- Mission San Diego de Alcalá – July 16, 1769
- Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo – June 3, 1770
- Mission San Antonio de Padua – July 14, 1771
- Mission San Gabriel Arcángel – September 8, 1771
- Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa – September 1, 1772
- Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores) – October 9, 1776
- Mission San Juan Capistrano – November 1, 1776
- Mission Santa Clara de Asís – January 12, 1777
- Mission San Buenaventura – March 31, 1782
- Mission Santa Barbara – December 4, 1786
- Mission La Purísima Concepción – December 8, 1787
- Mission Santa Cruz – August 28, 1791
- Mission Nuestra Señora de la Soledad – October 9, 1791
- Mission San José – June 11, 1797
- Mission San Juan Bautista – June 24, 1797
- Mission San Miguel Arcángel – July 25, 1797
- Mission San Fernando Rey de España – September 8, 1797
- Mission San Luis Rey de Francia – June 13, 1798
- Mission Santa Inés – September 17, 1804
- Mission San Rafael Arcángel – December 14, 1817
- Mission San Francisco Solano – July 4, 1823
1. Mission San Diego de Alcalá
Founded on July 16, 1769, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission San Diego de Alcalá was the first Spanish mission in Alta California, established to convert the Kumeyaay people and secure Spanish presence. Located in present-day San Diego, it served as a gateway for subsequent missions along El Camino Real. The mission’s whitewashed adobe walls, red-tiled roof, and simple bell tower reflect early mission architecture. Despite early struggles with scarce resources and Kumeyaay resistance, including a 1775 attack that destroyed the original site, it became a hub of agricultural and economic activity. The mission’s fertile lands supported extensive farming and ranching, with neophytes cultivating wheat, barley, corn, and grapes for wine used in Catholic Mass.
Revenue primarily came from agriculture, livestock, and the hide and tallow trade. By 1832, the mission owned approximately 20,000 cattle, 30,000 sheep, and 2,000 horses, contributing to its wealth through meat, hides, and tallow. Tallow works were critical, with large vats outside the mission producing rendered fat for candles, soap, and ointments, which were traded with merchant ships from New England and Britain. Hides, known as “California banknotes,” were a key export, processed in tanning vats lined with adobe bricks and treated with oak bark tannic acid. The mission also produced leather goods like saddles and shoes, crafted by KumeyaayHannahs (Trs) and shoes, crafted by Kumeyaay neophytes under Franciscan supervision. Additional revenue came from olive oil and wine production, with vineyards yielding sherry and cognac. The mission’s self-sufficiency sustained the local military and civilian population, though secularization in 1833 led to its decline, with lands redistributed to private ranchers. Today, the restored mission, a National Historical Landmark, showcases its historical significance, with a museum displaying artifacts like original bells and neophyte tools.
2. Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo
Established on June 3, 1770, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, near present-day Carmel, was Serra’s favorite and served as mission headquarters. Its stone church, with a Moorish-style arched facade and twin bell towers, stands amid lush gardens and oak-covered hills. The mission evangelized the Esselen and Ohlone peoples, teaching them European farming and crafts. Despite early food shortages, including a winter of gruel and peas in 1773-74, it became agriculturally prosperous by the early 1800s.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and agriculture. By 1832, it managed 15,000 cattle, 10,000 sheep, and 1,500 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works, located outside the quadrangle, produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in large vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, including saddles and clothing, traded with ships along the coast. The mission’s farms yielded 100,000 bushels of wheat, barley, and corn annually, with vineyards producing wine for Mass and trade. Carpentry and blacksmithing shops crafted furniture and tools, enhancing self-sufficiency. The mission’s aqueduct system irrigated fields, ensuring stable crop yields despite droughts.
Serra and Father Lasuen are buried in the sanctuary, adding spiritual significance. Secularization in 1834 transferred lands to rancheros, but the mission was restored in the 20th century as a Catholic parish. Its museum houses rare manuscripts and neophyte artifacts, reflecting its role in California’s early economy. The mission’s serene setting and historical richness draw visitors, preserving its legacy as a cultural and religious cornerstone.
