Place to see: Preston Castle, Ione, California, United States

About this place:

This "castle", located in Ione, CA, was built between 1890 and 1894 specifically to be used as a correctional facility for young boys. It was in use until 1960 when a new facility was built nearby. Prior to this facility being built, young wayward boys were housed in Folsom prison and San Quentin Prison. Some of these boys were as young as 10 years old. While living in this facility, the boys learned a trade and went to school.

The castle contains approximately 45,000 square feet of living space
and has 77 rooms on five floors.

The state abandoned the building when the new facility was built and the castle has fallen into disrepair. However, the Preston Castle Foundation is striving to restore this lovely building as it is a California State Historical Landmark.

Tours through the safe parts of the building are conducted from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on the first and third Saturday of every month. The tour is worthwhile and costs only $10.00. You can still see some of the lovely detail and craftsmanship in the building. The cost of the tour goes directly to the renovations. All tour guides are unpaid, but very knowledgeable about the castle.