THE WARNER-CARRILLO RANCH HOUSE stands in the midst of a huge expanse of open space, over 40,000 acres, owned by the Vista Irrigation District (VID). After Save Our Heritage Organisation placed the ranch house on our Most Endangered List in 2000, and declared it the "most important unprotected historical site in San Diego County," an anonymous donor came forward. In 2001, the VID began a concerted fundraising effort to fully restore the adobe. Through VID funds, state and county grants, and some private donations, the house and barn were stabilized. A subsequent California Council for the Humanities Endowment (CCHE) grant, along with matching funds from the VID, allowed for the restoration of the ranch house.
Today, SOHO, the museum operator, continues to work on the completion of the Warner-Carrillo Ranch House restoration and on the furnishing of the house. We raise funds through museum admissions, events, and private donations. Much of the restoration work is being done by staff.
It is important to note that if the VID did not own this tract of land, it would likely be a vast housing development, and the great San Luis Rey River watershed that it protects would be a wasteland. Because of their conservation efforts, stewardship, and protection of these lands the historic setting has changed very little from the time of the great western migration. Therefore, the public can enjoy an extremely rare opportunity to experience an unspoiled past.
This rare historic setting and landscape, virtually unchanged over the last 150 years, allows visitors to see the same sights as the pioneers who first set eyes on "the promised land," all thanks to Vista Irrigation District and Save Our Heritage Organisation.
Donations to SOHO are urgently needed to restore the barn and complete the entire site's restoration. Donate HERE. |
