Two Missions

#921 Plaque Inscription:

To protect the Anza Trail where it forded the Colorado River, the Spanish founded a pueblo and mission nearby on January 7, 1781. Threatened with the loss of their land, the Quechans (Yumas) attacked this strategic settlement on July 17, 1781. The Quechan victory closed this crossing and seriously crippled future communications between upper California and Mexico.

Location: Imperial County. On County Rd S24, 0.2 mi W of intersection of Levee and Mehring Rds, 4.4 mi NE of Bard.

GPS Coordinates for plaque: 32˚48.904N – 114˚30.900W (JMP)

#350 Plaque Inscription:

In October 1780, Father Francisco Garcés and companions began Mission La Purísima Concepción. The mission/pueblo site was inadequately supported. Colonists ignored Indian rights, usurped the best lands, and destroyed Indian crops. Completely frustrated and disappointed, the Quechans (Yumas) and their allies destroyed Concepción on July 17-19, 1781.

Location: St. Thomas Indian Mission, Indian Hill on Picacho Rd, Fort Yuma, 1 mi S of Winterhaven

GPS Coordinates for site: 32˚43.833N – 114˚36.937W (JMP)

Text and lyrics available on ‘California State Landmarks – Imperial County’ – rfm# 046