I walked through Children’s Park and across the footbridge on Wednesday to take a closer look at the destruction. It is a sad sight to see. Later that day State Parks held a press conference and announced that the fire that destroyed Bidwell Mansion in the early hours of December 11 was deliberately set. Here is their press release:

After reviewing the evidence at the scene, CAL FIRE investigators on Tuesday, Dec. 17 determined the cause of the December 11 fire at Bidwell Mansion to be arson. Investigators found clear indicators pointing to an intentional act and can confidently rule out an accidental blaze. California State Parks is working with CAL FIRE and our allied agencies to identify the person or people responsible for the arson. That portion of the investigation continues, and we have no further information to provide on the investigation at this time. We will continue to provide updates as needed.

If they have any clues as to who or how or why the fire was set, Cal Fire is not saying at this time. They are keeping their cards very close to their vests.

This aerial photo, taken by Chico State photographer Matt Bates shortly after the fire, shows smoke and flames smouldering inside the shell of the Mansion. The tower, still standing, is on the left, the elongated octagon that formed the library and dining room in in the center, and the kitchen wing is on the right. It remains to be seen what, if anything, can be salvaged from the interior.

More photos can be seen on the webpage of the Bidwell Mansion Association.

This view shows the carriage house intact, and the kitchen, with stucco still on the exterior, having the least amount of damage.

Could it be rebuilt? Should it be? That question is the big unknown. Generations of Chicoans feel a connection to Bidwell Mansion. It lives in the memories of children who toured the Mansion on field trips, of Chico State students who walked by it every day, and of families who used it as a setting for their milestone photos. It is central to the identity of Chico.

Many have expressed a desire to see it resurrected. Others believe such a project would be too costly and that a park or some other memorial would make more sense.

Ultimately the decision will be made by California State Parks and the Office of Historic Preservation, with input from the citizens of Chico. Whatever the decision, be assured that I will share updates with my readers and keep you informed about ways you can help preserve and honor the mansion’s story.