Monterey, California was once home to the Rumsen Ohlone tribe, which survived by hunting and by catching fish from the rich Pacific waters off the coast of this seaport.

Later, in the late 1700's, Spanish settlers arrived. They were led by Junipero Serra, a Franciscan with much missionary zeal. Father Serra is now credited with converting thousands of these Native Americans to the Catholic faith, and also in establishing a string of mission parishes still active today.

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Source: http://www.infobarrel.com