Fire Engulfs Historic Bidwell Mansion In Chico

The historic Bidwell Mansion in Chico was engulfed in flames Wednesday morning. The mansion is as much a symbol of Chico as anything could be. It’s been standing since 1865, and was the home of the founder of the City of Chico, General John Bidwell and his wife Annie Bidwell. It’s now a State Historic Park and has been closed recently as it was undergoing renovations. The fire started at around 3:30AM and the top floor collapsed shortly after 4AM. The house is apparently mostly destroyed. The esplanade was closed for fire equipment.

-Steve Gibson