Going a little long again today, but this popped up, and I thought it was appropriate and timely.
From 1994, “Pancho’s Guest Ranch Hotel and Happy Bottom Riding Club”.
I’m sure almost all of my readers are familiar with the Happy Bottom Riding Club. But in case there are any teenagers out there…
The Happy Bottom Riding Club (1935–1953), was a dude ranch, restaurant, and hotel operated by aviator Pancho Barnes near Edwards Air Force Base in the Antelope Valley of California’s Mojave Desert. Barnes and the club were both featured in Tom Wolfe’s 1979 book, The Right Stuff, and the 1983 film adaptation.
Also known as the Rancho Oro Verde Fly-Inn Dude Ranch, the establishment was a favored hangout for both test pilots and the Hollywood elite during the 1940s, boasting over 9,000 members worldwide at the height of its popularity. When the United States Air Force intended to buy the club via eminent domain in order to extend their runways, a long and contentious series of lawsuits ensued. Barnes eventually won the lawsuits, but after the club was destroyed by fire in the 1950s, her plans to re-open in a nearby location never came to fruition.
Bonus: “Pancho Barnes – Return to the Ruins”. There’s an unexpected tie-in here, but I won’t spoil it for you as this one is only 10 minutes.