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 its 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 20 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 the 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 plus years, the caretakers, known as mayordomos, have been Floriann and John Gallegos Jr. Celebrating 65 years of marriage, the Gallegos family lineage is pivotal in the building of the 1917 church.
As described by John, “One of my grandfathers purchased and donated two acres for the church and my other grandfather purchased and donated another two 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 107th anniversary of St. Francis Mission Church, a feast day Mass will be held on Sunday, Oct. 6, at 1 p.m. The church is located at 8329 Colo. 151, which is 9 miles south of U.S. 160 junction.
A community potluck will follow the once-a-year Mass. Side dishes and desserts are appreciated.
For more information about the Pagosa Catholic Community, visit ihmjp2.org.
