Historic NorCal Mansion Destroyed By Fire

CHICO, CA—Chico is mourning the loss of the iconic Bidwell Mansion after a fire ripped through the historic landmark, which stood for more than 150 years.

According to the Chico Fire Department, crews arrived at the scene early Wednesday to find the three-story villa already engulfed by flames.

"The first arriving engine company reported heavy fire showing from multiple floors and multiple sides of the structure," the department said. "Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the morning to bring the fire under control. Unfortunately, due to the advanced stage of the fire upon arrival, the mansion suffered significant damage."

The three-story, 26-room mansion was completed in 1868 on behalf of John Bidwell, a pioneer and statesman who founded Chico. According to California State Parks, Bidwell and his wife Annie often used the home to entertain friends and guests, including President Rutherford B. Hayes, Susan B. Anthony, and the naturalist John Muir.

The property was recognized as a California Historical Landmark in 1939 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. According to park officials, the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park was closed for extensive renovations that were nearly complete when the fire ignited.

"This is a devastating loss for California State Parks, for the Chico community, and all who cherish the history embodied by the Bidwell Mansion," said Armando Quintero, the California State Parks Director. "For over a century, this beloved landmark has stood as a testament to the legacy of John and Annie Bidwell and the community they helped shape. To see it so severely damaged is a profound loss that we all feel deeply."

Chico Mayor Kasey Reynolds shared a similar sentiment in the immediate aftermath of the blaze and thanked first responders from around the region for their work in trying to contain the flames.

"Last night's fire at the Bidwell Mansion is devastating," Reynolds said. "Our firefighters, whether on duty or off, gave their all in the face of this fire."

California State Parks said some of the museum's original artifacts had been removed during the renovations but others were in the building when the fire broke out. Officials plan to take a full inventory of the artifacts once the building is safe to enter but said it was too early to discuss the park's future.

The State Fire Marshal, Chico Fire Department, Chico Police Department and Chico State are working together to determine the fire's origin and assess the damage.