History Happy Hour: "A Whale of a Tale" with Nick Garcia

History Happy Hour with Nick Garcia

A Whale of a Tale

Nick Garcia shares the stories of the ups, the downs, and the adventures—and romance—of the dangerous, prosperous, and ultimately devastating whaling industry that played a major role in U.S. history. This program explores the rise of West Coast whaling and the global demand for whale oil, a highly sought-after commodity that lit lamps, lubricated machinery, and fueled industry in the 19th century. The promise of profit enticed daring seafarers to leave home and family for months—or even years—at sea.

Much of this era is viewed through the life and times of early Campbell settler Captain James A. Hamilton, whose experiences reflect both the risks and rewards of the whaling life. The story also follows what came after the sea, examining why Santa Clara County—with its fertile land, mild climate, and growing communities—became a welcome respite for retired whale captains who reinvented themselves as orchardists. It’s a tale of ambition, endurance, reinvention, and the unexpected ways global maritime history shaped life in the Santa Clara Valley.

Event Schedule

5:30–7:30 PM

• 5:30 PM: Doors open

• 5:30–6:00 PM: Appetizers and beverages

• 6:00–7:00 PM: Featured talk by Nick Garcia, followed by Q&A

• 7:00–7:30 PM: Informal discussion and mingling

About the Speaker

Nick Garcia

Campbell Museum Research Volunteer

Nick was born and raised in Santa Clara Valley (Cupertino) which included the obligatory cutting ‘cots each summer as a kid.  

After working over 35 years at Lockheed Martin as a mechanical engineer, Nick retired and has found a new passion as a history research volunteer for the Campbell History Museums. Nick has researched topics such as the Campbell Family history, The Ainsley Family (in Campbell and in England), the J.C. Ainsley Packing Company business itself, the 1921 Electric Car that is housed in the Campbell museum, as well numerous biographical summaries for many key people that make up Campbell’s past.

Nick’s family has ties to Campbell from back in the 50’s when his grandparents moved into their new house on N. Central Ave. and his mother was a contestant in the Miss Campbell contest in 1956.    Nick and his wife have lived in Campbell since 1998.