The Old State Capitol in Benicia was the third state capitol building erected in California and the only one remaining to commemorate California's first decade as a state.

Built in 1852, it was offered to the state when earlier statehouses proved inadequate. For one year and twenty-one days (February 4, 1853 to February 25, 1854) it was California's seat of government.

When the state capitol was moved to Sacramento, the Benicia structure became, in turn, the county courthouse, a justice court, school, library, theatre, church, police station and city hall.

In 1949 it was deeded to the state, and in 1956 and 1957 it was restored to its pristine glory at a cost of $270,000 and made part of the state park system.

Adapted from the NRHP nomination.

The Old State Capitol in Benicia is also California Landmark 153.