This Catholic organization was founded in 1919 at La Placita in down town Los Angeles, by the Priest Andres de Reza. The reason was to help out with the funeral expenses the families of poor immigrants.

Once organized, it was was named La Matriz or mother of many branches. San Gabriel was known at branch number one, Wilmington was number two and now there are thirty-four (the thirty-fourth is in Fresno).

The objectives have not changed and it was never associated with any Mexican government agency or and political affiliation. Since its foundation, until 1962, La Mutualista had no permanent offices or a place to have meetings. They met at member’s houses, parks or churches.

In 1960 Abelardo de la Peña Gonzalez of the Wilmington Branch was nominated as the Supreme President of the organization and thanks to his initiative, the building on 1023 Henry Ford Ave. was bought from the “Ford Workers Union”.

Before leaving La Mutualista, Abelardo de la Peña organized the administration committee, remodeled inside and bought parcels on both sides of the building. In present time, La Mutualista, keeps the property and regular meetings are held for the Wilmington branch and the Supreme council.

I suggest reading “Mi Barco el sueño Americano” by Abelardo de la Peña Gonzalez about the History of the Union Mutualista de San Jose. His books are available on Amazon.com