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Among RidgeGate’s cultural facilities is the 38-acre historic Schweiger Ranch, located just east of the RidgeGate Parkway and I-25 interchange. The historic restoration of the ranch and its buildings, led by the nonprofit Schweiger Ranch Foundation, gives us an important glimpse into the settlers’ lives in the late 1800s. Today, Schweiger Ranch is open to the public for self-guided visits every third Saturday, and free guided tours, storytelling campfires and nature hikes are also offered. Registration is required for most events – register and learn more here.
Campfire Storytelling Series – El Vaquero, America’s First Cowboy: Ever wonder where cowboy lingo came from or ever wanted to learn how to lasso? Join us for El Vaquero, America’s First Cowboy to find out! El Vaquero, America’s First Cowboy presents the origins and development of cowboy culture in the American West. Tracing cowboy culture’s roots from the open plains of Spain to the establishment of ranching culture in the New World, the show describes the role of the Spanish/Mexican vaquero in the establishment of traditional cowboy and ranching practices in the American west. The show places the historical and fictional lore of the origins of the American cowboy in the historical context of the vaquero, the true first cowboy. The show includes stories about the tools of the working vaquero and demonstrations of bullwhip cracking and rope tricks. A special feature of the show is the historically accurate costume representing the Spanish Colonial Vaquero of the 1700s.
The House is temporarily closed and will reopen as COVID data and weather allow for best safety practices. When the house reopens, face masks will be required to be worn while inside. Registration required – register and learn more here.