Buellton History
Buellton came into being in January of 1918 when a newly built bridge was opened across the Santa Ynez River. This bridge led to an intersection with the "Missions Highway" and would become the newly established route of the Coast Highway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The route was later numbered Highway 101 as we know it today, and the Missions Highway became Highway 246.
The name "Buellton" was gleaned from the family name of Rufus Thompson Buell upon whose land the town was established. Rufus "R.T." Buell came to California from Vermont in search of gold in 1849. He eventually made his way down the coast after his plans for striking it rich in the gold fields did not pan out.
Thousands of travelers have come to know Buellton as “The Home of the Original Split Pea Soup” thanks to the worldwide fame of Andersen’s Pea Soup Restaurant. However, there is much more to Buellton than just this simple dish. More recently Buellton gained fame through the Academy Award winning film “Sideways”, that featured many scenes from the popular wine region of the Santa Ynez Valley and the outstanding food at the Hitching Post Restaurant.
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Buellton Chamber of Commerce The Buellton Chamber of Commerce was incorporated as the Buellton Businessmen's Association in June of 1956. It was later changed in 1987 to the Buellton Business Association and in keeping with the changing times, in 1990 to the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is guided by a 9 member Board of Directors. For staff, there is an Executive Director, Office Manager, and 2 alternating weekend Information Officers. The hours of operation are 9:00a.m. – 4:30p.m. (Mon.-Sat.) and 10:00a.m.-2:00p.m. on Sunday. Please call for holiday hours. The office is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. For more information about the Chamber of Commerce please visit, buellton.org. |
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City of Buellton Incorporated in February 1992, the City of Buellton is a thriving, full service municipality located at the western gateway to the Santa Ynez Valley. The City continues to experience residential, commercial and light industrial development. Surrounding the City are horse and cattle ranches, vineyards and wineries, and the beautiful Santa Ynez Mountains. No longer merely a crossroads stop for tourists and travelers, the City has evolved into a highly desirable place to live and work. To learn more about the City of Buellton please visit, cityofbuellton.com. |
