For the first time since 2020, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Docent Council has announced the graduation of seven new docents.
Members of the class of 2022 have completed a comprehensive 10-week training program in which they learned about the construction and operation of the iconic National & State Historic Landmark with a focus on the artisans, architects and community leaders who brought it into being.
Founded in 1974, the Docent Council was designated as official hosts for the building in 1981 by the County Board of Supervisors. Docents support the cultural heritage and public appreciation of the courthouse through educational activities such as tours, managing the information booth in the lobby, and researching historical facts about the property.
While the courthouse has been closed to the public, the Docent Council has remained active behind the scenes. Recent special projects, led by docent Rodney Baker, include restoration of the 1929 lantern that hangs in the Clock Tower stairwell, and replacement of draperies to restore the Loggia to its historic grandeur.
Virtual tours and more are available on the Docent Council website.