An Afternoon With the Bidwells
Friday, December 13 | 1–3 p.m.
Visitor Center, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
Join us for a special afternoon featuring appearances by General John and Annie Bidwell and friends. Light refreshments will be served as we come together to thank our members and the community for their continued support. While this event offers a touch of seasonal cheer, it is also a moment to reflect, connect, honor, and look forward with optimism as we carry the Bidwell spirit into the future.
Friday, December 13 | 1–3 p.m.
Visitor Center, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
Join us for a special afternoon featuring appearances by General John and Annie Bidwell and friends. Light refreshments will be served as we come together to thank our members and the community for their continued support. While this event offers a touch of seasonal cheer, it is also a moment to reflect, connect, honor, and look forward with optimism as we carry the Bidwell spirit into the future.
An Afternoon With the Bidwells
Saturday, December 13 | 1–3 p.m.
Visitor Center, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
Join us for a special afternoon featuring appearances by General John and Annie Bidwell and friends. Light refreshments will be served as we come together to thank our members and the community for their continued support. While this event offers a touch of seasonal cheer, it is also a moment to reflect, connect, honor, and look forward with optimism as we carry the Bidwell spirit into the future.
Saturday, December 13 | 1–3 p.m.
Visitor Center, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
Join us for a special afternoon featuring appearances by General John and Annie Bidwell and friends. Light refreshments will be served as we come together to thank our members and the community for their continued support. While this event offers a touch of seasonal cheer, it is also a moment to reflect, connect, honor, and look forward with optimism as we carry the Bidwell spirit into the future.
December Visitor Center Hours
A reminder that the Visitor Center at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park will be open throughout all three days:
The General’s Store will be open for holiday shopping, and the historical gallery will be available for visitors to explore the Bidwell story—but only during this special three-day opening.
This is a great opportunity to pick up unique gifts, enjoy the exhibits, and share the experience with friends and family. We encourage you to stop by, browse, and bring someone along who appreciates local history. This will be the only time the Visitor Center will be open until next spring.
A reminder that the Visitor Center at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park will be open throughout all three days:
- December 11: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- December 12 and 13: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The General’s Store will be open for holiday shopping, and the historical gallery will be available for visitors to explore the Bidwell story—but only during this special three-day opening.
This is a great opportunity to pick up unique gifts, enjoy the exhibits, and share the experience with friends and family. We encourage you to stop by, browse, and bring someone along who appreciates local history. This will be the only time the Visitor Center will be open until next spring.
Annual BMA Members Meeting
Saturday, January 25, 2025
3:30 p.m. | Chico Masonic Family Center | Free Open to all BMA Members and Guests
3:30 p.m. – BMA Members Business Meeting
4 p.m. – Bidwell Mansion Updates
We invite you to join us for our Annual Members Meeting of the Bidwell Mansion Association. All BMA members and guests are welcome to attend this free event.
Saturday, January 25, 2025
3:30 p.m. | Chico Masonic Family Center | Free Open to all BMA Members and Guests
3:30 p.m. – BMA Members Business Meeting
4 p.m. – Bidwell Mansion Updates
We invite you to join us for our Annual Members Meeting of the Bidwell Mansion Association. All BMA members and guests are welcome to attend this free event.
Following a brief business meeting, the BMA Board and State Parks will provide updates on the Bidwell Mansion fire and the recovery process. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in a meaningful discussion as we navigate this challenging time together. We look forward to a collaborative and constructive conversation.
Thank you for your membership and support—we truly appreciate it and hope to see you there!
Thank you for your membership and support—we truly appreciate it and hope to see you there!
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Historic Dedication
Saturday, February 15, 2025 | 10 a.m. | Chico Veterans Center | Free
Join us fora special public event as the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) proudly dedicate an America250! Marker, celebrating the site's connection to Revolutionary War Patriots.
The DAR are placing these markers across the nation to honor the legacy of those who fought for American independence. Bidwell Mansion holds a unique connection through Annie Kennedy Bidwell, who traced her lineage to two Revolutionary War Patriots, Andrew Ellicott and Samuel Kennedy. Annie was also a member of the Presidio Chapter.
