On July 11, 2020 Mission San Gabriel Arcángel suffered a devastating fire that destroys the roof and choir loft, and did extensive damage. The mission was founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1771 and is widely known as the “birthplace of Christianity in Los Angeles.”
After three years of restoration, the mission reopened on July 1, 2023.
On April 23, 2025, the mission was awarded the Los Angeles Conservancy Preservation Award, given out annually by the Los Angeles Conservancy, a major nonprofit dedicated to advocating for and recognizing historic preservation in Los Angeles County.
The award recognized:
- Exceptional restoration after damage: The 2020 arson fire severely damaged the mission’s roof and interior just before its 250th anniversary, collapsing the roof and destroying original materials.
- Careful preservation: The restoration project painstakingly rebuilt the structure using historical references, salvageable materials, and expert craftsmanship to faithfully match the mission’s original look and structural design.
- Commitment to heritage: This project balanced historical accuracy with modern preservation standards, restoring everything from roof trusses and redwood ceilings to plaster, woodwork, and decorative elements.
The award doesn’t just recognize construction work — it celebrates the mission’s role as a living cultural and spiritual landmark in L.A. County.
By preserving the mission, the project helps maintain one of the region’s oldest and most historically significant sites, honoring the community’s heritage and ensuring the mission continues to serve as a place of worship and public history.
Read More at the Los Angeles Conservancy website.