by David Martinez
Participants in the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation’s 2012 Old Spanish Days Fiesta Parade entry for El Presidio State Historic Park. Photo by James Bray of California State Parks.
Here are some pictures from this year’s Fiesta Parade on August 3, 2012. As you can see the Presidio was well represented. Our group consisted of soldados, volunteers, and California State Parks rangers, a true partnership.
Ray and Edith Ogella lead the way carrying the parade banner. Photo by Karen Schultz Anderson.
There are few events in Santa Barbara that compare with this parade. As the noon hour approaches horses, marchers, floats, and bands all compress within a few blocks surrounding Pershing Park. Our contingent was led by Ray and Edith Ogella carrying the Santa Barbara Royal Presidio banner. They were followed by soldados Alex Escobar, and Braulio Martinez, Jim Martinez, Ben Valenzuela, and David Martinez. Immediately behind the first group of soldados were Jack Romero and Michael Aberle hauling our parade cannon. They were followed by Russell C. Ruiz with his drum and bugle and his wife Diane. The park rangers completed our proud contingent.
Jack Romero and Michael Aberle follow, pulling the cannon, with Russell C. and Diane Ruiz behind. Photo by Karen Schultz Anderson.
There are few experiences to compare with representing the Presidio to the community on such a large stage. We invite those interested to join us next year to walk up State Street to the cheers of thousands of revelers.
David Martinez is Comandante de Los Soldados del Real Presidio de Santa Bárbara and a board member at the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation.
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