Please provide a little history about the Ranch History Museum.
The Ouray County Ranch History Museum (OCRHM), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, was founded by a handful of devoted people in 2006, after completing a four-year project by volunteers who interviewed Ouray County ranch families all throughout the U.S. This work culminated in the launch of Ranching History of Ouray County books Volumes I and II. The ranch history museum’s website highlights its ongoing success: https://www.ocrhm.org/.
Who are the key people who keep museum operations going?
OCRHM’s working Board of Directors and Advisory Board contribute along with our talented, diverse, active volunteers of our community to offer the educational ranching heritage experiences of our area.
Why is it important to share our local ranch history?
We continue to honor and recognize the ranching families of our area, both past and present. Their stories of hard work, sacrifice and stewardship of our land and water have greatly benefitted our current population of Ridgway. This ranch history explains who we are and why we’re here; we all love this land.
What are the most popular events organized by the museum?
Yearly, the OCRHM offers diverse events including pie sales, historic ranch tours throughout the county, nonprofit events, historic hands-on demonstrations, and holiday events. Our museum supports our community, which is reciprocated through partnerships with other nonprofits and the town.
Please tell us about the upcoming events on the last weekend of September?
We will be hosting a Craftsman Leather Gallery show highlighting the leather-skilled artisans of our area. Demonstrations on mule packing, blacksmithing, and leatherwork will also be included during the September 25-27 weekend. Activities will be offered at the museum building as well as at our 9.5 acre parcel located at Railroad and Charles Streets north. Please come to see our new museum complex designs at the white tent, and help support our museum project through new and continued memberships, donations, and by offering your special skills as we team up with other diverse, hardworking volunteers.
Do you have membership discounts?
Yes! Contact the museum for special tours and to garner gift shop discounts and free museum entry through membership. Purchase the “True Grit: A 50-Year Tribute” book and other books created for young and old in Ridgway, or get your special logoed cowbell at the museum!
What do you value about being a Ridgway Chamber member?
We value the networking abilities offered through the Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce.
