Bidwell Mansion Damaged in Early Morning Chico Fire

United States:
In a tragic turn of events, flames were seen shooting from the roof of the Bidwell Mansion Historic State Park on Esplanade early Wednesday morning. Fire crews responded swiftly to battle the blaze, but the situation proved challenging due to the fragile state of the structure.

According to the Chico Fire Battalion Chief, emergency responders received a call around 3 a.m. reporting an “illegal burn.” While officials have not confirmed whether this incident was connected to the fire at Bidwell Mansion, investigations are ongoing.

To tackle the inferno, five fire engines, along with additional officers and emergency medical responders, were deployed to the site. Unfortunately, fire crews could not enter the mansion, as the building was deemed too unstable, raising fears of collapse.

The Bidwell Mansion, built to commemorate John and Annie Bidwell, holds significant historical value. Annie Bidwell, in particular, was a prominent advocate for women’s suffrage and prohibition, leaving a lasting legacy in American history. Managed by California State Parks, the mansion has been a beacon of local and cultural pride, attracting visitors from across the country.

This incident comes as restoration efforts were underway, aiming to preserve the historic site for future generations. The fire represents not only a loss of physical structure but also a blow to the community’s efforts to honor its rich heritage.

Fire officials and historians alike are now focused on assessing the extent of the damage and exploring potential paths forward to restore the Bidwell Mansion once again.