883 WY0024b 1850 59476936857 Aug. 1850-A. Riddel presented the Masonic Lodge a lot. Robert Semple (co-founder of Benicia) furnished lumber to frame the building. This was the first Masonic Hall built in the State of Califronia. Cost was $18,000. 1st mtg held 10/14/1850. Dedicated on St.John's Day, 12/27/1850. Used by Benicia Lodge #5 until 3/10/1888 when a new temple was dedicated. Used by Union Hall and others until Lodge #5 re-acquired the building on 1/3/1950. Per Steve De Benedetti. wy