Tumacácori National Historical Park
This Spanish Catholic mission stands near the site first visited by Jesuit missionaries in 1691. Located in the Santa Cruz River Valley of southern Arizona, Tumacácori became one of a chain of missions established to serve the indigenous O’odham people and extend Spain’s presence into the northern frontier of New Spain.
This site includes this restored Franciscan church of Mission San Jose de Tumacacori, one of the finest surviving examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the American Southwest. Construction of the church began around 1800, although time and the elements have taken their toll, the facade and bell tower still convey the beauty of the original structure. The church remains a place used for special religious services and community events.
Tumacácori served as the center of a mission community where Native residents lived, farmed and learned new agricultural and craft skills introduced by the missionaries. Life here was shaped by a blending of Spanish, Mexican and Indigenous traditions. When Mexico achieved its independence from Spain in 1821, support for the missions declined, and by the mid-nineteenth century, the community had largely dispersed.
In 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt designated Tumacácori National Monument, making it one of the earliest historic sites protected by the federal government.
Read More From Nancy
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument preserves one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the American Southwest. Long before Europeans arrived, this region was home to a sophisticated farming society that transformed the desert into productive agricultural land through an extensive system of irrigation canals. For more than […]
Muir Woods National Monument
I have heard that visiting Muir Woods today is a different experience than it was. Reservations are required and there are timed entries in order to manage the number of people visiting the park each day. The few times I visited Muir Woods National Monument there was more flexibility. My strategy was the same: arrive before […]
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most important and sacred historic places in Hawaii. Long before Hawaii became part of the United States, this area served as a “City of Refuge”, a protected santuary where people could excape punishment, violence or death. An ancient Hawaiian society, life was governed by a […]
