Montecito’s Only National Historic Landmark

Nestled in the heart of Montecito, Casa del Herrero stands as one of Santa Barbara County’s most extraordinary yet underappreciated cultural treasures. This historic house museum and garden estate, built between 1922 and 1925, offers visitors a rare glimpse into early 20th-century craftsmanship, innovation, and artistic vision – but its future depends on the generosity of donors who understand the irreplaceable value of preserving living history.

The estate was the brainchild of George Fox Steedman and his wife, Carrie Howard Steedman, transplants from St. Louis who moved to Santa Barbara for health reasons. What they created, with architect George Washington Smith, was far more than a residence – it was a testament to innovation and artistry. George Steedman, an inventor and president of Curtis and Co., infused the property with ingenious touches that still captivate visitors today: electrified antique clocks, automated lighting systems, and a meticulously designed workshop that showcases his inventive spirit.

“We’re preserving Casa del Herrero as a public space for education and inspiration,” explains Executive Director and Head of Curation, Natalie Sanderson, PhD. “It’s this unique combination of architecture, artworks, historical artifacts, and green spaces that makes the property so special. Visitors experience not just a house, but a complete artistic and cultural ecosystem.”

The estate’s transformation from private residence to public treasure reflects the vision of Medora Steedman Bass, George and Carrie’s daughter, who ensured the property would serve as “an educational and tranquil space for the public.” Today, Casa del Herrero opens its doors every Wednesday and Saturday for public tours, while Creative Tuesdays welcomes families with young children for hands-on programming.

But Casa del Herrero represents much more than the Steedman family’s legacy. The property showcases the architectural genius not only of George Washington Smith, but also Lutah Maria Riggs, Santa Barbara’s first licensed female architect and first woman in California to be named Fellow of the AIA. “The importance of preserving the work of these pioneering designers cannot be overstated,” Sanderson notes. “We’re maintaining a direct connection to the artistic movements that shaped California’s architectural identity.”

The museum’s commitment to community engagement shines through innovative programs like an architecture seminar course with USCB students taught by Professor Volker Welter, and collaborations with organizations such as Girls Inc. These initiatives ensure that Casa del Herrero serves diverse audiences while maintaining its core mission of education and cultural preservation.

However, maintaining a historic property of this caliber requires constant attention and significant resources. Recent conservation projects, including the restoration of a birdhouse and sundial designed by Mr. Steedman himself demonstrates the transformative impact of proper preservation work. “When you see these pieces restored to their original condition, you witness history coming alive,” Sanderson reflects. “That’s the magic we’re working to preserve for future generations.”