Port Hueneme community recalls infamous bank robbery rehearsal that stunned spectators

The Port Hueneme Historical Museum's Distinguished Speaker Series featured a captivating session with Orvene S. Carpenter, who shared remarkable anecdotes from his life, including a humorous yet astonishing tale of a bank robbery rehearsal gone awry.

Carpenter recounted how, during a community event, members of the Women's Improvement Club dressed in their finest attire to stage a mock bank robbery. The plan was meticulously practiced, but on the day of the event, the group forgot to bring the counterfeit money. Instead, they convinced the bank president to withdraw $30,000 in real cash, believing it would enhance the authenticity of their performance. The event turned into a spectacle, with townsfolk unaware that they were witnessing a staged robbery. Carpenter humorously noted that the bank was left out $30,000, and the robbers vanished without a trace.

The discussion also touched on Carpenter's upbringing in Arkansas, where he grew up on a 320-acre farm, and his long-lasting marriage to Georgia, which lasted 75 years. He shared heartwarming stories about their life together, their three children, and the growing family that now includes six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, with a great-great-grandchild on the way.

Carpenter's anecdotes not only entertained but also painted a vivid picture of life in Port Hueneme and the strong community ties that have persisted through generations. His stories serve as a reminder of the rich history and vibrant culture that define the area, making the event a significant highlight for attendees.