Bryman, California facts for kids
Bryman is a small place in the middle of the Mojave Desert in California. It's located right next to the Mojave River in an area called the northern Victor Valley. It sits about 2,526 feet (770 meters) above sea level. You can find Bryman along the old U.S. Route 66, about 5 miles north of Oro Grande and south of Helendale.
A Look Back in Time
Bryman is special because it's right by the Mojave River. Long, long ago, before Spanish explorers arrived, this area was part of an important path called the Mohave Trail. This trail connected the Colorado River to the valleys of Southern California.
Later, starting in 1828, Bryman was also along the famous Old Spanish Trail. This was a trade route used for travel and business. Then, from 1849, it became part of the Mormon Road, another important route for settlers.
Lane's Station: A Pioneer Ranch
Bryman was once the location of a ranch known as Lane's or Lane's Station. This ranch belonged to Aaron G. Lane, who was one of the first people to settle along the Mojave River.
He moved to this spot in 1859 because the soil and water from the river were much better here. His ranch was known for raising sheep and cattle. He also grew many crops like corn, melons, and vegetables.
Aaron Lane was one of the first people in California to grow alfalfa, which was then called lucerne. He sold his crops to the U. S. Army post at Camp Cady starting in 1867. He sold this successful ranch in November 1873.
