Chico State is saddened by the news that Bidwell Mansion, the historic building adjacent to our campus, was destroyed in an overnight fire. The state historic park was the home of John and Annie Bidwell and has been significant to Chico State since our founding.
Beyond serving as a beautiful landmark and gateway to the northeastern side of campus, Bidwell Mansion played a key role in the University’s history. It was owned for a period by the Normal School and served as a dormitory for Chico State Teachers College students. Later known as “Bidwell Hall,” it held classrooms and offices for several years. Its loss is deeply felt by all of us, and we join the Chico community in mourning the loss of this historic home.
Miracle or coincidence? I went into Annie Bidwell's Church on 1st Street, Chico, and asked God for a job for my friends V. and M. I wrote my prayer on a dollar bill and put it in the envelope for the poor... And within one week both of them had jobs... No one knows if God exists or not but... This happened.
I was reminded of this event by the newspaper article stating that the Bidwell Mansion in Chico has burned to the ground... I went there as a tourist to see the historical exhibits... And I'm really glad that I did when it was still possible.
Add THIS to Your Bucket List: Swimming at Bear Hole in Upper Bidwell Park, Chico California. Crystallized Black Lava Rocks - Basalt from the Eruption of Mount Lassen.
