Benicia was launched 18 August 1868 by Portsmouth Navy Yard as Algoma; renamed Benicia 15 May 1869; and commissioned 1 December 1869, Commander S. Nicholson in command. Between March 1870 and August 1872 Benicia served on the Asiatic Station and took part in Rear Admiral John Rodgers' expedition to Korea (16 May-11 June 1871). During this period Ordinary Seaman John Andrews, Chief Quartermaster Patrick H. Grace and Private Michael McNamara, USMC, were awarded the Medal of Honor.