Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
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Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park in Chico, California is a three story, 26 room Victorian house museum that stands as a memorial to John and Annie Bidwell. John Bidwell was known throughout California and across the nation as an important pioneer, farmer, soldier, statesman, politician and philanthropist.
In 1892, Bidwell ran for president on the Prohibition Party ticket. Annie Ellicott Kennedy Bidwell, the daughter of a socially prominent, high ranking Washington official, was deeply religious, and committed to a number of moral and social causes. Annie was very active in the suffrage and prohibition movements.
The Bidwells were married April 16, 1868 in Washington, D.C. with then President Andrew Johnson and future President Ulysses S. Grant among the guests. Upon arrival in Chico, California, the Bidwells used the Mansion extensively for entertainment of friends. Some of the guests that visited Bidwell Mansion were President Rutherford B. Hayes, General William T. Sherman, Susan B. Anthony, Frances Willard, Governor Leland Stanford, John Muir and Asa Gray.
When constructed, Bidwell Mansion featured the most modern plumbing, gas lighting and water systems. The overall style of the three-story brick structure is that of an Italian Villa, an informal, warmly romantic style. The buildings exterior is finished with a pink tinted plaster.
The Mansion is located at 525 The Esplanade in Chico.
The first floor of the Bidwell Mansion is accessible via a ramp from the exterior of the Mansion. The entire first floor may be seen on a regular tour. The second and third floors may be seen on video at the Visitor Center. The first floor and video are approximately one hour long.
The Bidwell Mansion Visitor Center is completely accessible. There is a gift shop, museum, theater, and comfortable lobby to see. There are also restrooms and water.
Some of the interior scenes from Thin Man (http://www.chicochamber.com/filmhistory.aspx) were shot inside the mansion.