Museum Complex
Benicia Historical Museum
Museum Gallery
Museum Gallery (Upstairs)
Floor two of the Stone Hall houses our main Museum gallery (Building #9). Built in 1854, this was originally a storehouse for the Arsenal. This area features exhibits ranging from the Native Californians of Solano County, to the founding of California, to the Gold Rush, to current-day arts in Benicia.
Stone Hall
Stone Hall
The lower level of Building #9 is known as Captain Charles P. Stone Hall. Here we host many events; including First Friday At The Museum, Art Camel Gallery, History Talks, Concerts, and more. The hall can also be rented for weddings and private events. See our Rentals page for details.
Spenger Garden
Spenger Garden
Spenger Memorial Garden, is located behind Stone Hall and was dedicated in 2008 to the memory of Catherine and Paul Spenger. The garden is a charming space for a picnic after a Museum tour and is available to rent for private events. See our Rentals page for details.
Industrial Exhibit
Industrial Exhibit
The Silas Casey Building (Building #7) was erected for the Arsenal in 1853. It now houses our Industrial Exhibit, Archive offices, and Education Department.
Museum Office
Museum Offices
Currently, our Museum Offices (Building #8). Erected in 1855, this was originally the Engine House, and later served as a guardhouse, an Army Officer’s office, a chapel, a cartridge bag shop, and an artist’s studio.
Powder Magazine
The Powder Magazine
The Powder Magazine (Building #10) is a unique adventure. Built in 1857 from native Benicia sandstone by predominantly Irish stonemasons, this is one of the few remaining examples of the stonemasons’ art in California, from the vaulted ceilings to the carved capitals on the pillars. The Museum has restored this building and installed a display of Benicia Arsenal artifacts. At the present time, the Powder Magazine is open to visitors by appointment only.