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Fischer-Hanlon House: A Glimpse into Benicia's Past

Explore 19th-century life at Benicia's Fischer-Hanlon House, a Gold Rush-era gem with period furnishings and a beautiful Victorian garden.

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Step back in time at the Fischer-Hanlon House, a beautifully preserved historical landmark in Benicia, California. Built in 1858, this Gold Rush-era home offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century family life and the early history of this charming waterfront town.

A brief summary to Fischer Hanlon House

  • Monday 12 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 12 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 12 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 12 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 12 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 12 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park website for tour schedules and to book in advance, as tours are limited to small groups.
  • Allow at least an hour to explore the house and gardens.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and standing.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Benicia's historic downtown, filled with shops, restaurants, and antique stores.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Fischer Hanlon House is located at 115 W G St, next to the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park. If you're in downtown Benicia, near First Street, it's an easy walk. Head west on G Street towards the Capitol building. The house is right next door. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving via public transport from other parts of Solano County, SolTrans bus routes serve Benicia. From the nearest bus stops at 1st St & Military W or Military W & 1st St, it's about an 8-minute walk to the Fischer Hanlon House. Head east on Military W towards First Street, then turn right onto First Street and walk south. Turn left onto W G Street. The Fischer Hanlon House will be on your left, next to the Capitol Building. A single SolTrans fare is approximately $2.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Benicia, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) can provide direct transport to 115 W G St. The ride is typically short and inexpensive within the city limits. Expect to pay around $8-$15 for a ride from most locations in Benicia. Availability may vary.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 115 W G St, Benicia, CA 94510. Parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited, especially during peak tourist season. Free street parking is available on First Street and surrounding streets, but it may require a short walk. There are no parking fees. Be mindful of street cleaning schedules and parking restrictions.

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Discover more about Fischer Hanlon House

The Fischer-Hanlon House, nestled in the heart of Benicia, California, offers a captivating journey into the past. Built in 1858, the house began its life as a hotel for pioneers seeking their fortune during the Gold Rush. Joseph Fischer, a Swiss immigrant and butcher, purchased the building after it sustained fire damage in 1856 and moved it to its current location. He transformed it into a family home, where it was occupied by successive generations of the Fischer-Hanlon family for over a century. Today, the Fischer-Hanlon House is a meticulously restored museum furnished in the style of the 1880s, offering visitors a glimpse into middle-class life in 19th-century Benicia. Explore the formal parlor with its Steinway piano, the dining room with antique china, and the bedrooms filled with period furniture. The house also features a Victorian garden with heirloom plants, including a wisteria plant over 100 years old. Located next to the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, the Fischer-Hanlon House provides a unique opportunity to experience California's history. Knowledgeable docents offer guided tours, sharing stories of the Fischer family and the significance of Benicia as California's capital in the 1850s. The house is a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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