Mission San Gabriel Arcangel - Definition and Overview

Mission San Gabriel Arcángel was founded on September 8, 1771 in present day Montebello by Father Junipero Serra. It was named for the Archangel Gabriel. The mission was designed by Father Antonio Cruzado. In 1776 a flood ruined the original Mission and they relocated closer to the mountains in present day San Gabriel.

The economy at Mission San Gabriel Arcángel was similar to the other missions in that they planted wheat, corn, and grapes, and raised cattle and sheep. It was also well known for its fine wines, and most of the soap and candles used at the other missions were made at the Mission San Gabriel Arcángel. Mission San Gabriel is located near to what became the city of Los Angeles, California.

The mission's church was used as a parish church for the city of San Gabriel from 1862 until 1908. In 1908, the Claretian Missionary Fathers came to San Gabriel and began the job of rebuilding and restoring the mission. On October 1, 1987 the Whittier-Narrows earthquake damaged the mission. It took many years to repair the buildings from the earthquake and the restoration continues today.

See also

• California mission