Empire Ranch History: Celebrating 150 Years with the Empire Ranch

By Michelle Hunter

If you have ever driven through the grasslands of Sonoita, you have experienced the endless plains stretching along the major highways. Undoubtedly, a sight to behold – and preserve. Those highway views are just the tip of the iceberg compared to what lies deeper in the grass plains; a hidden gem of western heritage and history that lives on today through the Empire Ranch Foundation.

Nestled perfectly in the high Sonoran Desert of the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area (LCNCA), the Empire Ranch is positioned just 50 miles southeast of Tucson and 10 miles north of Sonoita.

The ranch was originally established in the 1870s as a homestead ranch of 160 acres, which was then sold by Edward Nye Fish in 1876 for the fine price of $2,000 to partners Walter L. Vail and Herbert Hislop. Over the years, the ranch expanded with acreage, mines, and add-ons to buildings. Growth was booming in the west, contributing significantly to Sonoita ranch history.

Later sold to the Boice family in 1928, the Empire Ranch gained many modern amenities and upgrades as a home for a growing cowboy family, which can still be seen and appreciated today.

Starting in 1946, the ranch also became a popular location for filming western movies and TV series, many of which you may be familiar with, such as The Outlaw Josie Wales, 3:10 to Yuma, A Star Is Born, Bonanza, Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Oklahoma!, Red River, The Cowboys, and several others.

The buildings are impressive and awe-worthy, as if walking through a time capsule dating back to its origins in the 1800's. As you are guided by a knowledgeable docent through the ranch property and buildings, you will be transported back in time to the ranch's heyday. You too can see why this piece of history is worth protecting, honoring, and experiencing for yourself.