In this episode, I delve into the often overlooked history of the Spanish Presidios in California with expert Michael Hardwick, author of Spanish Arms and Armaments of the Presidios in California.

Michael shares his extensive research on Spanish military fortifications during the colonial period. We discuss the arms, armaments, and strategies of these garrisons, their role in supporting the missions, and their adaptation to coastal defenses.

Michael also shares personal anecdotes from his years of archaeological work at Presidio sites and his exploration of historical records, providing a fascinating glimpse into California's early military history.

00:00 Introduction to Spanish Presence in California
00:36 Meet Michael Hardwick: Expert on Presidios
03:17 Michael's Background and Work on the Presidio Project
04:22 The Historical Significance of Presidios
07:55 Uncovering the Foundations and Artifacts
16:08 The Evolution and Role of Presidios
22:06 The Armament and Defense Strategies
31:14 The Legacy of Spanish Artillery
40:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Purchase Spanish Arms and Armaments of the Presidios in California
or email Michael: mrhardwick@icloud.com
Michael's Book on Mission La Purísima

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damian@californiafrontier.net