By the mid-1800s new faces and change came quickly, beginning in 1846 with John Fremont claim of California for the United States and statehood four years later. California new personalities and affluent people were drawn here and established a community that thrived on the beauty of the land, as well as involvement in the arts and society. By 1910 the American Film Company had opened the Flying A Studio, the largest of its kind at that time. In its short ten-years existence, it produced over 1,000 films. Although the stronger industry roots were in Hollywood, the film elite found Santa Barbara and its surrounding pastoral lands the ideal haven for privacy and a break from the paparazzi and star followers. In subsequent decades many other types of newcomers have arrived, adding diversity to the population and commercial interests while preserving the best qualities of this special region of California. From the rich farmlands, posh resorts, diverse towns and historic sights to the sophisticated arts and cultural communities, ethnic festivals and special events, visitors have an astonishing choice of experiences to explore and enjoy when in Santa Barbara County.rnrnWanna know more…? click
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