[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 184 (Friday, December 2, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2175]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING OLD MISSION SANTA BARBARA ON ITS 225TH ANNIVERSARY

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                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 2, 2011

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 225th 
anniversary of the Old Mission Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara, 
California. This is a momentous occasion. Founded by Father Fermon 
Lasuon on the Feast of St. Barbara on Dec. 4, 1786, the Old Mission 
Santa Barbara has been administered by the Franciscan Order since its 
founding, making it the oldest continually operating church in 
California.
  The Old Mission is an exceptional example of both neo-classical 
architectural design with Mexican, Spanish and native Indian influence, 
and a rare, lasting example of Chumash sculpture and craftsmanship. 
Throughout the Santa Barbara Mission's 225 year history, it has served 
as the signature building of the Santa Barbara community.
  In past years, the Old Mission has alternatively served as a mission, 
a boarding school, a bishopric, a theological seminary, a museum, a 
private residence, a retreat center, and a parish church. After the 
devastating earthquake of 1925, which destroyed much of the towers of 
the mission, the community rallied in support of the Old Mission by 
collecting pennies and holding benefit concerts all to fund the 
Mission's restoration.
  Old Mission Santa Barbara, a National Historic Landmark, and known as 
the ``Queen of the Missions,'' continues to serve our community by 
hosting the Old Mission Arts and Crafts shows, I Madonnari Festival, 
the world famous Old Spanish Days Fiesta, the blessings of the animals, 
and the Christmas nativity creche, as well as other historic 
celebrations and community gatherings.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 
225th anniversary of the Old Mission Santa Barbara and the central role 
it continues to play as a cultural and historic landmark in the city of 
Santa Barbara.

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