Deberry Lane - Rancho Blanco

Rancho Blanco, a historic property with a rich legacy, is making its debut on the market for the first time in 95 years. This roughly 2,868 acre ranch has been lovingly maintained by the same family for three generations. The ranch features a historic home, Casa Piedra, a roughly 7,000 SF masterpiece constructed in 1900 by the California architect, Caldwell. It showcases classic American Queen Anne features, including a wraparound porch, decorative shingles, and a spacious upstairs gallery. An extensive two-year restoration (2020—2022) led by acclaimed Dallas architect Stephen B. Chambers, and executed by master craftsman, Troy Poole of Restoration Works of Dallas, restored Casa Piedra to its former glory. The sprawling home is unique to Sutton County— one of a very few, (or perhaps, the only) fully-restored grand homes dating to the turn of the last century. Nestled on the outskirts of Sonora, Texas, where the Chihuahuan Desert meets the Hill Country, Rancho Blanco enjoys a distinctive environment ideal for both ranching and recreation. Limestone outcroppings, rolling terrain, live oaks, juniper, and a variety of flora contribute to a captivating landscape. All-weather roads provide ample access to the ranch, which boasts a variety of vegetation well-suited to cattle, horses, goats and other livestock. It’s also an excellent hunting property with abundant whitetail deer, dove, turkey, quail and other native wildlife. The ranch is steeped in Texas history. In 1885, at the age of fifteen, John A. Ward (Johnnie) and his older brother, set out on horseback from their home in Gonzales County, intending to ride all the way to California. The two met the Estado Land & Cattle Co. cattle drive to the G-4 ranch, in the area now known as Big Bend National Park. The ranch manager, the legendary James B. Gillett, Captain in The Texas Ranger and former deputy marshal of El Paso, hired them on as cowboys. Johnnie’s legacy includes two prominent Big Bend landmarks— Ward Mountain, where he once lassoed a bear, and Ward Spring, which he discovered during the terrible drought of 1886, saving the lives of the G-4 cowboys and their cattle. Johnnie returned from Big Bend and married his sweetheart, Virginia. The two settled on a ranch near Sonora around 1903 and acquired their first herd of Angora goats. They raised eight children, including John Jr., who joined his father in the goat business, father and son eventually becoming one of the most prominent goat breeding businesses in The United States. Flocks of Angoras dotting the rolling limestone hills looked like a swale of white, earning the ranch its name— Rancho Blanco. Improvements: Nestled amongst mature oak trees, the approximately 7,000 square foot Casa Piedra residence captivates with its grand wrap-around porch. Undergoing a meticulous restoration from 2020 to 2022 the home is nothing short of spectacular. Boasting 6 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, plus a basement and attic for ample storage, this abode exudes an air of refined historic elegance. The first floor includes the luxurious chef’s kitchen with exquisite oak paneling, original fireplace, and a sweeping wall of windows that flood the space with panoramic countryside views and an abundance of natural light. The kitchen strikes the perfect balance between luxury and functionality, equipped with top-tier amenities, appliances, and finishes that cater to the most discerning tastes while maintaining the historic character of the home. Adjacent to the kitchen, the home’s study features exposed original concrete walls and wood floors, adding a touch of historic charm. The spacious dining room, adorned with windows and a fireplace, invites both casual gatherings and elegant meals. Retreat to the master bedroom, tastefully updated and complete with a master bath and walk-in closet, echoing the refined style found throughout the home. A large living room with vaulted ceilings offers ample space for relaxation, while the completely remodeled laundry room boasts custom cabinets and countertops for added convenience. Ascend to the second floor, accessible by both elevator and stairway, to discover five additional bedrooms, a storage room, and a full bath—offering both comfort and functionality for every member of the household. Preserving the charm of its heritage, the home seamlessly integrates original concrete walls, providing not only enduring stability and insulation but also a touch of historic allure while including modern security and surveillance systems. Hardwood floors throughout lend warmth and character, complemented by tastefully updated bathroom tile and original concrete flooring. Adjacent to the residence stands the original barn, a nostalgic nod to a bygone era, further enriching the property's timeless appeal.