Santa Cruz Mission’s Animal Breeding Program
The Santa Cruz Mission was established in 1791 as one of 21 Spanish missions in California. The mission was run by Franciscan friars and was designed to convert the indigenous people to Christianity. Along with the religious work, the mission also had to be self-sufficient and produce enough food for the community. For this reason, animal breeding played an essential role in the mission’s daily life and economy. The mission raised various types of animals, including heritage breeds, swine, goats, horses, and mules, to name a few.
Heritage Breeds: Cows, Sheep, and Chickens
The Santa Cruz Mission bred heritage livestock breeds that were well-adapted to the local climate and terrain. These animals were hardy and could withstand the harsh living conditions at the mission. The most common heritage breeds were cows, sheep, and chickens. The cows were mainly used for milk production and provided butter and cheese, which was a staple in the mission’s diet. Sheep were raised for their wool, used to make clothing, blankets, and other textiles. Chickens provided eggs, and their meat was used in stews and soups.
Swine Breeding: From Pigs to Bacon
Pig breeding was another significant part of the Santa Cruz Mission’s animal husbandry program. Pigs were raised for their meat, which was a source of protein for the mission’s inhabitants. The pigs were free-ranging, which meant they were allowed to roam the mission grounds and forage for food. They were fed acorns, which gave their meat a distinct flavor. The pigs were eventually butchered and butchered, and their meat was preserved through salting and smoking. This bacon was then used throughout the year in various dishes.
The Importance of Goats in Mission Life
Goats played a crucial role in the mission’s animal husbandry program. They were used for their milk, which was used to make cheese and butter. Goats also provided meat and their skin was used to make clothing and footwear. These animals were perfect for the mission’s environment because they could survive on limited grazing and were resistant to parasites and diseases.
An Overview of Horse and Mule Breeding
Horses and mules were used extensively at the Santa Cruz Mission. Horses were used for transportation, plowing fields, and carrying heavy loads. The horses were bred for their strength and endurance, and the mission had a breeding program that focused on producing the best working horses. Mules were also bred at the mission. These hybrids of horses and donkeys were used to haul goods and equipment, and their surefootedness made them ideal for navigating the rugged terrain surrounding the mission.
The Aviary: Housing for Mission Birds
The Santa Cruz Mission had an aviary where various species of birds were kept. These birds were raised for their feathers, which were used for decoration and clothing. The feathers were also used to make quills for writing. The most common birds raised at the mission were chickens, ducks, and geese.
The Indigenous Wildlife of Santa Cruz
Before the arrival of the Spanish, the Santa Cruz area was home to a diverse range of wildlife. This included bears, deer, elk, and mountain lions. The Spanish brought non-native animals to the area, which had a significant impact on the local ecosystem.
Hunting as a Source of Food for the Missions
Hunting was also an essential part of the mission’s food supply. The Spanish hunted deer, elk, and other game animals for their meat. The indigenous people also hunted for food, and there was a significant trade in meat and other resources between the two groups.
Non-Native Animals: Cattle, Horses, and Sheep
The introduction of non-native animals to the Santa Cruz area had a significant impact on the local environment. Cattle, horses, and sheep were brought to the area to support the mission’s agricultural and husbandry programs, but they also impacted the local vegetation and wildlife.
Controversies Surrounding Mission Animal Husbandry
The Santa Cruz Mission, like other Spanish missions in California, has been the subject of criticism for its treatment of indigenous people and animals. Some critics argue that the mission’s animal husbandry practices were inhumane and that the animals were subjected to cruel treatment.
The Impact of Mission Animal Breeding on the Environment
The introduction of non-native animals to the Santa Cruz area had a significant impact on the local environment. The animals had a significant impact on the local vegetation, and their grazing patterns changed the landscape. The animals also brought new diseases that affected the local wildlife.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Santa Cruz Mission’s Animal Breeding Program
The Santa Cruz Mission’s animal breeding program played a crucial role in the mission’s daily life and economy. The mission raised a variety of animals, including heritage breeds, swine, goats, horses, and mules. While there have been criticisms of the mission’s animal husbandry practices, it is clear that the program had a significant impact on the local ecosystem and the lives of the people who lived at the mission.
