April 24 issue:
Osuna Ranch: The soul of Rancho Santa Fe should never be sold
As the author of the Cultural Landscape Report for Osuna Ranch and the Cultural Landscape Amendment for Rancho Santa Fe, California State Landmark #982 (2004), I am deeply alarmed by any proposal to sell all or part of this irreplaceable landmark. Such an action would sever Rancho Santa Fe from its historic core—an irreversible loss to the community’s cultural identity.
Osuna Ranch is not simply open space. It is the historic heart of Rancho Santa Fe, listed on the National of Historic Places in 2017. This 24-acre property is a rare, intact cultural landscape where nearly 200 years of California history are layered—each era contributing to its significance.
From the enduring legacy of the Kumeyaay to its role as a Mexican land grant, to Lilian Rice’s 1920s architectural vision, Osuna is a living archive. This palimpsest of history—unfragmented and authentic—makes the Ranch a rare educational and cultural resource in Southern California. No other community has anything like it. Rancho Santa Fe is fortunate to be its steward and must step up to protect all 24 remaining acres.
The working horse stables and old barns are not ancillary—they are essential. Equestrian life has long been central to Rancho Santa Fe’s heritage, and the Osuna facilities continue that tradition. Their presence reinforces the land’s original purpose and sustains the cultural rhythm of the place. I visited the barns this month—they are in excellent condition. Their weathered wood, craftsmanship, and rural setting create an irreplaceable ambiance. Why would anyone want to destroy such historic character?
Removing or relocating these elements would disrupt the site’s historical integrity as defined under federal guidelines for evaluating historic landscapes. It would erase the visual and emotional texture that connects the past to the present.
Arguments for selling Osuna based on finances are misleading. The ranch operates with positive cash flow, ing itself while offering priceless cultural value. It is not a liability—it is an asset.
The Rancho Santa Fe Association should not treat this property as expendable. It should embrace its role as stewards and realize Osuna’s full potential—as a center for education, community programs, and heritage tourism. These are not abstract ideals—they are achievable outcomes that would benefit both current and future generations.
This is not just a decision about land—it is a decision about values and legacy. Osuna Ranch is not just the soul of Rancho Santa Fe—it is its origin.This is an inherited history. Let us not become the generation that sold it off.
Vonn Marie May
Cultural Landscape historian
May 1 issue:
Osuna Ranch: A hidden gem right in your backyard
Osuna Ranch has a public relations problem! If the RSF board believes that only eight Covenant horse boarders—out of 3,000 residents—realize they own a gated, 24-acre working, self-funded equestrian property with 50 horses, miles of trails, beautiful pastures, and a nearly 200-year-old adobe homestead, that’s a problem.
You’ve probably driven by and thought it was just another private stable. We have some serious PR work to do! But here’s the good news: Osuna Ranch is amazing—and it belongs to all of us!
Beyond its beauty and charm, Osuna Ranch is also a valuable financial asset. Since its purchase in 2006 for $12 million, its value has appreciated to at least $36 million today. Just consider the land value—24.3 acres zoned for 50 horses—but don’t just take our word for it. Come see for yourself.
It’s undeniably a great investment—and certainly not the time to sell for $10 million!
But there’s more. You don’t have to own a horse or be a competitive rider to enjoy OsunaRanch. Gather your friends for a dog walk (on leash) around your private equestrian oasis,surrounded by happy, healthy horses. Why not grab a coffee, breathe in some well-needed fresh air, silence your phone, and embrace healthy living? It is also the perfect spot to bring house guests looking for an authentic slice of Rancho Santa Fe.
For those who are interested in riding, Osuna Ranch offers the ideal learning experience withHall of Fame show jumper Hap Hansen and his winning team. Even if you’re not ready for theshow ring, check the calendar, meet your neighbors at local equestrian events, and theranks of happy horse groupies at Del Mar, Temecula, or San Juan Capistrano.
And did I mention Osuna is just three minutes from Roger Rowe School?It is the perfect getaway for kids to ditch desks and screens and immerse themselves in history and nature. Plans are already in motion for Rowe history field trips, Scout projects, preschool story hours, and hands-on environmental science activities. Families can picnic on the Osuna grounds while children play and explore the lower fields—a priceless opportunity to reconnect with nature.
The best part? No additional cost to enjoy your Osuna Ranch.Why would we ever sell this property? Instead, let’s imagine all the amazing things we can do at this magical place.
Come visit anytime at 16332 Via De Santa Fe. Or text Annie for a non-official guided tour: (323) 314-6651.Check the RSF Association website for official information, and follow us for updates, events, and more: IG @friends_of_osuna_ranch
Katherine Annie Finch,
Rancho Santa Fe
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