cooper ranch

Located in central Arizona, the Cooper Ranch dates back to the late 1800's, is comprised of 27,000 acres and managed by the establishing family. To get there you have to travel 17 miles on a dirt road from the nearest highway. My first thought while making the initial trip was, why would anyone want to live out here. Five minutes into my visit and I'm thinking why would anyone ever want to leave. This place is amazing. The Hassayampa River runs along the side of the house where horses, angora sheep, and cattle quench their thirst. Museum quality bronze art peppers the inside of the home, depicting the history of the ranch, crafted by daughter, Mary Cooper Hamill. A large journal stuffed with sticky notes and old photos lays upon a table telling the story of Cooper Ranch, one day to be published. Mr. Cooper (pictured below) is 82 years young and still working the ranch without missing a beat.