California Missions:
The Spanish Monarchy charged the Franciscan order of the Catholic Church with the enormous task of colonization of the new world. Aided by the Spanish military, the western shores of California was secured with the name of "New Spain". The Franciscan's proceeded to establish a series of 21 missions which would serve as the initialization of a new civilian town with each mission being the primary center of religious, cultural and agricultural activity. Protection was available from nearby "Presidios" against piracy, hostile natives or other European powers.
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California Lighthouses:
The California coastline has seen some of the greatest losses of life and property at sea due to navigational error. As a result, more than 300 years ago construction began on beacons beginning on the most hazardous northern California Coast. Thus providing a beacon of light to help guide seamen safely into port. During the California Gold Rush thousands of eager travelers made their way to the gold fields via the San Francisco harbor and port at Yerba Buena. the entire San Francisco bay became a huge bustling sea port. The entire California coast became busy with ships traveling to and from this young and exciting city. To this day more than 80 abandoned ships continue to decay under what is now the Embarcadero.
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