Background

Slaughter Ranch Museum: A Glimpse into the Old West

Explore the Wild West history and serene landscapes of Slaughter Ranch Museum, the preserved home of legendary lawman John Horton Slaughter.

4.5

Step back in time at the Slaughter Ranch Museum, a National Historic Landmark that was once home to John Horton Slaughter, a legendary lawman and cattle rancher. Explore the restored ranch house and outbuildings, and experience life on the Arizona-Mexico border in the late 19th century.

A brief summary to Slaughter Ranch Museum

Local tips

  • Allow extra time for the drive from Douglas, as the last portion of the road is unpaved.
  • Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beautiful, well-maintained grounds.
  • The ranch offers excellent bird watching opportunities, so bring your binoculars.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events and re-enactments.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Douglas, Arizona, head east on 15th Street, which becomes Geronimo Trail. Continue for approximately 15 miles. The Slaughter Ranch Museum will be on the right. Note that the last 9 miles are unpaved. There is no public transportation directly to the ranch. There is no fee to park at the museum.

  • Public Transport

    The closest public transportation option involves taking a local bus from Douglas to the nearest stop on AZ-80 E. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare to cover the remaining distance to the Slaughter Ranch Museum, which is about 5 miles away. Bus schedules should be checked in advance. Taxi or rideshare fares may vary. Estimated taxi/rideshare cost: $15-25.

Unlock the Best of Slaughter Ranch Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Slaughter Ranch Museum

The Slaughter Ranch Museum, also known as the San Bernardino Ranch, offers a fascinating look into the life and times of John Horton Slaughter, a prominent figure in the history of the American Southwest. Originally a vast Spanish land grant, the ranch was purchased by Slaughter in 1884 and became a thriving cattle empire straddling the U.S.-Mexico border. Visitors can explore the restored adobe ranch house, furnished as it would have been during Slaughter's era, and tour several outbuildings, including the icehouse, wash house, granary, commissary, and car shed. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of ranching life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the challenges and triumphs of living in this rugged border region. The ranch's location near the border also played a role in the Mexican Revolution, with Pancho Villa's forces taking supplies from the ranch's Mexican side. The U.S. Cavalry even established a small outpost at the ranch to protect American lands during this tumultuous period. Today, the Slaughter Ranch Museum provides a unique opportunity to experience the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Arizona-Mexico borderlands. The grounds are an oasis in the desert, thanks to natural springs and a pond surrounded by green grass and trees. It's a perfect spot for a picnic lunch and a peaceful escape.

Popular Experiences near Slaughter Ranch Museum

Popular Hotels near Slaughter Ranch Museum

Select Currency