When it comes to Santa Maria’s longtime beef cattle and ranching heritage, the young and old alike are invited to learn a few tricks of the trade.
Indeed, on Sunday, August 30 from noon to 4 p.m., children and their families will learn how to rope cattle from two local experts. The adventure takes place as part of “R.H. Tesene Day at The Ranch” at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum located at 705 S. McClelland Street in downtown Santa Maria.
This 13,000-square-foot interactive children’s museum annually celebrates “R.H. Tesene Day at the Ranch,” which includes museum entry to the public free of charge. This year, Elks Rodeo volunteer Chuck Glines and Mike Lund, a retired Cal Poly equine science professor, will teach children about local ranching history and then lead a hands-on cattle roping demonstration. There will also be ranching-themed crafts and games.
R.H. Tesene was a well-known real estate investor and entrepreneur in the Santa Maria Valley. His generous donations made it possible for the museum to relocate to a much larger space, and he also donated a “Barbecue Hall of Fame” exhibit that to this day teaches children and parents alike about Santa Maria Style Barbecue, the Santa Maria Valley’s local culinary tradition.
