11 - History of the Catholic Church at Ukiah (1870-1925)

11

History of the Catholic Church at Ukiah (1870-1925)

5 pp; typescript

A brief historical text written by Fr. Urban Riordan OFM Cap. detailing the foundational era of the Catholic Church in Mendocino County and Ukiah, California, spanning from 1870 to 1925. It begins by describing the rugged, pioneer landscape of Mendocino County sixty years prior, noting its dense redwood forests and early settlers. In 1863, the vast territory was assigned to the Diocese of Grass Valley, and Rev. Bernardine Sheehan became the first resident priest, building St. Vincent Church in Mendocino City in 1864 for $2,500. The narrative goes on to document the early missionary priests who travelled through the region to serve Ukiah, culminating in Rev. Luciano O’Suna building Ukiah’s very first church in 1870. Constructed for $2,000 on a West Perkins Street lot donated by Judge S.C. Hastings, this modest 68ft by 32ft structure was placed under the protection of the Blessed Virgin. The text goes on to chart Capuchin missionary activity in the locality in the early twentieth century.

ISAD(G) 2nd edition