Vikingsholm - "The Castle"

South Lake Tahoe has many magnificent sights with exceptional views of the Sierra Mountain Range, its parks and more. One of the most popular sights on the list is Vikingsholm, known as the "castle" to locals and tourists alike. The history behind the structure follows the first summer home built in 1863 and construction of a resort somewhat later in Emerald Bay. Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight purchased property in 1928 that subsequently resulted in the construction of Vikingsholm, designed by her nephew, who was a Swedish architect. Additionally Mrs. Knight had a "teahouse" built on her property at Fannette Island, where she entertained visitors during her summer visits to Vikingsholm. The State of California acquired the property through a philanthropic offer from Harvey West who was the second owner who purchased the land after Mrs. Knight's death. The estate is now part of the Emerald Bay State Park. There is a private non-profit to raise funds for the upkeep of the mansion, to ensure its preservation.