1713 - 1784
Father Junipero Serra is considered part of the California legend was born Miguel Jose on November 24, 1713. At the age of 16, he entered the Franciscan Order and took the name of Junipero. At the age of 56, he was chosen to replace the Jesuits in Baja California and made his first expedition with Gaspar de Portola to Alta California where he founded the first missions.