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There have been different designs of the Riverside County, California, Sheriff's Department badge over the years. Most feature variations on the same symbol--a mission bell in the center with a cross above it.
Unique Symbol
The central image is known as the "Raincross Symbol." It combines a replica of the mass bell used by California Missions founder Father Junipero Serra with the cross some American Indian tribes used to pray for rain.
Mission Impossible
No Spanish mission built between 1769 and 1823 in California was located in what is now the city or county of Riverside. The city was founded on a former Spanish rancho in 1870. The county was founded in 1955.
Mission Commissioned
The Raincross Symbol was originally designed for the Mission Inn, which was built in Riverside in 1876. It remains the largest Mission Revival Style building in the United States.
Symbolic Gift
Mission Inn owner Frank Miller gave the Raincross Symbol to the city. Officially adopted in 1907, the symbol is now incorporated in street signs, architecture and lighting standards.
Official Uses
Today you will find the Raincross Symbol in the middle of Riverside's official seal and flag. It's also on every badge worn by Riverside County sheriff's deputies.
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