Delaplane, Kristin

Jul 14, 1996

Abstract: Just before New Year's 1857, there was a snowstorm in Benicia that lasted four to five hours and left 2 inches of snow on the ground. To citizens' knowledge, it was the first snowfall since the city was founded. Hatch, Brackett and Co., proprietors of the Brick Store at 1st and E, celebrated New Year's Eve with an old-fashioned housewarming to thank customers for their patronage. Business was apparently so brisk the owners had just completed an extensive addition to the store. The public was treated to a viands on a bountifully spread table, champagne and other choice liquors. They left after an hour or two of dancing.