<p>Established on December 8, 1787 La Purisima Mission is the eleventh of twenty-one missions in California.  Between 1787 and 1812, La Purisima Mission thrived in terms of population and economic growth as well as increases in farming and livestock operations.</p> <p>December 21, 1812 changed everything.  A large earthquake followed by a series of large rainstorms destroyed the mission site.  The year 1812 is now known as The Year of the Earthquakes.</p> <p>Following the devastating earthquake of 1812, the Mission Padres sought permission to relocate La Purisima Mission to a site located four miles away.  Construction at the current location began in the spring of 1813.</p><p>Today, the original site of La Purisima Mission is known as "Mission Vieja" or the "Old Mission".  Visitors can still see some of the original walls and entry way to the church.  A vast majority of the site is covered by a neighborhood that was constructed during the mid-1900s.     <br /></p>

<p>Come along as we explore the science behind how water filtered, used and brought to the residents at La Purisima Mission!</p>

<p>Are you ready to see the magic behind La Purisima Mission's Weaving Shop?  Come along, let's explore!</p>

<p>Explore the wonders behind the La Purisima Mission Visitor Center!  In this unit, you will find a link to a Self-Guided Interactive Tour and numerous photographs that document the stories behind La Purisima Mission.</p>

<p>In 1834, Secularization of the 21 Missions of California was enforced.  This meant California Missions were either converted into Catholic Churches or reduced to ranches, or to other uses.  As a result La Purisima Mission property and land holdings were divided into ranches.</p> <p>As the years progressed the property was bought and sold a number of times. In 1845, La Purisima Mission was sold to Juan Temple of Los Angeles for $1,000. At the close of the 19th century the property was so badly neglected the adobe buildings, and other features of the Mission eventually collapsed from weather and lack of upkeep.</p> <p>In 1933, Union Oil Company obtained ownership of La Purisima Mission for oil speculation, and the condition of the Mission was in complete ruin. It wasn't until 1934, when preservation and reconstruction of the Mission began through efforts of the County of Santa Barbara, the State of California, the National Park Service, and the Civilian Conservation Corps. </p> <p>This collection shows the neglect and decay of the adobe buildings at  La Purisima  Mission through the lens of history.<br /></p> <p><br /></p> <p><br /></p>

<p>Discover the history behind La Purisima Mission State Historic Park!  Explore the vast history by examining the signage and displays of the Mission.</p>