Wed 20/6 – 5097 steps
We headed south. We stopped a historic mission, Mision La Purisima Concepcion de Maria Santisima. It was founded in 1787, on land that was home to the Chumash people, as the 11th of the 21 Spanish Missions established in what later became California. The mission was known for its hides and blankets, and at its peak, inhabitants herded as many as 24,000 cattle and sheep.
Californian history is very interesting. In a nutshell, Spain claimed territory they had never even been in, then years later they decided to control it by establishing missions. Their introduction of livestock and Western diseases destroyed the way of life of the Native Americans, who then came to live at the missions. The Spanish colonial period was followed by Mexican rule and then after the Mexican-American war, (1846-48), Mexico was forced to give California to the United States. Then in 1848 gold was discovered and nothing has been the same ever since.
We passed through many farmlands, mostly strawberries and veg, such as cabbage and cauliflower as well as something in tunnels. Wherever there is water, there is farming. The operation is so impressive. The cabbages and cauliflowers are picked, washed and packed in boxes on the fields. (Not sure about the other veg)
By chance, whilst looking for a place to have lunch, we arrived in a historic Danish village, Solvang, in the Santa Ynez Valley. Solvang dates back to 1911 when Danish immigrants purchased 9,000 acres to preserve and promote Danish culture. They constructed a Danish folk school and church and some years later, all buildings have been built in same tradition. Most of the restaurants were closed (it was 2:30) but, ironically, we found a Greek restaurant which was great. You can also buy your Christmas decor year round.
Having seen all the RVs parked in state beaches, we decided to try that for a night. There are no hook ups (electricity, water, waste), but our batteries and tanks were full and empty respectively. The first spot was full, but we found a spot in one down the road called Emma Wood state beach. It is only $40 a night which makes it much cheaper than private campsites.
Chuckles of the day: Americans, their cars and their dogs
What I learnt: David loves historical places.
There was a gold rush in 1849, hence “was a miner, 49-er, and his daughter Clementine.”
Kim's journey 