This page presents a history for Mission San Juan Bautista; founded 24 June 1797 by Padre Fermin Francisco de Lasuén and named for Saint John the Baptist. read more
1835: The mission became secularized, but continued to serve as the local parish church. Services have been held there continuously. 1839: The new pueblo became the town of San Juan Bautista. 19 November 1859: President James Buchanan returned the mission to the Church. 1865: Belfry constructed. read more
Mission San Juan Bautista and The San Juan Valley The mission was established only 13 days after Father Lasuen dedicated the mission at San Jose. The area was less dangerous than some other mission sites. The San Juan Valley was nevertheless an eventful place to build a structure. It’s located directly above the fault. read more
Mission San Juan Bautista is a Spanish mission in San Juan Bautista, San Benito County, California. Founded on June 24, 1797 by Fermín Lasuén of the Franciscan order, the mission was the fifteenth of the Spanish missions established in present-day California. Named for Saint John the Baptist, the mission is the namesake of the city of San Juan Bautista. read more