Due to the Covid-19 public health emergency, the Goleta Valley Historical Society has temporarily suspended tours of Stow House and closed the education center. We apologize for any inconvenience. Our grounds remain open for the public to walk and enjoy, however we urge all visitors to practice social distancing and follow the guidance of public health officials.
The Ranch is a place to gather and celebrate the life, the land and the love of the "Good Land."
Visit our family friendly, peaceful refuge in the heart of Goleta. Explore the gardens and preserved buildings, and truly enjoy the ambiance of Rancho La Patera.
Venue
A beautiful place to make history. The gardens of the Ranch are the perfect setting for your next event or wedding.
Events
Check out our calendar and find out what we are doing to make this a historic gathering place for our community to cherish.
Shop
Our Museum Store features local Goleta gifts, historical books, Goodland memorabilia, and old-fashioned toys.
Want more information about Rancho La Patera & Stow House?
"Goleta Valley Historical Society had a modest beginning – a dream to collect and promote our unique history.” This is the mission of the Society, which in 1967 assumed stewardship of one of our community’s most significant and treasured landmarks – the headquarters of historic Rancho La Patera and home of the pioneering Stow family. Rancho La Patera has become the focal point of Goleta Valley’s rich and ethnically diverse history for the thousands of visitors that tour annually. This landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a rare opportunity to experience what life was like here during the early twentieth century.