3. Mission San Antonio de Padua
Founded on July 14, 1771, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission San Antonio de Padua lies in a remote valley in Monterey County, surrounded by oak-studded hills. Built for the Salinan people, its adobe church with a fired-tile roof—the first in California—housed over 1,000 neophytes by 1810. The mission’s rustic charm, with a simple bell tower and shaded courtyard, reflects its isolation, yet it thrived as an agricultural center.
Revenue stemmed from livestock, crops, and tallow production. At its peak, the mission owned 20,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep, and 2,000 horses, driving the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works processed fat into candles and soap, with vats situated near tanning pits where hides were soaked in tannic acid for leather goods like boots and saddles. The mission’s 10,000 acres of land supported wheat, barley, and grape cultivation, with vineyards producing wine and brandy. Neophytes, trained in blacksmithing and weaving, crafted tools and textiles, bolstering trade with coastal merchants.
The mission’s aqueduct and gristmill enhanced irrigation and grain processing, ensuring food security. Despite its prosperity, secularization in 1834 led to land loss, and the mission fell into ruin. Restored in the 20th century, it now operates as a retreat center, with a museum displaying Salinan artifacts and mission-era tools. Its serene, untouched setting offers a glimpse into California’s pastoral past, with annual festivals celebrating its heritage.
4. Mission San Gabriel Arcángel
Established on September 8, 1771, by Fathers Cambón and Somera, Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, in present-day San Gabriel, was a powerhouse of agriculture and trade. Its fortress-like stone church, with capped buttresses and a narrow bell tower, served the Tongva people. The mission’s lush gardens and vineyards created a vibrant economic hub, despite early tensions, including a 1785 Tongva uprising.
By 1828, the mission boasted over 42,000 animals, including 25,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep, and 2,500 horses, fueling a robust hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles, soap, and ointments, with neophytes rendering fat in adobe-lined vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with Boston merchants. The mission’s farms, among the most productive, yielded 200,000 bushels of wheat, corn, and beans annually, with olive oil and wine from extensive vineyards adding revenue. A soap factory and winery further diversified income, while neophytes crafted furniture and iron tools in mission workshops.
The mission’s aqueduct system irrigated vast fields, supporting self-sufficiency. Secularization in 1834 dispersed its lands, but restoration preserved its grandeur. Today, a museum showcases Tongva artifacts, rare paintings, and mission-era tools, with the winery ruins hinting at its economic past. The mission’s multicultural legacy, blending Spanish, Tongva, and Mexican influences, remains a vital part of Los Angeles County’s heritage.
5. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Founded on September 1, 1772, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, in present-day San Luis Obispo, served the Chumash people. Its L-shaped adobe church, with a red-tiled roof and belfry, sits in a picturesque valley. The mission overcame early crop failures to become a key agricultural and trade center, known for its hospitality.
Livestock was a primary revenue source, with 18,000 cattle, 12,000 sheep, and 1,800 horses by 1832. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats processing fat for trade with merchant ships. Hides were tanned in oak-bark vats for leather goods, including saddles and clothing. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and grapes, with vineyards yielding wine and sherry. Neophytes, skilled in carpentry and weaving, produced furniture and textiles, while a gristmill processed grain for export.
An innovative tile-making operation, using local clay, supplied roofing for missions and presidios, adding income. The mission’s aqueduct ensured reliable irrigation, supporting bountiful harvests. Secularization in 1834 led to decline, but the mission was restored as a parish church. Its museum displays Chumash artifacts and mission-era tools, with annual festivals celebrating its legacy. The mission’s serene plaza and historical charm make it a cultural gem in California’s Central Coast.
6. Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores)
Founded on October 9, 1776, by Father Francisco Palóu, Mission San Francisco de Asís, also known as Mission Dolores, sits in present-day San Francisco. Its modest adobe church, with a Baroque facade and tiled roof, served the Ohlone people. Despite a 1795 epidemic that decimated neophytes, the mission thrived as an agricultural and cultural center, with its cemetery one of the oldest in the city.
