Preston Castle was built in 1894 as the administration building for the Preston School of Industry, which was the start of the California Youth Authority. The institution was opened in June of 1894 with seven wards who were minors transferred from San Quentin State Prison.
The Castle, as it is known locally, is one of the most significant examples of Romanesque Revival architecture in California. The building was vacated in 1960 when newer buildings were constructed to replace it.
Preston Castle is a California State Historical Landmark and on the National Registry of Historic Places. The State planned to tear the building down in 1960 but a group of
local women spent 8 years fighting the State to keep the building standing, which is why the Castle is here today.
In 2014 the non-profit Preston Castle Foundation took ownership of the building and surrounding 12.9 acres. There goal is to preserve the building and its history for future generation.
Public and private tours are available as well as several events throughout the year. The Castle can also be rented out for weddings and other outdoor events.
Go to prestoncastle.org for more information.