Category Archives: Uncategorized

“When May came I was the only man that was ready to go out of all who signed the pledge. In Weston however there was a man who had never signed the pledge, but who had said from the beginning … Continue reading →

“It was understood that every one should have not less than a barrel of flour with sugar and so forth to suit; but I laid in one hundred pounds more flour than the usual quantity, besides other things. This I … Continue reading →

John Bidwell talked to anyone who had knowledge of travel in Indian Territory. One of the things he needed to know was what kind of gun to take. There was no more important piece of equipment than a gun. “My … Continue reading →

What were the essentials for a journey to a new country, a journey that might take up to six months far away from towns, stores, or farms? First of all, a man needed information, and there was no public library … Continue reading →

“As the time approached I became very anxious about the expedition but supposed a few would go with me. Finally I could not find a single member of the company that was sure to go.  I went forward with my … Continue reading →

Is it any wonder that John Bidwell wanted to stay when he saw country like this on his first journey through Northern California in 1843?

I went to the Bancroft Library on Monday. on the way home from Livermore (where I have a brand-new grand-daughter) to Chico. I love to visit the Bancroft—the reading room is so quiet, so academic, so civilized. It feels like … Continue reading →

You can help maintain Chico’s foremost historical landmark by joining the Bidwell Mansion Association. The BMA supports the restoration, preservation, and interpretation of Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. Member benefits include receiving a newsletter, The Mansion, where you can read … Continue reading →

One of the attractions of California down through the ages has been its healthy climate. While still in Missouri, John Bidwell had met a fur trader named Antoine Robidoux who described California as a place of “perennial spring and boundless … Continue reading →

Bodega, Port of the Russians Upper California, March 30th, 1842 Most Esteemed Sir:–Owing to circumstances I am compelled to abridge my journal and likewise a description of the country so far as I have been able to travel. By perusing … Continue reading →