Mission Nuestra Senora de la Soledad

(Located near Soledad, Monterey County, California)

Soledad Mission Museum, once the Recreated Priests’ Residence

The Mission Soledad Museum (display sign)

“Welcome to Mission Nuestra Senora de la Soledad.  Here in the museum, you are invited to walk through four distinct and important periods in the history of California as it unfolded here at Mission Soledad.

“Just Two hundred years ago, this area was inhabited only by Indians.  Room One describes the lifestyle of the Esselen and Costanoan Indians.  Room Two tells of the changes that took place with the founding of Mission Soledad under Spanish rule.  Room Three describes the Mexican influence in the area.  In Room Four you are introduced to the California of the early Americans.

“In each room the topics covered are:  the environment, food, housing, technology, trade, religion, social structure, and entertainment.

“Enjoy a walk through time.”

Esselen Trade and Technology (display sign)

“The Esselen took full advantage of the rich environment that surrounded them when producing goods for daily living.  Small family groups made their own tools.  Stone was used in the production of arrowheads and knives for hunting.  Different kinds of baskets were woven from surrounding grasses and used to carry or store food.  Mats were woven from bark, rushes, or grass.  Grinding bowls, or mortars, were of stone.  The parts of slain animals were used in many imaginative ways.  Slings, pouches, and clothing were made from leather (hides).  Robes and blankets were created from fur and feathers.  Nets were made from fibers.

“Some trading between the Esselen and other groups did take place.  Obsidian, or black volcanic glass, and shell beads were used for this purpose.”