Mission San José: Location & History

Mission San José is located in Fremont, California (East Bay, Alameda County), near the junction of I-880 and CA-238.

Key Facts

• Founded: June 11, 1797 (14th of 21 California missions)
• Founder: Fr. Fermín Lasuén (Franciscan)
• Named for: St. Joseph, patron of the Universal Church
• Status: Active Roman Catholic parish; part of Mission San José Historic District (National Register of Historic Places)

Today

The restored adobe church (rebuilt 1980s after 1868 earthquake) hosts Mass. The museum displays mission-era artifacts, Ohlone history, and agricultural exhibits. The surrounding grounds include olive orchards, a rose garden, and picnic areas. It's a quiet, evocative window into California's mission period.