08/01/2026
Sixty-seven years ago, on July 31, 1959, my dad opened his business, Raul’s Market.
The store primarily catered to farm laborers and many of the industries in the area, filling an important need since there wasn’t a retail establishment between downtown Oxnard and the five labor camps that housed more than 5,000 laborers at the time.
The store was also known as “La Barquita” by the locals because my grandfather owned a store in Oxnard’s La Colonia neighborhood called “La Barca Market.”
In 1968, my dad acquired a liquor license and changed the name to “Raul’s Liquor.”
I personally have been working here since high school, and this business has been very good to our family. Today, my brother and I own the business, and we are extremely proud that we are still here after 67 years.
To this day, we have people walk through our doors for the first time, while others tell us they remember stopping by with their parents or grandparents many years ago. We truly enjoy hearing those stories. They are a reminder of the many generations of families who have been part of our journey.
On behalf of my brother and our family, I would like to sincerely thank each and every customer who has walked through these doors and supported us over the years. Your business, friendship, and loyalty mean more to us than words can express.
This anniversary is also a bit bittersweet. On August 15, it will be thirteen years since our dad passed away. One thing I know for certain is that as long as we are here serving our customers, a part of him will always be here too.
After all, this store was his dream, his life’s work, and his baby. Every time we unlock these doors, we are honored to continue the legacy he began 67 years ago.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this wonderful community for all these years. We are truly grateful.
