History of Ortega's Capistrano Trading Post
Ortega's Capistrano Trading Post is located across the street from the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano and itself has a rich history. The Old Mission Trading Post was originally built in 1947 by a former Hollywood art director named Henry Oliver. The Trading Post was operated by Sue DiMaio and built on the site of Fred Stoffel's former San Juan Inn Café - the first cafe in San Juan Capistrano. (pictured above - circa 1920’s)
The San Juan Café had also served as Fred Cason's movie house during the 1920s. The facade was changed in 1953 to the Western false front appearance it retains today. The trading post was purchased in 1987 by Bill Ortega who still operates it today. Mr. Ortega comes from a long family tradition of operating trading posts dating back to the mid-1800’s.
Mr. Ortega represents his family’s 7th generation of dealers in Native American Indian Jewelry & Turquoise. The Trading Post today also offers San Juan Capistrano souvenirs, religious goods, artwork, crafts from local San Juan Capistrano artists and California Mission Collectibles.
Collector's Club
Members of the Collector's Club get exclusive access to special Native American Jewelry & Turquoise collections before they are offered to the public and receive offers and discounts available only to Collector's Club members.
Our Products
American Indian Jewelry - Pottery – Arts & Crafts
- We are the most experienced and largest supplier of Native American Indian Jewelry in Orange County. We are 7th generation experts in Native American Indian Jewelry with a huge inventory of silver and turquoise jewelry. Our extensive Native American Indian collection also includes Kachina Dolls, Pottery, and other Crafts.
California Mission Collectibles
- Ortega's Capistrano Trading Post has developed a set of collectible mission bells accurately based on vintage products from the early 1900s. Our painstaking attention to detail and unrelenting pursuit for authenticity has resulted in, what we believe are, the finest reproductions available anywhere.
California Mission Souvenirs and Keepsakes
- We offer an array of custom products for each of the 21 California Missions. Products include Slate Trivets, Sandstone Coasters, Ceramic Magnets, Postcards, Historic Images, 4th Grade Mission Project Information and Supplies, Jewelry, Candle Holders and Coins. Of course, we also offer San Juan Capistrano Souvenirs, Hats, T-Shirts, Shot Glasses, etc.
We Buy & Consign American Indian Jewelry & Turquoise
We buy & consign single pieces and complete collections. For more information, please contact us and we'll send you information on how to sell or consign your jewelry.