03 Nov, 2009
California’s 21 Missions, Visiting Mission La Purisima in Lompoc
Posted by: Beach Reporter In: beaches| california| events
California’s 21 missions are a rich source providing information about the history of California. On any given day you’ll find bus loads of school children and bus loads of tourists pouring into the missions to look, smell, feel and learn about the history of a state steeped in international cultural influence from its very founding. Countries fought over the ownership of California…but the Spanish were the first to build missions and a road that was to connect these establishments a day’s walk apart along the Camino Real (King’s Highway). The missions began in Alta California (today’s Baja Mexico) and ended around Sonoma in Northern California.
While a few bricks or columns stand from the original missions, the structures have been artfully restored and fairly true to the original designs in most instances. La Purisima Concepcion ranks (among mission aficionados) as one of their favorites for its authentic look and feel.
Operated as a California State Park, the mission may experience some cutbacks during this economic crunch as it appeared on the park’s list of facilities that would be impacted in some way.
This particular mission has made great strides in offering hands-on, docent programs that offer all ages a real opportunity to feel what it must have felt to stand in the green fields, flanked by the gentle hills of the Central Coast amongst the goats and cattle. La Purisima Mission was the eleventh mission in California, and was founded on December 8, 1787 by Franciscan Padre Presidente Fermin Francisco Lasuen. When you visit the Central Coast, the closest place to stay near the mission is in Lompoc. We’ve stayed there many times and love it. Most travelers actually prefer staying in Solvang, so the choice is yours.
Founding Day Celebration: One of the most beautiful events at the mission is the evening of candlelight and music. 400 luminarias lead guests to the church for a musical performance by a local group. After the performance, guests are invited to La Sala to enjoy fellowship and refreshments. Because of limited seating, free tickets for this event become available November 1st. Note: Because of state budget cuts, this event also may be altered. Please call to find out. (805) 733-3713.
