Monthly Archives: April 2012

Bidwell and Chico Normal School

Posted on April 29, 2012 by nancyleek

John Bidwell secured a State Normal School for Chico by donating a piece of his ranch as the initial site for the school. But his involvement in bringing a college to Chico goes back several years earlier. In February 1880, … Continue reading →

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What’s Normal about a Normal School?

Posted on April 22, 2012 by nancyleek

It used to be common for teacher’s colleges to be called “normal schools.” The term has an odd ring to it, since the first meaning of “normal” that comes to mind is “typical, usual, average, ordinary.” We speak of “normal … Continue reading →

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Happy Anniversary, Chico State!

Posted on April 18, 2012 by nancyleek

This year California State University Chico is celebrating its 125th anniversary. So Happy Quasquicentennial, Chico State! (Not wanting to confuse some of their students, Chico State isn’t using the nifty word “quasquicentennial” for a 25 + 100 years celebration. But … Continue reading →

Bidwell’s Gold Discovery–part II

Posted on April 15, 2012 by nancyleek

When John Bidwell headed off to the Feather River to mine for gold, he didn’t just jump on his horse and go. There was planning to do, and Bidwell was always a man who planned carefully before taking a course … Continue reading →

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Bidwell Mansion and the BMA

Posted on April 3, 2012 by nancyleek

Last Saturday I participated in the Bidwell Mansion Fun Run (or in my case, Walk). In spite of the rain I thoroughly enjoyed getting out with all the other Mansion supporters to help raise money and awareness for Chico’s centerpiece. … Continue reading →

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