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History of Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson, Arizona
History

Discover the Legacy of Our Tucson Guest Ranch

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.
1950s at Tanque Verde Ranch

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.
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