Did you know Santa Barbara was once targeted by California's ONLY official pirate raid?

Did you know Santa Barbara was once targeted by California's ONLY official pirate raid?

Back in December 1818, the Argentine privateer Hippolyte Bouchard swept down the coast with two warships. What happened next was pure Hollywood drama:

1. The Fire - Bouchard first landed at Refugio Bay, burning the Ortega family ranch to the ground after three of his sailors were captured in an ambush.

2. The Ultimate Santa Barbara Ruse - When Bouchard's fleet arrived off the Santa Barbara Presidio demanding his men back, Spanish Commander Don José de la Guerra knew he was massively outgunned. So, he pulled a legendary trick: He had his small troop of soldiers march in a continuous circle behind a grove of trees - rapidly swapping hats and uniforms on every loop. Looking through his spyglass, Bouchard thought he was looking at an overwhelming military force waiting for him on the beach!

3. The Deal - Fooled by the disguise, Bouchard decided against an attack, negotiated a peaceful prisoner swap, and sailed away - leaving Santa Barbara intact!

Join Mystic Ocean Adventures, the tall ship Mystic Whaler, and Santa Barbara Maritime Museum for a Bouchard-inspired family event on August 23!