Your guide to haunted and historic happenings in Ventura

by Richard Senate

Ventura-by-the-Sea is a special place in the winter. Some of the best vistas and sunsets on the south coast of California happen in the winter months, In between rains. This is the time to relax and enjoy the relaxed charm of this beachside community. Fun dining and historic sites make this a community you will not forget. Ventura also has a number of special tours and events that are entertaining and unique. I have prepared a bevy of special tours and events that can be found nowhere else in the Golden State.

Haunted Streets of Ventura

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February 10th A very special walking tour–Haunted Streets of Ventura 8 to 10 pm. This special tour of the historic downtown will travel to unique buildings and streets said to hold paranormal impressions. Such as the 1925 El Jardin court where Spanish ladies walk and the very office building where Erle Stanley Gardner created “Perry Mason” the lawyer who solved crimes. The tour will start at the 1912 City Hall and go over her stories of ghosts linked to the classic structure. The site is also rumored to have ghosts as well. Recent sightings include the phantom of Johnny Cash, the famed singer, who once lived in Ventura County and had an office in downtown Ventura! The tour will proceed to the old Spanish Mission where a ghost monk is said to walk and a new ghost–that of a horribly burned man has been reported! For tickets call 805-658-4726–Tour starts on the steps of City Hall at the top of Poli Street.

Dr. Shockers Jambortease

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February 11th A very unique offering–Dr. Shockers Jambortease –Classic Burlesque at the Historic 1929 Ventura Theater on Chestnut Street downtown, Ventura. This was the style of burlesque popular generations ago, with some of the best known dancers performing on the west coast. The show starts at 8:00 Pm and there is a special screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show–with dancers and actors interacting with the audience and film. If you haven’t see the madcap antics of the Rocky Horror film and how its presented you haven’t lived. Not for the faint of heart this is strictly an adults only presentation. A full evenings entertainment! all in walking distance of first class restaurants!

Tour of the history Dudley House

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February 12th Tour of the history Dudley House, on Ashwood and Loma Vista in Ventura. This restored home of the Dudley Family depicts the Yankee Pioneers who built Ventura so long ago. Volunteers keep up the home and conduct tours Free to the public (donations accepted) in costume of the late 19th Century. Three generations of the family lived here with each one leaving a lasting contribution to the house and community. Tours are Sunday only from 1 to 4 pm. This is a forgotten treasure on the south coast and well worth a visit.

Tour the historic 1847 Olivas Adobe

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February 18th and 19th Tour the historic 1847 Olivas Adobe conducted by costumed interpreters. Learn the story of the house and the large family that owned a grand land grant ranch here in the mid 19th Century. Here the restored Music Box and try to guess what songs it plays, and stroll though the colorful rose garden. The site is rumored to have ghosts walking the place and peeking out the windows! So keep an eye out for the mysterious “Lady in Black” or the “Phantom Girl” or “Ghostly Boy” The Olivas adobe opens at 10 and is open til 4. Last tour departs at 3:30. The gift shop has many unique items as well.

Ghost Hunt at Olivas Adobe

February 23 Ghost Hunt at Olivas Adobe! 9 to 11 pm (but may last longer ) Join a ghost hunting team as they seek out the ghostly emanations said to walk here. A recognized ghost hunter and psychic will lead this walk into the paranormal–An attempt will be made to communicate with the ghosts that are reported here! Maybe the Lady in Black or the Ghostly Bride? Bring flashlight, ghost hunting tools (if you have them) for a special night investigating each room of the two- story Hacienda. Bring your camera and–if you can download the ap “Classic Ghost Radar” on your cell phone you might find it helpful! Who knows? Maybe you will see a ghost! For ticket ($25) call 805-658-4726. To sign up, call 805-658-4726.