A collection of microfilmed documents relating to the history of the Order of Saint Francis in the New World, including the exploration, settlement, and colonization of Mexico, Central, and South America, the Caribbean, and the United States.

The Franciscan Order is the common term for the Order of Friars Minor; the Order of Friars Minor, Capuchin; the Order of Friars Minor, Conventual; the Third Order Regular of St. Francis; and a number of other related communities of men or women. Originally founded by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1209, the Order is mendicant (dependent on charity for their livelihood), apostolic, and contemplative.

Number of containers: 20 cartons Linear feet: 25

All requests to reproduce, publish, quote from or otherwise use collection materials must be submitted in writing to the Head of Public Services, The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley, 94720-6000. Consent is given on behalf of The Bancroft Library as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include or imply permission from the copyright owner. Such permission must be obtained from the copyright owner. See: http://bancroft.berkeley.edu/reference/permissions.html.

Collection is open for research, with the following exceptions: Much of the film is unspooled or in such poor condition that conservation measures may be needed prior to patron access. Inquiries concerning these materials should be directed, in writing, to the Head of Public Services, The Bancroft Library.