Mission San Fernando Rey de Convento Building
historic place
The Mission San Fernando Rey de Convento Building, located in Los Angeles County, is a significant historic place. This two-story adobe structure was constructed between 1808 and 1822. It is the only original building remaining at Mission San Fernando Rey de España. Measuring approximately 243 feet long and 50 feet wide, it holds the distinction of being the largest adobe building in California. The building features four-foot-thick adobe walls and a distinctive long portico with 20 or 21 arches. Originally, the Convento Building served as a residence for missionaries and a guesthouse for travelers. California's first bishop, Francisco García Diego y Moreno, lived here from 1820 to 1835. Later, it was occupied by John C. Fremont in 1847 and used as a Butterfield Stage Line station. Damaged by the 1971 Sylmar earthquake, the building was restored in 1973. The Mission San Fernando Rey de Convento Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Its enduring presence connects to California's mission era.