Description

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Evoking the rich beauty of California's mission heritage in lush watercolors and insightful prose, this beautifully illustrated exploration follows the gorgeous path of El Camino Real, stretching from the San Joaquin and Salinas Valleys, through the rugged coastlines of Monterey and San Francisco, and inland to Sonoma. Delving into the enduring architectural, artistic, and cultural history of the Golden State, this study reveals founding hero Father Junipero Serra's pioneering labors, the conquest of the land's agricultural wealth, and California's painful transfers from the Indians to Spain, Mexico, and the United States. Remembering the labors of the early Spanish priests and Native Americans, this treasury of captivating artistry celebrates and preserves the masterworks of the state's founding era.

About the Author

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Pat Hunteris one of the San Joaquin Valley's most recognized artists. Her work has been exhibited at her own gallery, Gallery II, and the Fresno Art Museum. Janice Stevens is the co-owner of Gallery II with Pat Hunter. She teaches English composition, literature, and creative writing at the college level. They are the illustrator and author of "Fresno's Architectural Past"; "Fresno's Architectural Past, Volume 2"; and "William Saroyan: Places in Time." They both live in Fresno, California.

Praise For…

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"A delightful journey . . .  [an] artistic and historical treasure that is a must read for all who want to experience the spirit of early California."  Father Michael A. Burchfield, pastor, The Shrine of Saint Therese, Fresno, California; Judicial Vicar, Diocese of Fresno

"This beautifully written and illustrated book is a must read for anyone interested in California history . . . a fine addition for libraries, and classrooms, as well as home collections."  Dr. John Taylor, former Fresno county superintendent of schools

"A must read for anyone interested in the early development of California. It is a fabulous work . . . the best book depicting the missions."  Bishop John T. Steinbock, Diocese of Fresno

"Not to be missed . . . you  are certain to see the missions in a much different light after reading this bookand also gain new appreciations of their origins and enduring beauty."  William Secrest, Jr., California historian

"[We are] are pleased that you are printing this historical book. We appreciate you working to renew interest in saving our California mission."  Native Daughters of the Golden West

"Illustrated in vibrant water color and superbly written . . . provides a profound record that depicts the origins and current status of missions that have played an important role in the development of California's people and culture. . . . Lovely and insightful." The Compendium Newsletter (August 2011)