Castro Adobe

Castro Adobe is a two-story earthen structure in Watsonville featuring traditional Mexican architectural elements and wide verandas overlooking the surrounding valley. The building showcases construction methods typical of early 19th-century rancho design in this region.

Built between 1848 and 1849, this structure was constructed by Jose Joaquin Castro following his receipt of the San Andres land grant. This period marked a significant transition in California land ownership as the region changed hands after the war with Mexico.

The second floor contains a fandango room where numerous social gatherings and traditional Mexican dances took place throughout the 19th century. This space shows how central music and dancing were to the family's social life.

Access requires advance registration for monthly open house events that include guided tours and hands-on demonstrations. Visitors should plan ahead to secure a spot and learn about current availability before heading out.

The structure contains carved wall graffiti from 1933 made by sailors of the USS Tennessee during a visit to the region. These etchings provide an unexpected link to naval history and document visitors from a later era.

Location: Santa Cruz County

GPS coordinates: 36.94611,-121.81111

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01