Vallejo, California (Hayward)

Vallejo, Ca., Solano Co. Capital of the state of California. In consideration that this should be made the capital of the state, General Vallejo and his associates agreed to convey to the state 156 acres of land, and to expend within two years $370,000 in providing public buildings. This place is beautifully situated on the sides of lofty hills, which rise with a gradual undulation from the waters of the Straits of Napa, just at their entrance into San Pablo Bay, about 30 miles E. of N. from San Francisco, 8 N. of W. from Benicia, 100 S. W. from Sacramento, and about the same N. W. from Stockton. It can be approached by the largest sea vessels, and through the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers easily communicates with the whole mining district. In its neighborhood, on the Napa and Sonoma, is one of the best farming districts in the state. In addition to a commanding view of the beautiful valley of Napa. with its enclosure of sheltering hills, the perspective embraces the slopes of Benicia, the Straits of Carquinez, the verdant hills and valleys of Martinez, with Mare Island, the Bay of San Pablo, and in the far distance Telegraph Hill, dotted with white. The Capitol stands on an eminence commanding a wide range of prospect. It is of plain and simple design, and will afford ample accommodations. The main entrance is by a bold flight of steps extending the full breadth of the building, and surmounted by a lofty portico. The lowest story or basement, which is of solid mason work; contains a hall intended for law courts, about 70 feet in length, 40 in breadth, and 12 in height, well lighted, with 10 massive pillars to sustain the upper halls. The first floor, to which the main entrance leads, by a spacious hall, is to be the session room of the House of Assembly. It has about the same proportions as the story below it, and a ceiling about 20 feet high. It is lighted by 14 large windows. From the entrance hall, at either side, a broad winding staircase leads to the senate room, which is of the same size as the assembly room, and equally well lighted. The house also contains, at either side of the entrance halls, committee rooms, the governor's room, and other state apartments. The apartments for the different state officers are separate from the main building. They are large and well furnished, with rather more space than would seem necessary for state purposes. In the vicinity of the Capitol there are some 12 hotels of large size and ample accommodations.