Review by Library Journal Review
The 23rd program in the "Discoveries.America National Parks" series examines the 21 missions that make up the California Historic Mission Trail. Beginning with an introduction to the region and the missions in general, the film then explores each site individually via a video tour. Franciscan missionary Father Junípero Serra (recently canonized) established the first mission, San Diego de Alcalá, in 1769. From there to the northernmost site in Sonoma, missions were raised near indigenous tribal locations for two main reasons: practicality-people living in that area meant a good food and water supply-and, more darkly, indigenous peoples represented a surfeit of slave labor for the construction work. Most of the missions are still active as parishes, with regular services, and encourage visits from tourists. VERDICT Patrons with an interest in religious history, architecture, California history, and the building of cities along the Pacific Coast will be enlightened and informed.-Jason L. Steagall, Gateway Technical Coll. Lib., Elkhorn, WI © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 5 Up-This documentary begins with a helpful discussion that addresses the reasons for founding the 21 historical missions. Designed to be a day's horseback ride from one another, the missions helped the Spanish establish an outpost in California. Spanish friars, like Junipero Serra, introduced religion and the Spanish language and culture to the indigenous people. Dr. John Macias, Chaffey College, describes the resulting culture clash as the Native population was forced to accept Spanish culture and work on mission farms, vineyards, and ranches. The program moves on to describe each mission in order of its founding, from San Diego in 1769 to the last (and northernmost), San Francisco de Solano in 1823. The content consists of an overview of each mission. Notable facts are brought out, and unfamiliar words are defined with accompanying images. A companario, or bell tower, is a distinctive feature in many missions; bells were used on a daily basis to summon residents to chores, meals, and religious services. Though many missions are in various stages of restoration, a number of them continue to be active parishes. The pacing throughout is slow, but the presentation is straightforward and thorough, supplemented with colorful images and maps. VERDICT Offering an ongoing topic of study for California students, this well-done video, with its thoughtful discussion of the subjection of Native people, is a valuable companion to history and social studies classes.-Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
