Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776.  After a long period of gradual decline and damages caused by earthquakes, restoration efforts began with the arrival of Father O’Sullivan in 1910. Alas, the use of improper modern materials such as Portland cement-based mortars, concrete and renders created new challenges until it had become evident that lime was the only appropriate and compatible material. The closing of the last Natural Hydraulic Lime producer in the United States, led engineers and contractors to discover the fundamental qualities of Saint Astier® Natural Hydraulic Limes. Since then they have been extensively used in renders, masonry and in structural work. More information on Mission San Juan Capistrano.