Browse Exhibits (3 total)

History of Peace and Violence at Mission Santa Clara

There is much controversy around the history of the California Missions - some view it as a beautiful place of worship and education while many see it as a monument to native enslavement.

During the Mission Era, native Indians were put to work against their will while being abused and oppressed in the process of achieving the Mission’s objectives. One of the more significant tribes that were originally from the San Francisco Bay Area were the Ohlone Indians. The Ohlone’s numbers dwindled significantly and their traditional way of life was immensely disrupted during the Mission period.

In the present day, the Mission doesn’t associate with as much of a negative connotation as it ought to. Currently, it’s the only surviving mission and it serves as the center of SCU’s spiritual life, celebrating its heritage.



Mission Santa Clara: Peace and Violence

This exhibit was created to highlight both the peace and violence experienced due to the establishment of Mission Santa Clara. 

Mission Santa Clara

Mission Santa Clara remains an important place of worship for many Christians in the Santa Clara surrounding area. However, for the Ohlone people, the Native Californians whose ancestors were victims of the Spanish missionaire's violence, the mission is  a reminder of this violence that occurred in the past. It is important to understand the events that took place and take action against these injustices in order to help resolve this issue.