10/11/1998
10/6/2024
10/6/2024
10/6/2024
2/28/2025
2/28/2025
2/28/2025
10/6/2024
10/6/2024
10/6/2024
Landmark information
- Location:
Bidwell Mansion SHP, 525 The Esplanade, Chico - Plaque:
Official State Plaque - Site:
Existing - Date First Visited:
10/11/1998 - Date Most Recently Visited:
2/28/2025 - GPS Coordinates:
N 39 43.947, W 121 50.633 - Other Designations:
National Register of Historic Places
Note
The Bidwell Mansion was being renovated in 2024 before being destroyed by an arson fire on December 11, 2024.
About this landmark
Plaque text:
Rancho Del Arroyo Chico
A vast expanse covering 26,000 acres, Rancho Chico was purchased in 1849-50 by John Bidwell. In 1865 he began construction of the mansion nearby, which in time became the social and cultural center of the upper Sacramento Valley. It was through his advancement of agriculture, however, that Bidwell made his greatest contribution. The introduction here of plants from all over the world opened the door to California's present agricultural treasure house.