On your adventures through the Sierra Foothills, you may spot what looks like a castle in the distance by Ione (eye-OWN). In its heyday, this was the administration building for the Preston School of Industry, one of the oldest and best-known reform schools in the country. Construction began on the building in 1890, and the first wards arrived in 1894 from San Quentin State Prison. The aim of the school was rehabilitation rather than incarceration; in order words, to teach the wards skills and a trade so that upon release they could find employment, support themselves, and become contributing members of society. The School ultimately encompassed 1000 acres with 50 buildings and 800 wards. Life at the School was not easy, and reports of paranormal activity abound today. Preston Castle remained occupied and in operation until 1960, after which it fell into serious disrepair. Thanks to the efforts of The Preston Castle Foundation, the building, and its history, is being preserved and restored.
Preston Castle has been featured on the silver screen as well as on TV:
Apparition (2019). Feature movie starring Mena Suvari and Kevin Pollack. Watch on Amazon Video.
A Haunting at Preston Castle (2014). Feature movie. Watch on Amazon Video.
The Haunted Bay (2013). Episode 2
Ghost Hunters (2010). Season 6, Episode 6
Available for purchase on Google Play or YouTube
Ghost Adventures (2009). Season 2, Episode 4
Public tours are available on Saturdays, April-August. Nighttime paranormal investigation tours are also very popular, as is the Preston Castle Haunt which takes place each October. For tickets and more information please contact the Preston Castle Foundation.
