Bidwill Mansion State Historic Park was the home of the pioneers General John and Annie Bidwell and headquarters of Rancho
Chico, once the most famous farm in the state. Their wealth came from the California gold fields. He later became a social activist, congressman and leading grower. His three story 26-room brick house was built in the 1860's. The design is in the style of an Italian villa. The park features guided tours. To reach the park, take
Highway 99 to
Chico, southeast on "E", then first left on Esplanade.
