Jon L. Christensen: “The Tumacacori Mission was declared a national monument in 1908, making it one of the first monuments declared in the…”

“The Tumacacori Mission was declared a national monument in 1908, making it one of the first monuments declared in the United States. The site contains the ruins of the original mission church, which dates from the 17th century, as well as a limekiln and cemetery. Over time, the monument was expanded; and in 1990, the area was established as a National Historical Park. However, certain features of the compound, including an irrigation ditch and orchard, lie on private lands adjacent to the park. H.R. 2234 revises the boundary of the park to include an additional 310 acres which were originally part of the mission. The land is divided into two parcels and both landowners support the park expansion. It is our understanding this expansion will allow the National Park Service to move park facilities away from historic buildings and allow the park to recreate the mission and orchard as they once appeared. Tumacacori serves as a cultural and historical touchstone for a variety of different peoples, including Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and European cultures. Expansion of this site will allow improved interpretation and preservation of this valuable area.”