About Us
William Ladd and guests circa 1910 at Triangle L Ranch
© TLR archive photo
Historic Triangle L Ranch
Triangle L Ranch is a fascinating and enduring part of early Arizona history. Originally the land was inhabited by the native Hohokam, and later by the Apache and O’odham. Frontiersman Charlie Moss transformed his 1880s homestead into a vast cattle ranch, naming it “Boot Ranch” for its leather-making activities. In 1903, architect Westray Ladd and his artist wife, Laura Stroud Ladd - of Philadelphia - purchased the property and branded it Triangle L Ranch.
William Ladd, brother of Westray, inherited the ranch in 1909. New York financier, William Bloodgood Trowbridge fell in love with the Triangle L during his frequent visits to the Arizona Territory. At the suggestion of Trowbridge, William L. invited wealthy east coast guests to experience cowboying in the wild west. Among its adventurous souls was the showman Buffalo Bill Cody.
In 1924, William Bloodgood Trowbridge purchased the thriving dude ranch. Upon marrying Katharine, Triangle L Ranch became their private residence and Western getaway. William died in 1941, with Katharine remaining in the Trowbridge Suite until her passing in the 1960s.
In 1978, Tom and Margot Beeston took on the restoration of the buildings and grounds. They continued the guest-ranch tradition and lived at the Triangle L for over twenty years.
Triangle L Ranch Today
Sharon Holnback purchased the Triangle L Ranch in 2001. As a mixed-media artist, Sharon has made art events and exhibitions part of the ranch’s evolving mission.
Today, the historic adobe barn is now the ranch's art gallery featuring contemporary exhibitions and installations throughout the year. The welding shop is an active metalworking studio, and the old workshop has become a gift shop filled with local arts and crafts. The Barn Courtyard hosts events and the Sculpture Park blends art installations with nature. Each fall, the Ranch’s GLOW! festival celebrates light, creativity, and community.
With its old-fashioned Western charm, tranquil setting, and commitment to the arts and historic preservation, the Triangle L Ranch now attracts a wide variety of guests. Frequent visitors include teachers, ghost-hunters, writers, photographers, hikers, mountain-bikers, birders, Zen-retreaters, retired folks, and people like you seeking a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, and artists wishing to participate in the Ranch’s cultural offerings.
