California State Parks and Recreation Commission recently awarded Dr. Helen Henry Smith the Golden Bear Award for her pioneering efforts that saved and preserved Vikingsholm Castle, built in 1929 and located at Emerald Bay State Park. Dr. Smith spent 14 summers at Vikingsholm while growing up; her parents and Lora Knight, the owner of the castle, were friends.
In 1953, the house and property were acquired by California State Parks with plans of demolishing the historic home. Dr. Smith petitioned California State Parks to allow her to offer tours. Through education and interpretation, she inspired many more to connect with the historical landmark and fostered future generations of stewards. She formed the Vikingsholm Project Council, which raised $2 million for restoration and repair. Sierra State Parks Foundation now manages tour and visitor-center operations and partners with California State Parks on restoration projects.
Tours resume Memorial Day weekend and continue until the end of September each year. | sierrastateparks.org
