First established in 1787 by Spanish padres, Santa Margarita began as a farming and ranching outpost to support the operations of nearby Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Named Santa Margarita de Cortona Asistencia, this land was eventually privatized when Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1822 and awarded to a young officer of the Mexican Army as a land grant. From that time forward, the Ranch has been owned and operated by several prominent California citizens, playing host to lavish rodeos, fiestas—even a circus—and today retains many of its original and early structures. Since 2000, the 13,900-acre Santa Margarita Ranch has been owned by the Rossi, Filipponi and Wittstrom families, whose rotational cattle grazing program has allowed perennial grasses to return, a lush riparian habitat to thrive, and the regeneration of many oak trees. The Ranch continues to be the site of grand fiestas, hosting non-profit fundraisers, tours, and private events throughout the year.
