Admiral’s Mansions at Mare Island and St. Peter’s Chapel
Walnut Avenue, Mare Island
Vallejo, CA 94592
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Contact: Alex's Catering
Phone: 707/643-1711 Catering, 707/557-1538 Chapel/Mansions
www.alexscatering.com
Why We Like This Place
With the 1996 closure of Mare Island Naval Installation, four landmark buildings are now available for special events. These venues are operated by the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation, so you no longer need military connections. And since they’re located in the island’s quaint historic district (which dates back to the mid 1800s), you feel like you have an entire small town all to yourself.
Set in its own grassy park with a eucalyptus grove, St. Peter’s is a picturesque interdenominational chapel. Built in 1901, it’s the oldest naval chapel in the United States. A classic example of Victorian Gothic architecture, this tidy brown shingle with cream-colored trim, steep pitched roof and a soaring octagonal spire, has as much charm and history inside as out. The largest collection of Tiffany glass under one roof is displayed in the chapel’s 29 exquisite stained-glass windows, and they fill the intimate interior with a soft rosy light. One window depicts Sir Galahad who, when illuminated, becomes the ultimate knight in shining armor. Rich wood paneling complements the creamy plaster walls, and open beams accentuate the vaulted ceiling. The chapel also displays a collection of memorial plaques. Some are set into the ceiling and others (one dates back to the Civil War), hang on the walls, making intriguing reading.
Naturally there’s a pipe organ (it’s the original one from 1926!) to fill the sanctuary with strains of “Here Comes The Bride.” After the ceremony, take advantage of the lovely setting for formal photos while your guests make the short trip back down Walnut Avenue to Officer’s Row.
Receptions and business retreats are held in the Admiral’s and the Captain’s former quarters, 2 of the 13 white Colonial Revival mansions lining Officer’s Row. As you enter the Admiral’s Quarters, it’s easy to imagine the social galas of a century ago. The brass nautical lamps that lit the entryway then still hang on either side of the massive oak front door; the wide front veranda graced with Corinthian columns still invites guests to stroll outside for a leisurely chat. The gracious feel of the place continues inside in the vestibule, a large U-shaped entry hall complete with an inviting fireplace and built-in seating. Your guests can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in here and as they explore the first- and second-floor rooms, all furnished in period pieces. The Captain’s Quarters, similar in style to the Admiral’s, are often reserved for smaller functions. The 1855 Mare Island Museum building also has several spacious rooms available.
For an al fresco treat, set up a buffet and umbrella-shaded tables in the Victorian gardens adjacent to both of these mansions: It’s an acre of lawns interspersed with low hedges, flowerbeds, and a variety of trees brought back from the far corners of the world by sea captains.
If you really want to make a splash, depart via ferry or yacht—the ferry terminal and marina are just a short distance from the island. But no matter which mode of transportation you choose, an event here is a trip back in time and a chance to relive a little of the grace and gentility of another era.
Capacity
Ceremony |
Reception/Special Events |
Meetings |
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Max. Seated Indoors: 400 Max. Seated Outdoors: 1000 |
Max. Seated Indoors: 400 Max. Seated Outdoors: 1000 Max. Standing Indoors: 550 Max. Standing Outdoors: 2000 |
Max. Seated: 325 |
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CEREMONY CAPACITY: The Chapel holds 200 seated guests. The mansion seats up to 150 guests using all available rooms. The Garden area is about 1 acre and holds up to 1,000 seated guests. The Main Hall in the Museum will seat up to 400 guests. EVENT/RECEPTION CAPACITY: The facility can accommodate 125–400 seated or 200–550 standing guests indoors, and 1,000 seated or 2,000 standing outdoors. MEETING CAPACITY: The Admiral’s Mansion seats 150 using all rooms, with 40 maximum in any one room. The Museum Main Room holds 400 seated or 550 standing guests. |
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Fees & Deposits
For weddings, a nonrefundable 50% rental deposit plus a $200 refundable security deposit are required to secure your date. Reception rental fees range $850–1,400 depending on the space selected. Ceremony rental fees range $200–700 depending on space rented. Organ in Chapel is available for $75 and use of the pianos is $35/event. Catering is provided by Alex’s Catering. Meals range $50–75/person. Tax, alcohol and an 18% service charge are additional.
Fees for business meetings vary; call for more information.
Availability
Year-round, daily, 8am–10pm.
CateringProvidedBYO AlcoholProvidedBYO Location UsesCeremoniesWedding Receptions Special Events, Parties Business Functions/Meetings Rehearsal Dinners Services/AmenitiesCatering: provided or BYO upon approval |
Amplified MusicIndoorsOutdoors w/ Restrictions Wheelchair AccessWheelchair AccessibleSite ViewsGardenPark Venue TypeBanquet Hall/Events FacilityChurch/Chapel/Temple Historic/Landmark Building Mansion Park Retreat RestrictionsAlcohol: CBA or BYO, licensed and insured server |
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