San Gabriel Mission Matrimonial Investigation Records, 1773-1856

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Summary

Creators:
Mission San Gabriel Arcangel (San Gabriel, Calif.)
Abstract:
The matrimonial investigation records, or "diligencias matrimoniales", are part of a collection of California materials gathered by William F. McPherson, an Orange County rancher, scholar and collector. Predominantly though not exclusively the records of Mission San Gabriel (other California missions are also represented), these investigations of the period 1788-1861 consist of notarized interviews with couples requesting marriage in the Roman Catholic Church. There are 165 investigations in all, with 173 men and 170 women being interviewed. An alphabetical index indicates the folder number of each item.
Extent:
4 feet (2 boxes and 1 large envelope)
Language:
Languages represented in the collection: Spanish

Background

Scope and content:

Notarized interviews with couples requesting marriage in the Roman Catholic Church for the period of 1788-1861. Though predominately from the San Gabriel Mission, other California missions are also represented. There are 165 investigations in all, with 173 men and 170 women being interviewed. A few baptismal records are also included. An alphabetical index indicates the folder number of each item.

Biographical / historical:

The San Gabriel Mission Matrimonial Investigation Records are significant because they offer a unique insight into the pre-statehood activities of the Mission. Also, they establish many facts concerning the individuals married at the Mission and provide much genealogical detail for descendants. There are 165 investigations in all, with 173 men and 170 women being interviewed.

Acquisition information:
Acquired from a gift by William McPherson in 1964.
Arrangement:

Series 1 Matrimonial Records

Subseries 1.1 Men

Suberies 1.2 Women

Suberies 1.3 Indian girls (no surname)

Physical location:
Please consult repository.

Access and use

Location of this collection:
800 N. Dartmouth Ave.
Claremont, CA 91711, US
Contact:
(909) 607‑3977
specialcollections@claremont.edu
Website