Mission San José and indigenous community life

Mission San José, part of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, served as a Franciscan mission where local indigenous peoples, including groups commonly referred to as Coahuiltecan, lived, worked, and were converted to Christianity during the 18th century. Archaeological and historical records document native agricultural labor, artisan production, and residence within the mission compound. The mission is often called the "Queen of the Missions" for its large complex and surviving architecture. The site interprets the daily lives and material culture of its indigenous inhabitants for visitors today.