Early California Resource Center

  • About
  • Articles
  • Podcast
  • Newsletter
  • Curriculum
  • Resources
    • Maps
    • Other Resources
  • Shop/Support
    • California History Lesson Plans
    • Support the Podcast
    • Books
    • T-shirts/mugs

Native Vaqueros in Alta California

By Damian Bacich

Native Vaqueros on the California Frontier

Vaqueros were the most important workers in the mission and rancho eras. And some of the first vaqueros were Native American. Learn more about these unique figures on the California frontier. What Does “Vaquero” Mean? The word vaquero is usually translated as “cowboy” in English and literally means “someone in charge of cows.” It also […]

Filed Under: Mexican California, Missions, Native American Life, Podcast Tagged With: horses, Ranchos, soldados, Vaqueros

The Anza Expedition of 1775-76: Members and Their Families

By Damian Bacich

In January of 1776, Juan Bautista de Anza arrived in Alta California with just over 200 men, women and children from Tubac in today’s Arizona.

Filed Under: Exploration, Settlement Tagged With: Felipe de Neve, Juan Bautista de Anza, Los Californianos, pobladores, soldados, Tubac, vecinos

Teaching Materials for the Whole Year

California History Teachers

Alta California Tees and More

Alta California T-shirt

Affiliate disclosure

The California Frontier Project is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, as well as other programs.  Affiliate advertising programs like the Amazon Associates Program are designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and other retailers.

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Copyright © 2025 · Damian Bacich

  • About
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Use of Artwork
  • Disclaimers