The San Jose mission's purpose was to Christianize Native Americans, protect and encourage them to become Spanish citizens. It was able to house and sustain over 300 locals because of its farming resources and livestock. A Spanish Catholic priest, Antonio Margil de Jesus, was the founding father in 1720, and by 1777, it was well-established as the largest mission in Texas.
The mission's Catholic church, open for viewing, displays its historical Rose Window, which is a treasured remnant of Spanish art from the colonial time period in Texas. It also has hand-carved oak risers made from large logs, which were put together without nails or pegs. The restored granary and its mill, along with the fortress's walls and dwellings, also remain.
As o f 2010, the ability to tour and participate in programs at Mission San Jose is possible because the National Park Service, with cooperation with the state, has taken over the site and three other missions. This is part of a federal commitment to preserve Spanish colonial history in Texas and other states.
