Christened by Padre Serra in honor of the medieval San Luis, Bishop of Toulouse, the location for this mission was determined by a bear hunt in 1772 that resulted in 9000 pounds of meat sent to the Missions San Antonio and Carmel, saving the communities from starvation. The native population rebelled against the settlement at San Luis Obispo and, after setting fire to the church roof for the third time, the padres developed a red clay that was fire resistant. After 1784, all the missions then used this new roofing material. This is one of eight missions that later developed into a town.

Fifth Mission Built

Founded:
September 1, 1772

Location:
782 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo

MAP TO MISSION &
DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS

Mission Scrapbook

LIMITED FINE ART EDITION
"San Luis Obispo Mission Music"