We are heartbroken by the loss of the bidwell mansion
On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, our community experienced a profound loss with a devastating fire at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. Despite the swift and diligent response of fire crews, the mansion could not be saved. Cal Fire, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and State Parks have determined that the fire was the result of arson, though the investigation is still ongoing. At this time, a suspect is in custody and has been arraigned. Structural evaluation of the mansion is still in process, as well as artifact recovery. |
Thankfully, the visitor center, architect’s house, and carriage house were not damaged, though they remain closed. We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available. If you, or someone you know, have any photos or videos from the fire that may assist investigators, please use the QR code below to upload and submit them to CAL Fire.
As the Board of Directors of the Bidwell Mansion Association, we are heartbroken by the destruction of this historic landmark, a treasured symbol of our community and a cornerstone of California’s history.
Bidwell Mansion has been a place of learning, inspiration, and connection for generations, and its loss is profound. While we grieve this tragedy, we are also committed to finding hope in the days ahead.
We will work closely with State Parks and local authorities as they investigate the fire's cause and assess the damage's extent. As plans to move forward are developed, we will share updates and ways the community can support the mansion's legacy.
If anyone comes across any artifacts, documents, or remnants from the fire, please contact State Parks at 530-922-0934. Recovering even small pieces of the mansion's story is vital to preserving its history.
While the loss is devastating, we have hope that from this tragedy, we can find an opportunity to honor the spirit of resilience, innovation, and community that the Bidwells embodied. Thank you for your support during this challenging time. Together, we will find a way to honor the memory of Bidwell Mansion and ensure its legacy endures.
For more information, please see the California State Parks news release.
As the Board of Directors of the Bidwell Mansion Association, we are heartbroken by the destruction of this historic landmark, a treasured symbol of our community and a cornerstone of California’s history.
Bidwell Mansion has been a place of learning, inspiration, and connection for generations, and its loss is profound. While we grieve this tragedy, we are also committed to finding hope in the days ahead.
We will work closely with State Parks and local authorities as they investigate the fire's cause and assess the damage's extent. As plans to move forward are developed, we will share updates and ways the community can support the mansion's legacy.
If anyone comes across any artifacts, documents, or remnants from the fire, please contact State Parks at 530-922-0934. Recovering even small pieces of the mansion's story is vital to preserving its history.
While the loss is devastating, we have hope that from this tragedy, we can find an opportunity to honor the spirit of resilience, innovation, and community that the Bidwells embodied. Thank you for your support during this challenging time. Together, we will find a way to honor the memory of Bidwell Mansion and ensure its legacy endures.
For more information, please see the California State Parks news release.
Press Conference recording
Monday, January 6, 2025
Arson suspect in custody!
We are relieved to announce that an arrest has been made in connection with the devastating fire that destroyed the historic Bidwell Mansion on December 11, 2024.
Thanks to the diligent efforts of Cal Fire, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and State Parks investigators, the suspect, identified as Kevin Alexander Carlson, 30, of Chico, was taken into custody on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and booked at the Butte County Jail on multiple charges, including Penal Code 451(c) Arson.
While the investigation remains ongoing, this significant development is a step toward justice for the loss of our cherished landmark. We are grateful for the tireless work of the investigators and all involved in bringing this case to this point.
For more information, please see the California State Parks news release.
Thanks to the diligent efforts of Cal Fire, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and State Parks investigators, the suspect, identified as Kevin Alexander Carlson, 30, of Chico, was taken into custody on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and booked at the Butte County Jail on multiple charges, including Penal Code 451(c) Arson.
While the investigation remains ongoing, this significant development is a step toward justice for the loss of our cherished landmark. We are grateful for the tireless work of the investigators and all involved in bringing this case to this point.
For more information, please see the California State Parks news release.