Bear Flag Monument

This bronze sculpture created in 1914 shows an early Sonoma settler standing somewhat unsteadily on a rock (apparently under the influence of brandy stolen from General Vallejo), hoisting a flag to commemorate the Bear Flag Rebellion. The revolt took place over 25 days in 1846, when a few locals rebelled against the Mexican government, made a flag with a bear that looked more like a guinea pig, and proclaimed an independent republic. The party ended when US troops arrived, claiming Sonoma as US territory.