We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful occasion!
Exhibition Opening Night—Bidwell Mansion: The Stories We Share
Saturday, June 7 | 5–7 p.m. | Chico History Museum (141 Salem St.)
Free and open to the public
The Bidwell Mansion Association and the Chico History Museum warmly invite you to join us for a special evening as we honor and celebrate the legacy of the Bidwell Mansion—a place that shaped Chico’s story and touched generations.
Through art, stories, and personal memorabilia, this unique exhibition reflects on what the Mansion meant to our community and honors its legacy following its loss in the December 2024 fire.
Enjoy light refreshments, historical vignettes, and live music. Be among the first to view this deeply meaningful collection created by and for the community.
Guests are welcome to attend in historical costume (1868–1918) to help bring the spirit of the era to life.
This special exhibition will be on display through June 2025.
This exhibition is made possible through our valued partners in historic preservation: Bidwell Mansion Association, Chico Heritage Association, Chico History Museum, Beautiful & Historic Chico Coalition, and the Stansbury Home Preservation Association.
Saturday, June 7 | 5–7 p.m. | Chico History Museum (141 Salem St.)
Free and open to the public
The Bidwell Mansion Association and the Chico History Museum warmly invite you to join us for a special evening as we honor and celebrate the legacy of the Bidwell Mansion—a place that shaped Chico’s story and touched generations.
Through art, stories, and personal memorabilia, this unique exhibition reflects on what the Mansion meant to our community and honors its legacy following its loss in the December 2024 fire.
Enjoy light refreshments, historical vignettes, and live music. Be among the first to view this deeply meaningful collection created by and for the community.
Guests are welcome to attend in historical costume (1868–1918) to help bring the spirit of the era to life.
This special exhibition will be on display through June 2025.
This exhibition is made possible through our valued partners in historic preservation: Bidwell Mansion Association, Chico Heritage Association, Chico History Museum, Beautiful & Historic Chico Coalition, and the Stansbury Home Preservation Association.
Victorian Picnic at the Chico Cemetery
Saturday, September 20
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Chico Cemetery—in the Historic Section
(881 Mangrove Ave, Chico)
Tickets: $40 (event is limited to 50 people)
RSVP by Monday, September 15
Spend an afternoon steeped in Victorian charm among the shady paths and historic stones of Chico Cemetery. Enjoy a delicious boxed lunch, engaging conversation, and a guided tour through the cemetery’s oldest section.
Along the way, you’ll uncover fascinating tales of Victorian customs, their unique views on life and death, and meet some of the cemetery’s most notable “permanent residents.”
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of local lore, or simply curious about a bygone era, this one-of-a-kind gathering blends storytelling, atmosphere, and community in a setting as beautiful as it is historic.
Please note that tables and chairs will be provided for all our guests to enjoy. No picnic blankets needed.
Along the way, you’ll uncover fascinating tales of Victorian customs, their unique views on life and death, and meet some of the cemetery’s most notable “permanent residents.”
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of local lore, or simply curious about a bygone era, this one-of-a-kind gathering blends storytelling, atmosphere, and community in a setting as beautiful as it is historic.
Please note that tables and chairs will be provided for all our guests to enjoy. No picnic blankets needed.
Saturday, September 20, 2025
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Chico Cemetery – Historic Section
881 Mangrove Ave, Chico
Tickets: $40 (event is limited to 50 people)
RSVP by Monday, September 15
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Chico Cemetery – Historic Section
881 Mangrove Ave, Chico
Tickets: $40 (event is limited to 50 people)
RSVP by Monday, September 15
Victorian Picnic at the
Chico Cemetery
Spend an afternoon steeped in Victorian charm among the shady paths and historic stones of Chico Cemetery. Enjoy a delicious boxed lunch, engaging conversation, and a guided tour through the cemetery’s oldest section.
Along the way, you’ll uncover fascinating tales of Victorian customs, their unique views on life and death, and meet some of the cemetery’s most notable “permanent residents.”
