California Avocados: A Delicious History

Avocados were first introduced to California in 1871 when Judge R.B. Ord planted three seedling trees from Mexico in Santa Barbara, sparking a century-long love affair that transformed California into “Avocado Land.”

Twenty-four years later, Kinton Stevens established the nation’s first commercial avocado orchard in Montecito. These early efforts laid the foundation for California's avocado industry, which now supplies about 90% of the U.S. crop. From battling over the best avocado varieties to coaxing the public into trying the fruit by devising delicious recipes, Golden State growers created a global phenomenon.

In his latest book, California Avocados: A Delicious History, author Rob Crisell explores how California’s favorite fruit became one of the most famous and iconic foods of the twenty-first century.

Kinton Stevens Ranch, Montecito, c. 1890

About the Speaker

Rob Crisell grew up in Fallbrook, California, in the heart of a three-acre avocado grove. After a career in publishing, he is now a writer, actor, teacher and winemaker. Most recently, he authored Temecula Valley Wineries and The Fantastic Fables of Aesop.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from Yale University and his law degree from George Mason School of Law.

Santa Barbara Groceries, c.1900

Host or Publisher Santa Barbara Historical Museum