The tenth California mission, founded in 1786 and known as the Queen of the Missions; it is a National Historic Landmark. The church and surrounding property are owned and maintained by Old Mission Santa Barbara, Inc., a nonprofit separate from St. Barbara Parish, which uses the church for services. Franciscan friars have led the mission without interruption since its founding, alongside the parish, a museum and the mission archive-library.
What it needs
In its case statement the mission said it receives no state or federal funds and no financial support from the Church, and that about 85% of its operating income comes from museum tours, the gift shop and venue rentals. Its Restore and Renew campaign lists restoration of the historic roof woodwork and tiles, a study of disintegration in the church walls, a new elevator and alarm system, conservation of the lavanderia, fountains and cemetery monuments, and preservation of historic structures and the friars' living areas.
Before you act. The $4 million goal dates from a campaign launched in 2021 and is still shown, but no running total is published. Ask the development office which projects are still open. Wikipedia states that the mission is owned by the Franciscan Province of Santa Barbara; the 2025 press release from the mission and parish names Old Mission Santa Barbara, Inc. as owner and steward.
Last checked 9 November 2026. Parts of this entry could not be fully confirmed; see the note above. Responsible body: Old Mission Santa Barbara (development office: development@sboldmission.org).
Cement plaster applied in the mid-twentieth century trapped moisture and damaged the decorated facade; conservators are removing it and stabilizing the original plaster in seasonal phases, with later phases to replace lost columns and the balcony. The Spring 2026 newsletter adds that the Convento and Granjon wings need foundation reinforcement, adobe wall rehabilitation, new water and electrical systems, treatment of insect-damaged mesquite beams and hazardous-material abatement. Donations to Patronato San Xavier pay for the conservation team, outside experts and the next stages of work.
The community says it is at capacity in its present building and tiny temporary chapel and is running out of room for new vocations, while the 1960s ranch house that holds the chapel is deteriorating. Ground was broken on 5 June 2026 for phase two, a two-story living-quarters building of about 30,000 square feet bringing capacity to 70 sisters; phase three is a permanent monastic church. Gifts go to the 'Help Us Build' fund, including a 'One Day Wage' appeal.
