Mission San Fernando Rey de Espana

San Fernando, California.  Our next stop is at Mission San Fernando Rey de Espana.  In contrast to Mission San Gabriel, these mission grounds have the artistic feel of a professional historical society.  Artifacts are uniformly labeled, the grounds neatly trimmed, the walls neatly painted.  All displays are inside and it seemed that primarily one era of the mission was emphasized, the rancho period.  On display is an old Mason and Hamlin pipe organ believed to be the oldest organ in North America; the pipes and keyboard were pretty beat up, but its cabinet was beautiful.  One thing unique about this mission is that Bob Hope has a private cemetery on the grounds.  It is also interesting that we seem to be the only visitors on the grounds.

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