CHICO, Calif.- Chico’s historic Bidwell Mansion was destroyed by fire early Wednesday morning.
The fire was reported around 3:30 a.m. Wednesday at 525 Esplanade. The entire structure was engulfed in flames. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The mansion had been undergoing renovations to the exterior and was temporarily closed to visitors. The mansion was a California State Historic Park, offering interpretive tours about the impact of John Bidwell in the founding of Northern California.
The home was built by Chico founder John Bidwell in 1865. Construction was completed in 1868. Bidwell’s wife Annie donated the land to the City of Chico that now comprises Bidwell Park.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
