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Way Back When in Santa Barbara -- August 1, 1918

The building which had served as the school and orphanage since the 1870s is still on De la Vina, although it is missing its original top floor. The third floor was damaged in the 1925 earthquake (the orphans were no longer housed there), and the building became two stories. Image: Betsy J. Green)

WAY BACK WHEN - 100 Years Ago Today - On August 1, 1918, the children who resided in St. Vincent's Orphanage at 925 De la Vina Street got their chance for a picnic. According to the local paper, "The children of St. Vincent's had an enjoyable picnic yesterday on Leadbetter Hill. [Now the site of Santa Barbara City College.] This hill has been their picnic grounds for the last 40 years, when it was formerly known as the Dibblee estate. Mr. and Mrs. Dibblee used to look forward each year to the children's coming, and took great pleasure in assisting with the luncheons. Mr. Leadbetter has kept up the good old-time spirit … The morning was spent rambling over the spacious grounds, and dinner which was served at noon, was greatly enjoyed by all."

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