McIntire Ranch Historic Site is a unique and mesmerizing place that offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Colorado. The McIntire Ranch headquarters was established by Albert and Florence McIntire in 1880. The mansion was constructed following the arrival of the McIntire family near the Conejos River and the regular supply of water from McIntire Spring. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just want to learn more about what life was like on a 19th-century ranch, McIntire Ranch Historic Site is an excellent destination for anyone visiting Colorado.
History:
McIntire Ranch Historic Site has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 1880s. Albert and Florence McIntire settled near Conejos River, where they established a successful ranch thanks to the abundant water provided by nearby McIntire Spring. By 1880, the family had built their mansion on the site and set about creating a thriving ranching operation.
Florence was well-read and came from a distinguished eastern family. Albert McIntire was a lawyer by trade. He served as the Conejos County Judge and the 12th Judicial District Court before being elected Governor of Colorado in 1895, which led to their divorce in 1898. Florence remained on the ranch for the rest of her life, purchasing more land and successfully running it until her death in 1912.
The mansion at McIntire Ranch Historic Site was designated to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It is now maintained by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and is open to the public for visits and educational programs.
Constructional Details:
The ruins of the huge Territorial Adobe ranch house and several other outbuilding foundations, as well as a masonry spring exposure, a livestock pen, and other features including seven artifact concentrations, are all part of this park. The ruins of the ranch house, which are encircled by several huge cottonwood trees, are the most visible and prominent feature of the site. In certain areas, several walls are still standing and in various states of corrosion.
The McIntire Ranch Historic Site is a wonderful location to learn about Colorado history while also appreciating the stunning natural surroundings. It’s 1.5 miles north of County Road V and 4.5 miles (7.2 km) northeast of Sanford. The ranch house is a unique example of adobe construction, employing molded adobe bricks comparable in size to traditional kiln-fired bricks and conventional Euro-American brick building methods.