Santa Barbara: A Historic Chocolate Haven
As one of the first places in North America where chocolate was frequently consumed, Santa Barbara has a special place in the continent's history. The indigenous Chumash people, who may have obtained raw cacao via trading channels stretching from Mexico, are the originators of chocolate eating in this seaside city. Although there is no written evidence, historical trade trends imply that cacao probably arrived with other products like salt, which made their way from Southern California to the Midwest via well-established indigenous trade networks.
Spanish Influence and Early Chocolate Consumption
The Spanish colonists are the ones who first documented chocolate in Santa Barbara. Governor Felipe de Neve of the Santa Barbara Presidio regularly imported chocolate from Mexico between 1779 and 1810. It is confirmed by official supply ledgers delivered to San Blas, Mexico, that the early settlers relied heavily on hot chocolate.
Soldiers who performed very well on the job, local indigenous leaders, and visiting dignitaries were all known to get chocolate drinks from Governor Neve. Local legend states that at a welcome supper celebration, Russian traders from Northern California also indulged in traditional Santa Barbara chocolate prepared with raw Oaxacan cacao.
The Legacy of Santa Barbara Chocolate
The city's longstanding association with cacao is reflected in Santa Barbara Chocolate's logo, which continues to pay tribute to its rich past. The logo, which is set in contemporary Santa Barbara and depicts Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's famous arrival at East Beach, blends the past and present. Today, Santa Barbara is a popular destination for chocolate lovers, demonstrating the continued strength of this link to chocolate.
Many chocolatiers in the region take pride in using high-quality couverture chocolate, reinforcing Santa Barbara’s reputation as a city where chocolate culture thrives. The legacy of chocolate in Santa Barbara, from its indigenous trade routes to Spanish colonial traditions, is a testament to the region’s enduring appreciation for fine chocolate.
Additional articles and resources on the fascinating journey of chocolate in Santa Barbara are available for those interested in delving deeper into this history.