Dr. Helen Smith's connection to Vikingsholm at Emerald Bay State Park is a unique and inspiring tale of love, history, and dedication. As a long-time member of California State Parks Foundation, Dr. Smith's story beautifully illustrates the profound impact one individual can have on preserving and sharing our natural and historical treasures. 

Dr. Smith’s bond with Vikingsholm began in her early years. Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight, the original builder of the historic estate, invited Helen's family to stay at Vikingsholm annually for two weeks. This tradition started when Dr. Smith's mother was pregnant with her, around 1931, and continued for the next fourteen years. "I grew up with this house and fortunately did know Mrs. Knight," she fondly recalled. These early visits left an indelible mark on Dr. Smith, embedding a deep appreciation for the estate and its stunning surroundings. 

Years later, as an adult, Dr. Smith revisited Vikingsholm. A spontaneous visit led her to connect with state park employees who allowed her inside the house. To her delight, Mrs. Knight’s original furnishings still adorned the rooms. However, she noticed a significant error in the displayed information about the estate, prompting her to take action.  

Despite facing gender-based employment barriers, Dr. Smith's passion for Vikingsholm led her to volunteer, camping with her family in the summers and giving tours. Her dedication to sharing accurate historical information and preserving the estate’s legacy drove her to immerse herself further into its care.

Recognizing Vikingsholm's need for attention and restoration, Dr. Smith turned to California State Parks Foundation for assistance in the early 2000s. She connected with Susan Smartt, the then Executive Director, who helped her raise over $3 million for the estate. Dr. Smith's efforts also included writing a book, Vikingsholm: Tahoe’s Hidden Castle, and dedicating 47 years to giving tours and advocating for the estate’s upkeep. 

Her involvement with us not only facilitated crucial funding but also ensured that Vikingsholm remained a well-preserved, accessible treasure for the public to enjoy. Dr. Smith attributes the success of these efforts to the support and expertise provided by California State Parks Foundation. 

As Dr. Smith looked to her legacy, her trust in California State Parks Foundation remained solid. She included a substantial sum in her will to support our work, emphasizing the importance of clearly defining one's wishes for legacy gifts. "I had a great experience with California State Parks Foundation early on and I trusted that the management of the money would be strong. I knew my wishes would be listened to because of my past experience," she explained. 

Her advice to others considering legacy gifts is to be explicit about their intentions, ensuring that their contributions are used in alignment with their values. Dr. Smith’s primary motivation has always been to share Vikingsholm and its stories with the public, enriching visitors' experiences and preserving the estate’s history. 

Dr. Helen Smith's story is a testament to her dedication and love for Vikingsholm at Emerald Bay State Park. Her efforts have ensured that this beautiful estate, with its rich history and breathtaking surroundings, remains a cherished destination for all to enjoy. Through her partnership with California State Parks Foundation, Dr. Smith has left an enduring legacy that highlights the power of passion, commitment, and community support in preserving our natural and cultural heritage. 

If you have included California State Parks Foundation in your estate plans and would like to let us know, please email development@calparks.org or fill out this form. If you'd like to learn more about how to give a planned gift, please visit our planned giving page. Your support will make a lasting difference in protecting the beauty and heritage of California's state parks.