My regular readers might recall that Fred asked a question a few weeks ago that I never answered. He asked whether there ever was a Coca-Cola Bottling Plant in Petaluma. Many long time Petalumans know that there was, indeed, such a building. Since I’m a relative “new comer,” I wanted to be certain of the accuracy of my information; so, what did I do? As usually, I waddled over to the research section of the PetalumaHistoricalMuseum and Library and ask for help.(On Wednesdays, the Hoppy Hopkins Research Library is opened and staffed to help visitors.) Volunteer John Benanti was most helpful in finding the source of the following information:

“The Petaluma Soda and Seiltzer Works was a Petaluma landmark starting in 1860 when it was founded by B.F. Connoly. The first factory was situated on Main Street- Back in 1860 no one had heard of Coco-Cola or Pepsi. One of the most popular drinks was Sarsaparilla.” That was way back Then!

“The original company changed hands several times. In the early 20s it was bought out by Mr. S.R. Kristiansen. – The firm later changed its name to Coca-Cola Bottling Company and the building still stands at Second & G Streets. Arnold Jansen took over ownership on the death of Mr. Kristiansen and continued its successful operation until the local bottling works were replaced by a larger, more efficient facility elsewhere.” (See pictures, below)

Now – the large Coca-Cola sign painted on the back wall of the Mutual Relief Insurance Co. building on the SE corner of Western and Kentucky is the only reminder that Petaluma once hosted a bottling works.