Rethinking Mission Land Use and the Archaeological Record in California: An Example from Santa Clara

Abstract

Previous archaeology at California’s missions has primarily focused on structures and the areas immediately adjacent to structures. Study of the documentary record tends to concentrate on annual reports (informes) and communication between mission fathers, with some attention paid to buildings and structures shown on historic maps. Recent construction activities on the Santa Clara University campus have triggered archaeological planning and research, and have shown the importance of open-area excavation for understanding land use between and among structures of Mission Santa Clara, as well as in more outlying areas. Focus on areas between buildings increases the likelihood of finding more ephemeral living and usage areas. Complementary study of historic drawings and descriptions also demonstrates that Native Americans used lands between and surrounding structures for living, agricultural, and foodprocessing areas.