Founded in 1782 and completed in 1809, the present mission includes a restored church, Holy Cross School (not open to visitors), and a small museum. In addition to vestment, books and other items from the mission's early days, the museum has Chumash Indian artifacts. The mission is constructed in a rectangular design that opens into beautiful gardens. The restored church is still used by an active congregation.

The Missions first church building, according to Vancouver, was destroyed by fire. The construction of a second church was abandoned because "the door gave way." In 1792 work was in progress on the present church and the small utility buildings that (with the church) form a quadrangle enclosing a plaza. Although half finished in 1795, the church was not completed until 1809.

The Mission is open for visitors daily excluding holidays. Admission to the Mission is by donation.

Location: 225 E Main St, Ventura California 93001 Telephone 805-648-4496

Other upcoming events include: Sandhill Crane Festival Lodi continuing thru November 9 San Francisco Jazz Festival San Francisco continuing thru November 21