Designed by J. W. Newcum, the "Octagon" served Santa Cruz County for 86 years as its Hall of Records, at the southwest corner of Front and Cooper Streets.
The County flag was designed by Ed Penniman, a Soquel resident. In describing the symbolism of the flag design, Mr. Penniman stated that the main symbol of the evergreen tree against a white background represents "reverence for nature and growth,…