Revenue came from livestock and crops. By 1832, the mission owned 15,000 cattle, 10,000 sheep, and 1,200 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in outdoor vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with New England ships. The mission’s farms yielded wheat, corn, and beans, with vineyards producing wine for Mass and trade. Neophytes crafted furniture and textiles in mission workshops, while a small orchard provided fruit for local markets.
The mission’s aqueduct system irrigated fields, ensuring stable harvests. Secularization in 1834 led to its use as taverns and saloons, but it was restored as a parish church. Its museum houses Ohlone artifacts, stained-glass windows depicting all 21 missions, and rare vestments. The mission’s resilience, surviving earthquakes and urban growth, reflects its enduring role in San Francisco’s multicultural history.
7. Mission San Juan Capistrano
Established on November 1, 1776, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission San Juan Capistrano, in present-day Orange County, is famed for its annual swallow migration. Its Great Stone Church, partially ruined by an 1812 earthquake, complements the serene Serra Chapel, where Serra once held Mass. The mission served the Acjachemen people, blending Spanish and native cultures in its lush courtyards and Moorish fountains.
The mission’s economy thrived on livestock and agriculture. By 1831, it managed 20,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep, and 2,000 horses, driving the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats near tanning pits processing hides for leather goods like saddles and shoes. The mission harvested 234,879 bushels of wheat, barley, and beans, with vineyards yielding wine and brandy. A foundry, California’s first, smelted iron for tools, crosses, and cannon, boosting revenue. Neophytes also wove textiles and crafted furniture.
An aqueduct irrigated fields, ensuring robust crops. Secularization in 1833 dispersed its lands, but restoration preserved its elegance. The mission’s museum displays Acjachemen artifacts, rare paintings, and bell-ringing traditions honoring Serra. Its gardens and historical significance draw over 300,000 visitors annually, cementing its status as a cultural and economic pillar of early California.
8. Mission Santa Clara de Asís
Founded on January 12, 1777, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission Santa Clara de Asís, now on Santa Clara University’s campus, served the Ohlone people. Its third site, built in 1825, features a grand church with a tiled roof and vibrant frescoes. The mission’s rose gardens and wisteria-covered pergolas create a serene academic setting, unique among California missions.
Revenue stemmed from livestock and crops. By 1832, the mission owned 15,000 cattle, 12,000 sheep, and 1,500 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with coastal merchants. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and vegetables, with olive oil and wine from vineyards adding income. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, enhancing self-sufficiency.
An advanced irrigation system supported bountiful harvests, even during droughts. Secularization in 1834 led to land loss, but the mission was integrated into the university, preserving its church and artifacts. The museum displays Ohlone crafts, rare vestments, and mission-era bells. The mission’s role in the 1847 Battle of Santa Clara and its academic legacy highlight its enduring cultural and economic impact.
9. Mission San Buenaventura
Founded on March 31, 1782, by Father Junípero Serra, Mission San Buenaventura, in present-day Ventura, served the Chumash people. Its stone church, with an asymmetric bell tower and ornate fountain, sits along the Pacific coast, framed by palm trees. A seven-mile aqueduct from the Ventura River irrigated its fields, earning it the nickname “Mission by the Sea.”
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and agriculture. At its peak, it owned 41,000 animals, including 20,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep, and 2,500 horses, fueling the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles, soap, and ointments, with vats near tanning pits processing hides for leather goods. The mission’s farms yielded wheat, corn, and grapes, with vineyards producing wine and sherry. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, while a small orchard supplied fruit for trade.
The aqueduct ensured reliable crop yields, supporting self-sufficiency. Secularization in 1834 led to decline, but the mission was restored as a parish church. Its museum displays Chumash artifacts, rare paintings, and wooden bells, unique in California. The mission’s coastal charm and historical significance, including its role in the hide trade, make it a vibrant part of Ventura’s heritage.
