The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) is proud to announce the opening of its new exhibit, “Manongs on the Central Coast: Forming Communities Across Generations.” This captivating exhibit delves into the rich history and lived experiences of the local and regional Filipino American community, showcasing multigenerational family stories, photographs, oral histories, and documents. Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with the past through personal narratives, historical artifacts, and immersive displays. SBTHP hosted an opening program on Aug. 25, and included a panel discussion of exhibit contributors, moderated by Dez Alaniz, director of Presidio Research Center at SBTHP, and Shannon Toribio, Ph.D. student in UCSB’s Religious Studies Department.
“This exhibit builds on the oral histories and materials that have been donated by trusting and generous community members, many of whom are descendants of the Manong generation,” said Alaniz. Toribio added, “This is a story of how the Manongs made a place for themselves on California’s Central Coast where they built lasting communities amidst persistent discrimination. The achievements and contributions of the Filipino community included in this exhibit are testament to their strength and resiliency.” “Manongs on the Central Coast” offers a glimpse into the lives of Filipino men who immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century. These individuals played a vital role in shaping the Central Coast region, contributing to various industries such as agriculture, hospitality and retail. Community member and exhibit contributor Manuel Crisostomo shared, “The war that created them as colonial subjects, their collective struggles, collective triumphs, and their collective contributions to the building of this country have yet to be more fully told in the public sphere. The existence of this exhibit is a wonderful step in the right direction.”
The exhibition features a collection of photographs, paintings, and other art forms that depict the lives and experiences of Filipino Americans in Santa Barbara. The exhibition is a collaborative effort between the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Filipino American Museum of the West Coast. The exhibition is curated by Dr. Maria Elena Ramirez, a renowned scholar of Filipino American history and culture.
**Preservation Advocacy:**
* **Community Engagement:** The SBTHP actively engages with the community through workshops, tours, and educational programs. These initiatives foster a deeper understanding of the neighborhood’s history and the importance of preserving its unique character. * **Historic Preservation Grants:** The SBTHP provides financial assistance to homeowners and property owners who wish to restore or maintain their historic properties.
SBTHP is 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; learn more at sbthp.org.