A New Look Back at Old Santa Maria

December 7, 2011 at 4:22 pm 1 comment

We are excited to share the good news about a new book that showcases the rich history of the Santa Maria Valley, including a generous helping of Santa Maria Style Barbecue.

Images of America: Santa Maria Valley by Carina Monica Montoya and the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society is a beautifully presented softcover book loaded with magnificent photos and historic insights into the valley from the Mexican to modern period.

In its Community Spirit chapter, the book features Santa Maria BBB with four classic photos, from the cooking of meat over earthen pits in the early 1900s to the epic barbecues of the local Elks Lodge in the 1960s. The book notes, “The traditional Santa Maria barbecue has its roots dating back to Spanish California, when family, friends and neighbors would gather at a rancho to feast on meat cooked over local red oak coals.”

The book also details the Santa Maria Valley’s rich history in agriculture, aeronautics, athletics and more.

Along with R.H. Tesene’s legendary book Santa Maria Style Barbecue, this book belongs on the bookshelf of anyone interested in the historic roots of the Santa Maria Valley.