Historic Dangberg Home Ranch Director Mark Jensen conducts a tour.
If you have never visited a bona-fide homestead in the Valley and taken in all of the knowledge presented by a highly esteemed, true archival individual – Director Mark Jensen - make a reservation to tour Dangberg Home Ranch and experience history as it is meant to be presented.
Driving up the dirt road was an experience in itself and fitting through the open gate over a cattle guard leading to the grassy parking area was “carefully” interesting. Seeing the hay neatly stacked and the cattle grazing beyond was a beautiful sight - something never experienced in our Florida Keys where we grew up before moving to Carson Valley with its stunning sights.
Waiting to greet us was Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park Director Mark Jensen. Such a privilege–the Director giving us a personal tour. Friendly, welcoming and patient with our grandchildren, he proceeded to introduce us to Heinrich F. Dangberg and his sprawling ranch which began as a log cabin. Being our first time ever on a real ranch, we listened closely to Director Jensen’s phenomenal historical knowledge as he related details about the Dangberg generations who had lived on the vast property.
In addition, it is quite obvious that Mr. Jensen takes great pride introducing visitors to the business acuteness the young German immigrant - Heinrich F. Dangberg - who came to the Valley in 1856 culminating in 1905 with founding the town of Minden.
Entering the meticulously preserved period house, it was quite obvious that the Friends of Dangberg Home Ranch expend an enormous amount of energy and financial investment maintaining such a fine place for the visiting public to enjoy. From the games, children’s toys, clothing and books to the elegant living rooms, bedrooms, dinning areas and two kitchens, Director Jensen presents with educational ease, every nook and cranny about this preserved and cherished part of Douglas County history. Walking from room to room on the Persian rugs, listening to historical facts and seeing the authentic items Mr. Jensen pointed out was – in itself – a privilege. His ease of introducing guests to factual knowledge is greatly appreciated and allowed for much insight about life and hardships of our early settlers.
Our little group reiterated the day’s experience at the Dangberg Home Ranch and are grateful to museums and their volunteers who work diligently to make certain the importance of passing on historical knowledge to the next generation.
Robin L. Sarantos is a Minden resident
