What did native Americans do at mission San Antonio?

Native Americans at Mission San Antonio were assigned specific roles and tasks as part of the mission system established by Spanish colonizers in the 18th century. These roles and activities varied depending on the specific mission and the policies of the Franciscan friars who ran them. Here are some of the activities that Native Americans engaged in at Mission San Antonio:

1. Religious Instruction: Native Americans were taught about Catholicism and encouraged to convert to Christianity. They attended religious services, learned about the lives of saints, and participated in various rituals and ceremonies.

2. Agricultural Labor: Native Americans played a crucial role in agricultural activities at the mission. They were involved in planting, harvesting, and tending crops such as corn, wheat, and beans. The agricultural produce was used to sustain the mission community, including the friars and Native American converts.

3. Livestock Management: Native Americans also assisted in raising and herding livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats. They were responsible for grazing and caring for the animals, which provided a source of food and other resources for the mission.

4. Construction and Maintenance: Native Americans participated in the construction and maintenance of mission buildings, including churches, dormitories, and workshops. They used adobe bricks, wood, and other materials to build structures that served various purposes.

5. Craftsmanship and Artisanship: Native Americans demonstrated their skills in various crafts and arts, such as pottery, weaving, and basket making. They produced items for daily use, as well as decorative objects and religious artifacts.

6. Domestic Tasks: Native women engaged in domestic tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and taking care of children within the mission community. They played an essential role in maintaining the household and providing for the daily needs of the mission residents.

7. Language Learning and Cultural Exchange: Native Americans learned Spanish to communicate with the friars and other mission staff. This facilitated cultural exchange and allowed for a certain degree of interaction and understanding between different cultures.

It's important to note that the mission system imposed significant changes on Native American societies and lifestyles, often disrupting their traditional practices and ways of life. Nevertheless, Native Americans at Mission San Antonio contributed to the functioning of the mission through various activities and played a crucial role in maintaining the community and ensuring its economic and spiritual well-being.