[p. 28.] San Juan Capistrano, p. 28
The founding of the Mission San Juan Capistrano was accomplished under many discouragements. The first attempt was made by Fathers Lasuen and Amurrio on the 19th or the 30th of October, 1775. Dates given by Palou and Ortega differ. The first service was held in a hut of branches. A large cross [p. 29] was erected and blessed, but nothing further was done at that time. The bells of Capistrano were taken down from the tree and buried.
[p. 29, San Juan Capistrano
On November 1st, 1776, a second attempt was made by Father Serra. A new altar was erected, mass was celebrated, and the seventh mission of California was founded, upon the site known by the Indians as Sajirit. Capistrano became prosperous, but did not excel either in number of converts or in wealth. In February, 1797, work was begun on the stone chapel, the ruins of which are standing today. It proved to be one of the grandest church buildings in California. It measured 159 x 30 feet, was surmounted by a lofty tower, and all was of stone and mortar. The stones were not hewn, but were fitted together in the rough. The church was built with nave and transept with thick walls, and an arched, dome-like roof. Here and there remain evidence of decoration. Ten years ago there still were wooden figures to be seen in many small niches and the carving showing ability and taste. It is to be regretted that these relics were carried away and not placed in the room used as the chapel. The stone church of San Juan Capistrano was dedicated September 7th, 1806. The ceremony lasted three days, and visiting Padres and Indians came long distances, even as far as from Santa Barbara, to witness the ceremony. But the magnificent building was doomed to short service, for on the morning of December 8th, 1812, a terrible earthquake shook it to its very foundation, causing the lofty tower to crash down upon the vaulted roof, precipitating the mass of stone and mortar down upon the worshipping congregation-for it was on Sunday morning. About fifty persons were present, and only ten escaped. Excavation for the recovery of the crushed and mangled bodies began at once, but nothing has ever been done toward restoring the building to its former grandeur. Capistrano was secularized in 1833, and even after the loss of the mission church the inventory placed the valuation of the mission at about $55,000; with debts of only $1410. In December, 1845, the mission buildings were sold to McKinley and Forster for $710.00. Juan Forster was in possession for twenty years, but after extended litigation, the Catholic church regained possession of the property.