Published in the December 25, 2013-January 7, 2014 issue of Morgan Hill Life
By Mike Monroe
Mike Monroe
An historic barn, perhaps more than 120 years old, situated on Henry Miller’s Glen Ranch in Gilroy has been in the news recently. The barn was built during the heyday of Miller’s cattle operations (1860-1920) which extended over hundreds of thousands of acres in California, Nevada and Oregon. Originally part of Rancho Las Animas granted to the Castro Family in 1803,the rancho totaled more then 26,000 acres. Las Animas may translate into “The Spirits” or “The Souls.”
The barn, as well the stone foundation of Miller’s summer home on Mt. Madonna, some outbuildings on his Bloomfield Ranch and a family burial plot on Castro Valley Road, represent the last local vestiges of his vast land empire. For the past few years the barn had been used by the Gilroy Garlic Festival, but its condition has deteriorated to such an extent that it is unsafe for any kind of use except as a home for mice and birds. Most likely, the barn will be demolished as the cost of renovation would be prohibitive.
The Glen Ranch is slated for residential development soon so a walking tour and conversation about its heritage and future is timely. We will also talk about the history of Uvas Creek and Christmas Hill Park. The creek bed was quarried for many years by several gravel and sand companies. Rocks from the creek were selected by stone masons during the construction of Gilroy’s Old City Hall and dedicated in 1906. The area was also the site of a Native American village and was called Indian Camp by old-time Gilroy residents. Nearby is Ascencion Solorsano de Cervantes Middle School named for the last native speaker of the Amah Mutsun and a long-time Gilroy resident until her passing in 1930.
Join us for a pleasant walk and a great way to start 2014.
The Glen Ranch
Time/Date: 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, 2014
Description: Easy walk
Location: Christmas Hill Park, Miller Ave., Gilroy
Contact: Mike (408) 234-6377
Mike Monroe is a local business owner and amatturalist. He is docent for Santa Clara County parks and an Adopt-a-Creek member. Morgan Hill Life encourages everyone to enjoy the abundant opportunities to explore our great outdoors.
