California’s state flag, with its image of a grizzly bear and the phrase “California Republic,” is perhaps one of the most iconic state flags in all of America. However, many may not be familiar with its origins. Greg Tilles, a history professor at Diablo Valley College, will discuss the historical event that inspired California’s current […]
Reflections on the Bear Flag Revolt of June 14, 1846
By Reg Page Special to the Herald “Timing is everything” is an old expression that can be applied to many things. For the city of Benicia, though, it has particular merit. That point is worth making now because we will soon be at the 170th anniversary of what was likely the seminal event that led […]
Historian to describe role, interests of city, state founder Robert Semple
Benicia founder Robert Semple “was a busy guy,” said Jerry Hayes, president of the Benicia Historical Society. Semple started the first California newspaper. He was involved in the Bear Flag Revolt for California independence, and escorted the captured General Mariano Vallejo to Sutter’s Fort. Semple was, in fact, a key figure in the founding of […]