Stables Restoration

Per the Leo Carrillo Ranch Park Master Plan (1998), and the Leo Carrillo Ranch Park Master Plan Phase III Priorities and Cost Estimate Update (2015), the work associated with the stables restoration includes installation of new concrete flooring; repair and restoration of existing clay tile flooring; repair and restoration of interior and exterior walls, windows and doors; repair of worn wood features of the bunkhouse and animal pens; restoration of the porches on the north and south side of the stable; installation of interior lighting and security system; drainage improvements; and replacement of the 20 year old wood shingle roof. 

The stable and bunkhouse areas are used for public and private events and include interpretive displays. Additionally, the historic corrals and bull pen post and plank fencing previously located between the stable and chicken coop are reconstructed. The project required installation of drought tolerant landscaping and irrigation in selected areas around the stable, as needed for storm water management.

Chicken Coop Reconstruction/New Restroom

The second part of the project consists of the construction of a new public restroom facility equipped with plumbing and a janitorial storage area. The public restroom is located in an area south of the stables where a dilapidated chicken coop once stood. The structure is designed to replicate the original facade of the chicken coop, incorporating horizontal wood cladding. Additionally, the project features installation of drought tolerant landscaping and irrigation in selected areas around the restroom.

All work on the projects complies with the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties – Standards for Reconstruction

Stable Bunkroom Interpretive Plan

In March 2019, staff and volunteers collaborated with Artefact Design to launch the Stable Bunkroom Interpretive Plan Study, with the desire to lay a solid foundation for a future exhibit in that room. The stable bunkroom will feature a 360-square foot exhibit and education space. The stable and its bunkroom presents Leo Carrillo’s work as an authentic rancher, and his Californio heritage as steward of California’s land and culture, and a California ambassador in cultural preservation.

The bunkroom served as the sleeping quarters for vaqueros and special guests, and as Leo’s La Oficina. The bunkroom will interpret ranching, and Leo’s participation in parades, through exhibit experiences, visitor interactives and programs.

The primary objective of the outdoor interpretive sign plan is to welcome and orient the visitor, while providing meaningful connections with Leo Carrillo, ranch history, and the native people, plants, and ranch residents before and during Carrillo’s time at the Ranch.

Phase II of the outdoor interpretive sign plan is complete. We have added new wayfinding and interpretive signs throughout the park.

In July 2020, we launched a Phase III technology study. The Audio Tour Experiences Study was completed in Sept. 2020.

The primary study goal was to add meaningful experiences for visitors at Leo Carrillo Ranch. Through the use of self-guided audio tours, we have the ability to tell untold stories, to expand on stories, and to update stories with new reflections. The interaction between the physical objects, the whole park, and digital overlay will provide a unique visitor experience.

We’ll implement study findings when resources become available.

For more information
Mick Calarco, 442-339-2859, or mick.calarco@carlsbadca.gov