Monthly Archives: January 2012

Would you like to know more about the history of Bidwell Mansion?  David Nopel and David Veith have written a wonderful article about the changing fortunes of this icon of Chico history in the Chico News & Review. Check it … Continue reading →

Today marks the 162nd anniversary of the discovery of gold in California by James Marshall, an incident which touched off the California Gold Rush and changed the course of history. John Bidwell was intimately involved in the discovery of gold. … Continue reading →

Please join the members of the Bidwell Mansion Association for our Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 29, 2012, at the Bidwell Mansion Visitor Center.  This is a free event, and if you are not already a member of the BMA, … Continue reading →

Charles Nordhoff toured California in the early 1870’s. In a previous post I quoted from his description of Rancho Chico, an establishment which he greatly admired. He also quoted General Bidwell on life at Rancho Chico in the 1850’s. “General … Continue reading →

I love to speak to groups—it’s a lot of fun to talk about John Bidwell and his world. It’s a real treat to interact with folks who love history. So if you know anyone looking for a speaker, send me … Continue reading →

I gave a talk in Stirling City yesterday to the Stirling City Historical Society. What a nice bunch of people! My friend Diane invited me to speak to them, and she and her husband David drove Jim and me up … Continue reading →

Did you know that in General Bidwell’s day, Rancho Chico was the premier agricultural showcase in the state? Anyone visiting California, who was interested in farming, came to Chico. Here is an excerpt from an 1873 book by Charles Nordhoff, … Continue reading →