Celebrate California’s Vaquero Heritage at the Castro Adobe

Join us at the next Castro Adobe Open House on Saturday, August 16, from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM, at Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe State Historic Park in the ranch lands of Watsonville.

In the mid-1800s, Rancho San Andrés was a thriving cattle ranch where the first cowboys—Vaqueros—worked the herds. These expert horsemen were known for their incredible riding skills, handcrafted tack, and deep knowledge of caring for their animals. They drove cattle from the rancho to the embarcadero where hides and tallow were prepared for trade.

Come visit the Castro Adobe and step into the world of these early California horsemen. See historic tack, hear stories of the Castro family, and tour the beautifully restored 175-year-old, two-story adobe hacienda featuring museum-quality interpretive displays.

Cisco Jim will be presenting his full-blooded Spanish Barb. Taza de Mogollon who is directly descended from the horses brought to The New World by Columbus, the Conquistadors, and the Spanish Missionaries. Cisco uses an authentic Californio vaquero saddle, tack, clothing and other gear. There will also be:

·         Roping Demonstrations

·         Live Music

·         Kids Crafts

·         Local History and Culture

Celebrate California’s rich equestrian heritage and connect with the legacy of the vaqueros who shaped this land.

Admission is free. Parking is limited. RSVP encouraged: SantaCruzStateParks.as.me/CastroAdobeOpenHouse

For more information call (831) 226-9669

We hope to see you there—boots and hats welcome!