Santa Margarita’s fertile valley and year-round flowing creeks led the Spanish padres to establish a farm with assistance from the Chumash Indian population, and in 1787 it was formally recognized as an outpost of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Just one day’s journey from San Luis Obispo and the San Miguel Mission, it was a convenient layover for travelers on El Camino Real. The Asistencia was built circa 1817, and is one of the first recorded uses of mortar in California. Today the 13,900 acre ranch is owned by the Rossi, Filipponi Family, and Wittstrom families, whose management practices have been recognized with several stewardship awards. Using a rotational cattle grazing program has allowed perennial grasses to return, a lush riparian habitat to thrive, and the regeneration of many oak trees. Moreover, a 975-acre vineyard was one of the Central Coast’s first to employ resource conservation practices. The ranch has once again become the site of grand fiestas, host to many non-profit fundraisers, and tours and private events throughout the year. Santa Margarita Ranch (www.historicsantamargaritaranch.com) is also the home to the Pacific Coast Railroad which loops two miles around the property capturing the beauty of the ranch.
