Address: 900 Castle Oaks Dr, Ione, CA 95640
Website: https://www.prestoncastle.org
Phone: (209) 256-3623
Hours: Open for guided and self-guided tours on select days; hours vary by season. Check the official website before visiting.
History of Preston Castle
Preston Castle, officially the Preston School of Industry, opened in 1894 as California’s first state-run reform school for boys. Built in the Romanesque Revival style, the massive brick and stone structure rises above the Sierra Nevada foothills, giving the small town of Ione one of its most recognizable landmarks.
The school was meant to rehabilitate troubled youth through hard work, education, and strict discipline. Life inside, however, was not easy. Conditions were harsh, overcrowding was common, and discipline could be severe. The institution operated here until 1960, when the program was moved to modern facilities nearby.
The castle itself was abandoned for years, left to decay before the Preston Castle Foundation stepped in to preserve it as a historic site.
The Murder of Anna Corbin
One of the most infamous events in the castle’s history occurred in 1950. Anna Corbin, a beloved housekeeper who had worked at the school for years, was found beaten to death in the basement. A young inmate was charged, but despite three separate trials, he was never convicted. The case remains unsolved.
Many visitors and investigators believe Anna Corbin’s spirit still lingers within the castle, tied to the place where her life ended.
Reported Hauntings
Paranormal activity has been reported throughout Preston Castle for decades. Some of the most frequently shared experiences include:
- Apparitions: Guests and investigators have claimed to see shadowy figures, including a woman thought to be Anna Corbin.
- Voices and footsteps: Disembodied voices echo in the halls, and footsteps are often heard when no one else is nearby.
- Cold spots: Sudden drops in temperature have been documented, especially in the kitchen and basement.
- Equipment interference: Ghost hunters frequently report drained batteries and malfunctioning electronics during investigations.
The castle has been featured on several paranormal TV shows, including Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures.
Visiting Preston Castle Today
Today, Preston Castle is open for historical tours, photography sessions, and paranormal events. Walking through its long hallways, dormitories, and imposing basement gives a strong sense of the lives once lived—and lost—inside its walls.
Special evening tours and overnight investigations are offered for those who want to experience the castle’s haunted reputation after dark. All proceeds go toward restoration and preservation efforts.
Exploring haunted locations can be dangerous. Never trespass on property without permission, and always use caution if you choose to take part in ghost hunts.
Sources
Preston Castle
Experience the haunting beauty of Preston Castle through these images:
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