History

Discover the Legacy of Our Tucson Guest Ranch

Name: Tanque Verde Ranch
Address: 14301 East Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85748, United States
Telephone: +1-(520) 296-6275

From its early settlement by the Pima Indians in the 1600s to its transformation into a beloved guest ranch, Tanque Verde Ranch has a captivating history that spans centuries. This iconic Tucson destination, nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, has witnessed the trials and triumphs of the American Southwest.

Our History

1600s
Pima Indians settle near the Cottonwood Grove, carving bedrock metates.
1856
Don Emilio Carrillo moves his family to Tucson after the Gadsden Purchase.
1868
Carrillo starts ranching in the Tanque Verde Valley, protected by Fort Lowell patrols.
1904
Bandits raid the ranch, hanging Carrillo; he survives but dies four years later.
1920s
Jim Converse buys the ranch from Carrillo's son, Rafael, and welcomes Eastern guests.
1945
Converse accidentally shoots a Mexican cowboy, leading to his conviction and sale of the ranch.
1957
Brownie Cote purchases the Tanque Verde Ranch, bordering Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest.
1969
Bob Cote takes over management, marketing heavily in Europe and remaining open year-round.
2009
Bob and Rita Cote retire, living on the property and visiting with ranch friends.
Today
Guests enjoy the ranch's 640 acres and approximately 60,000 leased acres for its cattle operation.