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of local lore, or simply curious about a bygone era, this one-of-a-kind gathering blends storytelling, atmosphere, and community in a setting as beautiful as it is historic.
Please note that tables and chairs will be provided for all our guests to enjoy. No picnic blankets needed.
Tickets can be purchased on our Event Tickets page.
You can learn more about the history of picnicking in cemeteries in our August newsletter.
Along the way, you’ll uncover fascinating tales of Victorian customs, their unique views on life and death, and meet some of the cemetery’s most notable “permanent residents.”
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of local lore, or simply curious about a bygone era, this one-of-a-kind gathering blends storytelling, atmosphere, and community in a setting as beautiful as it is historic.
Please note that tables and chairs will be provided for all our guests to enjoy. No picnic blankets needed.
Tickets can be purchased on our Event Tickets page.
You can learn more about the history of picnicking in cemeteries in our August newsletter.
We’re excited to be bringing back the Bidwell Mansion Association newsletter as a quarterly edition! It’s been some time since our last issue, and we’re looking forward to using this space to share updates, stories, and ways to stay connected with the history and spirit of Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park.
In our August 2025 issue, you’ll find recent developments from the site, a detailed timeline of the fire, history, and opportunities to get involved with BMA.
Summer highlights:
Celebrating Community, History, and Partnership
Over the past few months, we’ve been fortunate to join forces with our sister organizations for some truly memorable events. From honoring the legacy of the mansion at Bidwell Mansion: The Stories We Share exhibition at the Chico History Museum, to enjoying sweet treats and sunshine at the Stansbury Ice Cream Social, and proudly walking in the 4th of July Parade—this summer has been filled with connection, reflection, and community spirit.
We’re so grateful to everyone who participated and supported these events. Want to see the highlights? Head over to our Event Photos page to check out pictures from these special gatherings.
Thank you for being part of the Bidwell Mansion Association community—your continued involvement helps keep history alive.
We’re so grateful to everyone who participated and supported these events. Want to see the highlights? Head over to our Event Photos page to check out pictures from these special gatherings.
Thank you for being part of the Bidwell Mansion Association community—your continued involvement helps keep history alive.
Christmas with the bidwells
Friday, December 15 | 6–8 p.m.
Tickets: $35
Children 12 and under free
Tickets can be purchased below or at the door.
General and Mrs. Bidwell cordially invite you to their home to celebrate the holiday season. Enjoy historic vignettes, live music, light refreshments, and holiday cheer in the grandly decorated mansion.
Tickets to this event also include a one-year membership in the BMA. For more information, visit our membership page.
Tickets: $35
Children 12 and under free
Tickets can be purchased below or at the door.
General and Mrs. Bidwell cordially invite you to their home to celebrate the holiday season. Enjoy historic vignettes, live music, light refreshments, and holiday cheer in the grandly decorated mansion.
Tickets to this event also include a one-year membership in the BMA. For more information, visit our membership page.
— TICKETS --
Adult: $35 per guest | Children 12 and under free
Guided tours of Bidwell Mansion are currently CANCELED due to the temporary closure of the park.
Tours will resume once the restoration is complete sometime in the spring of 2025. Tours will continue to be
held on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting in the Visitor Center at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
Price: Adults: $6 | Youth under 18: $3
Once available, tours will be on a first-come-first-served basis and are limited to 10 people. They can be reserved the day of by calling (530) 895-6144.
The Visitor Center and the General’s Store are also currently closed due to the restoration.
More Info at the State Park website.
Tours will resume once the restoration is complete sometime in the spring of 2025. Tours will continue to be
held on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting in the Visitor Center at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
Price: Adults: $6 | Youth under 18: $3
Once available, tours will be on a first-come-first-served basis and are limited to 10 people. They can be reserved the day of by calling (530) 895-6144.
The Visitor Center and the General’s Store are also currently closed due to the restoration.
More Info at the State Park website.
