Preston Castle – Haunted Reform School in Ione, California

Perched atop a hill in Ione, California, Preston Castle is one of the most infamous haunted locations in the state. Originally built as a reform school for troubled boys, this imposing Romanesque Revival structure has a dark history of abuse, violence, and mysterious deaths.

Over the years, countless reports of ghostly encounters and unexplained activity have cemented its reputation as a paranormal hotspot.

Historical Background

• Year Built: 1890 (Opened in 1894)
• Original Purpose: Preston School of Industry, a reform school for juvenile offenders
• Significant Events:
  • The castle was intended to provide wayward boys with education and skills but soon became notorious for harsh punishments and inhumane conditions.
  • In 1950, a housekeeper named Anna Corbin was brutally murdered in the castle. Her death remains unsolved, though a former inmate was tried and acquitted multiple times.
  • Reports of abuse and mistreatment of the young inmates were common throughout the school’s operation.
  • The facility officially closed in 1960, leaving the abandoned structure to decay, attracting thrill-seekers and paranormal investigators alike.

Paranormal Activity Summary

• Common Occurrences: Cold spots, eerie whispers, shadowy figures, slamming doors, and unseen hands touching visitors.
• Patterns: Disembodied voices, the sound of footsteps echoing in empty hallways, and sudden temperature drops.
• Notable Ghosts:
  • Anna Corbin: The spirit of the murdered housekeeper is frequently seen roaming the hallways, often appearing as a shadowy figure.
  • Former Inmates: Many believe that the spirits of mistreated boys still linger, with reports of child-like laughter, cries, and phantom footsteps.
  • Unidentified Entities: Dark, shadowy figures have been spotted in the basement and infirmary, often accompanied by feelings of dread.

Ghost Stories & Reports

• Anna Corbin’s Tragic Presence: Visitors and paranormal investigators have encountered cold gusts of air and whispers near the area where her body was found. Some claim to hear a woman’s voice pleading for help.
• The Basement Shadows: This underground area is notorious for its oppressive energy. Many have reported seeing dark, humanoid figures moving unnaturally in the shadows.
• Phantom Footsteps and Disembodied Voices: Tour groups often hear footsteps pacing above them, even when no one is there. Voices of young boys whispering or calling out have also been recorded.
• Doors Slamming on Their Own: Several visitors have witnessed heavy doors slamming shut by an unseen force, particularly in the infirmary and administrative offices.

Most Haunted Spot Inside

• The Infirmary: This area, where sick and dying inmates were kept, is considered the most active. Reports of ghostly figures standing at the windows and strange noises at night make it the castle’s most feared location.

Can You Visit?

• Open to the Public? Yes
• Entry Fee: Varies depending on the tour type
• Tour Availability: Guided historical and paranormal tours are available, including overnight investigations.
• Photography Allowed? Yes
• Visiting Hours: Check official Preston Castle Foundation website for scheduled events and tours.

Best Time to Visit

• Fall and Winter Months: Most ghost sightings occur during colder months, especially near Halloween when paranormal activity is reported to spike.

Paranormal Investigations & Findings

• Featured on Ghost Adventures and Ghost Hunters, where investigators recorded EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena), unexplained shadows, and temperature anomalies.
• Multiple paranormal teams have documented significant activity, including audible whispers, shadow figures, and unexplained EMF spikes.

Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions

• Structural Hazards: Some areas of the castle are off-limits due to unstable flooring and ongoing preservation efforts.
• No Trespassing: Visitors must enter with an official tour, as unauthorized access is prohibited.