Benicia in Solano County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
First Masonic Hall Built in California
Photographed By Syd Whittle, February 20, 2009
1. First Masonic Hall Built in California Marker
The first Masonic hall built in California was begun in the summer of 1850, occupied by the lodge October 14, 1850, and formally dedicated December 27, 1850. This building served as the Masonic Temple for Benicia Lodge No. 5 until 1888, when the new temple was occupied. It was used by a boys' club prior to World War I and by the American Legion shortly after the war. It was reacquired by Benicia Lodge No. 5 in 1950.
Erected 1950 by The Historic Landmarks Committee, Native Sons of the Golden West, Benicia Parlor No.89, Native Sons of the Golden West and Benicia Parlor No.287 Native Daughters of the Golden West. Marker dedicated on December 17, 1950. (Marker Number 174.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Fraternal or Sororal Organizations • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the California Historical Landmarks, and the Native Sons/Daughters of the Golden West series lists. A significant historical date for this entry is October 14, 1850.
Location. 38° 3.143′ N, 122° 9.443′ W. Marker is in Benicia, California, in Solano County. Marker is on West J Street, on the right when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 110 W J Street, Benicia CA 94510, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance
this page online
Regarding First Masonic Hall Built in California. This site was designated as California Registered Historical Landmark No.174 on March 6, 1935 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 16, 1972.
Also see . . . History of Benicia. City website entry (Submitted on June 13, 2022, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
Additional commentary.
1. Masonic Temple (1850)
The first Masonic Temple in California was constructed in 1850 on land donated by Alexander Riddell and with lumber donated by Benicia founder Robert Semple. The lower floor of the building was used as a courtroom and county offices prior to completion of the State
Photographed By Syd Whittle, February 20, 2009
2. First Masonic Hall Built in California Marker
Source: Historic Downtown Benicia Walking Tour brochure.
— Submitted February 21, 2009, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, February 20, 2009
3. First Masonic Hall Built in California
(The cornerstone marker is behind the red pick-up truck - See Photo #4)
Photographed By Syd Whittle, February 20, 2009
4. Cornerstone Plaque
(Plaque is mounted on the northeast corner of the building.)
First Masonic Temple
in Calfifornia
Erected 1850
Cornerstone relaid by
Grand Lodge F.& A.M.
1973
Photographed By Syd Whittle, February 20, 2009
5. The Masonic Emblym and Heritage 76 Marker
These are located above the entrance doors to the building.
Heritage 76
1776 - 1976
A Bicentennial Landmark of
The California State Historical Resources Commission
Photographed By Syd Whittle, February 20, 2009
6. First Masonic Hall Built in California
Credits. This page was last revised on June 13, 2022. It was originally submitted on February 21, 2009, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 1,689 times since then and 26 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on February 21, 2009, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.
