Reconstruction & Mission Today
In late 19th century, Americans began to develop interest in reconstructing the mission building. In October 1921, Father Ramon Mestres decided to reconstruct the first mission building, but unfortunately he had only few funds and couldn't complete the project.
Reconstruction truly began only after the arrival of master cabinet maker Henry John ("Harry") Downie in 1931. For the rest of his life, Harry Downie oversaw the reconstruction of the Carmel Mission and others. In July 1936, the reconstruction was completed and the mission was turned into an active Catholic church.
Today, Carmel Mission is an active Catholic church and the beautiful Mission grounds also serve as the home of Carmel Mission's Junipero Serra Elementary School. The Mission has three different museums so that visitors can learn about the history of the museum and how it was restored.
Reconstruction truly began only after the arrival of master cabinet maker Henry John ("Harry") Downie in 1931. For the rest of his life, Harry Downie oversaw the reconstruction of the Carmel Mission and others. In July 1936, the reconstruction was completed and the mission was turned into an active Catholic church.
Today, Carmel Mission is an active Catholic church and the beautiful Mission grounds also serve as the home of Carmel Mission's Junipero Serra Elementary School. The Mission has three different museums so that visitors can learn about the history of the museum and how it was restored.