September 19, 1836. · Mexico
by [California]: Corro, Jose Justo
Mexico, September 19, 1836.. [1]p. on folded folio sheet, plus integral blank leaf, 12 x 8 1/4 inches. Docketed at the bottom of the first page. Old folds, a few spots of light foxing. Contemporary manuscript notes in three different hands, and one manuscript correction to text (see below). Very good. Of the highest importance in the religious history of California, this decree provides for the establishment of the first bishopric in Alta and Baja California. This decree came on the heels of the secularization of the California missions, which had been the foundation of religious organization there. The procedures for establishing a separate diocese and appointing a new bishop are given, the bishop to be chosen by the government based on the recommendation of the CABILDO METROPOLITANO and proposed to the Pope. The government would grant an annual stipend of 6000 pesos to fund the bishopric, which would also have at its disposal monies from the Pious Fund. The decree was issued by Mexican President Jose Justo Corro, and bears the printed signature of Joaquin de Iturbide.
This is likely an early printing of the decree as this copy has a correction to item number three, directing the government to chose a candidate. Here, "pone" has been crossed out and "forme" written above it; "forme" occurs in subsequent printings. This decree was subsequently reprinted and distributed throughout the country. This particular copy has a note dated October 4, 1836, ordering that this decree be printed and circulated, with the signature of José Rafael Canalizo, governor of the state of Querétaro.
OCLC lists three copies, at the Huntington Library, Arizona Historical Society, and Yale. There is also a copy at the University of Notre Dame. A scarce and important document in the history of California, and the church establishment there. OCLC 964933342, 39114759, 28179133. (Inventory #: WRCAM57366)
This is likely an early printing of the decree as this copy has a correction to item number three, directing the government to chose a candidate. Here, "pone" has been crossed out and "forme" written above it; "forme" occurs in subsequent printings. This decree was subsequently reprinted and distributed throughout the country. This particular copy has a note dated October 4, 1836, ordering that this decree be printed and circulated, with the signature of José Rafael Canalizo, governor of the state of Querétaro.
OCLC lists three copies, at the Huntington Library, Arizona Historical Society, and Yale. There is also a copy at the University of Notre Dame. A scarce and important document in the history of California, and the church establishment there. OCLC 964933342, 39114759, 28179133. (Inventory #: WRCAM57366)