bjgreen
By Betsy J. Green
The attractive stone gate that forms the entrance to Junipero Plaza was the location for a “Flying A” movie called “The Scapegoat.”
“A very sensational escape of prisoners was made at the entrance to Junipero Plaza, the gate serving as the entrance to prison grounds. A large number of players was used, and they went through their parts very realistically, in fact so well that [an actor] was wrenched up quite a bit in a fall from the top of the wall.” – Santa Barbara Morning Press, June 19, 1913
Betsy’s Way Back When book — Movies & Million-Dollar Mansions — is now available in local bookstores and at Amazon.com. This is the seventh book in her series on the history of Santa Barbara. Learn more at .
Great synchronicity…on my walk yesterday I stopped beneath one of these two stone gateways and pondered upon the construction technique, in awe of the craftsmanship. Thank you!!
Thanks for the compliment, Alonzo. I love those stone gates too. I wouldn’t be surprised if more movies were filmed at that location.
Greetings, Ms. Green, Great Historical reference. Is the site public or private. I’d like to get film of the landmark. Any permissions needed?
It’s a public street. Just search for Junipero Plaza, Santa Barbara in Google maps or a similar program to find the exact location.