The History of Chico State began when the legislature announced in 1887 that they would be establishing a northern branch of the State Normal School. John Bidwell was in Europe at the time, however a Normal School Committee formed comprised of concerned citizens. It was their mission to lobby the legislature to name Chico as the home of the new school. The legislature would be also be considering sites including Marysville and Red Bluff. However, one of the requirements was that the land for the school be donated. After learning of the situation, Bidwell sent a cablegram to the committee with the famous quotation: "You may take anything on my farm but my dooryard." The property donated for this purpose was valued at $15,000.

Some Historical Events at CSUC

Figures in Chico State History

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