The Anza House in San Juan Bautista

The Anza House, or the Casa Juan de Anza, is one of the oldest buildings in the Third Street Historic District of San Juan Bautista. It was designated a Registered National Historical Landmark in 1970. The sign says it was built in 1799, but, according to this National Park Service article, the building was constructed in 1834.  Jose Tiburcio Castro, a Mexican official, built it for his residence.

Still, there could be truth in the sign. I've got it on my list to find out the story. I'm also curious as to how the building became known as the Anza House. Anyone know?

5/28 update: According to the research done by the current owner of the Anza House, the original construction date is 1799. Read the owner's comment below for more details. Thank you!

A Glimpse

Stroll along San Benito Street.

Glance up at the Veterans' Memorial Building,

A sighting of the moon.

~ Su-sieee! Mac

 

A Gnarly Octopussy Tree

The trees in front of the old courthouse are definitely spindly and gnarly. I think it gives them character. This one makes me think of an octopus. What about you?

If It's Wednesday . . .

 

. . . then it must be Farmers' Market Day!

The Farmers' Market opens at 3 PM and closes at 7:30 PM. That's plenty of time to purchase some fresh produce, baked goods, sausages, olive oils, honey, and other goodies. You can also pick up dinner at any one of the food booths, if you don't feel like cooking tonight.

Another cooking demonstration will take place at 5:30 and 6:45 PM near the Veterans' Memorial Building. Artichokes will be the star this week, prepared by Pat Hopper of the California Artichoke Advisory Board.

Remember: Free parking is available at the Briggs Building, which you enter by going through the small parking lot next to the Granada Theater on Fifth Street. Also, no pets are allowed at the Farmers' Market.

A Fleeting Moment

Do you recognize this section of Highway 156, between Hollister and San Juan Bautista? It's on the south side of the highway, near the turn off to Mission Vineyard Road.

Whenever I see this clump of trees, I think I'm somewhere like Lake Tahoe. Of course, the moment passes when the vegetable fields come into view. How about you: Are you momentarily transported to another place when you see a certain view in San Benito County?