In the 1920s witnessed the construction of State Highway 36 between Red Bluff and Susanville. This allowed entrepreneurs opportunities to take advantage of the motoring public’s needs. This was readily apparent between Susanville and Westwood that within a short time frame four roadhouses were established.
The first one, “The Chateau“ was operated by Bill and Julia Nolan just a short distance west of Devil’s Corral. The initial operation was modest with a gas station and a small store selling snacks. Business was good and by 1929, a restaurant was added. Another unique draw was Julia Nolan offered her abilities as a fortune teller.
By the early 1930s, the Nolan’s sold their enterprise and it would change ownership on a rather frequent basis. It also became known as “Deerhaven.” The big snow of 1952 severely damaged the building and it closed for good.