Fischer-Hanlon House

Two bronzes on the same house disagree about when Joseph Fischer bought the hotel he moved here: the 1970 plate says 1856, and the 1976 state bronze puts his purchase of the lot at July 1, 1858. Both agree the house was an older Gold Rush hotel moved to this lot and remade as a home, its East Coast Federal lines carried west by the gold rush. Fischer, a Swiss immigrant, came in 1849 and went into the butcher trade. His descendants, the Hanlon sisters Raphealita, Catherine and Marie Rose, gave it to the state in 1969.

What the plaque says

The Joseph Fischer Residence In 1856 Swiss-born Joseph Fischer, merchant and cattleman, purchased a Gold Rush period hotel in Benicia, moved it to this site, and remodeled it as his residence. In 1969 his descendants, the Misses Raphealita, Catherine, and Marie Rose Hanlon, graciously donated this property to the State to be operated as part of the State Park system. Dedicated October 17 1970 Fischer-Hanlon House In 1849, Joseph Fischer, a Swiss immigrant, came to Benicia. After joining a butcher partnership, Fischer purchased this lot on July 1, 1858. The house, reputed to be an old hotel was relocated here. The converted building is an outstanding example of East Coast Federalist styling, which illustrates architectural diffusion during the Gold Rush. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 880 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Solano County Historical Society, September 9, 1976.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Benicia Capitol — steps away
• Saint Paul's Episcopal Church — steps away
• First Building Erected in California by Masonic Lodge for Use as a Hall — steps away
• Site of First Protestant Church — 0.3 mi