Mission Santa Clara de Asís

Mission Santa Clara de Asís, nestled in the heart of Santa Clara, California, is a beacon of history and spirituality. Founded on January 12, 1777, by the Franciscans, it stands as the eighth mission in the chain of 21 California missions. Named after Saint Clare of Assisi, the mission holds the unique distinction of being the first to honor a woman. It is not only the namesake of the city and county but also the cornerstone of Santa Clara University, the oldest institution of higher education in California.

The Historical Journey

The mission's story begins at the Native American village of So-co-is-u-ka, meaning Laurelwood, on the banks of the Guadalupe River. The Franciscans established the mission to convert the local Ohlone people to Christianity. However, the mission's early years were fraught with natural disasters. Floods, fires, and earthquakes necessitated multiple relocations, with the current site dating back to 1828.

Initially, the mission faced tension with the nearby Pueblo de San José over land and water rights. This conflict was resolved when two hundred Native Americans constructed a road, the Alameda, linking the two communities. By 1803, the mission had a thriving Native American population of 1,271 and boasted extensive agricultural activities, including cattle, sheep, horses, mules, swine, and grain production.

Secularization and Transformation

The Mexican secularization act of 1833 marked a turning point for Mission Santa Clara. Most of its land and livestock were sold off, and the buildings continued to function as a parish church. By 1836, the mission's Native Americans were freed, leading to significant changes in their way of life. Many moved to the Central Valley, while others stayed and worked for the new ranchos.

With California's statehood in 1850, the Jesuit order took over the mission from the Franciscans. Father John Nobili, S.J., transformed the site into a college, which eventually became Santa Clara University. Despite numerous rebuildings due to natural disasters, the mission has remained a central figure in the community. The bells, a gift from King Charles III of Spain, have rung faithfully every evening since 1777, honoring a promise made to the king.

Architectural Splendor and Modern Role

Mission Santa Clara's architecture has evolved over the centuries. In 1861, a wooden façade with two bell towers was added, and the interior was widened in 1885. However, a devastating fire in 1925 led to significant reconstruction. The rebuilt mission, consecrated in 1929, now serves as the university chapel and a centerpiece of the campus. Visitors can explore the mission daily, with the mission museum located in the university's De Saisset Museum.

Santa Clara Mission Cemetery

The Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, established alongside the mission in 1777, continues to be a place of reverence and history. In 1851, due to space constraints, the cemetery was relocated near the adobe home of Fernando Berryessa. The 1930s saw the completion of the first indoor mausoleum, and in 2015, the St. Ignatius Outdoor Mausoleum Complex was added to accommodate the growing demand for mausoleum burials.

Notable Burials

The cemetery is the final resting place for several notable figures, including Peter Hardeman Burnett, the first elected governor of California, and Marv Owen, a celebrated baseball player. It also houses the graves of Cardinal Ignatius Kung Pin-Mei, the Catholic Bishop of Shanghai, and Archbishop Dominic Tang, a prominent Chinese Jesuit priest.

Visiting Mission Santa Clara de Asís

Visiting Mission Santa Clara de Asís is a journey through time. As you walk through its hallowed grounds, you can almost hear the echoes of the past. The mission's architecture, with its adobe walls and red-tiled roofs, transports you to a bygone era. The serene chapel, with its beautiful altar and stained-glass windows, offers a place for reflection and contemplation.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the mission museum, where artifacts and exhibits tell the story of the mission's rich history. The De Saisset Museum, located on the university campus, provides additional insights into the mission's past and its impact on the local community.

Mission Santa Clara de Asís is more than just a historical landmark; it is a living testament to the resilience and faith of the people who built and sustained it. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this mission is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Mission Santa Clara de Asís stands as a symbol of endurance and transformation. Its walls have witnessed centuries of change, from its humble beginnings in 1777 to its current role as the heart of Santa Clara University. As you explore this historic site, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the mission's enduring legacy and its significance in California's history.