Mission San Rafael Arcángel Facts
Originally founded in 1817 as a hospital outpost for Mission Dolores, Mission San Rafael Arcángel was the first mission founded north of the San Francisco Bay.
Location:
1104 Fifth Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901
Date founded:
December 14, 1817
Patron saint:
The Archangel St. Raphael.
Founders:
Fathers Sarriá, Abella, Durán and Gil y Taboada.
Native peoples:
Coast Miwok, Wappo and Pomo.
Goods produced:
Wheat, barley, corn, beans, peas, lentils, garbanzos, pears, grapes.
Features:
Small replica chapel next to the larger parish church. Three of the original bells and painting of the mission’s patron, St. Raphael, are also preserved.
Current status:
Roman Catholic Parish.
Historical landmark number:
California Historical Landmark no. 220.
Interesting facts:
Mission San Rafael originally began as a hospital to take care of sick natives from Mission San Francisco de Asís. It was the first mission founded north of San Francisco Bay.
Important events:
- October 19, 1822: San Rafael Asistencia is officially raised to mission status.
- February, 1829: Ex-mission Indians, under the leadership of Marino and Quintin, attack the mission.
- 1846: U.S. Army Capt. John C. Frémont uses mission as headquarters during Mexican-American War.
- 1855: U.S. Government restores 6 1/2 acres to the Catholic Church.
Website: www.saintraphael.com