Benicia, a town of rolling hills and sea and delta breezes, is located on the north side of the Carquinez Strait as it turns into San Pablo Bay. This waterway connects the Sacramento Delta to the San Pablo Bay and provides easy access to the Pacific ocean by way of the San Francisco Bay. At one time, Benicia was part of the tribal hunting grounds of the Patwin people. It became part of the Mission Solano territory under the rule of first Spain and then Mexico. The city of Benicia was founded May 19, 1847, and named for the wife of General Mariano Vallejo, who had deeded land to establish the city. The army established an arsenal that became the largest supply depot on the west coast. According to local lore, the discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill was leaked at Von Pfister’s general store in Benicia. The news of gold was let slip by a boastful courier at the Von Pfister general store. According to the tale, the next day the townsfolk hurried off to seek their fortunes and became some of the first 49ers. The unrestored store still stands just off the west side of First Street, between West D and West C Streets, at the end of Von Pfister alley. Benicia became the third state capital, provided a stopping point for the Pony Express and was called the Athens of California for its educational institutions. Benicia is home to a community of artists, fine schools and involved citizens who care about its past, present and future. This mural depicts the sun rising over the still sleeping town while a horse-drawn wagon with its load of milk canisters rumbles its way to the Benicia Creamery. In the background, the State Capitol peaks over the tree-lined street. It connotes the familiar feel of small town America and hints at the significant role our town plays in state and national history.