Dangberg Murder Mystery Brings Mayhem to the Ranch

A 1920s-themed comic murder mystery, “Mayhem at the Ranch,” will raise funds for historic preservation at Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park on Sept. 16.

A wealthy rancher and his “Missus” are at the center of the plot, with a crusty miner and other colorful characters around to complicate the mystery. Audience members will have the opportunity to solve the crime while enjoying the action.

A large charcuterie board and additional appetizers will be prepared by Coco “N” Moe’s (formerly Coco’s on Main), the event’s primary sponsor. A selection of delicious desserts will also be offered. A no-host bar will include wines selected by Battle Born Wines, as well as beer from Shoe Tree Brewing Co.

A prize raffle at the event features a $2,000 gift certificate for a future catering project by Coco “N” Moe’s, artwork, and other items including a 1947 Singer sewing machine and baskets of quilting supplies donated from the estate of master quilter Wanda Canton.

Guests are encouraged to dress in 1920s-era clothing, but any attire is welcome. The event runs from 5-7:30 p.m. and takes place in the park’s tent at 1450 Highway 88. Space is limited, so advance reservations are strongly encouraged. Tickets are $65 for members of the Friends of Dangberg Home Ranch, $75 for non-members, and can be purchased at Dangberg.org. Membership donations are also accepted at Dangberg.org. Unlike other events at the park, seating will be provided for this fundraiser.

Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park preserves the home of Heinrich F. and Margaret Dangberg and their descendants. The Dangbergs were a prominent ranching family in Carson Valley and founded Minden in 1905. The park includes a 15-room ranch house and additional National Register-listed structures built between 1857 and 1917, as well as an original collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs.

The park, a Douglas County facility, is operated by Friends of Dangberg Home Ranch, Inc., a 501(c)(3) Nevada non-profit organization that presents a variety of public programs, including guided ranch house tours, special exhibits, and arts and culture events. In recent years, the group has completed several restoration and landscaping projects at the park.