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Santo Tomas, Baja California

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Santo Tomás: A Historic Hub in Mexico’s Wine Country

Santo Tomás is a small town located along the interior stretch of Highway 1 on the Baja Peninsula. With a population of fewer than 500, this quaint town boasts a rich history that continues to influence its present and future. Famous for its wine, the surrounding countryside is thriving with vineyards, a legacy passed down from the missionaries who first discovered and developed these lands.

History

Santo Tomas is the location of the third and final mission named Mission Santo Tomás de Aquino. (The earlier two missions have been lost after they were abandoned.) Previous to the mission, the lands were used by the Kumeyaay people.

The original mission was founded April 24 1791 in a large valley which today is called Santo Tomas Valley. The valley had natural springs and was home to alder, willow, oak and poplar trees. The missionaries cultivated wheat, olives, beans, barley and most importantly – grapes on the 80 to 178 hectares.

It was a Dominican Mission and it grew, relocated in 1794 and in 1799.and reached its peak to a population of 400 by 1824. Grapes were grown for wine making in 1790.

By mid-century the population was reduced to 60 and was abandoned. The site was taken over by the military and for a time was used as a fort and the capital of Northern Baja California. It is now an undecernable ruins.

Commerce

Vineyards and agriculture are the main industry. There is also camping and a small developing wine-tourism sector.

 

 

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