Past events
Thank You for your Victim–Impact Statements
We sincerely appreciate everyone who wrote a victim-impact statement on behalf of Bidwell Mansion. Your words helped to ensure that the devastating loss of this historic site was truly understood and that the impact on our community was recognized.
With our collective voices, the Court took the full weight of this crime into account. The arsonist was sentenced to 11 years in prison, the maximum sentence allowable under the law.
Thank you for standing with us during this difficult time and for helping to uphold the importance of preserving our shared history.
Exhibition Opening Night
Saturday, June 7 | 5–7 p.m.
Chico History Museum (141 Salem St.)
Free and open to the public
The Bidwell Mansion Association and the Chico History Museum warmly invite you to join us for a special evening as we honor and celebrate the legacy of the Bidwell Mansion—a place that shaped Chico’s story and touched generations.
Through art, stories, and personal memorabilia, this unique exhibition reflects on what the Mansion meant to our community and honors its legacy following its loss in the December 2024 fire.
Saturday, June 7 | 5–7 p.m.
Chico History Museum (141 Salem St.)
Free and open to the public
The Bidwell Mansion Association and the Chico History Museum warmly invite you to join us for a special evening as we honor and celebrate the legacy of the Bidwell Mansion—a place that shaped Chico’s story and touched generations.
Through art, stories, and personal memorabilia, this unique exhibition reflects on what the Mansion meant to our community and honors its legacy following its loss in the December 2024 fire.
Enjoy light refreshments, historical vignettes, and live music. Be among the first to view this deeply meaningful collection created by and for the community.
Guests are welcome to attend in historical costume (1868–1918) to help bring the spirit of the era to life.
This special exhibition will be on display through June 2025.
This exhibition is made possible through our valued partners in historic preservation: Bidwell Mansion Association, Chico Heritage Association, Chico History Museum, Beautiful & Historic Chico Coalition, and the Stansbury Home Preservation Association.
Guests are welcome to attend in historical costume (1868–1918) to help bring the spirit of the era to life.
This special exhibition will be on display through June 2025.
This exhibition is made possible through our valued partners in historic preservation: Bidwell Mansion Association, Chico Heritage Association, Chico History Museum, Beautiful & Historic Chico Coalition, and the Stansbury Home Preservation Association.
Call for Memories, Art, and Artifacts—Join Us in Remembering a Chico Landmark
The Chico History Museum and the Bidwell Mansion Association invite you to participate in a special exhibition in June 2025, paying tribute to the rich history and legacy of Bidwell Mansion and General John and Annie Bidwell.
The opening event will be held at the Chico History Museum on Saturday, June 7, from 5–7 p.m., and the exhibit will remain on display throughout June 2025.
But we need you to make this exhibition happen!
The Chico History Museum and the Bidwell Mansion Association invite you to participate in a special exhibition in June 2025, paying tribute to the rich history and legacy of Bidwell Mansion and General John and Annie Bidwell.
The opening event will be held at the Chico History Museum on Saturday, June 7, from 5–7 p.m., and the exhibit will remain on display throughout June 2025.
But we need you to make this exhibition happen!
Your Contribution Matters
We are seeking artwork, photographs, artifacts, and personal memorabilia that capture the history and significance of Bidwell Mansion. If you have any of the following, we invite you to contribute them to the exhibition:
How to Submit Your Piece
A Community Effort in Preservation
This exhibition is made possible through our valued partners in historic preservation: Bidwell Mansion Association, Chico Heritage Association, Chico History Museum, Beautiful & Historic Chico Coalition, and the Stansbury Home Preservation Association.
Let’s ensure the legacy of Bidwell Mansion lives on through art, memory, and community. Be a part of this heartfelt tribute—submit your piece today.
For questions or additional information, please contact [email protected]
We are seeking artwork, photographs, artifacts, and personal memorabilia that capture the history and significance of Bidwell Mansion. If you have any of the following, we invite you to contribute them to the exhibition:
- Wedding, quinceañera, or prom photos taken at the Mansion
- Family pictures from visits or tours of the site
- Paintings, sketches, or photographs of the Mansion over the years
- Memorabilia from school field trips or special events held at the Mansion
- Artifacts related to John and Annie Bidwell, such as letters, books, or period items
- Historic souvenirs, postcards, brochures, or newspaper clippings
- Poetry, essays, or personal reflections inspired by the Bidwells or their home
- And more….
