First Building Erected in California by Masonic Lodge for Use as a Hall

The bronze counts the first Masonic hall built in California, and its first tenants were not all Masons: the county court sat downstairs before Benicia had a city hall. Robert Semple gave the lumber and Alexander Riddell the land, and Benicia Lodge No. 5 moved in on October 14, 1850. The lodge left in 1888 and bought the building back in 1950. In 1973 the Grand Lodge relaid its cornerstone, carved Temple where the 1950 bronze says Hall. No state plaque stands here; a Heritage '76 plate hangs by the door.

What the plaque says

First Masonic Hall Built in California 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 as a Boys' Club prior to World War I and the American Legion shortly after the war. It was reacquired by Benicia Lodge No. 5 in 1950. Erected by the Historic Landmark 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. California Historical Landmark Registration No. 174. First Masonic Temple in California Erected 1850 Cornerstone relaid by Grand Lodge F. & A. M. 1973 Heritage '76 1776 - 1976 A Bicentennial landmark of the California State Historical Resources Commission

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Saint Paul's Episcopal Church — steps away
• Site of First Protestant Church — steps away
• Benicia Seminary — steps away
• Fischer-Hanlon House — steps away