2026 CHS Speaker Series Event: The Sinking of the Montebello

Join the Cambria Historical Society for an evening learning about one of the great unknown stories of World War II: the attack on and sinking of a U.S. commercial vessel, the SS Montebello, off the Central Coast of California in 1941. The CHS Speaker Series brings author Stuart McDowell for a presentation at the Sea Chest Oyster Bar restaurant, alongside a dedication of the ship’s wheel.

The Sea Chest is on the map prepared by N.O.A.A. as the referenced landmark location for the underwater wreckage of the Montebello, and the ship’s wheel now greets guests at the restaurant’s entrance. McDowell will speak on the significance of this event, a stunning occurrence that few are even aware happened at all. This is your chance to hear this untold story.

A wine bar and gourmet refreshments will be available at the event. Seating is limited to 50, so be sure to reserve your place online. Reservations are free for CHS members and $20 for non-members.