Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1152518
1910 when Fr. Mestres started The Mission Restoration League that the great strides in restoration began. Following Fr. Casanova and Fr. Mestres in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was the inimitable Harry Downie, who stopped by the Mission to repair statuary on his way to Santa Barbara in 1931 at the young age of 28, and stayed for 50 years as craftsman, restorer, his- torian, art historian, and fundraiser. His tenac- ity is evidenced everywhere in the Mission complex. Visitors owe a debt of gratitude to the likes of Casanova, Mestres, and Downie, because they saw beauty and did what they could to preserve and restore it and pass it on to future generations. In concert with the Carmel Mission Parish and Diocese of Monterey, the Carmel Mission Foundation (CMF) works to raise funds for large-scale restoration projects, such as the seismic strengthening of the Basilica, that would otherwise not be possible. The Foundation's reach is local, national, international – to engage with generous donors who wish to play a vital role in the Carmel Mission's 21st century resto- ration effort. Basilica restoration work earned recognition of the 2015 Governor's Historic Preservation Award. The Basilica is now much stronger and more beautiful than ever. Both the Basilica and the Quadrangle are cherished venues for the Parish and community; however, there is much more to be done in the Mission complex. "The Foundation focuses on the historical structures, grounds, and artifacts of this National Landmark. Our goal is to restore and preserve these historic elements and share the Mission's Top: 1928, Dirt road leading to the Mission. Behind it is Jo Mora's workshop where he sculpted the renowned Cenotaph. Bottom: Interior of the abandoned Mission, 1880. The allure of the Carmel Mission attracted restorers, writers, benefactors, and caring citizens. 238 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R / F A L L 2 0 1 9 Photo: Pat Hathaway Collection Photo: Lewis Josselyn/Pat Hathaway Collection