The mission buildings of northern Sonora and southern Arizona remain standing today thanks to the diligent efforts of many over the centuries.  An important part of the Southwestern Mission Research Center’s mission is to help preserve and conserve these special buildings for future generations.  Listed below are just a few conservation projects for which SMRC has been able to provide assistance:

• Tubutama:  In 2008, SMRC provided a $2,500 grant to the Tubutama community to replace the church doors after the old doors were determined to be beyond repair and a security risk for the entire church.
• San Ignacio: From 1993 through 2001, SMRC provided both financial and technical assistance for preservation work at San Ignacio.  This included construction of a French drain along both the interior and exterior of the mission’s foundation; repainting the barrel vault and dome; and mitigation of adobe salt efflorescence.
• Cocospera: In 1998 and 2000, SMRC provided a total of $5,000 in support of international cooperative work at Cocospera.  These funds helped in the development of a strategic plan for preservation; emergency stabilization; adobe wall erosion repair; temporary support for the principal altar; a temporary roof to protect the altar area; plaster restoration and conservation; and test excavations.