Information on Mission San Francisco de Asis

Mission San Francisco de Asis, better known as Mission Dolores, in San Francisco, California, was settled under Pope Alexander VI's direction. In 1493, the Pope declared that missionaries would travel with Spanish and Portuguese explorers. The priests would settle, establish missions and instruct natives about Catholicism.

History

On October 9, 1776, Mission San Francisco de Asis (then known as Dolores) was established on the shores of Laguna Dolores.

Significance

The town of Saint Francis grew up around Mission Dolores, but did not flourish due to the area's climate and geography.

Considerations

Mission Dolores provided protection and resources, but indigenous peoples remained wary. The missionaries brought diseases and strange lifestyles the natives didn't understand.

Benefits

The California Gold Rush brought more than 20,000 newcomers to the area, boosting Mission Dolores' parish.

Expert Insight

Mission Dolores held together during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, making it the oldest building in the city.

References

• California Mission History: San Francisco de Asis

Resources

• San Francisco de Asis (Mission Dolores)