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Tesoro Adobe Historic Park: A Step Back in Time

Discover the legacy of a Western film star at Tesoro Adobe Historic Park in Valencia, where history and natural beauty converge to offer a unique glimpse into California's past.

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Nestled in Valencia, California, Tesoro Adobe Historic Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Once the home of famed Western actor Harry Carey Sr. in the 1920s and 30s, the park now invites visitors to explore its beautifully restored adobe buildings, wander through peaceful gardens, and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Santa Clarita Valley. The park features the original adobe home, stables, and bunkhouses, providing a glimpse into the life of a prominent figure in early Hollywood and the region's vibrant past. With picnic areas and docent-led tours, Tesoro Adobe Historic Park is an ideal destination for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape.

A brief summary to Tesoro Adobe Historic Park

  • 29350 Avenida Rancho Tesoro, Valencia, Valencia, California, 91354, US
  • +1661-286-4115

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
  • Take a docent-led tour to gain fascinating insights into the park's history and the lives of the Carey and Clougherty families.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas, surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
  • Check the park's calendar for special events and workshops that may be happening during your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the park's various paths and exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from the Valencia Town Center area, head north on McBean Parkway. Turn right onto Avenida Rancho Tesoro. Continue on Avenida Rancho Tesoro until you reach the park entrance at 29350 Avenida Rancho Tesoro. Parking is available at the park. Limited parking is available, especially during events.

  • Public Transport

    From the Santa Clarita Transit Center, take Route 3 towards Valencia. Get off at the stop at McBean Parkway and Avenida Rancho Tesoro. Walk south on Avenida Rancho Tesoro for approximately 0.3 miles to reach Tesoro Adobe Historic Park. A single ride on Santa Clarita Transit costs approximately $1.50.

  • Walking

    If you are near the Valencia Town Center, head east on Town Center Drive, then turn left onto McBean Parkway. Continue walking along McBean Parkway for approximately 1.5 miles. Once you reach Avenida Rancho Tesoro, turn right and walk down the street until you see the park entrance at 29350 Avenida Rancho Tesoro.

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Discover more about Tesoro Adobe Historic Park

Tesoro Adobe Historic Park, located in Valencia, California, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. This unique park offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the charm of early 20th-century California, when the Santa Clarita Valley served as a backdrop for numerous Western films. The park's centerpiece is the Tesoro Adobe, a Spanish-style home built by Harry Carey Sr., a prolific Western actor who starred in hundreds of films during the silent era. Carey, captivated by the area's scenic landscapes, established a 2,000-acre ranch and trading post, which quickly became a popular destination for tourists and fellow Hollywood stars. The adobe served not only as Carey's family residence but also as a hub for the local community, with over 40 Navajo people residing on the ranch, tending sheep, weaving blankets, and crafting silver jewelry. During its heyday, the Carey Ranch attracted a host of Western movie elite, including John Wayne, William S. Hart, and Gary Cooper. Universal Studios even constructed a stable on the property as compensation for using the ranch as a filming location. The ranch became a self-sufficient community, complete with horses, cattle, hogs, goats, and sheep, as well as the Harry Carey Trading Post, where visitors could purchase Western and Native American curios. In 1932, the original wooden ranch home, which was established in the late 1910s, was replaced by the current adobe home after a devastating fire. The adobe, constructed with traditional adobe bricks, stands as a testament to the region's architectural heritage and Carey's commitment to preserving the spirit of the West. Unfortunately, disaster struck in 1928 when the St. Francis Dam broke, sending floodwaters through the Carey's beloved ranch. Despite the devastation, the Carey family persevered, rebuilding their home and continuing to welcome visitors to their unique oasis. After the Carey family sold the ranch in the mid-1940s, the Clougherty family, owners of the Farmer John meat-packing company, purchased the property in 1952. The Cloughertys used the ranch to raise livestock, and their "FJ" cattle brand can still be seen throughout the property. In 2005, Montalvo Properties LLC, the developer of the surrounding Tesoro residential community, donated the property to Los Angeles County, ensuring its preservation as a historic park. Today, Tesoro Adobe Historic Park encompasses approximately 2.5 acres and features several original structures, including the adobe home, stables, and bunkhouses. Visitors can explore the park's grounds, wander through its peaceful gardens, and learn about the history of the Carey and Clougherty families through interpretive exhibits and docent-led tours. The park also serves as a venue for weddings, picnics, and other community events. Tesoro Adobe Historic Park offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. Docent-led tours are available on select days, providing insights into the park's history and the lives of the families who once called it home. The park also features picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a leisurely lunch surrounded by the beauty of the gardens and historic buildings. Special events, such as weddings and community gatherings, are frequently held at the park, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Tesoro Adobe Historic Park offers a unique and enriching experience. From its beautifully restored adobe buildings to its tranquil gardens and fascinating history, this park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Santa Clarita Valley. The park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., allowing ample time for exploration and enjoyment.

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