California Attractions

Ione, CA Attraction Preston Castle

Palm Drive at Hwy 104 (Preston Ave.)
Ione, CA
(209) 256-3623
prestoncastle.com


IONE, CALIF.--California Historical Landmark #867, better known as Preston Castles, is a 46,000 square-foot red brick structure that includes four floors as well as an annex with a basement. It began its life in 1894 as a juvenile offender institution (boys school) to rehabilitate youth into the mainstream. Not all boys housed at Preston School of Industry were there to serve out a sentence as punishment for criminal acts--some were wards of the state. Among its famous residents was Rochester on the Jack Benny Show.

Preston Castle closed its doors in 1960 when new facilities for Preston School of Industry were completed. The building remained vacant and fading into disrepair until September 10, 2001 when The Preston Castle Foundation received a 50-year lease for the property. It is open for daylight tours and overnight ghost tours. Paranormal groups love hosting events at the Castle because they feel spirits and ghosts exist there. On the overnight events, you can't sleep in the facility, but are invited to investigate and experience it with a docent on hand.



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