One of the primary purposes of Mission La Purísima Concepción was to convert the Chumash Indians to Catholicism. The Franciscans who staffed the mission taught the Indians about the Catholic faith, and baptized and married them into the Church. Many Chumash Indians also learned to read and write in Spanish at the mission.
Agricultural labor
The Chumash Indians worked on the mission's extensive agricultural fields, producing a variety of crops including wheat, barley, corn, beans, and chili peppers. These crops were used to support the mission community, as well as to trade with other Spanish settlements in Alta California.
Stock raising
The Chumash Indians also helped to raise livestock at Mission La Purísima Concepción, including cattle, horses, sheep, and pigs. The livestock was used to provide food, clothing, and shelter for the mission community.
Craftsmanship
The Chumash Indians were skilled in a variety of crafts, including weaving, basketry, and pottery. They produced these crafts for use by the mission community, as well as for sale to the Spanish.
Music and dance
The Chumash Indians had a rich musical and dance tradition that was often incorporated into mission life. They played a variety of musical instruments, including flutes, drums, and rattles, and performed dances during religious ceremonies and celebrations.