CASTROVILLE, Calif. -- History of Artichokes in Castroville. We're putting the spotlight on a city of just about 7,000 people know for a very green, delicious food.
We're talking about Castroville and how its famous artichokes bring people in from all around the world. When you see artichoke signs and pictures plastered all around town you know you're in Castroville, but one of the most unique parts about this town isn't just the foods its also the camaraderie that the people who live here share.
"It feels like cheers, everybody knows your name you know everybody goes around and you can make a difference in this town," said Eric Tynam. "It takes a village to raise children. That's what happens here. Everyone knows each other," said Diana Jimenez.
Diana Jimenez has called Castroville home for more than 30 years. Her favorite part about this town is the diversity. "Japanese heritage, Italian heritage, Mexican heritage," said Jimenez.
But people aren't the only thing that brought diversity to Castroville. Ocean Mist Vice President of Production Dale Huss says artichokes have a rich history from oversees. "Certainly from the Mediterranean, they're native to Spain, probably started maybe in Morocco," said Huss.
Dale Huss made his life's work artichokes and is proud Castroville is easily the biggest producer in the world. The artichoke first made a name for itself in Castroville in the 1920s and put the town on the map. "The artichoke is special to Castroville because people have grown up with the artichoke," said Huss.
It's even drawn attention from Hollywood. In 1948 Marilyn Monroe was crowned the first Artichoke Festival Queen. "It's the official vegetable of Monterey county. So I mean not only are artichokes fun to eat but they're absolutely fun to grow and we encourage everybody to eat at least one a week," said Huss.
Marilyn Monroe isn't the only person to take home a crown at the Artichoke Festival. Famous for his audition on FOX's American Idol, William Hung was also Artichoke King in 2006.
