Colton Hall

Colton Hall, nestled in the heart of Monterey, California, is a beacon of historical significance and architectural charm. This remarkable building, constructed between 1847 and 1849, stands as a testament to the vision and determination of Walter Colton, Monterey's first American alcalde (mayor). With its rich history and stunning Greek Revival architecture, Colton Hall offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into California's early statehood and the vibrant community spirit of Monterey.

The Birth of Colton Hall

The story of Colton Hall begins with Walter Colton, who arrived in Monterey as the chaplain on Commodore Robert F. Stockton's vessel. Upon becoming the elected alcalde, Colton envisioned a grand building that would serve as a school and a public assembly hall. Drawing inspiration from the architectural styles of Philadelphia and Washington D.C., Colton embarked on a project that would leave a lasting legacy.

Constructed from white Monterey shale, the building features a portico adorned with classical columns, reflecting the Greek Revival style that Colton admired. The lower floor was designed to house classrooms, while the upper floor served as a spacious assembly hall, measuring seventy feet by thirty feet. This hall would later become the site of California's first constitutional convention in 1849, marking a pivotal moment in the state's history.

Colton's Vision and Determination

Walter Colton's determination to see his vision realized was unwavering. As alcalde, he wore many hats, serving as mayor, coroner, judge, sheriff, prosecutor, and tax collector. To fund the construction of Colton Hall, he employed a variety of creative methods. He levied taxes on cantinas, alcohol, and gambling, sold city lots, and even utilized the labor of convicts sentenced to work on the building.

Despite skepticism from some quarters, Colton's persistence paid off, and the building was completed on March 8, 1849. It was the largest public building in California at the time, and the citizens of Monterey honored Colton by naming it after him. The completion of Colton Hall marked a significant achievement, showcasing what could be accomplished through unwavering dedication and resourcefulness.

The Constitutional Convention of 1849

One of the most significant events in Colton Hall's history is the California Constitutional Convention of 1849. Held on the upper floor of the building, this convention brought together 48 delegates from ten districts to debate and draft California's first state constitution. The convention lasted from September 1 to October 15, 1849, and the resulting constitution was ratified on October 13, paving the way for California's admission to the Union in 1850.

The stairway leading to the convention hall, originally located at the rear of the building, has since been relocated to the front. Today, visitors can stand in the very room where California's statehood was born, surrounded by the echoes of passionate debates and historic decisions.

Colton Hall School and Beyond

While Colton Hall was initially built to serve as a school for Monterey's children, its role evolved over the years. In 1873, it became the district school office and continued to function as a grade school until 1897, when the school moved to a larger building nearby. Throughout its history, Colton Hall has housed various public offices, including Monterey's City Hall, the county courthouse, the sheriff's office, and the city police headquarters.

In 1949, the second floor of Colton Hall was transformed into a museum, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Sunday, with knowledgeable docents on hand to provide information and guided tours. The assembly hall has been meticulously restored to its original appearance, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the setting of the historic constitutional convention.

Preservation and Renovation

Over the years, Colton Hall has undergone several renovations to preserve its historical integrity and ensure its accessibility to all visitors. In 1903, the Native Sons of the Golden West played a crucial role in securing funding for necessary repairs. More recently, in October 2018, the City of Monterey completed a $353,000 renovation project. This included the addition of a back stairway, deck, courtyard, and parking lot, as well as the installation of a chair lift and ADA-compliant restroom.

These renovations have made Colton Hall more accessible and welcoming to all visitors, allowing everyone to explore its exhibits and events. As Mayor Clyde Roberson noted, We are excited to welcome all visitors to our exhibits and events in Colton Hall. This is a perfect example of a Neighborhood Improvement Program project.

Visiting Colton Hall

A visit to Colton Hall is a journey through California's early statehood and the vibrant history of Monterey. The museum offers a wealth of exhibits and artifacts that bring the past to life, from the days of Walter Colton to the pivotal constitutional convention of 1849. The building itself, with its elegant Greek Revival architecture and meticulously restored assembly hall, is a testament to the vision and determination of its founder.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Colton Hall is a must-visit destination in Monterey. Its walls echo with the stories of the past, inviting you to step into a bygone era and experience the birth of California's statehood. So, take a stroll through the historic streets of Monterey and discover the enduring legacy of Colton Hall – a true gem of California's history.