Mission Concepción and converted indigenous residents

Mission San Francisco de la Espada de la Concepción (Mission Concepción) contains the oldest unrestored stone church in the continental United States and was the center of a mission community where indigenous neophytes lived following conversion efforts by Franciscan missionaries in the 18th century. Historical records show indigenous families lived in and around the mission, participating in ranching, farming, and craft production organized by the mission. The mission's preserved murals and architecture reflect the colonial-era interactions between Franciscan missionaries and native residents. The site is an active part of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and interprets these histories for the public.