Goleta Depot Committee - South Coast Railroad Museum at the Historic Goleta Depot

Celebrating a Historic Journey: Goleta Depot’s Move to Lake Los Carneros

November 18, 2024November 19, 2024

On November 18, 1981, the Goleta Depot started its legendary journey from its original trackside location to its new home at Lake Los Carneros County Park, now a City of Goleta Park. Now, over 40 years later, we look back on this momentous night that forever preserved a piece of Goleta’s railroad history. The...

Gary Coombs: Visionary Leader and Founding Member of the Goleta Depot Committee

January 1, 2017November 11, 2024

Gary Coombs is a foundational figure in the history of the Goleta Depot and the South Coast Railroad Museum. As the chair of the Goleta Depot Committee formed in 1980, Gary was instrumental in saving the Goleta Depot from demolition, leading the effort to relocate and restore this iconic piece of history to its...

In Memoriam: Eugene G. Allen

April 22, 2016November 11, 2024

Eugene G. Allen (April 13, 1921 – April 21, 2016) was a dedicated and influential figure in the Goleta Depot Project, remembered for his remarkable craftsmanship, community spirit, and profound love of trains. As a member of the original Goleta Depot Committee formed in 1980, Gene was instrumental in the effort to save and...

In Memoriam: Phyllis J. Olsen

December 10, 2015November 11, 2024

The South Coast Railroad Museum mourns the loss of Phyllis Olsen, one of its most cherished and devoted leaders, who passed away on December 9, 2015. Phyllis’s legacy is woven into the fabric of the museum’s history and the preservation of the Goleta Depot. Early Life and Education Born in Seminole, Oklahoma, Phyllis Olsen...

In Memoriam: Raymond E. Baird

December 23, 1996November 24, 2024

Raymond E. Baird, a visionary architect and dedicated advocate for the preservation of Goleta’s history, passed away on December 22, 1996, leaving behind an enduring legacy. As the architect of the Goleta Depot preservation project, Ray’s expertise, humor, and passion were invaluable to the successful saving and restoration of the depot. Ray was one...

In Memoriam: George H. Adams

October 20, 1994November 24, 2024

The South Coast Railroad Museum honors the memory of George H. Adams, a founding member of the Goleta Depot Committee and a dedicated advocate for preserving Goleta’s history. George passed away on October 19, 1994, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of public service, dedication to community, and unwavering enthusiasm for...