Missions of California - San Gabriel Arcángel

Mission San Gabriel Arcangel was founded September 8, 1771, by Father Junipero Serra. Fourth in the mission chain, it was named for the Archangel Gabriel. Unique to this mission is the mosque-like appearance, believed to be modeled after the Cathedral of Cordova in Spain.

Mission San Gabriel grew to be the "Pride of the Missions". Large herds of cattle provided the means for tallow-rendering, soap-making and tanning hides. The native Gabrielino Indians were skilled wine makers, producing as much as 50,000 gallons annually. In 1811, San Gabriel reaped one of the largest wheat crops ever recorded by the mission chain.

Secularization hit San Gabriel hard. Meager care was maintained, but the mission was never totally deserted, as some of the Native Americans remained and a priest came weekly to say mass. In 1908 the Claretian Order began the job of rebuilding and restoring the mission. Damage from a 1987 earthquake caused serious structural damage, and restoration is ongoing.

The mission still has an active role in the local community, providing ministry through its churches and schools.