The Dangberg Home Ranch was named a Nevada treasure two years in a row!
The Beginnings and History
The house that stands here was built by a family that played an important role in the growth and shaping of Carson Valley, Nevada. Heinrich Friedrich Dangberg was only eighteen when he came to America in 1848. He came west in 1856, where he built a log cabin, cleared and irrigated his landclaim, and married Margaret Ferris, the daughter of a noted American family. A self-made man, his hard work, foresight and leadership lead to prosperity and influence. The cabin grew into a house as he and Maggie raised five children, who inherited one of the largest ranches in western Nevada. In 1902, the family formed the Dangberg Land and Livestock Co. and over the next few decades the second generation expanded the family’s holdings to almost 50,000 acres supporting cattle and sheep production, along with vegetable crops and other products. In 1905, the family founded the town of Minden and there, in partnership with other ranchers, established several businesses focused on agriculture, banking and a hotel. Today, the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park preserves this essential chapter in Nevada’s history.
VISIT At times, the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park is closed for a private function or we’re having an event that requires a ticket. Otherwise, the park is open during daylight hours seven days a week. The buildings are open when staffed, usually Wednesday through Sunday. If the gate is shut, that’s just because there are cattle in the pasture. Just open it, park inside the fence, and leave the gate how you found it. The access road crosses private land, so parking along the road is not permitted.
The 1875 barn, corral, deteriorating brick slaughterhouse (danger!) and modern residence are on private land. Please do not trespass there. Guided tours of the historic Dangberg ranch house are available year-round, by reservation. Activities and events take place from May through December. Or, just come relax in the park’s beautiful setting, with a picnic and a view of the Carson Range.
Guided History Tours The best way to see the park is to schedule a tour of the Dangberg ranch house. Docents lead visitors through the entire main level, from living room to the cowboys’ dining hall, and reveal the history of Carson Valley ranching through one family’s private and public history. The stories told by the artifacts and photographs will make you laugh, cry and reflect. Reservations are required and tours are available year-round, including weekends. Days and times vary, so call 775-783-9417 to book a tour. The fee is $10 for 17 and older, free for 16 and younger.
Pictures below are provided by contributors or supporters of this website. If you are interested in sharing your pictures of Nevada, please drop us a note.
Courtesy S. Ward – Lehman Caves, Great Basin National Park