A Spanish mission founded by Fray Junipero Serra, O.F.M., first president of the California missions, this was the fifth in a chain of 21 missions stretching from San Diego to Sonoma. Built by the Chumash Indians living in the area. Its combination of belfry and vestibule is unique among California Missions. In 1846 John C. Fremont and his California Battalion quartered here while engaged in the war with Mexico.

California Registered Historical Landmark No. 325

Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the California Historical Landmarks Advisory Committee, the San Luis Obispo County Historical Society, and the Native Sons and Daughters of the Golden West, Parlors No. 290 and No. 108, May 15, 1966.