Sloat Landing Exhibition

Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center’s exhibit is currently showcasing a tribute to Sloat’s Landing in honor of its 177th anniversary. A display of paintings and other items is on exhibit in the Stanton Center through July 31. There is also a video featuring Thom Diggins available for viewing in the auditorium. Thom gives a good history of the historical events of July 7, 1846.The museum is open Saturday through Thursday10 am to 5 pmThe Sloat exhibit/video is free to visitorsJuly 7, 1846, commanded by Commodore John D. Sloat, the frigate Savannah and the sloops Cyane and Levant of the United States sailed into Monterey Bay to claim Alta California in the name of the United States. Captain William Mervine of the Cyane came ashore with a small party from the Savannah. At 7:30 a.m., Captain Mervine sought the surrender of the port.  Mexican commandant, Capt. Mariano Silva said that he was “not authorized to surrender the place”.  225 sailors and marines from Sloat’s three ships landed and gathered before the Custom House.  Purser Rodman M. Price read Sloat’s proclamation and posted it in English and Spanish, declaring that a state of war existed between the United States and Mexico and that “henceforth California would be a portion of the United States.”  The group then raised the flag of the United States at the Custom House. Each of the three ships fired a 21-gun salute to celebrate.