Secularization of the missions
The Mexican government ends the California mission system. Mission properties are confiscated, and Spanish missionaries are sent into exile. Native laborers who had lived at the missions find work on the ranchos. The former mission lands comprise rich, coastal areas that are coveted by soldiers, rancheros, and farmers. The government splits land parcels into individual “rancho” grants and either sells or gives them away to private citizens.
RELATED STORIES
Learning from Nature
For more than 34 years, Harry Boyajian has directed and managed site remediation of polluted lands all over the United States. His work has taken him from North Dakota to Arizona, and all up and down California where he’s based. Closer to home, Harry has worked extensively on sites adjacent to the LA River, post-industrial…
A River’s Watershed
Mark Hanna is a civil engineer with a specialization in water resources management and river restoration and revitalization. His passion for rivers has led him to work extensively on a variety of projects up and down the LA River. “I prefer projects that are right here in Los Angeles. I live here, my family lives…
Growing through Judo
Johnny Hoong’s passion for martial arts began reluctantly at the insistence of his cousin Tay. Johnny and his family moved to the U.S. when he was just three years old, settling in Claremont. Growing up, during summer breaks from school, Johnny would often visit Tay and his family, who at the time lived in Cypress…
A Glassell Park Story
A more than twenty-year resident of Glassell Park, Helene Schpak understands that civic engagement is an essential part of healthy community living. “It’s giving back. It’s being part of a society, part of a community. If you care, sitting back isn’t going to accomplish anything. Pace yourself and volunteer, put in some effort, and sometimes…