Mission San Jose

Mission San Jose was founded on June 11, 1797 by Father Fermin Francisco de Lasuen on a site which was part of a natural highway by way of the Livermore Valley to the San Joaquin Valley. It is the fourteenth of the 21 Spanish Missions in Alta California. Although Mission San Jose was founded nearly 225 years ago, we cannot forget that our story stretches back further into time. Before this was Mission San Jose, it was the Ohlone Village of Oroysom. The founding of Mission San Jose marks the beginning of a shared story. We acknowledge and remember all of those who have been part of that story, beginning with the Ohlone people who lived, loved, labored, and died on this most sacred land. The Ohlones are still present today. Their culture, language, and spirit live on in their descendants. Also present today are many new cultures and languages, each contributing to the diverse community in which we live.