Javier Servin

Passion for Local History

Javier Servin, known as “Foo Howser,” greets the world with a profound passion for local history particularly focused on California. His belief is that travel isn’t necessary to uncover rich historical narratives, as intriguing stories lie hidden in one’s own city. This passion was ignited in the fourth grade with a school project on California missions, through which he learned about the Chumash people. His discovery that indigenous history existed right in his backyard sparked his lifelong interest in the history of California.

Inspired by Huell Howser

Javier’s style and approach to documenting history are deeply inspired by Huell Howser, a renowned figure in California history television. He has watched every single episode of Howser’s shows, which span across different programs and topics. Howser’s ability to make even the seemingly mundane aspects of history fascinating greatly influenced Javier. He emphasizes tangible, contemporary history that people today can visit and experience. By visiting and documenting historical sites, Javier feels he is keeping Howser’s legacy and spirit alive, making history accessible and engaging for a modern audience.

Educational Background and Expertise

Javier’s academic achievements bolster his role as a historian. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from UC Merced, with a special focus on California history, and a master’s degree in moving image archive studies from UCLA. His professional experience as an archivist, where he manages and preserves digital media for a Hollywood studio, gives him a comprehensive skill set in research and archiving. This background equips him to tackle historical topics with depth and accuracy, ensuring that his content is well-researched and reliable.

Use of Social Media for Storytelling

Leveraging social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, Javier creates short, engaging videos that bring historical narratives to life. His videos are often concise, offering digestible bits of history that are easily accessible to a broad audience. The feedback he receives from viewers highlights the positive impact of his work, as many express newfound pride in their local communities. By utilizing these platforms, Javier reaches a wide audience, promoting historical awareness and encouraging people to explore the history around them.

Support from Family

Javier credits much of his success to the unwavering support of his wife, who acts as his camerawoman and biggest encourager. Her suggestion to turn his insightful historical musings into shareable content was the catalyst for what has become Californiography. This family support system not only aids in the technical production of his works but also serves as an emotional backbone. Together, they navigate various historical sites, doing the research and legwork required to produce informative and engaging content.

Future Plans and Expansion

Looking ahead, Javier plans to broaden his scope beyond Southern California to cover other regions such as San Diego and the Central Valley. He aims to delve into less commonly known historical sites and stories, bringing them into the spotlight. Upcoming projects include a detailed look into local chains like Baker’s Drive-Thru. His future content will continue to unearth the rich historical tapestry of California, providing his audience with deeper insights and encouraging explorations of their state’s heritage. Javier’s meticulous research and dedication ensure that each story he tells is both informative and captivating, sustaining the viewer’s interest in local history.