FIRST FRENCH CONSULATE
In 1843, France established a consulate in Monterey, then the capital of Mexican Alta California, to attend to the needs of French immigrants (mainly merchants, farmers and trappers) in the region. This long, low adobe acquired its moniker because it was the home of J. A. Moerenhaut, who served as French Consul to Mexican California.
         Today, the building serves as the Monterey Visitors Center, conveniently located beside Lake El Estero and several parks.
First French Consulate
(Monterey Visitor Center)
Lake El Estero at Franklin Street & Camino El Estero
Monterey, CA 93940
831-657-6400 (general visitor information number) Ownership: City of Monterey,
and leased to Monterey County
Convention and Visitors Bureau