Quien Sabe Ranch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Quien Sabe Ranch
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 Location in Wyoming
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Shoshoni, Wyoming |
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| Area | 2.2 acres (0.89 ha) |
| Architectural style | Vernacular log |
| MPS | Pioneer Ranches/Farms in Fremont County MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 91000434 |
| Added to NRHP | April 18, 1991 |
The Quien Sabe Ranch is a historic ranch located in Fremont County, Wyoming. It is about 18 miles (29 km) northeast of Shoshoni. The buildings on the ranch date back to the 1880s.
This ranching business started around 1883. Three English immigrants, Harry Jevons, Richard Ashworth, and Richard Berry, founded it. The ranch was built near a place called Hoodoo Creek.
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The Ranch's Unique Name
At first, the ranch was known as Hoodoo Ranch. But its name changed after an interesting event. The English ranchers had a disagreement with some Mexican caballeros (horsemen) who lived nearby.
When asked about the disagreement, the Mexican caballeros would often give evasive answers. They would say "Quien Sabe," which means "who knows?" in Spanish. Because of this, the ranch became known as "Quien Sabe Ranch."
Early Ownership Changes
Over time, the ranch partners made several deals. Eventually, Harry Jevons transferred the property to Richard Ashworth. This was to secure a loan of $4,747.62. Sadly, Jevons later lost his money gambling in Meeteetse and passed away.
Buildings at Quien Sabe Ranch
The main building at the ranch is the log ranch house. It is quite large, measuring about 57 feet (17.4 m) long and 17.5 feet (5.3 m) wide. The roof is low and flat. It was made waterproof using a special type of clay called bentonite clay.
Other Important Structures
Besides the main house, the ranch had several other useful buildings. These included:
- A bunkhouse, where ranch workers would sleep.
- An icehouse, used to store ice for keeping food cool.
- A blacksmith shop, where metal tools and horse shoes were made.
- A dugout, which is a shelter built partly or entirely underground.
Famous Connections and Later History
There's a popular story that the famous outlaw Butch Cassidy had an interest in the ranch in the 1890s. However, this is mostly an oral tradition. This means it's a story passed down by word of mouth. The only written record is from Cassidy's sister, Lulu Parker Betensen.
In 1907, Emil Thoren bought the Quien Sabe Ranch. His family owned and cared for the ranch for most of the 20th century.
A Place of Historical Importance
The Quien Sabe Ranch is recognized for its historical value. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 18, 1991. This means the ranch is considered an important part of American history and culture. It is protected to help preserve it for future generations.
