by John Hibble The more things change, the more they remain the same. Today, a school impact fee is charged to developers and home builders to support local school districts. During the early years of statehood, Aptos land owners donated land and paid for the building of the first schools. Rafael Castro, the first owner […]
The Sea Breeze Tavern of Rio Del Mar
Virtual Aptos History Presentation Presented on ZOOM by John Hibble, Curator Saturday November 14, 20204:00pm – 5:00pm | Zoom link provided after reservation$15 General/$10 Members, Donations benefit the Museum. Call 831-688-1467 for reservations or reserve online below:
Aptos Bridges
It was considered the most dangerous spot on the Santa Cruz-Watsonville Road and was known as “Death Curve”
Redwood Village
One of the many gems that make Aptos different than anywhere else is Redwood Village, hidden in a redwood grove across Highway One from Deer Park Shopping Center. Today it is a small commercial center, but it started out as one of California’s first motels.
Mangels House
Mangels House by John Hibble Mangels House is an elegant, Victorian, summer mansion in the Aptos hills, built by Claus Mangels, brother-in-law of Claus Spreckels, the sugar millionaire. It is the last remaining example of three nearly identical mansions built between 1872 and 1888. Claus Mangels was born September 12, 1832 in Baderkase, in the […]
The First Family of Aptos
by John Hibble The Native people who lived here and gave Aptos its name, lived on the land and were stewards of it. They may have been territorial, but they did not have the concept of land ownership. The first owners of this land would have been the King of Spain and the church. After […]
The Grand Hotel of Aptos
By John Hibble Clause Spreckels of San Francisco was one of the richest men in America because of his imagination and his energy. He was a whirlwind. When he purchased most of the Aptos Rancho from Rafael Castro in 1872, he had big plans for Aptos. He wanted to develop the sugar beet industry here. He wanted […]
Dining for History!
Join us at Erik’s DeliCafe on Monday March 16, 2020 and part of the proceeds will be donated back to the Aptos History Museum! While you’re there, be sure to take a look at the walls. There are some great historic photos of Aptos!!! Not in the neighborhood? Please use the donation button and donate […]
Ferris Wheel Seat up for Auction!
Have a little piece of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk History of your own!At this year’s annual Aptos History Museum Fundraiser the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is helping Aptos History stay alive by donating one of the Ferris Wheel Seats. The Ferris Wheel was retired in the Fall of 2017 after 60 years in operation.With over […]