10. Mission Santa Barbara
Established on December 4, 1786, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission Santa Barbara, known as the “Queen of the Missions,” served the Chumash people. Its twin bell towers, Doric facade, and Moorish fountain create a majestic presence. The mission’s rose gardens, abalone-encrusted Chumash altar, and intact aqueduct, still used by the city, reflect its grandeur and functionality.
Revenue came from livestock, crops, and trade. By 1832, the mission owned 25,000 cattle, 20,000 sheep, and 2,000 horses, driving the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in large vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with Boston ships. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and grapes, with vineyards yielding wine and brandy. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, while a winery and soap factory diversified income.
The mission’s aqueduct and reservoir ensured stable harvests. Secularization in 1834 spared it from full dissolution, and it remains an active parish. Its museum houses 1800s silk vestments, Chumash artifacts, and rare books. The mission’s architectural splendor and economic legacy, blending Spanish and native influences, make it a cultural cornerstone of Santa Barbara.
11. Mission La Purísima Concepción
Founded on December 8, 1787, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission La Purísima Concepción, in present-day Lompoc, served the Chumash people. Rebuilt after an 1812 earthquake, its linear adobe complex, with a tiled church and shaded cloister, is a state historic park. The mission’s oak-lined paths and restored workshops offer a vivid glimpse of mission life.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and agriculture. By 1810, it managed 20,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep, and 1,800 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats near tanning pits processing hides for leather goods. The mission’s farms yielded wheat, corn, and beans, with vineyards producing wine. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, while a soap factory and weaving shop added revenue.
An aqueduct irrigated fields, ensuring robust harvests. The 1824 Chumash Revolt briefly disrupted operations, but the mission recovered until secularization in 1834. Restored in the 1930s, it now showcases Chumash artifacts, mission-era tools, and livestock pens. The mission’s immersive historical reenactments and preserved workshops highlight its role as an economic and cultural hub in early California.
12. Mission Santa Cruz
Established on August 28, 1791, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission Santa Cruz, in present-day Santa Cruz, served the Ohlone and Yokuts peoples. Its original adobe church, destroyed by earthquakes, was replaced by a smaller replica in 1931. The mission’s cobblestone paths and flower-filled courtyard evoke its pastoral past, despite urban encroachment.
Revenue came from livestock and crops. By 1832, the mission owned 10,000 cattle, 8,000 sheep, and 1,000 horses, fueling the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with coastal merchants. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and beans, with a small vineyard yielding wine. Neophytes crafted furniture and textiles, supporting self-sufficiency.
An irrigation system supported agriculture, though floods occasionally damaged fields. Secularization in 1834 led to land loss, and the mission fell into disrepair. The replica church and museum, housing a reliquary with pieces of the Cross of Christ, preserve its legacy. The mission’s role in shaping Santa Cruz’s early economy and culture remains evident in its restored gardens and historical exhibits.
13. Mission Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
Founded on October 9, 1791, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, in present-day Soledad, served the Esselen and Ohlone peoples. Its isolated, windswept location near the Salinas River shaped its austere adobe church and quadrangle. Despite harsh conditions, the mission became a productive agricultural outpost by 1805.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and crops. By 1832, it owned 17,000 cattle, 10,000 sheep, and 1,200 horses, driving the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats processing fat for trade. Hides were tanned for leather goods, including saddles and clothing. The mission’s farms yielded 100,000 bushels of wheat and barley, with a small vineyard producing wine. Neophytes crafted furniture and textiles, while a gristmill processed grain for export.
An aqueduct irrigated fields, mitigating drought impacts. Secularization in 1834 led to ruin, but the mission was restored, with the chapel retaining its original tile floor. The museum displays Esselen artifacts and mission-era tools, reflecting its economic role. The mission’s solitude and historical significance offer a poignant reminder of California’s mission era.
14. Mission San José
Established on June 11, 1797, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission San José, in present-day Fremont, was the most productive northern mission, serving the Ohlone, Miwok, and Yokuts peoples. Its grand adobe church, rebuilt after an 1868 earthquake, features a tiled roof and ornate altar. The mission’s fertile lands and skilled neophytes drove its economic success.
