Lifeblood Aflame

Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, California has an interesting, if somewhat inauspicious history.  Originally built in 1872 as a way to bring lumber ashore, it served the passenger and freight-shipping needs of California's south coast for over a quarter century.  Like many things in Southern California, the wharf has ties to Hollywood.  At one point, it was owned by legendary actor James Cagney and it was on that pier that the pilot episode of the Batman television series was filmed.  Today, the wharf is home to several restaurants, fishing charters, art galleries, the best candy store on the south coast and Santa Barbara's very own psychic.  <!--[if !supportEmptyParas]-->Located at the base of the town's main drag and flanked on each side by quiet beachfront, it extends the quiet culture of Santa Barbara beyond the shoreline.

Since its opening, the wharf has endured more than its share of natural disasters.  In the early 1900's, severe storms destroyed the spur that served as the lumber depository, terminating that function altogether. In 1925, an earthquake shook its pilings and required extensive repair.  However, it has been fire that has plagued this picturesque landmark in more recent years.  Amongst manner smaller fires that speckle the history of Stearns Wharf, two stand out in particular.  In 1973 fire caused the wharf to close for six years in order to complete repairs, finally reopening in 1981.  <!--[if !supportEmptyParas]-->In 1998, a raging fire devastated the last 150 feet, which took two years' renovation to fix.

These images, I think, both recall the dramatic history of the place while at the same time celebrate its ability to experience rejuvenating rebirth and remain a vibrant landmark in this small coastal town.  I took these pictures at sunrise on various trips to Santa Barbara in 2004 and 2005.