Opening for 2022 in April. Please see website for dates of tours and events
Preston School of Industry, also known as Preston Castle, was formerly one of the oldest and best-known reform schools in the United States. It is located in Ione, California. The institution was opened in June 1894 when seven wards (minors under the guardianship of the state, but not necessarily juvenile offenders), were transferred there from San Quentin State Prison. The original building, known colloquially as Preston Castle (or simply The Castle) is the most significant example of Romanesque Revival architecture in the Gold Country. It was vacated in 1960, shortly after new buildings had been constructed to replace it. The abandoned building has since been named a California Register of Historic Places.
The Ione Gold Country location provides a convenient central point for exploring the local countryside. Ione is surrounded by gently rolling hills, cattle ranches and farms, and fish-filled lakes. Within the city of Ione itself, there are lots of activities, things to do and places to stay.
Make the castle the destination for your next group activity. Large families, Red Hatters, car clubs, etc. have enjoyed great days at the castle. Typical private tours take 1.5 to 2 hours. but can be adjusted to fit your schedule.
Please send us an email with your Group name/type, your name, phone number, email, number of people, and desired date(s). Once a date and time are agreed upon return to this page and make the prepayment for the tour. All private tours require prepayment.
Preston Castle can also be rented out as a meeting space of some sort.
Max capacity: 200 people
Cost: $300- $3,000
Wifi
Tables and chairs
Bathrooms- Portable toilets
Basement and ground floor are ADA accessible
Enter onto Palm Drive from Highway 104