Mutsun Ohlone
People of the Valley · San Benito County
The Mutsun-speaking Ohlone people inhabited the fertile valleys and oak woodlands of what is now San Benito County for thousands of years before Spanish contact. The San Benito River valley and the area around present-day Hollister were centers of Mutsun settlement, with large villages supported by acorn harvests, deer hunting, and the valley's abundant resources.
Timeline
The Mutsun World
Mutsun villages were concentrated along the San Benito River and its tributaries. The Mutsun people maintained trade relationships with coastal Ohlone groups and with interior peoples of the San Joaquin Valley. After the founding of Mission San Juan Bautista in 1797, the Mutsun people were the primary group incorporated — and devastated — by the mission system.
Visit these historical sites
Real places in our directory connected to Mutsun Ohlone.
Related reading from our blog
- Carmel Valley Wine Country: A Guide to Tastings, Vineyards, and Pairings
Discover the hidden gem of Carmel Valley Wine Country, where exquisite tastings and breathtaking landscapes await. Your ultimate guide to vineyards, pairings, and local flavors starts here!
- 10 Best Wineries Near Carmel Valley and Monterey County
Monterey County, with its stunning coastal views and lush valleys, is not just famous for its breathtaking sceneries but also for its exceptional wineries. If you're looking to indulge in some of the best wines California has to offer, then the Carmel Valley and Monterey County area should be at the
- Silicon Valley to Pinnacles: A Wild Weekend at California's Newest National Park
Discover the wild beauty of Pinnacles National Park. This comprehensive guide covers everything from Silicon Valley day trips to local tips for your weekend adventure!
- Wine Country Day Trip: Carmel Valley to Paso Robles Along Highway 101
Discover the perfect day trip from Carmel Valley to Paso Robles along Highway 101, exploring stunning vineyards, breathtaking views, and local culinary delights.