Name/Title
SpeechEntry/Object ID
2019.021.0058Scope and Content
This is a copy of a speech written by Josephine Cowell for Col. Wood on 02/20/1957. He gave this speech at the Rotarian meeting in Benicia.
The speech briefly covers the 100+ year history of the Arsenal. It talks about the changes from smooth bore guns to rifles, from horses and black powder to guided missles and automotive vehicles, etc.
The speech is full of little known facts. It explains where the word "Ordnance" is derived, the trials and tribulations of Captain Stone in getting to Benicia and then in erecting its fiirst buildings, the almost total financial ruin Stone suffered in the early days, the departure of the U.S. Infantry in 1898, etc. He also details the growth of the Benicia Arsenal during WWII and then further growth during the Korean Conflict.Collection
Benicia Historical Museum Collection
