Mission San Buenaventura
In March 1782, Junipero Serra celebrated a High Mass and dedicated a mission to San Buenaventura, the ninth and last founded during his lifetime. Under the direction of Padre Cambon, whom Serra left in charge, a system of aqueducts were built by the local Chumash Indians to meet the needs of the Mission population. With plentiful water, the Mission was able to maintain its orchards and gardens. The first church was destroyed by fire in 1793 and not rebuilt until 1812. The water system was destroyed by floods in 1862. Child education has been a mission focus and flourished particularly since Holy Cross School was dedicated in September 1922. The mission is located in the historic downtown of Ventura and remains an active Catholic parish. It is a California Historical Landmark.
Ventura, Ventura County
Photographer: Andrew Schmidt