Name/Title
Print, PhotographicEntry/Object ID
2007.046.0001Scope and Content
Color Photograph:
117 East D Street, Benicia CA
Parcel No. 89-372-18
Block 13, Lot 4
Obscured, gable roof cottage. The "T" shaped, gabled roof, one story, rectangular building has been completely remodeled following a fire and the original wood frame is now stucco over rustic siding. It appears to incorporate two houses, each with a brick chimney. The original circa 1857 house is totally obscured.
This was the residence of Judge Joseph McKenna who graduated in 1865 from Prof. Flatt's Benicia Collegiate Institute. He practiced law in Solano Co., served a term in State Legislature, U.S. Congressman 1885-1892; under President McKinley, Associate Justice of U.S. Supreme Court and served for 27 years. It is thought that the original house was moved back on the lot to make way for a Shell Oil Company station in 1917. The house in 1919 was owned by Mrs. Kuhland, a prominent local property owner. The station area is now vacant land. In 1867 Mrs. Mary McKenna (mother of John), a widow and administratrix of the estate of J. McKenna, was awarded the property and the dwelling house and valuable improvements thereon. A deed from Robert H. Thomas of Tehema Co. to McKenna was filed in Solano Co. Recorder's Office 12/5/1859.Collection
Benicia Architectural Study - 1989