Blast from the Past: White Columns

The concept of the "mansion on the hill" isn't just reserved for today's CEOs and corporate bosses. It goes back as far as corporations themselves. In fact, during the days of the Powder Works, there literally was a mansion on a hill here in town -- White Columns.

White Columns was built in 1899 for the then-Superintendent of the Powder Works, John Bermingham, Jr. The name was derived from the enormous white columns that framed the entrance to the long drive that lead to the home. The three-story house featured a huge living room on the main floor with a rounded bay window that showcased an outstanding view of the shoreline and bay. The living area also featured a dining room with an open-hearth fireplace.

A large veranda, which was later enclosed with glass, ran along the entire front and west sides of the house. The upstairs held five bedrooms, and the attic was used as living quarters for the staff. The Superintendent's wife kept preserves in the basement, which also included a pantry, laundry room, and other apartments.

White Columns was surrounded by luxurious gardens maintained by two gardeners on the company payroll. The gardens featured plum and apple trees, and a flower bed that spelled out "Hercules".

The demise of White Columns is the source of some controversy. It was demolished in 1945 by the plant's Chief Engineer, who wished to use the wood for his new residence in Pinole. He was immediatey fired, although he claimed in a report to the Wilmington, DE headquarters that the house was damaged beyond repair after an explosion at the plant in 1944. However, someone who lived in the house for 15 years was quoted as saying the house suffered no significant damage through "maybe seven or eight explosions" during that time.

The grounds were maintained for many years after demolition and were used by residents as a park.

Research taken from "Images of America: Hercules", and "Remembering Days Past: Hercules, California, 1879-1987".