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 8, Foreman’s Quarters
- Preservation–Room 20, Living Room
10:30 to 11:30 am–Walter Vail: Arizona and California Rancher, book signing by Alison Bunting– Front Porch, Victorian Addition
12 pm—Closing Remarks and Refreshments, Adobe Haybarn
Learn about the Empire Ranch Foundation’s plans for the future and enjoy a piece of birthday 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.