Some of the first inhabitants of this area were Comanche, Kiowa, Apache and Ute Indians.  Mexican settlers followed in the 18th century, migrating from settlements around Santa Fe and the Rio Grande Valley. Christian Otto came from Germany via California to the ranch in 1895 with about 10,000 sheep. He settled along the Gallegos and the Cedros Creeks, then filed on water holes and springs to use adjacent lands for grazing. Fred Snyder and D.C. Reed bought the present ranch as well as the adjoining land from Otto in 1940.

For the past 20 years the ranch has been operated by Richard and Connie Snyder. This 30,000 acre ranch runs about 800 mother cows as well as home for an extensive thoroughbred horse operation. The relaxing atmosphere around the ranch has many points of interest. The numerous old rock pens as well as houses that the mexican people lived in. Also many beautiful rock formations, winding creeks, deep canyons and trees and old buffalo trails are visible from ranch roads. There is also a 15 acre lake with perch and catfish.

Many activities are available such as hiking, bird watching, photography etc, or simply relaxing in this peaceful remote country.

Trail riding is possible for experienced horsemen. Wildlife is abundant & diverse.

Please click here to find out more about the Union County.