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 link to plaque | SITE OF MISSION SANTA CRUZ Photoset: Flickr Set | Map: Google Map Mision la Exaltación de la Santa Cruz, the 12th Franciscan Mission, was consecrated by Father Fermín Lasuén in August 1791. In 1793 the adobe church was built where the Holy Cross Catholic Church is now located. The mission was damaged by several earthquakes and finally collapsed in 1857. Plaza Park is located at the center of the mission complex which contained 32 buildings at the time of its secularization in 1834, the last building remains on School Street. Plaza Park, NE corner of Emmet and Mission Sts, Santa Cruz Note: Plaque is at the T-intersecton of Emmett St and School St, between High St and Mission St. The actual mission is at the end of School St. Check for hours of operation to visit the mission. Admission is free. Additional info: Santa Cruz Mission SHP | |
 link to plaque | SITE OF CENTER OF VILLA DE BRANCIFORTE Photoset: Flickr Set | Map: Google Map These school grounds were the center of Villa de Branciforte, founded in 1797 by Governor Diego de Borica of California on orders from Spain through Viceroy Branciforte in Mexico. The settlement existed as a separate township until 1905, when it was annexed to the city of Santa Cruz. SW corner of Water and Branciforte, Santa Cruz Note: OHP's directions lie. The plaque is on the SE corner, in front of Branciforte Grammar School. Additional info: Branciforte Elementary School |