WATSONVILLE — While nearly 40 people have served at the helm of Watsonville over its 150-year history, the city’s first official mayor is a point of contention.
When Watsonville elected Richard Quinn as its first mayor under its recently granted charter in 1903, a recount demanded by his challenger William Trafton showed that Quinn had actually lost by a few votes. Trafton was sworn into office shortly after.
Since then, Watsonville has seen many people come and go as mayor, many of which have a history as varied and diverse as the city itself.
Fred Atkinson, mayor of Watsonville from 1921-1927, was the owner of the Watsonville Register during his time in city politics, and Ann M. Soldo became the city’s first female mayor in 1983, more than 100 years after Watsonville was incorporated.
C.H. Baker holds the title of the longest-served mayor of Watsonville, from 1927 to 1951, while Ana Ventura Phares became the first Latina elected to the seat in 2004.
Current Mayor Lowell Hurst is now in his third stint, having served in the role from 1993-1994 and 2012-2013.
In advance of the city’s 150th anniversary on Friday, the Watsonville City Council recognized mayors and councilmembers from the past quarter century on Tuesday.
Hurst said this year has been the “toughest” compared to his previous terms as mayor, based on the volume of work that needs to be done.
“To be the mayor on the 150th birthday of the City of Watsonville, it is indeed quite an honor and a weighty responsibility as well,” he said.
He added that he appreciated all the former mayors and councilmembers being in attendance Tuesday.
“We should encourage public service whenever we can,” Hurst said.
Luis Alejo, mayor from 2009-2010, is currently the chair of the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, and presented a proclamation to Watsonville from the board.
“It’s really an honor to be back in my hometown,” he said.
The meeting kicked off a year of events Watsonville has planned for the 150th anniversary of its incorporation on March 30, 1868.
On Friday at 5:30 p.m., the city will host a celebration in the Watsonville Plaza. The event, open to the public, will include music by the Watsonville Community Band, cupcakes and activities.
Events throughout the year include a concert in October by Watsonville native Andy Vargas, who is the lead singer of the rock band Santana. In addition, a time capsule will be buried in November.
The events were organized with the help of a committee comprised of city staff, council members and community members, who have been meeting monthly for the past year to plan the 150th anniversary celebrations.
“We have been doing a lot of work to prepare for this historical celebration,” said Tamara Vides, assistant to the city manager.
For information, visit watsonville150.org.
