Night scene of an outdoor cultural event with lanterns hanging overhead and a crowd watching a projection on a building in Chinatown, with a large black-and-white image of a person's face and handwritten text displayed.

FAQs

FAQs

GENERAL

What is the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP)?
SBTHP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to stewarding the past and present of Santa Barbara’s Presidio Neighborhood. We host community events, educational programs, and cultural celebrations, while maintaining key historic sites such as El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park and Casa de la Guerra.

What does SBTHP do?
We bring people together to celebrate Santa Barbara’s layered history through:

  • Year-round community events and festivals

  • Educational programming for schools and families

  • Preservation and interpretation of historic places

  • Cultural storytelling that reflects the diversity of our region

MEMBERSHIP

What are the benefits of becoming a member?
Membership connects you to a vibrant network of curious minds and passionate locals. Benefits include:

  • Free admission to SBTHP sites, exhibits, and programs for up to four people

  • Invitations to exclusive member events and behind-the-scenes programs

  • Discounts on select events and merchandise

  • A subscription to La Campana, our member magazine

  • Special perks at cultural festivals, screenings, and community celebrations

How much does it cost to become a member?
Annual membership is just $50. Every membership supports our mission and programming.

Is my membership tax-deductible?
Yes. SBTHP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and a portion of your membership is tax-deductible. A receipt will be provided for your records.

What does my membership support?
Your membership fuels:

  • Free and low-cost public programs such as the Asian American Film Series, Día de los Muertos celebrations, and Community History Day, and school programs which are always free for students.

  • Preservation of historic sites like the Presidio Chapel, the Alhecama Theatre, Casa de la Guerra, and El Cuartel (the second oldest buildings in California)

  • Interpretation and storytelling that reflects the multicultural history of Santa Barbara, from the Chumash to the Spanish, Mexican, and early American periods, including the Chinese and Japanese people who settled in the Presidio Neighborhood.

  • Maintenance, restoration, and stewardship of culturally significant spaces that continue to serve the community today

EVENTS & PROGRAMS

What kind of events does SBTHP host?
We offer a full calendar of programs throughout the year including:

  • Cultural festivals like Día de los Muertos and Founding Day

  • Film screenings such as the Asian American Film Series

  • Family-friendly activities like Presidio Pastimes for Kids

  • History walks, lectures, and workshops

  • Seasonal gatherings and behind-the-scenes experiences for members

Are events open to the public?
Yes! Many of our events are open to the public, while others are reserved for members. Becoming a member ensures you get early access, invitations to special programs, and deeper opportunities to engage.

Can I bring guests to events?
Absolutely. Some events offer guest passes for members, and others are ticketed. It's a great way to introduce friends and family to SBTHP.

PRESERVATION & HISTORIC SITES

What historic sites does SBTHP care for?
SBTHP stewards several important landmarks in the Presidio Neighborhood, including:

  • El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park

  • Casa de la Guerra, former home of José de la Guerra

  • El Cuartel, one of the oldest buildings in California

  • Alhecama Theatre, a community performance and event space

  • Santa Inés Mission Mills, an early agricultural site in the Santa Ynez Valley

What does preservation look like at SBTHP?
We approach preservation as a living, inclusive process. That includes:

  • Maintaining and restoring historic buildings to ensure they remain safe and accessible

  • Activating these places through community use—music, art, food, learning, celebration

  • Honoring the multicultural legacies that shaped them, from Indigenous to Spanish, Mexican, and more

  • Using history to spark dialogue about our shared future

Can I volunteer or get involved in preservation work?
Yes! We welcome volunteers, community partners, and history lovers of all backgrounds. Reach out via our Contact Page or speak to a team member at one of our events.

GIVING & SUPPORT

Can I give a membership as a gift?
Yes—gift memberships are a thoughtful way to share local culture and community connection.

How else can I support SBTHP?
Beyond membership, you can:

  • Make a one-time or monthly donation

  • Sponsor a program or event

  • Include SBTHP in your estate plans

  • Volunteer your time and skills

Where can I join or renew my membership?
Visit sbthp.org/membership to join online, or speak to a team member at one of our sites or events.