The Rios Caledonia Adobe was built in 1846. It was a stage stop and a hotel on the route from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
1968 – Before Restoration
Over time things changed, the trains came and finally of course the roads. In 1968 the building was almost totally dissolved by weather.
Today, due to some hard work and steady efforts by the Friends of The Adobes. Rios Caledonia is well maintained and now a restored piece of history for San Luis Obispo County.
Caledonia Days Every September
Over the decades the the Rios Caledonia Adobe has been a residence for various families, a stagecoach stop, a tavern, a hotel, a mattress factory, and a tailor shop.
After sliding into grave disrepair in the 1960’s the building was purchased by the County of San Luis Obispo. The Friends of the Adobe was formed to protect, repair and restore Rios Caledonia. Major restoration was completed in 1972 and the Adobe was opened to the public for tours in 1978. A gift shop is also in the Adobe. Continue reading Rios Caledonia Adobe – Templeton CA→
The Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, named after a bishop from Toulouse France. Founded by Junipero Serra, it is one of the few missions that remains in the same location after all these years. Facing on to the mission plaza this church has been well taken care of over the years. If you come to the mission remember it is an operating church. Masses, christenings, weddings, funerals and other events are often in progress. There is a beautiful central garden that is hidden from most people as they are not as adventurous as they might be. The central garden has roses, a big pergola dripping with grapes, a space for big BBQ’s and connects to the parking area for handicapped church members. The three old bells are on display in the garden area. Now about those bells, there are five bells on in the church belfry. Most people only see the three on the front of the church, however on the north side there are two more. Each of the five bells has a unique name and tone. There is a plaque to the left of the main entrance with the history of the last bell replacements. Continue reading Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa→
Old Mission San Juan Bautista is like a big time machine to an era long gone. The grounds are set off very well due to the adobe fence all around that keeps the cars out! now with that said the buildings that are around the mission are set to be of the same era of the mission. This too adds to the charm. Now the museum has been rebuilt due to earthquakes. however it still maintains a wonderful feeling. The Museum is a look at the tools and the life that was in the past on the grounds and the model of the church in its hey day is eye opening.
My favorite was the gardens that are inside the compound and the many types of flowers and some of the cactus are so old! Wow I was so impressed. Well .. if you want to add another
The Gardens
mission tour to your been there done that list, then this one is a good call. The missions of California are a real set of
historical gems. Visit All the Missions – Collect the whole set!
NO. 195 MISSION SAN JUAN BAUTISTA AND PLAZA
– Founded June 24,1790, Mission San Juan Bautista, partly destroyed by the earthquakes of 1800 and 1906, was repeatedly restored.
The Chapel
The two bells it now uses were salvaged from its original chime. The plaza on its south, surrounded by old adobes, has witnessed many historic scenes, including General Frémont’s activities in 1846. Location: 2nd and Mariposa Sts, San Juan Bautista
Charley Carlin
About The Author Charley has many quests. One of those quests is to visit and explore all the California Missions and other missions throughout the southwest. Found all around the southwest in his Prius, he is a passionate seeker of those slightly odd and a bit different locales. He can also be found on his family blog – charley.net. his social media guide – Charley Carlin – Social Media Guide and via Reviews on YELP, Trip Advisor, Google Maps, and Google+.
Mission San Antonio de Padua is another old mission you might say. Well yes it is, but it is so much more. Our history is made of old things, old places and old stories. This place is full of stories and so full of history. The yarns that are spun and the truth that is told blend into a rich tapestry of early California with more characters that a grade school play.
Father Serra founded this mission. It is one of the nine that he founded, this one here in 1771.
There are 21 missions in total.
Huge Central Patio
Although rather stark outside the mission grounds are very well kept and clean.
Protection from the invasion of the wild critters in the surrounding area makes the central patio oh so cozy, with healthy plant life and fruit during the right time of year.
The faithful always find something in the gift shop and historical material abounds as well! The museum is well kept and so interesting. An overnight stay at the church will enable first hand enjoyment of the incredibly clear skies and possibly howling coyotes! Praying in the chapel, which was built of 200 years ago, brings history into sharp focus. The drive give great view of these wide open spaces in addition to frequent wildlife sightings.
Mission San Antonio – Mission Days
Authentic Costumes and Music
Mission Days at the San Antonio Mission is the biggest event of the year with authentic period music and dancing, historical story telling and choral music that is top quality. Finally get a program for this event from their website so you don’t miss any noteworthy events. Look for the event in early April every year. Come early and stay late!
NO. 232 MISSION SAN ANTONIO DE PADUA – Mission San Antonio de Padua, established on July 14, 1771, was the third in a series of missions founded in Alta California by Father Junípero Serra. Its picturesque setting in the valley of the San Antonio River within the Santa Lucia Range makes it one of today’s most outstanding examples of early mission life. Location: Take Jolon Rd 26.5 mi from Hwy 101, to Hunter-Ligget Military Reservation, 23 mi W of King City. Plaque located at Hwy 101 & Jolon Rd on W. side
Charley Carlin
About The Author Charley has many quests. One of those quests is to visit and explore all the California Missions and other missions throughout the southwest. Found all around the southwest in his Prius, he is a passionate seeker of those slightly odd and a bit different locales. He can also be found on his family blog – charley.net. his social media guide – Charley Carlin – Social Media Guide and via Reviews on YELP, Trip Advisor, Google Maps, and Google+.
