Kosa'aay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Kosa'aay
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Village
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Derby's map of 1853, current Old Town San Diego map, and significant historic 1769 sites. Village of Kosa'aay located at location "A".
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 Kosa'aay
Location in San Diego
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| Tribal Nation | Kumeyaay |
| Established | Unknown |
| Became San Diego, Alta California | July 16th, 1769 |
Kosa'aay was an important Kumeyaay village. It was located in what is now the Old Town, San Diego area.
Contents
What Does Kosa'aay Mean?
In the Kumeyaay language, the name Kosa'aay means "drying out place." When the Spanish arrived, they changed the name to Cosoy.
Life in the Village
Kosa'aay was home to about thirty to forty families. They lived in unique pyramid-shaped houses. These homes were built using branches and covered with earth.
The village was supported by a freshwater spring. This spring, along with plants from nearby wetlands and hillsides, provided food and water for the people.
A Safe Place to Live
The villagers also built a special enclosure. It was made from branches and tree trunks. This area was used for safety, offering a place to hide from enemies.
Meeting the Spanish Explorers
In 1769, the Portolá expedition arrived in the area. Many of the Spanish sailors were very sick. They were suffering from scurvy and extreme thirst.
The Kumeyaay people of Kosa'aay helped them. They shared their food and water. This act of kindness saved many lives.
What the Spanish Saw
A Spanish officer, Miguel Costanso, wrote about the village. He described how the Kumeyaay guided them to a river. Near the river, they found Kosa'aay.
He noted the village's pyramid-shaped huts. He also mentioned the strong enclosure built for protection.
The Founding of San Diego
On July 16, 1769, a special church service was held. This event marked the start of Mission San Diego de Alcalá and Presidio of San Diego. These were the first mission and fort in Alta California.
This day is also seen as the founding of the settlement of San Diego. The Kumeyaay village of Kosa'aay became part of this new Spanish settlement. Later, the Kumeyaay people called the city Tepacul Watai, which means "Stacked Big."
Kosa'aay Today
You can still learn about Kosa'aay at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. There is a special area called the Iipay Tipai Kumeyaay Mut Niihepok Park.
This park was created with the help of the Kumeyaay Diegueño Land Conservancy. It helps people learn about Kumeyaay culture and history. It is located right where the village once stood.
There is also a shop in the state park called Kosay Kumeyaay Market. It sells cultural items made by the Kumeyaay people and other related groups.