Revenue came from livestock, crops, and trade. By 1832, the mission owned 12,000 cattle, 13,000 sheep, and 13,000 horses, fueling the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats near tanning pits processing hides for leather goods. The mission’s farms yielded wheat, barley, and vegetables, with olive oil and wine from vineyards adding income. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, while a winery and soap factory diversified revenue.
An aqueduct system ensured bountiful harvests. Secularization in 1834 dispersed its lands, but the mission was restored as a parish. Its museum displays Ohlone artifacts, rare vestments, and mission-era bells, reflecting its economic and cultural legacy. The mission’s role in shaping Fremont’s early history endures in its restored gardens and historical exhibits.
15. Mission San Juan Bautista
Founded on June 24, 1797, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission San Juan Bautista, in present-day San Juan Bautista, served the Mutsun and Yokuts peoples. Its large church, with three aisles and a magnificent altar, sits beside the San Andreas Fault, featured in Hitchcock’s Vertigo. The mission’s plaza and animal-paw-tiled floors add historical charm.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and crops. By 1832, it owned 15,000 cattle, 10,000 sheep, and 1,500 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with coastal merchants. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and beans, with vineyards yielding wine. Neophytes crafted furniture and textiles, enhancing self-sufficiency.
An irrigation system supported agriculture, though earthquakes posed challenges. Secularization in 1834 led to land loss, but the mission remained an active parish. Its museum houses Mutsun artifacts, silk vestments, and mission-era tools, preserving its legacy. The mission’s vibrant history and cultural significance, blending Spanish and native influences, make it a cornerstone of San Juan Bautista’s identity.
16. Mission San Miguel Arcángel
Established on July 25, 1797, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission San Miguel Arcángel, in present-day San Miguel, served the Salinan people. Its adobe church, with colorful frescoes and a simple bell tower, reflects Spanish colonial artistry. The mission’s shaded courtyard and restored workshops offer a glimpse into its pastoral life.
Revenue came from livestock and crops. By 1832, the mission owned 15,000 cattle.Symbols and insignia. Here are some of the most visible and meaningful of the papal symbols. … The archives’ treasures are the stuff of legend—but their existence is absolutely real. … HISTORY.com works with a wide range of writers and editors to create accurate and informative content.
Revenue came from livestock and crops. By 1832, the mission owned 15,000 cattle, 12,000 sheep, and 1,200 horses, fueling the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats near tanning pits processing hides for leather goods. The mission’s farms yielded wheat, barley, and beans, with a small vineyard producing wine. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, supporting self-sufficiency.
An aqueduct irrigated fields, ensuring stable harvests. Secularization in 1834 led to decline, but the mission was restored as a parish. Its museum displays Salinan artifacts, mission-era tools, and frescoes, reflecting its economic and cultural role. The mission’s serene setting and historical significance make it a vital part of San Miguel’s heritage, with annual festivals celebrating its legacy.
17. Mission San Fernando Rey de España
Founded on September 8, 1797, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission San Fernando Rey de España, in present-day Mission Hills, served the Tongva and Chumash peoples. Its large convento, the largest adobe structure in California, and flower-shaped fountain highlight its grandeur. The mission’s gardens and workshops were central to its economic vitality.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and crops. By 1832, it owned 20,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep, and 1,800 horses, driving the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats processing fat for trade. Hides were tanned for leather goods, including saddles and clothing. The mission’s farms grew wheat, corn, and grapes, with vineyards yielding wine and brandy. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, while a winery added revenue.
An aqueduct system irrigated fields, supporting bountiful harvests. Secularization in 1834 led to land loss, but the mission was restored, with the church, convento, and workshops open to visitors. Its museum displays Tongva artifacts, a 300-year-old statue of Saint Ferdinand, and mission-era tools, reflecting its economic and cultural legacy. The mission’s historical charm and vibrant gardens make it a key part of Los Angeles’ heritage.
18. Mission San Luis Rey de Francia
Established on June 13, 1798, by Father Fermín Lasuén, Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, in present-day Oceanside, was the largest mission, serving the Luiseño people. Its grand church, with a cruciform design and octagonal tower, and expansive quadrangle housed 2,869 neophytes by 1825. The mission’s lavish gardens and restored laundry system reflect its prosperity.
