Founded:December 4, 1786 by Father Fermin Lasuen
Named for: Saint Barbara.
Santa Barbara was the first mission founded by Father Fermin Francisco de Lasuen, Father Serras successor as President of the California missions. Although Father Serra dedicated the site of the Santa Barbara presidio (fort) in April of 1782, he did not have permission at that time to found a mission in Santa Barbara. The Governor at that time, Filipe de Neve, was jealous of the power he believed the Franciscans gained with each new mission. Through his superior, the Viceroy in Mexico, he was able to delay the necessary funding for new missions.
6x6 unframed.