The articles in this section were written by several authors between 1995 and 2005. Many pages are identified as “under construction,” and additional essays were planned but not completed. These articles reflect the available information and historical perspectives of the authors and the time when they were written. They have not been revised or updated. They do not necessarily represent the views of the Monterey County Historical Society, its board, volunteers, or staff.

Monterey’s Fremont Adobe

Although this two-story adobe is generally recognized as the headquarters of John C. Fremont, the memoirs of Fremont and Lt. William T. Sherman confirm that the title is a misnomer. Their notes show that when he came to Monterey, he encamped on a hill at the end of town. Map.

Actual ownership of the little adobe has been traced through several Monterey families. In 1861 it was sold by Antonio Maria Vasquez and his wife, Asuncion Boronda Vasquez, for $200. By the late 1800s it was the family home of Crisimo Castro, who came to Monterey during the Gold Rush period.

When the government purchased the property for post office expansion, the Monterey History and Art Association bought the building and a minimum of land in 1960. Now, carefully restored, it is leased for appropriate uses.

Location: 539 Hartnell Street