Mission San Francisco Solano: Founded by Fr. José Altimira, 1823

Correction: Father José Altimira (not Junípero Serra, who died in 1784) founded Mission San Francisco Solano in 1823. It was the 21st, last, and northernmost of the California missions, and the only one founded under Mexican rule.

Key Facts

• Founder: Fr. José Altimira (Franciscan, from Barcelona).
• Date: July 4, 1823 (dedicated).
• Location: Sonoma, California (present-day Sonoma Plaza).
• Name: Honors St. Francis Solanus (1549–1610), "Wonder Worker of the New World," missionary to Peru.
• Context: Mexico independent (1821). Altimira sought a healthier site than foggy Mission Dolores (SF) and San Rafael. Chose Sonoma Valley.
• Short Life: Secularized 1834 (Mexican gov't). Buildings ruined. Restored 1903–1913 (Historic Landmarks League). Now Sonoma State Historic Park.

Why the Confusion?

Fr. Junípero Serra founded the first 9 missions (1769–1784). He is the "Father of the Missions." Altimira founded the last one, 39 years after Serra's death. Both are Franciscans; both Spanish.

Visit Today

Sonoma State Historic Park: Mission church (rebuilt), barracks (Mexican era), Toscano Hotel, Vallejo's Home. Plaza is the "Birthplace of California Wine" (Buena Vista, Gundlach Bundschu nearby).