One of my favorite things about California history is that of the Spanish missions. It is a goal of mine to visit each of them, and before this last Tuesday, I had only been to three of them. Mission San Juan Capistrano, often described as the “jewel” of the missions, is not too far from us, and is absolutely stunning, so gear up for a pretty gosh darn picture heavy post!
Founded November 1, 1776, Mission San Juan Capistrano is large, and lush, featuring a church, housing, plaza and patio, as well as lush garden, where the first vineyard was planted in California. What was called the “Great Stone Church” was completed in 1806, and offered a beautiful place to worship for six years until tragedy struck on December 8, 1812, when a massive earthquake occurred. The roof of the Great Stone Church collapsed, killing 40 worshipers, as well as the two boys who were ringing the bells. This tragedy makes Mission San Juan Capistrano one of California’s most haunted locations, with various claims of apparitions, and even SyFy’s Ghost Hunters filmed there, capturing compelling evidence. Today the ruins of the Great Stone Church remain, and are one of the few true ruins in America.
Despite the tragedy of 1812, Mission San Juan Capistrano still holds a majestic beauty for visitors to enjoy, and I loved walking around its grounds and learning more about the Native Americans of California, and the Spanish colonists.
Outfit
Dress: Retro Rejuvenation, Coburg, Oregon
Belt: Umm… Don’t remember…
Hat: Ricochet, Joshua Tree, California
Shoes: Re-Mix
Purse: Buffalo Exchange
Donkey Brooch & Charm Bracelet: Found by my dad
Turquoise Ring: Expo, I think…
Filed under: Clothing, Photography Portfolio Tagged: 1700s, 1800s, 1950s, California, California history, California Mission, ghosts, Mission San Juan Capistrano, outfit post, personal photography, Spanish Mission, tooled leather, vintage, vintage clothing, vintage fashion
