Join author and historian Eric Plunkett
Thursday, June 11, 2026
at Alta Vista Country Club, Placentia, CA
Social Hour / Silent Auction / Cash Bar: 5:30 p.m.
Dinner: 6:30 p.m. Presentation: 7:30 p.m.
Avast, ye lubberly swabs! Come hear local pirate lore and the true story of buccaneers’ raid on San Juan Capistrano. Historian Eric Plunkett will share swashbuckling tales he’s uncovered for his new book, The Saga of Orange County’s “Pirates”: Hippolyte Bouchard’s Attack on Mission San Juan Capistrano in 1818.
This raid even played a part in the Argentine War of Independence. And while not exactly like the pirates we know from Disneyland, tales of the exploits of Bouchard and his crew provide a compelling and enlightening window into Alta California during the collapse of the Spanish Empire.
Plunkett is a teacher and a Placentia native, and has a history degree from CSU Fullerton. He’s the author of scholarly articles, of his own Visions of California blog, and of several books (which will be available for sale).
Our buffet includes: roasted tri tip with shallot demi glaze, chicken piccata, mashed potatoes, saffron rice pilaf, seasonal vegetables, field green salad, rolls and butter, and NY-style cheesecake with strawberry puree.
Complimentary beverages include: water, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee.
Pirate-ish attire is encouraged but not mandatory. The venue requests no ripped or torn clothing, sleepwear, shorts, or immodest dresses.
This event is open to members and non-members alike, so bring yer shipmates!!
OCHS Members – $67
Non-members – $72
Email any questions to OCHSAnnualDinner@gmail.com. Confirmations will be made via email.
For those who wish to pay by check please download the registration flyer here.
Register Today! – For those dining with us, pre-payment must be received by May 29. (No walk-ins.)
No refunds after May 29, 2026.
Make checks payable to: Orange County Historical Society
Mail to: OCHS Annual Dinner, P.O. Box 10984, Santa Ana, CA 92711
or register via credit card at OrangeCountyHistory.org