality and integrity. Plans and Planting was a major force behind the movement to design buildings in the Spanish Colonial Revival style and give Santa Barbara a unified architectural look.

Historic photos, anecdotes, and Pearl’s own words will add to your understanding of the leadership role of this extraordinary woman in the creation of the myths and magic of Santa Barbara that continues to this day.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara, 229 East Victoria Street, Santa Barbara, United States