Benicia Historical Society

Benicia Historical Society Gazette Summer 2004 OurWaterfront... historically speaking When determining best use of any portion of a historic district that has been lost, it is important to review historic uses, architecture, natural and cultural landscapes and then determine the period of history that, not only preserves the surrounding historic resources but also, is best suited to the overall health of the historic district as a heritage tourism destination. Historically our waterfront featured industrial uses such as canning, leather tanning and fishing. It featured (to put it nicely) "cultural" uses that are illegal today. The architecture was pre- dominately of the sort that would not meet today's standards. An endeavor to restore these historic uses and architecture could prove unwise. Prior to industrialization our waterfront was a natural marsh blending to a natural park-like setting, much like it is today. Did you know... SPENGER'S - IN BENICIA In our last newsletter we told you there was a Spenger's Fish Grotto restaurant located on a ferry called the Encinal docked at what is now our state park at the city limits of Benicia... we thought you'd like to see a picture of her. Events JOHN'S PLACE Before there was I-80 we had old Hwy 40. It's called "Historic Hwy 40" today. Heading east on 40 you could take the Benicia Road cut-off to the old highway (Military St. - there was no 780 back then) to a restaurant called John's Place. John's Place sat at the foot of W. 6th Street in Benicia where homes are today. John served Italian dinners, cocktails and featured a "charcoal broiler." Check out the vintage matchbook cover below. ANNUAL HISTORIC HOME TOUR The 2004 Historic Home tour is the Benicia Historical Society's annual fund- raiser. This year's event is slated for Saturday, October 2nd from 11:00 am until 4 pm. A reception for all attendees will be held throughout the event - be sure to stop by to say hello and join the Benicia Historical Society. This year we are focusing on the east side of town where many of our most beautiful historic homes are hidden. Admission is $25.00 ($20.00 in advance). You can get advance tickets from Benicia Main Street located at the Depot (foot of First St.), Camelia's Tea Room, and Book Store Benicia. ANNUAL CITY CEMETERY TOUR This year's City Cemetery Tour is scheduled for Saturday, October 9th from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. We'll have maps for all attendees and refreshments while they last. A marker has been placed at the grave of former slave Mary Lane and its dedication will be held at 1:30 pm. Please consider bringing a donation for the Cemetery Committee Fund to help continue preserving and restoring the graves of our city's founding pioneers and their families. BENICIA HISTORIC RUN The Benicia Police Department is planning a marathon benefitting Benicia Schools and the Benicia Historical Society! The event is slated for October 30th. Check our fall newsletter for more. inside cover cover DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR The new downtown walking tour, complete with new signage and brochures will be kicked-off during the "First Friday's On First" event August 6th when the evening's theme will be Gold Rush Days. We will have docents at many of the First Street historic spots, some dressed in period costume, passing out our brochures and educating guests about our town history. Welcome! Our New Members Mayor Steve Messina - Lifetime Member Captain Walsh House - Business Member Christie Maxwell - Individual Member The Depot Jurgenson Saloon