Geology of Marin Headlands

Local Field Trip: The San Andreas Fault and 1906 SF Earthquake

The 1906 Earthquake and fire leveled San Francisco in one of the worst natural disasters in American history. By its end over 3000 people had died, 80% of the city had been destroyed, and several hundred thousand people were homeless. The cause of the earthquake was a sudden movement along the San Andreas Fault, which has become notoriously linked to San Francisco.

Lompoc Local History: The Chumash Revolt and the Battle of La Purisima

Did you know that nearly 200 years ago a battle took place in what is now the quiet, central coast town of Lompoc, California? On March 16, 1824, musket fire, cannons, and cavalry raged for over two hours as 500 Chumash warriors and Mexican soldiers fought for control of La Purisima Mission in northeast Lompoc. By the end of the day 17 people were dead, many more were wounded, and Mexican authorities regained control of the mission. But this event was just the peak of a larger movement that lasted for months, involved three different missions and multiple California Indian tribes, and ended up being the largest and most successful uprising in California’s mission history.

3 Reasons Why California Is Always on Fire

Geology of Tomales Bay

Learn how Tomales Bay is shaped by the San Andreas Fault!

The Original La Purisima Mission

Did you know that the state park isn't the site of the first mission in Lompoc? Its ruins can be found off F street in town.

The Original Mission San Juan Capistrano

Did you know that the mission was originally located further inland at a different site?

Mission San Rafael: The Lost Mission

Almost nothing remains of the original San Rafael Mission - using historical documents this video explores where the mission would have been and how much has changed in San Rafael.

Geology of Lompoc

Learn how Lompoc's beautiful surroundings are a result of its spectacular geologic history.

Geology of Dana Point

The Battle of La Purisima

Did you know that the largest mission revolt in California history happened right here in Lompoc?

Geology of Bodega Bay

Did you know that Bodega Bay was created by the San Andreas Fault?

Landslides of South Orange County

Here's why the ground under your feet in south OC is so unstable!

Geology of Laguna Beach

Learn how the incredible beauty of Laguna Beach is mostly because of its spectacular geology!

Geology of Stinson Beach and Bolinas Bay

A virtual geology field trip of Bolinas Bay and Stinson Beach. Be careful when you're at the beach - you're on top of the San Andreas Fault!