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Location:
Colton Hall can be found
in the old town section, on Pacific Street, between Jefferson and Madison.
It is a museum that is open from 10:00 - 12:00 and from 1:00 - 5:00. Go
to the Monterey Tourist Office / Visitor Center for a map of the old town
section.
Description and History:
Colton Hall was the first
public building constructed under the American flag, by the U.S. Navy
Chaplain, Walter Colton, described as a just and honest man, who was appointed
to serve as Monterey's first American Alcalde, 1846-1849. His duties encompassed
those of a Mayor and Judge.
This two story, handsome
building whose front is ornamented with a portico, was used for several
purposes. The first floor apartments were used for a children's public
school. Over the apartments on the second floor was a huge public meeting
hall, seventy by thirty feet. There is a porch balcony that extends across
the front of the second floor of the building.
The most famous event that
took place in this upstairs hall was the 1849 California Constitutional
Convention. The state of California entered the Union on Sept. 9th, 1850.
From 1850 to 1872, Monterey served as the County Seat for the newly formed
county. Colton Hall housed the Court House offices, being so close to
the local jail.
Manifestations:
The porch balcony off the
second floor made a dandy scaffold, and some condemned, and some untried
prisoners as well were hung by a rope off of it, after 1850.
Guides on the second floor
have felt unseen entities watching them, heard footsteps on the porch
balcony, second floor and have walked through some moving cold spots,
among other experiences that let them know that they are not alone.
Still Haunted?
Yes
 .
All Pictures taken by Tom Carr
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