Santa Ines (Saint Agnes) was named for a young girl who chose not to marry and instead choose to devote herself to Christ. The legend says that she was forced into prostitution and subsequently beheaded for her religious beliefs in 304.

Construction of the mission began in 1804 and building continued adding the sides to the quadrangle.  By 1812 there were 718 Chumash residents as well as the friars and soldiers.  The mission church was rebuilt in 1871 and restored in 2021.  The picture here shows part of an original arch. 

The history on the Old Mission website talks about the difficulties as the Mexican War for independence from Spain was fought.  Supplies and pay for the soldiers was no longer received and the Missions themselves were forced to provide support receiving on vouchers in return.  A Chumash rebellion in 1824 was over within a week at Santa Ines, more because the people loved and respected the Friars than because the soldiers won.

Old Mission Santa Inés

Mission Santa Inés

California Mission Foundation - Mission Santa Inés

More Pictures

CALIFORNIA REGISTRER HISTORICAL LANDMARK #305    

 99000630 

Patrons of the Missions - Norman Neuerberg Cal State Irvine 1952 - at Mission San Fernando.