The ancient mission of San Miguel de Santa Fe, a National Historic Landmark, is considered the oldest church in the United States. Built around 1620 as a community church for the enlisted men, servants, and laborers of the town’s Spanish officials, the mission was partially destroyed during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 and rebuilt in 1710 by Governor José Chacón, El Márquez de la Peñuela. The interior of the chapel includes several paintings and statues dating from the 1700s, including a statue of San Miguel (St. Michael), carved in Mexico circa 1700 and brought to Santa Fe by Franciscan Friars. The rear of the chapel contains the 780-pound San Jóse bell, dating from the time of the American Civil War. Today, the chapel is maintained as a museum by St. Michael’s High School, formerly St. Michael’s School for Boys.
From Old Santa Fe Today, 5th edition by Audra Bellmore with photographs by Simone Frances.