Print Resources
There are a number of great print resources available but many commercial bookstores do not carry a large selection of 4th Grade Reading Level books. You may want to call ahead to inquire about what resources they carry before making a trip.
The Library is the best resource for books; if you don't have access to a local library, online booksellers carry a variety of books on the California Missions. If you do purchase a book you might consider donating it to your local library or school library when your child finishes with it.
Suggested Books:
In 2000 The Rosen Publishing Group published a series of books on the California Missions written in a way that most students will be able to read independently. Each Mission has its own book. The books include background history, information on the Native Californians affected by the Mission, the growth and daily life of the Mission, and its history. The books also include a section on building a mission model.
The California Missions: A Complete Pictoral History and Visitor's Guide (Softcover) Sunset Books. ISBN: 0376051728. This book is a comprehensive information and pictoral resource. Each mission is represented with comprehensive information, photographs, and diagrams.
Internet Sources
The Internet is a goldmine of information, but your child may need help directing their search. Below are a few Internet sites that have good information about the California Missions.
California Missions Resource Center
California Missions Foundation
U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer’s Website
Scholastic Research Starters
Mission Trail Today - The California Missions
Looking for Images?
Before using images found online, please think about what is considered 'fair use' for education.
Pics4Learning
Pics4Learning hosts a website of copyright free images for educational use. Several of the Missions are represented with more pictures being added to the website often. If you take pictures that could be helpful to others you might consider posting them on the site.
Library of Congress: Prints and Photographs Online Collection
The Library of Congress has digitized thousands of images most of which are considered property of the public. The American Memory Collection is a treasure-trove of images and well worth the visit.
San Diego History
The San Diego Historical society allows one time use of its images in a single slide show project. They request that a copy be sent to them.
California Missions Resource Center
Pictures cannot be copied, but the unusual views make the website worth looking at all by itself!
Official Mission Websites
Websites sponsored by the individual missions (or local governments) are great sources of information.
Mission La Purisima
Mission Soledad
Mission San Antonio - Not Currently Available
Mission San Buenaventura
Mission San Carlos
Mission San Diego
Mission San Fernando - Not Currently Available
Mission San Francisco de Asis - Not Currently Available
Mission San Francisco Solano
Mission San Gabriel
Mission San Jose-Not Currently Available
Mission San Juan Bautista
Mission San Juan Capistrano
Mission San Luis Obispo
Mission San Luis Rey
Mission San Miguel
Mission San Rafael
Mission Santa Barbara
Mission Santa Clara
Mission Santa Cruz - Not Currently Available
Mission Santa Ines
