'Aloha Vaqueros' Exhibition
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The San Diego History Center in Balboa Park presents "Aloha Vaqueros," an exhibition that delves into the fascinating and rarely-told cultural fusion between San Diego, California and Mexico's vaqueros (cowboys), and Hawaii’s paniolos, or "Hawaiian cowboys." This exhibit uncovers the shared history of these regions, showcasing the influence of vaquero traditions on modern ranching practices and cultural celebrations in San Diego, Mexico, and Hawaii. The exhibit highlights the intertwined heritage of vaqueros and paniolos and their lasting impact on the way land and livestock are cared for, emphasizing how these traditions have helped shape these regions’ identities.
'Aloha Vaqueros' Exhibit Opening RSVP
Historical Highlights: One of the exhibit's key stories centers on Joaquín Armas, a vaquero and soldier born at Mission San Diego de Alcalá. Armas gained recognition for his skills in cattle handling during the 19th century. His expertise caught the attention of King Kamehameha III of Hawaii, who, in the 1830s, invited Armas to advise him on managing the islands' expanding cattle population. This cattle population had originated from a gift given by Captain George Vancouver to King Kamehameha I in 1793. Armas recruited three additional vaqueros from San Diego to accompany him, bringing vaquero traditions to Hawaii—traditions that continue to be celebrated today.
Exhibit Features: The "San Diego Aloha Vaqueros" exhibit showcases unique artifacts, historical documents, and interactive multimedia displays and will be open to the public from Oct. 17, 2024, through May 2025. The original exhibit was created by the Museo del Vaquero de las Californias (MUVACA), located in El Triunfo, Baja California Sur, Mexico, and is dedicated to preserving vaquero culture in the Californias. The Aloha Vaqueros exhibition at MUVACA was made possible by the support of Ándale La Paz, A.C., the Alumbra Innovations Foundation, and the U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana.
San Diego History Center: Founded in 1928, the San Diego History Center is committed to creating a healthy, vibrant, and inclusive community by connecting people with the region’s past, present, and future. A Smithsonian Affiliate, the History Center operates its Museum and Archive in Balboa Park and the Junípero Serra Museum in Presidio Park.
Acknowledgments: The "San Diego Aloha Vaqueros" exhibit is made possible with the generous support of Ándale La Paz, A.C., Alumbra Innovations Foundation, Alaska Airlines, Thompson & Jane Fetter, Robert J. Watkins, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, and the members of the San Diego History Center.
The operating days and times are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
