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Native American Presence: The region was inhabited by the Ohlone people, who lived in the area for thousands of years and had established a major settlement called "So-co-is-su-ka" near what is now the intersection of Market and First Streets in San Jose. The missionaries considered the presence of a significant native population to be an opportunity to establish a mission and convert the Ohlone to Catholicism.
Geographical Advantages::
- Accessible Location: The area was easily accessible from the San Francisco Bay, making it convenient for transportation of supplies and missionaries.
- Water Source: The site was near the Guadalupe River, providing an ample water supply for irrigation and sustaining the mission community.
- Mild Climate: The Santa Clara Valley had a favorable climate, with moderate temperatures and fertile soil, making it suitable for agriculture. The area was known for its abundant grapevines and was thus called "Llano de Uvas" (Plain of Grapes) by the Spanish.
- Native Trails: The location intersected various Native American trails, allowing for easier access and communication with other native settlements and missions in the region.
Native Relations: The missionaries aimed to establish friendly relations with the local native communities and foster peaceful coexistence. By placing the mission near a major native settlement, they hoped to facilitate interactions, cultural exchanges, and religious conversions.
Proximity to Other Missions: Mission Santa Clara de Asís was situated between Mission Santa Cruz to the southwest and Mission San Francisco Solano (Sonoma) to the northeast. Its location allowed for easier communication, collaboration, and logistical support with these neighboring missions.
In summary, the location of Mission Santa Clara was chosen for its proximity to a substantial Native American population, favorable geographical conditions, availability of water, and connectivity to other missions in the region.