Revenue came from livestock, crops, and trade. By 1808, it owned 57,000 animals, including 27,000 cattle, 26,000 sheep, and 3,000 horses, making it the top livestock producer. Tallow works produced candles, soap, and ointments, with large vats processing fat. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with Boston ships. The mission’s farms yielded wheat, barley, and beans, with vineyards producing wine. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, while a soap factory and winery diversified income.
An advanced lavandería and aqueduct system irrigated fields, ensuring high yields. Secularization in 1834 led to decline, but the mission was restored as a retreat center. Its museum displays Luiseño artifacts, rare vestments, and mission-era tools, preserving its legacy. The mission’s grandeur and economic dominance cement its status as the “King of the Missions.”
19. Mission Santa Inés
Founded on September 17, 1804, by Father Estevan Tapis, Mission Santa Inés, in present-day Solvang, served the Chumash people. Its simple adobe church, with a tiled roof and bell tower, sits amid manicured gardens and oak-covered hills. The mission’s colorful frescoes and Chumash altar reflect its cultural richness, despite the 1824 Chumash Revolt.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and crops. By 1832, it owned 15,000 cattle, 10,000 sheep, and 1,500 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats near tanning pits processing hides for leather goods. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and beans, with vineyards yielding wine. Neophytes crafted furniture, textiles, and iron tools, enhancing self-sufficiency.
An aqueduct irrigated fields, ensuring stable harvests. Secularization in 1834 led to land loss, but the mission was restored as a parish. Its museum houses 1800s silk vestments, Chumash artifacts, and mission-era bells, reflecting its economic and cultural role. The mission’s serene setting and historical significance, blending Spanish and Chumash influences, make it a cherished part of Solvang’s heritage.
20. Mission San Rafael Arcángel
Established on December 14, 1817, by Father Vicente de Sarría, Mission San Rafael Arcángel, in present-day San Rafael, began as a hospital for Mission San Francisco’s sick neophytes, serving the Coast Miwok people. Its simple chapel, modeled after Carmel but torn down in 1870, was rebuilt in 1949. The mission’s star-shaped windows and modest courtyard reflect its medical origins.
Revenue came from livestock and crops. By 1832, the mission owned 10,000 cattle, 8,000 sheep, and 1,000 horses, fueling the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with neophytes rendering fat in vats. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with coastal merchants. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and beans, with a small vineyard yielding wine. Neophytes crafted textiles and simple tools, supporting self-sufficiency.
An irrigation system supported agriculture, though the mission’s focus was health care. Secularization in 1834 led to decline, but the replica chapel and museum, housing original bells and Miwok artifacts, preserve its legacy. The mission’s role as a sanitarium and its economic contributions highlight its unique place in California’s mission history.
21. Mission San Francisco Solano
Founded on July 4, 1823, by Father José Altimira, Mission San Francisco Solano, in present-day Sonoma, was the last and only mission established under Mexican rule, serving the Pomo and Wappo peoples. Its simple adobe church, with a tiled roof and small belfry, sits in Sonoma Plaza, tied to the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt. The mission’s vineyards laid the foundation for California’s wine industry.
The mission’s economy relied on livestock and crops. By 1832, it owned 8,000 cattle, 6,000 sheep, and 800 horses, supporting the hide and tallow trade. Tallow works produced candles and soap, with vats processing fat for trade. Hides were tanned for leather goods, traded with merchants. The mission’s farms grew wheat, barley, and grapes, with vineyards producing wine and cognac. Neophytes crafted textiles and simple tools, while a small orchard provided fruit.
An irrigation system supported agriculture, though secularization in 1834 ended its mission era. Now a state historic park, its museum displays Pomo artifacts, mission-era bells, and wine-making tools, reflecting its economic role. The mission’s historical and viticultural significance, blending Mexican and native influences, makes it a cornerstone of Sonoma’s cultural landscape.
