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Preston School of Industry
Preston School of Industry a.k.a. Preston Castle is an interesting piece of California history dating back to the late 1800's. Located in Ione, CA, it was established by the state legislature as a rehabilitation facility for juvenile offenders.
 The Castle is an example of Romanesque Revival architecture, which is quite unique to anything else found in the region.
 The Castle has roughly 5 levels, including the basement.
 The ironwork has an industrial look to it, common of the period.
 Sandstone bricks for the building were made at San Quentin and Folsom Prison.
 The Castle was shut down in 1960, and fell into disrepair over the next 40+ years until the Preston Castle Foundation took it over in 2001.
 Lets take a look inside.
 During its years of neglect, leaks in the roof allowed water inside which rotted the wood forming the ceilings and walls. This is what remains of the swimming pool which is in the basement.
 This is one of the staff bathrooms. Those are leaves on the window sill and floor where mother nature found her way in.
 This is the main stairway where signs of renovation efforts can be seen. This stairway climbs 5 levels up to the top of the structure.
 Stairway to one of the dormitories. Notice the lack of railing.
 This is the main corridor to the infirmary. The reel on the right wall is for a fire hose.
 And here we are in the infirmary. Some of the bed frames are still present.
Kind of spooky.
 This is part of the kitchen.
 This is a community shower used by the prison wards.
 And a place for washing up.
 Don't think these have seen any use in a while.
Renovation efforts are ongoing for the Castle, but money and volunteers are always in short supply. This is just a glimpse of everything there is too see, and there is no substitute for being there. Tours and events are held throughout the year, so the next time you're feeling adventurous its definitely worth the trip.
Labels: castle, ione, preston, school
posted Saturday, February 7, 2009 |
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