La Purisima Mission, founded 1787, is one of the state's notable State Historical Parks. The mission was destroyed by earthquakes in 1812, but was rebuilt and La Purisima grew into a thriving community. At its height, more than 1000 converts and more than 20 000 livestock called the mission home.
The current state park is comprised of 2000 of the mission's original 300 000 acres. The buildings have been restored, and a 5-acre garden brings to life the original mission type gardens while burros, horses, sheep, goats, and longhorn cattle, are on display. Tourists can visit the farm compound, and then explore the 25 miles of hiking trails.
The special events day include Mission life days, candlelight tours, mountain men, and village days. The Village days bring to life the skills and crafts including acorn grinding, basket weaving, arrow making, how to make dolls, and how to build a Tule house.
The mountain men day happens twice a year. Members of the American Mountain Men set up camp at the mission, display their skills, and eagerly explain how men survived in the wilderness. Visitors can watch a deerskin prepared for tanning, and making clothing.
The highlight social event is La Purisima Mission State Historic Park Founding Day, November 1, where patrons and guests enjoy an evening of candlelight and music, followed by refreshments.
A step into the past is the best way to help children learn where they came from, and their 'roots.' Bring history to life by visiting the mission. The daily, self-guided tours run 9am — 5pm. Hosted tours begin at 1pm and last 60 — 90 minutes.
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