The history of Mission San Juan Capistrano began in 1716 when Mission San José de los Nazonis was established to serve the Nazonis Indians in modern day Texas. Proving unsuccessful, the mission was moved in 1731 and reestablished on the east bank of the San Antonio River. Renamed San Juan Capistrano, the mission continued to stuggle with adversity. Epidemics of smallpox, measles, and other European diseases swept through the mission, creating suffering and even death. When bands of Apaches and Comanche lessened their attacks on the community some of the resident Indians left the protection of the compound and returned to their former way of life.
   Despite a number of hardships and its fickle residents, the mission persevered and by 1762 there were 203 Indians residing at Mission San Juan. The natives kept a granary supplied with food, some worked in textile shops, and others built adobe houses with thatched roofs. The mission, with its rich farmlands and pastures, had ample products to supply local garrisons, as well trade with outsiders. With the thoughts of a growing community, leaders led the construction of a larger church, beginning in 1772. But, as the population began to dwindle, constuction of the church building reached a standstill in 1786.
   Today the San Juan Mission, an active parish, and its working farm offers visitors a glimpse of the native's way of life during the late 18th century. The San Juan Acequia has been restored to supply water for the Spanish Colonial Demonstration Farm. Mission San Juan Capistrano is one of a cluster of Spanish mission along the World Heritage Trail. The Mission Hike and Bike Trail connects all five mission complexes in the San Antonio area.

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