Celebrating Our History While Preserving Our Future
The Empire Ranch was established 150 years ago on August 22, 1876. Join us for a special celebration of the history, significance, and endurance of the Empire Ranch plus plans for its continued preservation.
Saturday, August 22, 2026
9 am to 1 pm
Schedule of Events
9 am—Opening Presentation: Danger Road – The Perils of Travel Through the Sonoita Valley by Rick Collins–Adobe Haybarn
10 am—Ranch History Presentations (ERF docents will provide repeating 10-minute presentations on aspects of Empire Ranch history at 10:00, 10:20, 10:40, 11:00, 11:20)
- Early history–Room 1, Commissary
- Cowboy/Ranch life–Rooms 3/6, Cowboy Quarters
- Families–Room 22, Master Bedroom
- Movies Filmed in Empire Ranch territory–Room 23, Middle Room
- Preservation–Room 20, Living Room
10:30 to 11:30 am–Book Signing by Authors Alison Bunting and Gail W. Corkill — Front Porch, Victorian Addition
12 pm—Closing Remarks and Refreshments, Adobe Haybarn
- 150th Raffle Drawing for the David Jácome Print
- Learn about the Empire Ranch Foundation’s plans for the future and enjoy a piece of anniversary cake and iced tea.
All Day Activities
- Strolling musical entertainment by Ken Brown and John Anderson
- Visit the ERF Gift Shop which is stocked with many 150th anniversary items.
- Rocking T Treats Food Truck