Will Rogers

" If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging."

Dick and I got out of the date day habit last fall, so we're making an effort to start going somewhere or doing something together once a week. Last week's newspaper had a list of state parks that may be closed soon due to budget cuts and on the list was Will Rogers' State Park. I'd heard of the state park but didn't realize it included Rogers' ranch house.

Dick did the research and drew up our map to Pacific Palisades . . . We aimed for the 1:00 tour and got there with about 20 minutes to spare. The front of the ranch house is unassuming, with a shaded veranda to the front and gorgeous views - including polo fields and a small area that was used as a golf course in the 20's, fanned out around it.

"There are three kinds of men:
The ones that learn by reading.
The few who learn by observation.
The rest of them have to touch an electric fence."

We weren't allowed to take photos inside the house. It's very rustic, as you'd expect for a cowboy star, with lots of wood, Monterrey-style furniture, and Western artifacts. There's a stuffed calf on wheels in the living room so Will could practice his roping tricks (it was a joke gift) and a porch swing, hung from the ceiling, serves as a living room couch.
There are books throughout the house - all first editions, most signed and inscribed by the authors who represent a who's-who of the era. We were surprised to find top of the line, best-of-the-best appliances (for the 1930's) in the kitchen. But if you think about it, Rogers made over $500,000 a year during the 1920's and 30's. That's a lot of money now, but in those days, it was serious money.

"The quickest way to double your money is to fold it and put it back in your pocket."

The grounds are beautiful with full-grown trees, vines, flowers, and walking trails over the 180+ acres.

The stables are beautiful, almost more impressive than the human living quarters. There's a photo in the rotunda that shows the family with their horses, dedicated to "the ranch that jokes built." Only one horse was in evidence today, but the stalls are well-maintained and ready for use.
We spent a couple of hours at the park. The tour guide, a park ranger, wasn't feeling well and I think we got less than the full tour, which was disappointing. Can you imagine how many stories there must be about Will Rogers and the famous people who visited the ranch? Would I recommend a visit? Yes. Would I put it on the 'must see' list? Unfortunately, no. Although if Governor Arnie has his way, nobody will be seeing much of this park for awhile.

While we were waiting for our tour to begin I amused myself taking flower photos. What's the point of having a macro camera setting if you don't use it, right? These are for Carolyn, who made the mistake of telling me she likes to use my photos when she's painting her porcelain pieces. Just what I needed - a good excuse to take, and blog, more flowers.

"Never miss a good chance to shut up."