A Tour of Bidwell Mansion

This week, I was out of town and didn’t find the time to write a technical post. I did tour the Bidwell Mansion in Chico, California and found it fascinating and I wanted to share a few photos of my trip. The technical content will return next week.

John Bidwell was an influential political figure in the 1800’s. He helped California present it’s case for statehood. He brought agriculture into California. John ran for governor of California 3 times and failed all three times. In many ways John was ahead of his times.

The 1800’s and into the 1900’s American Indians were hunted and persecuted. In a time where this was a common occurrence, John Bidwell took exception to it. John invited a local Mechoopda Maidu Indian tribe to move their village onto his land. In essence, he provided protection.

The Bidwell mansion is a 3 story Italianate styled mansion. There are 26 rooms, including a ballroom on the third floor.

The Mansion

John Bidwell’s Desk

Setting Room

After dinner people would migrate into this room to talk it up. Notice the fireplace. Most rooms in the mansion have a fire place, wood heat was the only source of heat.

High-chair with Wheels

Wheels fold down and turns into a stroller.

Washroom

Library

Your own library. I’d love to have one of those.

Staircase

You don’t see such grand staircases anymore.

This is a beautiful mansion, if you are ever in the Chico Area, I recommend stopping and seeing the mansion.