How to Submit Your Piece
- Deadline to Register: May 9, 2025
- Submission Process: Complete the application and email your submission with a photo of your entry to [email protected]
- Selection Notification: You will be contacted by or after May 14, 2025, to let you know whether or not your entry has been selected.
- Suggested Donation: $5 per submission to help support this commemorative exhibit.
A Community Effort in Preservation
This exhibition is made possible through our valued partners in historic preservation: Bidwell Mansion Association, Chico Heritage Association, Chico History Museum, Beautiful & Historic Chico Coalition, and the Stansbury Home Preservation Association.
Let’s ensure the legacy of Bidwell Mansion lives on through art, memory, and community. Be a part of this heartfelt tribute—submit your piece today.
For questions or additional information, please contact [email protected]
upcoming events
Annual BMA Members Meeting
Saturday, January 25, 2025
3:30 p.m. | Chico Masonic Family Center
Free and open to all BMA Members and Guests
3:30 p.m. – BMA Members Business Meeting
4 p.m. – Bidwell Mansion Updates
We invite you to join us for our Annual Members Meeting of the Bidwell Mansion Association. All BMA members and guests are welcome to attend.
Following a brief business meeting, the BMA Board and State Parks will provide updates on the Bidwell Mansion fire and the recovery process. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in a meaningful discussion as we navigate this challenging time together. We look forward to a collaborative and constructive conversation.
Thank you for your membership and support—we truly appreciate it and hope to see you there!
Thank you for your membership and support—we truly appreciate it and hope to see you there!
What’s Happening at the Bidwell Mansion
Saturday, November 9 | 2 p.m. | Free
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
What's with all the scaffolding around the mansion?
Join us for a FREE talk and hear about the exciting restoration efforts taking place at the Bidwell Mansion!
Learn about the history of the house, the techniques used in its construction, what’s being uncovered during the restoration process, and view artifacts related to the restoration up close.
Weather permitting, we’ll take a stroll outside for a closer look at the mansion’s exterior.
Cookies and hot apple cider will be provided. We hope to see you there!
Please call 530-588-0476 or email [email protected] for more information.
Saturday, November 9 | 2 p.m. | Free
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
What's with all the scaffolding around the mansion?
Join us for a FREE talk and hear about the exciting restoration efforts taking place at the Bidwell Mansion!
Learn about the history of the house, the techniques used in its construction, what’s being uncovered during the restoration process, and view artifacts related to the restoration up close.
Weather permitting, we’ll take a stroll outside for a closer look at the mansion’s exterior.
Cookies and hot apple cider will be provided. We hope to see you there!
Please call 530-588-0476 or email [email protected] for more information.
summer with the bidwells
We had a great time celebrating Summer with the Bidwells on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at the Mansion. It was a wonderful opportunity to invite the public to meet General and Mrs. Bidwell and their friends while enjoying live music, lawn games, ice cream, casaba melon planting, and tours of the Mansion.
We look forward to planning more events like this throughout the year, so stay tuned.
We look forward to planning more events like this throughout the year, so stay tuned.
We are constantly updating our 2024–2025 events calendar,
so check back often for new information.
so check back often for new information.
Print by Jake Early
Christmas with the bidwells
|
Thank you to everyone who joined General and Mrs. Bidwell in celebrating the holiday season. We had a wonderful time meeting with guests, singing in the parlor, eating cookies, and listening to Bidwell, General Sherman, and Dr. Stansbury share stories in the mansion. Such a delightful event!
