The oldest building in San Jose today is known as the Peralta Adobe. It was built in 1797 by Manuel Gonzalez, an Apache native who came to the area as part of the Anza Expedition, helped found San Jose, and became the second Alcalde, the equivalent of mayor of San Jose. Luís María Peralta, whom the house is now named after, purchased the house after Gonzalez’s death. He too had arrived with the Anza Expedition and became a leader in the pueblo as the Comisionado, something like the sheriff of San Jose. Peralta also lived in the adobe until his death. Today you can see the adobe right in San Pedro Square while you enjoy a meal. You can go to HistorySanJose.org to sign up for a tour and to learn more about the building.
