Fermín Lasuén

1736–1803 (age 67)

Franciscan missionary

Photograph of Fermín Lasuén

Biography

Fermín Lasuén was a Franciscan missionary born in 1736 who dedicated his life to spreading Christianity and Spanish colonial influence in California. As a successor to Junípero Serra, he played a crucial role in the development of the California mission system during the late 18th century.

Lasuén's work at Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo and other missions left a lasting impact on the religious and cultural landscape of California. He died in 1803, having spent decades in service to both his religious order and the Spanish colonial enterprise.