Pinole began on the waterfront and around the mouth of Pinole Creek during the latter half of the 19th century, and this site was the center of its activities until the early 20th century. During the 1850s Bernardo Fernandez started a mercantile business here, built a supply store, constructed warehouses and wharves, hauled farm products, and handled the mail, becoming very instrumental in the city's early establishment. The Fernandez Mansion marks the remnants of Pinole's birthplace.