Mission San Antonio de Padua: History and Facts

Mission San Antonio de Padua was the third mission established in California on July 14, 1771, by Father Junipero Serra. Its full name, San Antonio de Padua de los Robles, translates to St. Anthony of Padua of the Oaks.

Interesting Facts about Mission San Antonio de Padua

Notably, Mission San Antonio is among the Spanish missions in California that has maintained its original surroundings the most. It was also the first mission to have a red tile roof.

The first recorded European wedding in California occurred at San Antonio Mission on May 16, 1773, when Juan Mariu Ruiz from El Fuerte, Sonora, Mexico, married Margarita de Cortona, a Salinan woman.

Where Is Mission San Antonio de Padua Located?

The mission is situated five miles northwest of the town of Jolon in Monterey County. For visitors seeking the address, hours, and directions, the Mission San Antonio Website provides accurate information.

History of Mission San Antonio de Padua: 1771 to the Present

In early 1771, Spanish missionaries explored an oak-filled valley on the central California coast, discovering a perfect location for the mission.

Father Serra famously rang a bronze bell, calling the local indigenous population to embrace Christianity: “Oh, ye Gentiles! Come to the Holy Church! Come to receive the faith of Jesus Christ!” After establishing the mission, he appointed Father Pieras and Father Buenaventura Sitjar to oversee it.

In 1773, the mission was relocated to improve access to water. The missionaries constructed several buildings and started cultivating crops such as corn and wheat. By 1774, records indicated a thriving mission with 178 Indian neophytes and livestock including 68 cattle and 7 horses.

Moreover, in 1776, San Antonio hosted the explorer de Anza on his overland expedition from Mexico to California.

San Antonio Mission 1800-1820

The mission experienced its peak prosperity between 1801 and 1805, employing around 1,296 indigenous workers who engaged in various trades such as fabric weaving and leather production. In 1806, a water-powered mill was constructed, further enhancing productivity.

San Antonio Mission in the 1820s-1830s

By 1827, San Antonio Mission expanded its agricultural capabilities, boasting over 7,362 cattle, 11,000 sheep, and 300 horses. The mission produced wine and baskets, demonstrating its significant contribution to the local economy.

Secularization and San Antonio Mission

In 1834, the Mexican government ended the mission system, leading to the decline of the local Native population, which dropped to only 140 individuals by 1841. The property was ultimately overseen by a priest, Father Ambris, who attempted to maintain the mission’s integrity until his death in 1882.

San Antonio Mission in the 20th Century

Presently, San Antonio Mission is located near Fort Hunter-Liggett. Its remote location has helped preserve its historical significance and appearance since its founding in 1771.

Mission San Antonio de Padua Layout and Buildings

By 1774, essential buildings were completed, including those for the neophytes. The introduction of the first red tile roof in California marked a significant achievement for the mission.

Subsequently, a new church measuring 133 feet long was built between 1779 and 1780. Throughout the 1800s, the mission underwent numerous renovations, although some structures collapsed during heavy rains in 1825. In 1906, an earthquake caused further damage, but reconstruction efforts began in 1940 with the support of the Hearst Foundation.

The priests utilized materials from the original structures, believing in a traditional approach to restoration.