Dive into the history of southwest Colorado and you will discover a colorful
tapestry created by small communities and the original settlers who defined those
communities.

Among the settlers who left a lasting impact on our region’s history are the
Spanish descendants who started building year-round settlements along the San Juan
River in the mid-1800s. They settled near rivers and tributaries which provided reliable
water resources for establishing farms and ranches.

Facing numerous hardships, it was their determination and unshakable faith that
laid the foundation of each community. While towns varied, Catholic churches were the
common thread and were the heart of these communities.

As described by the San Juan Mountains Association (sjma.org) in their 2019
study of historic churches along the San Juan River, the Catholic faith was “a unifying
force in their lives.” Churches were an expression of the residents who were deeply
rooted in their Spanish heritage, family traditions, and Catholic faith.

The 2019 study captured the history of twenty village churches that include four
missions that are part of Pagosa Catholic Community. They uncovered the uniqueness
of each community and brought to the forefront the importance of preserving the history
embedded in the churches.

St. Francis Church, a 107-year-old church situated in the local ranching
community of Frances, is one of local missions. The original church was dedicated in
October 1914, but it unfortunately burned down in October of 1915. The church bell
was salvaged from the fire.

The present structure, which is located approximately 3-miles from the original
church location, was dedicated in 1917. At some point in the church’s history, it was
redesignated as a mission church.

For the past 30+ years the caretakers, known as mayordomos, have been
Floriann and John Gallegos Jr. Celebrating 65 years of marriage, the Gallegos family
linage is pivotal in the building of the 1917 church.

As described by John, “One of my grandfathers purchased and donated 2-acres
for the church and my other grandfather purchased and donated another 2-acres for a
school house.” Rebuilding the church after the 1915 fire was a community effort.
When Floriann was asked why she was dedicated to the care of the historical
church, she replied “I figured that if there was anything I did right in the world, I would
take care of the church.”

Led by the Gallegos’ love of St. Francis Mission Church and each other, along
with the help of volunteers, the church’s heritage and the unwavering faith of the
founding families who built the church 107 years ago is preserved for future
generations.

In celebration of the 107 th anniversary of St. Francis Mission Church, a feast day
Mass will be held on Sunday, October 6th, at 1pm. The church is located at 8329 Hwy
151, which is 9 miles South of Hwy 160 junction.

A community potluck will follow the once-a-year Mass. Side dishes and desserts
are appreciated.