If you missed any of their conversation, head on over to our YouTube channel, where you will also find videos of past events. Proceeds from this event benefit education and interpretation at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. |
Annual members meeting
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Sunday, January 28, 2024 Free and open to the public 5:30 p.m. – Reception 6 p.m. – Short Business Meeting 6:30 p.m. – Guest Speaker, Paul Belz We invite you to join us for our Annual Members Meeting of the Bidwell Mansion Association. All BMA members and guests are welcome to attend. |
After a brief business meeting, we are excited to hear from author Paul Belz about his new book, Bidwell Park: Personal Reflections and Casual Conversations about Chico’s Crown, where he explores the park through conversations with notable and knowledgeable friends who share their insights on it’s history, geology, ecology, wildlife, and the controversies that have shaped the development of Chico’s “crown jewel.”
Thank you for your membership support — we look forward to seeing you at the Annual Meeting!
Thank you for your membership support — we look forward to seeing you at the Annual Meeting!
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Annie's Victorian Tea
Saturday, July 22 | 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park Tickets: $45 (tickets may be procured through the convenience of online purchase) It is with the utmost delight that we extend to you an invitation to the home of John and Annie Bidwell, where an occasion of tea awaits. Partake in delectable treats, the infusion of tea, and the pleasant company of dear friends inside the mansion. We have thoughtfully arranged two distinct seatings and welcome you to join us at 11:30 a.m. or 3 p.m. (each seating is limited to a capacity of 40 persons—tables will be set for guests four). We eagerly anticipate the joyous occasion of your esteemed presence as we gather for this enchanting Victorian tea at the Bidwell Mansion. Please call 530-588-0476 or email [email protected] for more information. |
Christmas with the bidwells
Proceeds from this event benefit education and interpretation at
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. |
Friday, December 15 | 6–8 p.m. Tickets: $35 Children 12 and under free Purchase tickets at the door or online General and Mrs. Bidwell cordially invite you to their home to celebrate the holiday season. Enjoy historic vignettes, live music, light refreshments, and holiday cheer in the grandly decorated mansion. |
Victorian Mourning at the Bidwell Mansion
PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to purchase both an adult and a youth ticket, please select one option first to add to your cart. Your cart will open in a new widow so you can return to this page to add the other ticket. You will have the option in your cart window to change ticket quantities.
Due to an overwhelming interest in this event, all tours are currently SOLD OUT.
We thank you for your interest and support, and hope to host this event again next year.
Join us for guided evening tours of the Bidwell Mansion as we delve into the rich and intriguing history of 19th-century American mourning.
Tours will be held in the evening, starting at 5:30, 6:30 (sold out), and 7:30, where we will explore this fascinating part of our past.
Enjoy refreshments in the Visitors Center while channeling your inner Victorian through Halloween and history-inspired crafts. Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme by donning black attire or Victorian-inspired costumes for a truly immersive experience.
Tickets can be purchased below or at the door. However, we suggest you purchase early as each tour is limited to 20 people.
Please call 530-588-0476 or email [email protected]
for more information.
Proceeds from this event benefit education and interpretation at
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park.
Victorian Mourning at the Bidwell Mansion
|
Due to an overwhelming interest in this event, all tours are currently SOLD OUT.
We thank you for your interest and support, and hope to host this event again next year. Sunday, October 29 | 5–8 p.m. Adult: $7 | Youth 18 and Under: $4 |
Join us for guided evening tours of the Bidwell Mansion as we delve into the rich and intriguing history of 19th-century American mourning.
Tours will be held in the evening, starting at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30, where we will explore this fascinating part of our past.
Enjoy refreshments in the Visitors Center while channeling your inner Victorian through Halloween and history-inspired crafts. Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme by donning black attire or Victorian-inspired costumes for a truly immersive experience.
Please note: all tours are currently sold out.
Please call 530-588-0476 or email [email protected] for more information.
Proceeds from this event benefit education and interpretation at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park.
Tours will be held in the evening, starting at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30, where we will explore this fascinating part of our past.
Enjoy refreshments in the Visitors Center while channeling your inner Victorian through Halloween and history-inspired crafts. Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme by donning black attire or Victorian-inspired costumes for a truly immersive experience.
Please note: all tours are currently sold out.
Please call 530-588-0476 or email [email protected] for more information.
Proceeds from this event benefit education and interpretation at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park.
